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General Discussion => Talk Zone => Topic started by: Nate Colbert on January 09, 2019, 02:50:16 pm
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I'll expand this as time/interest warrants and clubs issue more press releases as to 2019 staffing...
Minor Leagues
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short-season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
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First time hearing of the (almost) football career of former Astros' OF Leon Roberts (https://newsok.com/article/3668157/redhawks-hitting-coach-leon-roberts-almost-played-football)...
I tried out for the Houston Oilers in '77 as an end/punter and had their team made. There was really nobody in the way of two-sport stars back then. Dave DeBusschere did it a little bit. Pitched for the White Sox and played for the Pistons. Gene Conley pitched with the Red Sox and played basketball for the Celtics. I was going to play (football) only on Sundays and then when the baseball season was over play full time. We had it all set up and then the (Astros') front office found out about it and upped my salary to buy me out of it.
That Astros' FO then traded him in December to the Mariners.
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I'll expand this as time/interest warrants and clubs issue more press releases as to 2019 staffing...
Minor Leagues
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short-season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
Good to know their lives continued after ML baseball.
Thanks for the blast from the past, Nate.
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Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
U FOO!
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U FOO!
Since they coach on the same team, do you think Daryle Ward and Danny Darwin go out for beers together? I would like to believe that they do.
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Does Ensberg not count as an ex-Astro?
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Does Ensberg not count as an ex-Astro?
Has he landed a coaching job for 2019 yet? He won't be back with the Astros.
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Oops, missed that
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Has he landed a coaching job for 2019 yet? He won't be back with the Astros.
Why is that?
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Why is that?
Beats me, but it's kind of old news (https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-part-ways-with-minor-league-managers-13238749.php)
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Beats me, but it's kind of old news (https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-part-ways-with-minor-league-managers-13238749.php)
Yes, I knew that he left, I thought you might know more.
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Does Ensberg not count as an ex-Astro?
Double counts, actually.
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Added Toronto, San Diego, Boston and Detroit...
Minor Leagues
Casey Candaele--manager at short season Vancouver/skill development coordinator (Blue Jays)
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short-season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Jimmy Jones--pitching coach @ AA Amarillo (Padres)
Burt Hooton--pitching coach @ low-A Fort Wayne (Padres)
John Halama--pitching coach @ short-season Peoria (Padres
Jonathan Meyer--fielding coach @ short-season Peoria (Padres)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Rich Gedman--hitting coach @ AAA Pawtucket (Red Sox)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
Willie Blair--pitching coach @ low-A West Michigan (Tigers)
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Anyone spot Billy Spiers on the Clemson sideline this season?
Link (http://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2017/01/05/ex-brewer-bill-spiers-back-clemson-football-coach/96164190/)
(For those who don't follow college football or read the B&Q thread)
Yes, he now has 2 rings (https://thetandd.com/sports/clemson-football-bill-spiers-relishes-two-titles-and-family-experience/article_3d9eaa48-7333-5f70-8475-d7572285d32c.html). And the ex-punter is the proud papa of a punter. No, Will is not a 2-sport athlete like the old man. But nephew Carson does play on the Clemson baseball squad and as a soph reliever last year allowed just 22 hits in 48 IP. Three generations of Spiers have played baseball at the school.
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(For those who don't follow college football or read the B&Q thread)
Yes, he now has 2 rings (https://thetandd.com/sports/clemson-football-bill-spiers-relishes-two-titles-and-family-experience/article_3d9eaa48-7333-5f70-8475-d7572285d32c.html). And the ex-punter is the proud papa of a punter. No, Will is not a 2-sport athlete like the old man. But nephew Carson does play on the Clemson baseball squad and as a soph reliever last year allowed just 22 hits in 48 IP. Three generations of Spiers have played baseball at the school.
I never cease to be amazed at multi-sport college or professional athletes. It's hard enough to play one sport at that level. I'm happy for the Spiers clan. Coach Swinney has an amazing program.
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I never cease to be amazed at multi-sport college or professional athletes. It's hard enough to play one sport at that level. I'm happy for the Spiers clan. Coach Swinney has an amazing program.
I think Kyler Murray’s a huge prick, but his athletic ability amazes me.
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I think Kyler Murray’s a huge prick, but his athletic ability amazes me.
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More like a smallish prick.
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I think Kyler Murray’s a huge prick, but his athletic ability amazes me.
It would be interesting to see him humiliated by professional curve balls. It would also be interesting to seem him not humiliated by professional curve balls.
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Speaking of the kid...
Mike Leslie @MikeLeslieWFAA 44 minutes ago
According to a source close to the situation, Kyler Murray’s number is $15M. He wants big time money to stick with baseball, otherwise he will enter the NFL draft tomorrow. The A’s are doing everything they can, sending their top brass, led by Billy Beane, to meet with him.
His agent Scott Boras is also in the meeting. If the A's do pay him add'l money, that immediately raises the question as to how that wouldn't be a violation of the bonus pool system for draft picks.
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Speaking of the kid...
Mike Leslie @MikeLeslieWFAA 44 minutes ago
According to a source close to the situation, Kyler Murray’s number is $15M. He wants big time money to stick with baseball, otherwise he will enter the NFL draft tomorrow. The A’s are doing everything they can, sending their top brass, led by Billy Beane, to meet with him.
His agent Scott Boras is also in the meeting. If the A's do pay him add'l money, that immediately raises the question as to how that wouldn't be a violation of the bonus pool system for draft picks.
Basically MLB is looking the other way, because they want the big PR win of the dual sport star choosing baseball.
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I’ve only seen him a few times in baseball and was surprised he was taken that high but the A’s are no dummies. 15 million seems highly unlikely, almost like he’s trying to provide cover for leaving or going back on a promise he presumably gave them.
I also doubt he’s NFL quality mainly due to size, but the game is changing and he does have a unique skill set.
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I’ve only seen him a few times in baseball and was surprised he was taken that high but the A’s are no dummies. 15 million seems highly unlikely, almost like he’s trying to provide cover for leaving or going back on a promise he presumably gave them.
I also doubt he’s NFL quality mainly due to size, but the game is changing and he does have a unique skill set.
I grew up in Norman and still bleed Sooner blood no matter what.
If you want my honest opinion... and the same of a few of my close HS friends. This guy is trying to get as much cash as possible as insurance. I don’t blame him. He might know that his size and ability is a factor in both sports. Why not try and get as much now as possible? If something works out, great, everybody is happy. If not... millions of dollars can be a nice consolation.
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Basically MLB is looking the other way, because they want the big PR win of the dual sport star choosing baseball.
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Every other MLB team needs to call foul if this happens.
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Somebody is going to have to explain this to me, because I don't get it:
MLB rules prohibit players from signing major league contracts, which place players on the 40-man roster, out of the draft. Teams are not allowed to sign amateur players to minor league deals, then immediately give them major league deals, because the latter would be an inducement to sign and a circumvention of the league's finite draft pools. In Murray's case, because he signed a minor league deal, and because his performance at Oklahoma changed the circumstances of his baseball career, Oakland would be within the rules to give Murray a long-term extension if that's what it takes to keep him in baseball, sources tell ESPN.
WTF does this even mean?
From Passan's article: http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/25754391/oakland-athletics-get-ok-mlb-offer-kyler-murray-more-money-stick-baseball
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Somebody is going to have to explain this to me, because I don't get it:
MLB rules prohibit players from signing major league contracts, which place players on the 40-man roster, out of the draft. Teams are not allowed to sign amateur players to minor league deals, then immediately give them major league deals, because the latter would be an inducement to sign and a circumvention of the league's finite draft pools. In Murray's case, because he signed a minor league deal, and because his performance at Oklahoma changed the circumstances of his baseball career, Oakland would be within the rules to give Murray a long-term extension if that's what it takes to keep him in baseball, sources tell ESPN.
WTF does this even mean?
From Passan's article: http://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/25754391/oakland-athletics-get-ok-mlb-offer-kyler-murray-more-money-stick-baseball
I don’t know why his performance at Oklahoma would have any impact on the rules of the CBA so I won’t even address that part of what Passen wrote in his article. I will say that based on what I’ve heard on MLB Radio, it sounds to me like since he signed his contract a year ago, they can basically go back and renegotiate and give him more money and place him on the 40 man roster. Since at this point it won’t TECHNICALLY be his first contract, I think under the rules of the CBA it is allowed. At least that is the impression I get.
Nate or Hawk can probably clear it up.
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Nate or Hawk can probably clear it up.
My money's on Nate. Hudson's probably still trying to get through the metal detector.
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The "Kyler Murray" exception now gives rise to "wink and a nod" type discussions at the time a player signs after being drafted. The initial bonus is crafted to fall within the restrictions of the bonus pool arrangement. But the player and club also have discussions at that time about further compensation and promises to sign him to a major league contract (prohibited under current rules). Nothing is reduced to writing but is merely a handshake deal. And if you have your doubts about the clubs following thru on handshake deals note that those occur in the international area all the time. It's how a 14-year old Dominican kid gets taken off the market even though he's not eligible to sign for two more years.
Clubs (and the player) will manufacture excuses as why add'l monies are needed when the time comes. Probably the most likely would be the player claims (with the club going along with the subterfuge) he's going to walk away from baseball if he doesn't get more money. MLB will investigate but probably will have to go along because they created the fucking problem in the first place and absent a smoking gun would likely have to go along with it.
And those handshake deals on the foreign side? Technically not allowed under the rules but MLB has never been able to do anything about it.
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Looks like Murray signed his draft deal in June, according to the rules when is the earliest he can sign a MLB contract? I would think it's any time after his draft season ends?
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Looks like Murray signed his draft deal in June, according to the rules when is the earliest he can sign a MLB contract? I would think it's any time after his draft season ends?
You mean the draft season he spent working out to play football and didn't play 1 inning of baseball? What circumstances can you point to that he deserved to receive such a deal purely in baseball terms? The commissioner's office reviews these contracts and has the power pursuant to the CBA to kill any deal that's an end run around the bonus pool restrictions and other prohibitions that exist. It's a smell test, not a bright line test.
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I don't think this is as egregious as you make it sound - his circumstances really did change. He didn't sign the original contract on the expectation of an increase.
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Just end the slotting system already. Let teams pay as much as they’re willing to pay.
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Can signing bonuses be conditioned, either by payout over the years, or requiring payback if the player decides on a new life? I thought I read that Murray would have to repay his bonus. That's quite a disincentive, for the average one-sport star? Also, if Murray decides not to play, I assume he can't come back and play MLB for someone else, correct?
At any rate, I'm having trouble seeing this as a dangerous precedent. The first reason is that I don't believe it will actually happen here, as I don't expect the A's to pay. Secondly, and more importantly, how many draftees have credible leverage to play this game? I'm trying to think of when this would occur again (predicated on the assumption that the draftee's rights are owned by the signing club).
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He didn't sign the original contract on the expectation of an increase.
How do you know? Were you a fly on the wall during those negotiations? How many signed players say I'll take your money but then skip my first season? How do you know that when the A's consented to that there wasn't some further discussions about sweeteners in 2019? You can argue the specific circumstances about Murray (and they are compelling) but that's not really the point. It's what comes AFTER. By creating this exception, creative teams (and agents) now have a loophole they can exploit. And Boras and others WILL exploit it.
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How bout you limit it to anyone who wins the Heisman Trophy after signing their contract?
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You mean the draft season he spent working out to play football and didn't play 1 inning of baseball?
The A's knew that was going to happen before they signed him. I'm not arguing one way or the other, just trying to wrap my head around a rather unique situation.
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The A's knew that was going to happen before they signed him. I'm not arguing one way or the other, just trying to wrap my head around a rather unique situation.
And let me clarify: I hope 2-sport athletes like Murray DO play baseball. But this is a problem of MLB's making when they put the draft hard caps in place and now foolishly realize their fuck-up and are trying a band-aid approach that is likely to create even more problems.
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It'll come down to where he's drafted in the NFL.
Baker Mayfield made around $500,000 per game this season.
Dak Prescott (4th round pick, 3rd year) made around $600,000 for the season.
That's all dictated by the CBA. If Murray is a high first rounder he'll make serious bank quickly, and likely play quickly as well.
(This may be the lone exception where the NFL's CBA compares favorably from a player's perspective to MLB's)
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It'll come down to where he's drafted in the NFL.
Baker Mayfield made around $500,000 per game this season.
Dak Prescott (4th round pick, 3rd year) made around $600,000 for the season.
That's all dictated by the CBA. If Murray is a high first rounder he'll make serious bank quickly, and likely play quickly as well.
(This may be the lone exception where the NFL's CBA compares favorably from a player's perspective to MLB's)
Which is also why this is going on now ... NFL teams who want him may need to draft him higher to be able to compete with baseball. Or they might just do the smart thing and pass. :)
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If Kyler asks me, I'm going to encourage him to follow his heart and try to balance that with taking as much money as others are willing to give. Otherwise, my opinion, like that of everyone else here, is vaporous.
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Added Seattle...
Minor Leagues
Casey Candaele--manager at short season Vancouver/skill development coordinator (Blue Jays)
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short-season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Pete Harnisch--special assignment pitching coach (Mariners)
Jimmy Van Ostrand--peak performance coach (Mariners)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Jimmy Jones--pitching coach @ AA Amarillo (Padres)
Burt Hooton--pitching coach @ low-A Fort Wayne (Padres)
John Halama--pitching coach @ short-season Peoria (Padres)
Jonathan Meyer--fielding coach @ short-season Peoria (Padres)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Rich Gedman--hitting coach @ AAA Pawtucket (Red Sox)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
Willie Blair--pitching coach @ low-A West Michigan (Tigers)
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Not an ex-Astro but anyone know what happened to 3B Hank Blalock?
Always thought he was gonna be a cannot miss type player.
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Not an ex-Astro but anyone know what happened to 3B Hank Blalock?
Always thought he was gonna be a cannot miss type player.
Injuries, thoracic outlet surgery.
He was done by 30.
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Not an ex-Astro but anyone know what happened to 3B Hank Blalock?
Always thought he was gonna be a cannot miss type player.
The BBGs had already retired the name Hank.
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Another former Astro staffer to the Orioles. (https://www.mlb.com/news/orioles-to-hire-doug-brocail-as-pitching-coach/c-302755792)
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Another former Astro staffer to the Orioles. (https://www.mlb.com/news/orioles-to-hire-doug-brocail-as-pitching-coach/c-302755792)
I always liked Brocail as pitcher and coach.
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I always liked Brocail as pitcher and coach.
+1
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The BBGs had already retired the name Hank.
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The BBGs had already retired the name Hank.
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Hank Williams died at 30.
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Hank Williams died at 30.
The whole world called me Hank
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Hank Williams died at 30.
Actually, he didn't even make it to 30.
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The whole world called me Hank
Drifter, can you make folks cry when you play and sing?
He's a complete POS, but that guy wrote a few great songs.
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Drifter, can you make folks cry when you play and sing?
He's a complete POS, but that guy wrote a few great songs.
Man, I dug him in the 70's. Since, not so much.
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Added St. Louis, Tampa Bay (where Ensberg lands a new managerial gig after being fired by the Astros), Pittsburgh and Los Angeles...
Minor Leagues
Casey Candaele--manager at short season Vancouver/skill development coordinator (Blue Jays)
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Randy Niemann--pitching instructor (Cardinals)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Dave Borkowski--pitching coach @ AA Tulsa (Dodgers)
Jason Bourgeois--coach @ low-A Great Lakes (Dodgers)
Pete Harnisch--special assignment pitching coach (Mariners)
Jimmy Van Ostrand--peak performance coach (Mariners)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Jimmy Jones--pitching coach @ AA Amarillo (Padres)
Burt Hooton--pitching coach @ low-A Fort Wayne (Padres)
John Halama--pitching coach @ short season Peoria (Padres)
Jonathan Meyer--fielding coach @ short season Peoria (Padres)
Fernando Nieve--pitching coach @ short season GCL (Pirates)
Quinten McCracken--coach @ AAA Durham (Rays)
Morgan Ensberg--manager @ AA Montgomery (Rays)
Rafael Valenzuela--manager @ short season GCL (Rays)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Rich Gedman--hitting coach @ AAA Pawtucket (Red Sox)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
Willie Blair--pitching coach @ low-A West Michigan (Tigers)
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Man, I dug him in the 70's. Since, not so much.
Jody Like a Melody still gives me the occasional goosebump, not ashamed to admit.
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Jody Like a Melody still gives me the occasional goosebump, not ashamed to admit.
I wore that album out - along with Longhaired Redneck - my first couple of years in HS. I still spin them occasionally.
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Drifter, can you make folks cry when you play and sing?
He's a complete POS, but that guy wrote a few great songs.
Back around 1979 or 80, an old friend, Ricky, was on his (first) honeymoon and noticed that David Allen Coe had a room on the same hallway of the hotel. He told his bride about it and a bit later after sharing a several drinks together she told him she wanted an autograph. Ricky staggers down the hall and knocks on the door, DAC answers, "What the fuck do you want." My friend tells him, "Sorry to bother you, I'm in a room down the hall and am a big fan. I'm on my honeymoon and thought it would be cool if I could get an autograph for my wife." DAC gives him a blank look, says nothing, and closes the door.
Since he didn't say anything before he closed the door in my friends face, my drunk friend isn't sure if DAC has gone back in the room to get something to autograph, or what. So Rick knocks on the door again. DAC answers, "Why are you still here?" Before Rick could answer why, boom. DAC hits him with a right hook and slams the door shut. Rick was so startled and freaked out by what had just happened that he just staggers back to his room, only to find that his wife had passed out, leaving him with a good bad-honeymoon story.
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Back around 1979 or 80, an old friend, Ricky, was on his (first) honeymoon and noticed that David Allen Coe had a room on the same hallway of the hotel. He told his bride about it and a bit later after sharing a several drinks together she told him she wanted an autograph. Ricky staggers down the hall and knocks on the door, DAC answers, "What the fuck do you want." My friend tells him, "Sorry to bother you, I'm in a room down the hall and am a big fan. I'm on my honeymoon and thought it would be cool if I could get an autograph for my wife." DAC gives him a blank look, says nothing, and closes the door.
Since he didn't say anything before he closed the door in my friends face, my drunk friend isn't sure if DAC has gone back in the room to get something to autograph, or what. So Rick knocks on the door again. DAC answers, "Why are you still here?" Before Rick could answer why, boom. DAC hits him with a right hook and slams the door shut. Rick was so startled and freaked out by what had just happened that he just staggers back to his room, only to find that his wife had passed out, leaving him with a good bad-honeymoon story.
In the late 90's I went to a DAC concert at a rodeo in Winnie Tx. He was so drunk he fell off his stool several times, blended songs into other songs & just completely missed lyrics. He had a pink, braided goatee...Oh and he brought Pantera on stage with him towards the end for some growling songs that they were famous for. It made for a memorably odd night.
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Added St. Louis, Tampa Bay (where Ensberg lands a new managerial gig after being fired by the Astros), Pittsburgh and Los Angeles...
Good article about Ensberg, new minor league manager for TB.
https://www.fayobserver.com/entertainmentlife/20190119/woodpeckers-75-days-and-counting---ensberg-with-rays-organization (https://www.fayobserver.com/entertainmentlife/20190119/woodpeckers-75-days-and-counting---ensberg-with-rays-organization)
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Bo Porter joins the commentator team on pre and postgame shows on Nats' TV broadcasts. He's replacing ex-Astro Ray Knight who was fired for some contretemps with a MASN staffer last year. Porter of course spent 2 seasons as 3B coach for Washington before being hired by the Astros.
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Good article about Ensberg, new minor league manager for TB.
https://www.fayobserver.com/entertainmentlife/20190119/woodpeckers-75-days-and-counting---ensberg-with-rays-organization (https://www.fayobserver.com/entertainmentlife/20190119/woodpeckers-75-days-and-counting---ensberg-with-rays-organization)
He was successful on the field in Houston. Wonder what happened.
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Not only him, but a lot of the others.
Nate, since I sort of tune out in the off-season and am unaware, has there been something written on the "10,000 feet" view of the "purge"? Seems like there was a lot of movement beyond folks taking their skills to other organizations.
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Bo Porter joins the commentator team on pre and postgame shows on Nats' TV broadcasts. He's replacing ex-Astro Ray Knight who was fired for some contretemps with a MASN staffer last year. Porter of course spent 2 seasons as 3B coach for Washington before being hired by the Astros.
Saw him on MLB Network today. Said he learned a lot as Astros manager. Doesn't regret his experience and considers the Astros a top flight organization.
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Added the Indians...
Minor Leagues
Casey Candaele--manager at short season Vancouver/skill development coordinator (Blue Jays)
Adam Everett--infield coordinator (Braves)
Mike Brumley--hitting coordinator (Braves)
Doug Mansolino--field coordinator (Braves)
Dave Wallace--director of pitching (Braves)
Randy Niemann--pitching instructor (Cardinals)
Greg Gross--hitting coach @ AAA Reno (D-Backs)
Doug Drabek--pitching coach @ AA Jackson (D-Backs)
Franklin Stubbs--hitting coach @ short season Hillsboro (D-Backs)
Dave Borkowski--pitching coach @ AA Tulsa (Dodgers)
Jason Bourgeois--coach @ low-A Great Lakes (Dodgers)
Jim Pankovits--manager @ hi-A Lynchburg (Indians)
Pete Harnisch--special assignment pitching coach (Mariners)
Jimmy Van Ostrand--peak performance coach (Mariners)
Randy Knorr--manager @ AAA Fresno (Nats)
Jimmy Jones--pitching coach @ AA Amarillo (Padres)
Burt Hooton--pitching coach @ low-A Fort Wayne (Padres)
John Halama--pitching coach @ short season Peoria (Padres)
Jonathan Meyer--fielding coach @ short season Peoria (Padres)
Fernando Nieve--pitching coach @ short season GCL (Pirates)
Quinten McCracken--coach @ AAA Durham (Rays)
Morgan Ensberg--manager @ AA Montgomery (Rays)
Rafael Valenzuela--manager @ short season GCL (Rays)
Danny Darwin--pitching coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Daryle Ward--hitting coach @ AA Chattanooga (Reds)
Ricky Gutierrez--manager @ hi-A Daytona (Reds)
Rich Gedman--hitting coach @ AAA Pawtucket (Red Sox)
Doug Henry--pitching coach @ AA Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
Brooks Conrad--manager @ low-A Lexington (Royals)
Harry Spilman--special ass't to player development (Royals)
Leon Roberts--senior hitting advisor (Royals)
Willie Blair--pitching coach @ low-A West Michigan (Tigers)
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For lack of a better spot to put it, an article on Cavan Biggio (https://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/blue-jays-biggio-eyes-another-big-year-many-gloves-ready/) on his transition to playing multiple positions and the possibility he makes his MLB debut with the BJs this year.
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JB Shuck latches on to his 7th organization, signing a minor league deal with the Pirates with a big camp invite.
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Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.
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Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.
Interesting.
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Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.
I thought he was too hurt to keep playing.
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I thought he was too hurt to keep playing.
He apparently played in the Dominican this winter.
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Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.
He grew up in Arlington and played at UT-Arlington. Location, location, location.
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Hunter Pence runs like a mime struggling to open a parasol in an electrical storm, but he's an All-Star.
I give you: the Hunter Pence Scouting Report Generator (https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2016/4/4/11335276/hunter-pence-scouting-report-sf-giants).
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I give you: the Hunter Pence Scouting Report Generator (https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2016/4/4/11335276/hunter-pence-scouting-report-sf-giants).
A classic.
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I thought he was too hurt to keep playing.
Hunter Pence suddenly... changed course?
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Hunter Pence suddenly... changed course?
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Excellent point
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I read that Pence worked with a "swing guru" in Oct./Nov. to "rebuild" his swing in a way that wouldn't aggravate his back condition. He posted video of himself hitting in the cage last week on Twitter or Instagram. I saw no apparent differences, though I doubt anyone really knows what is going on in that swing. His hack appears to be as herky-jerky and discombobulated as ever.
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Former Astros Tim Fedorowicz and Asher wojo signed minor league/camp invites with the Tribe.
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A classic.
"Hunter Pence swings the bat like a very tall hobbit avoiding a swarm of bees, but somehow he makes it work."
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Robbie Grossman signed with the A's, Xavier Cedeno with the Cubs and Doug Fister retires.
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Maybin going to San Francisco as a non-roster invitee.
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News on Jandel who's got a non-roster invite with SF...
The Giants went after Gustave hard when he became a minor league free agent, but he waited until about 10 days ago to sign. The front office was pretty psyched to get the 26-year-old right-hander.
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/giants/camp-observations-could-giants-successfully-carry-three-catchers
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Kyle Tucker's bro signed with the White Sox on a minor league deal with big league camp invite.
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Bud Norris has to settle for a minor league deal with the BJs.
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Bud Norris has to settle for a minor league deal with the BJs.
Is that a Bob Kraft joke?
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Is that a Bob Kraft joke?
If he makes the team will that be a happy finish?
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If he makes the team will that be a happy finish?
As long as the younger Rougned Odor doesn't get traded to Toronto.
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If he makes the team will that be a happy finish?
Let’s ask Brad Hand, the reliever.
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Carlos Gomez finally fulfills his destiny to be a Met.
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Carlos Gomez finally fulfills his destiny to be a Met.
Will he be the new Mr. Met? It's a perfect job for him.
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Will he be the new Mr. Met? It's a perfect job for him.
I guess that's a question for Mrs. Met.
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Cam Maybin arrested for DUI according to reports.
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Cam Maybin arrested for DUI according to reports.
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Ugh. Hate to hear that.
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Cam Maybin arrested for DUI according to reports.
Pulled over going 55 in a 35 MPH zone.
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According to a new report that just hit MLB Trade Rumors, we offered Martin Maldonado a 2 year contract at the beginning of the offseason that he and Boras turned down.
Maldonado has dumped Boras and hired new representation.
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Boras is going to lose clients a whole lot bigger than Maldonado if he keeps producing results like he has the past 2 years.
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Boras is going to lose clients a whole lot bigger than Maldonado if he keeps producing results like he has the past 2 years.
Let him eat cake.
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According to a new report that just hit MLB Trade Rumors, we offered Martin Maldonado a 2 year contract at the beginning of the offseason that he and Boras turned down.
Maldonado has dumped Boras and hired new representation.
Rosenthal reporting it was for 2 yrs/$12MM.
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Rosenthal reporting it was for 2 yrs/$12MM.
Holy hell, what was he thinking turning that down?
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Holy hell, what was he thinking turning that down?
+1
Incredible what these people are thinking sometimes.
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Incredible what these people are thinking sometimes.
But, but, but... COLLUSION!
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Let him eat cake.
“What was Carlos Lee’s training regimen?”
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“What was Carlos Lee’s training regimen?”
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/golf clap/
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The Dodgers released Josh Fields.
Yordan Alvarez says hi.
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The Dodgers released Josh Fields.
Yordan Alvarez says hi.
So do Altuve and Correa.
What a great trade.
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The Dodgers released Josh Fields.
Yordan Alvarez says hi.
Between Alvarez and Game 5, that’s really one of the better trades in franchise history.
Edit: son of a gun, wasn’t quick enough on the draw.
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Between Alvarez and Game 5, that’s really one of the better trades in franchise history.
Edit: son of a gun, wasn’t quick enough on the draw.
Game 2.
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Game 2.
Oh of course, I confused him with Morrow in G5.
The great thing about mixing up two of the best games of your life is that the remedy is re-watching two of the best games of your life.
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Brian Bogusevic--didn't realize the ex-1st rounder had officially ended his playing career (last played in the Red Sox org in 2017) and is now doing studio work for ATTSW on Astros' broadcasts this spring.
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Tony Sipp signs a major league deal with the Nats, $1.25 million with a $250k buyout on a 2020 mutual option (option is for $2.5 million).
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Tony Sipp signs a major league deal with the Nats, $1.25 million with a $250k buyout on a 2020 mutual option (option is for $2.5 million).
That's a bargain.
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That's a bargain.
For last year Tony, yes. For last 3 years Tony, not so much.
Smart of the Nats to back load the value of the contract and make it optional.
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While looking for Kyle Tucker's minor league stats during ST, I ran across these notes:
Glad to see Preston getting a chance w/ the WS (minor league FA contract), driving in the 6th & 7th runs in an 8-run 8th inning. https://www.mlb.com/video/white-sox-s-8-run-8th-inning-c2523607983 (https://www.mlb.com/video/white-sox-s-8-run-8th-inning-c2523607983)
and Colin Moran getting a chance @ 3B w/ the Bucs.
https://www.mlb.com/video/moran-s-three-run-homer-c2523630283 (https://www.mlb.com/video/moran-s-three-run-homer-c2523630283)
Good update https://www.mlb.com/news/colin-moran-aims-to-improve-defensive-skills-c304024496 (https://www.mlb.com/news/colin-moran-aims-to-improve-defensive-skills-c304024496)
Musgrove is recovering from abdominal surgery and a stress fracture https://www.mlb.com/news/joe-musgrove-easing-into-throwing-this-spring-c303902114 (https://www.mlb.com/news/joe-musgrove-easing-into-throwing-this-spring-c303902114)
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Moran is actually in a worse spot than he was last year - he was the primary 3B for PIT, and now they've named Jung-Ho Kang as the starter over Colin. And those guys are probably just keeping the seat warm for Charlie Hayes' son.
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Josh Fields has signed a minor league deal with the Brewers.
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Josh Fields has signed a minor league deal with the Brewers.
Brewers will lead the league in flowing locks.
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Brewers will lead the league in flowing locks.
In 2017, he had a beard but no long hair.
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Rangers sign Hunter Pence to a minor league deal with an invite to major league camp.
Apparently he's been told he's made the OD roster.
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Pitcher Jose Cisnero was signed by the Astros back in 2007, spent all or parts of 7 years in the minors and reached Houston for 28 appearances in 2013 and another 5 appearances in 2014. In the final game of that latter year, he blew out his elbow pitching at Comerica Park. It turned out to be his final game with the Astros and last major league appearance to date. He moved on to short stints with the Reds and D-Backs. Since then there's been time in the Mexican League and an indy league and finally a last gasp chance in 2018 in an obscure DR league called the Cibao Summer League. It's for released players and Cubans who haven't yet caught on with an MLB organization. Pitched well enough there to gain an invite to the DWL where the Tigers saw him and signed him. They even gave him a non-roster invite to big league camp this spring. Showing off 97/98 velo, he's pitched well enough that he's one of three guys being considered for the final spot in the Detroit bullpen.
https://www.mlive.com/tigers/2019/02/in-baseball-wilderness-for-years-tigers-jose-cisnero-never-gave-up-on-return.html
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2019/03/21/power-up-detroit-tigers-have-added-some-muscle-bullpen-mix/3233503002/
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Marwin is off to a good start.
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Marwin is off to a good start.
Big game winning hit by him yesterday after a rough spring training. I wish him the best. I really like that Twins team.
They really should sign Keuchel.
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Big game winning hit by him yesterday after a rough spring training. I wish him the best. I really like that Twins team.
They really should sign Keuchel.
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From your lips to God's ears, says an owner of Keuchel in fantasy baseball.
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From your lips to God's ears, says an owner of Keuchel in fantasy baseball.
Your league doesn't have a mechanism to keep people from drafting non-affiliated players?
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Your league doesn't have a mechanism to keep people from drafting non-affiliated players?
Apparently not, and what hurt was that he was oicked on aut0draft. But my protestations were shot down with a heaping helping of fuck off, it serves you right.
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Trent Thornton, of Fresno (AAA) fame last year and traded to the Blue Jays for Díaz pitches five innings, allowing two hits, no runs and striking out 8 (!) in his MLB debut yesterday. Good for him.
http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/trent-thornton-sets-blue-jays-record-strikeouts-mlb-debut/sn-amp/
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JD Davis with two homers so far today for the Mets.
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Ouch. After some other Nats reliever surrenders the lead by giving up two homers, Sipp comes into a 5-5 game with two outs and nobody on. He promptly gives up a double, a HBP, and a single to give up the lead for good.
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A baseball clinic would probably be too much to ask, so I guess anything will do.
Carlos Gomez put on a dancing clinic while in the clubhouse (https://www.mlb.com/cut4/carlos-gomez-gave-a-solo-dance-class)
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And here's your regularly scheduled Ramon Laureano defensive highlight: https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1120066941144698885
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That was a misfire from Laser Ramon
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That was a misfire from Laser Ramon
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Channeling his inner Rex Grossman: fuck it, I'm goin' deep
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Textbook 8-2-6 dp.
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That was a misfire from Laser Ramon
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He decoyed the runner.
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That was a misfire from Laser Ramon
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Takes a cannon of an arm to overthrow 1st base from where he was.
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Textbook 8-2-6 dp.
The great ones make it look routine.
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Mike Fiers just threw a no-hitter against the Reds. Wow
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Mike Fiers just threw a no-hitter against the Reds. Wow
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Laureano again:
https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mike-fiers-throws-no-hitter-athletics-profar-and-laureano-make-dazzling-defensive-plays-on-consecutive-pitches (https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mike-fiers-throws-no-hitter-athletics-profar-and-laureano-make-dazzling-defensive-plays-on-consecutive-pitches)/
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Mike Fiers just threw a no-hitter against the Reds. Wow
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Amazing.
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Mike Fiers just threw a no-hitter against the Reds. Wow
Incredible.
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Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.
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Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.
Isn't that the truth.
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Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.
I would have hesitated if you asked "9 hitless innings in a season."
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Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.
Even Homer Bailey didn't think it was possible.
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Laureano again:
https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mike-fiers-throws-no-hitter-athletics-profar-and-laureano-make-dazzling-defensive-plays-on-consecutive-pitches (https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mike-fiers-throws-no-hitter-athletics-profar-and-laureano-make-dazzling-defensive-plays-on-consecutive-pitches)/
I don't understand how an organization as astute at evaluating talent let Laureano get away.
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I don't understand how an organization as astute at evaluating talent let Laureano get away.
Because he was blocked. Surely that is not hard to see or understand. They did him a favor by trading him, and he said thanks you.
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I don't understand how an organization as astute at evaluating talent let Laureano get away.
Who would you replace with him, Springer, Reddick or Brantley?
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Who would you replace with him, Springer, Reddick or Brantley?
I assume he would have Jake's job.
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I assume he would have Jake's job.
Marisnick
AVG
.269
HR
2
RBI
5
R
10
Laureano
AVG
.216
HR
3
RBI
12
R
18
Thanks, I will keep springer, Brantley, reddick, and Marisnick
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Marisnick
AVG
.269
HR
2
RBI
5
R
10
Laureano
AVG
.216
HR
3
RBI
12
R
18
Thanks, I will keep springer, Brantley, reddick, and Marisnick
Additionally:
2019
Marisnick 52AB .783OPS
Laureano 125AB .726OPS
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Nice problem to have.
Too much talent in the system for it all too see the light of day with the big club.
Hope that keeps up.
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I assume he would have Jake's job.
Wrong.
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Wrong.
Insightful. Never said that's what I'd want, but *if* they had chosen to keep Laureano, the 4/5 OFer, all-world glove, suspect bat with some pop, PR role would seem to make the most sense. They're very similar players.
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I assume he would have Jake's job.
Next year. I believe Jake is in his last contract year.
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Raise your hands if you thought Mike Fiers would throw TWO no-hitters in MLB.
He now has two career complete games.
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I assume he would have Jake's job.
So you'd swap Jake for Laureano? Why?
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Insightful. Never said that's what I'd want, but *if* they had chosen to keep Laureano, the 4/5 OFer, all-world glove, suspect bat with some pop, PR role would seem to make the most sense. They're very similar players.
Laureano has far less pop than Jake. I get that's a great defensive outfielder. But he's a black hole at the plate, and the Astros were already full up with great glove/hole-in-the-bat backup outfielders. I don't get the handwringing over losing him.
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Insightful. Never said that's what I'd want, but *if* they had chosen to keep Laureano, the 4/5 OFer, all-world glove, suspect bat with some pop, PR role would seem to make the most sense. They're very similar players.
Really. So tell Tucker and Alvarez “sorry” Laureano has your spot.
and Straw?
Cannot keep them all.
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Cannot keep them all.
Exactly, and it's not like he was released. They acquired RP, Brandon Bailey for him. I do not know what Bailey will amount to, but they had to move some players and took a shot on him. We are still a year or two away from really figuring out how the Astros/A's make out on this trade, and whether or not it was a good idea to send him away.
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Exactly, and it's not like he was released. They acquired RP, Brandon Bailey for him. I do not know what Bailey will amount to, but they had to move some players and took a shot on him. We are still a year or two away from really figuring out how the Astros/A's make out on this trade, and whether or not it was a good idea to send him away.
Yep yep yep. Bailey is interesting. He's another guy they targeted for spin—they have a pretty solid track record with pitchers like that. Book's still open on this one.
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Insightful. Never said that's what I'd want, but *if* they had chosen to keep Laureano, the 4/5 OFer, all-world glove, suspect bat with some pop, PR role would seem to make the most sense. They're very similar players.
Who’s counting? I forget which step this is.
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Who’s counting?
Hopefully you can, Bob, since reading comprehension doesn't seem to be your strong suit.
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Exactly, and it's not like he was released. They acquired RP, Brandon Bailey for him. I do not know what Bailey will amount to, but they had to move some players and took a shot on him. We are still a year or two away from really figuring out how the Astros/A's make out on this trade, and whether or not it was a good idea to send him away.
This. I was happy to see the Davis trade too, we'll see on that eventually, and I still have some level of hope they can get something/anything eventually for the White/Reed/Kemp/esp. Fisher types who don't really have a future with the big club.
Really. So tell Tucker and Alvarez “sorry” Laureano has your spot.
and Straw?
Cannot keep them all.
Straw I like and hope they keep for that purpose. Tucker and Alvarez do not fit the role I was talking about. Tucker was brought up to be a starting OFer, Alvarez when he's brought up will be in the lineup everyday.
What I originally said was that I assumed, after Hudson asked someone else which starting OFer Laureano would have replaced, that he would have replaced a bench OF. That is literally all I said.
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It's not hard to understand both thought processes.
- In trading Laureano, the Astros knew that he had little chance of playing everyday until at least 2019 (and, as it turned out, the Brantley signing pushed that back to at least 2021), Marisnick was a known quantity with several years' worth of experience, and they were betting that Marisnick as the 4th OF and Kemp/Tucker/Fisher/Straw/Alvarez as the 5th OF were, at worst, good enough defensively (if not equivalent in most cases) with more offensive upside than Laureano.
- If they had kept Laureano, it would have been because they'd be ready to move on from Marisnick (who, as the oldest of all the players in this post, would indeed probably be the one to get voted off the island), they'd get roughly equivalent offensive production and defense from the others while saving money, and fix something in Laureano's hitting.
We also can't dodge the fact that Marisnick and Laureano are remarkably similar players. In the minors:
Marisnick: .280/.347/.450, 2.84 K:BB, 1 SB every 3.9 games
Laureano: .271/.350/..445, 2.36 K:BB, 1 SB every 3.9 games
In the majors, Laureano's sample size is smaller so direct comparisons are hard, but we do know that both strike out way too much (especially Marisnick).
You can defend keeping Marisnick, and I'm glad we have him. But it would not have been hard to defend keeping Laureano, even if it were at Marisnick's expense.
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You can defend keeping Marisnick, and I'm glad we have him. But it would not have been hard to defend keeping Laureano, even if it were at Marisnick's expense.
I don't think anyone is disputing that Laureano could fill a similar role, it's just responding to the original comment that the Astros somehow missed the boat on him and it calls into question their ability to judge talent. He's got value, but he's not the kind of player who pushes people out of his way, and he simply wasn't an upgrade.
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I don't think anyone is disputing that Laureano could fill a similar role, it's just responding to the original comment that the Astros somehow missed the boat on him and it calls into question their ability to judge talent. He's got value, but he's not the kind of player who pushes people out of his way, and he simply wasn't an upgrade.
This.
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I don't think anyone is disputing that Laureano could fill a similar role, it's just responding to the original comment that the Astros somehow missed the boat on him and it calls into question their ability to judge talent. He's got value, but he's not the kind of player who pushes people out of his way, and he simply wasn't an upgrade.
I'm sure you are referring to my post and let me clarify something. I never questioned the organization's talent evaluation abilities. I complimented it. The rest of your post I agree with in retrospect and in reading some of the board's comments.
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I don't think anyone is disputing that Laureano could fill a similar role, it's just responding to the original comment that the Astros somehow missed the boat on him and it calls into question their ability to judge talent. He's got value, but he's not the kind of player who pushes people out of his way, and he simply wasn't an upgrade.
Exactly. And as one who haunts the bus ride section, I was sorry to see him go ... but more for sentimental reasons than because of anyone's inability too judge talent. And I also like Bailey!
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I'm sure you are referring to my post and let me clarify something. I never questioned the organization's talent evaluation abilities. I complimented it. The rest of your post I agree with in retrospect and in reading some of the board's comments.
You said how could they have missed Laureano if they are so good at evaluation. That is what everyone reacted to.
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You said how could they have missed Laureano if they are so good at evaluation. That is what everyone reacted to.
"If" was not included in the sentence.
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"If" was not included in the sentence.
A distinction without a difference.
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A distinction without a difference.
Only if that is what you want it to be.
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Only if that is what you want it to be.
“I don't understand how an organization as astute at evaluating talent let Laureano get away.”
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Luhnow in April:
"I don't think we quite had the defense rated as well as its played in the big leagues. That was an underassessment on our part."
"We had a feeling (Laureano) was going to be a pretty good big league player, but he's gotten off to a faster start in his career than we thought. So, yeah, he's one that I'd love to have back."
"We just didn't feel he was going to be as good a center fielder as Jake (Marisnick) or as Myles (Straw) and some of the other guys we have. He certainly has proven to be every bit the player."
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Luhnow in April:
"I don't think we quite had the defense rated as well as its played in the big leagues. That was an underassessment on our part."
"We had a feeling (Laureano) was going to be a pretty good big league player, but he's gotten off to a faster start in his career than we thought. So, yeah, he's one that I'd love to have back."
"We just didn't feel he was going to be as good a center fielder as Jake (Marisnick) or as Myles (Straw) and some of the other guys we have. He certainly has proven to be every bit the player."
Gracious comments.
ETA: I have no doubt Laureano has exceeded the brain trust’s expectations. To that, I would say so also has Straw. He is a decent hitter at RR and is playing SS as well. There simply is no way to keep all of the talent Houston has stockpiled, and for the foreseeable future, Laureano was competing with Straw to be a 4th or 5th OFer. Sure no one is saying he projected to be better than Marisnick before he was traded. He has done very well with the As, and good for him. Hader is the one I want back, but even that is 20-20 hindsight.
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Gracious comments.
Yup because to give a more exhaustive answer would not be thoroughly understood. Those who played this game will tell you there is a phenomenon called "when the switch went on" when it comes to a player becoming much better than anticipated. There is no way to tell when or where a switch will go on, you can only judge by the skill that you predict the kid will be a good major leaguer. You can overestimate the ability to play in the big leagues on a player as much as you can underestimate on said player. It is because of all you can do is go on skill level. That is why you have different levels of minor leagues to try and mitigate only going on skill for the major league level. The more competitive leagues you have a player go through, the better because they prove what you see in skill is true. But does it prove they are major league ready or that one player is more ready than another? Only the major leagues will tell you that. The best you can do is read as much as you can into a players performance beyond skills. Read temperament, work ethics, baseball smarts and acumen, and how they react when they are in a slump as much as when they are going well. None of that translates into numbers. It is what good baseball men will use to judge what the numbers are saying and are not saying.
It's not an exact science, it is more of a judgment call. You can't doubt your judgment because one day the switch went on and the same player that was not getting it (how to be a major league) all of sudden gets it. Sometimes we just say to ourselves "He's not the same player he used to be". The Astros judge by numbers and they are better at it than any team in the majors. But no one in the majors is immune to a player's switch going on at some point in their career. That you cannot judge. To try and say the Astros should have done better to judge his ability to play in the majors is asking them to be Kreskin. No one can do that beyond judging skill and that they Astros on pure skill alone said Marisnick and Straw were better skill-wise is a very honest answer.
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Player evaluation is all about projecting the future, not about past static’s. “How will be project as an every day player? As a backup?” In Keuchel (and others) case, “how will he be as he ages?”
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The Laureano kid does have the best outfield arm in MLB, except for maybe Cespedes, Puig, or Hicks.
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Player evaluation is all about projecting the future, not about past static’s. “How will be project as an every day player? As a backup?” In Keuchel (and others) case, “how will he be as he ages?”
The “as he ages” part is just so interesting both on the ascending (as with Laureano) and descending (as with Keuchel) side of the equation. It’s one of the things I like about following the Astros. We get to see the results of that analysis played out very, very well. And it’s fun to try to dip our toe into that analytical stream and try to figure out their analytical process.
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Marwin was injured in a scary play tonight at first base while trying to beat out an infield grounder. He took a knee to the head when he collided with Tigers first baseman Goodrum and suffered a facial contusion. Hope he gets well soon. After a slow start, Marwin was just starting to heat up.
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It took just one pitch for Fiers to lose his no-hit bid last night.
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Marwin has a 6 game hitting streak and is batting .357 in May.
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Marwin has a 6 game hitting streak and is batting .357 in May.
Ask me if I care. He plays for the Twins. I loved him in Houston and am grateful for all he accomplishments, but he chased money, turned us down, and did not stay. In 2019 he is a JAG on another team.
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Plus, after a rough start Diaz is really starting to look good (and has been better than Marwin at the plate).
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Ask me if I care. He plays for the Twins. I loved him in Houston and am grateful for all he accomplishments, but he chased money, turned us down, and did not stay. In 2019 he is a JAG on another team.
This thread may not be up your alley.
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Ask me if I care. He plays for the Twins. I loved him in Houston and am grateful for all he accomplishments, but he chased money, turned us down, and did not stay. In 2019 he is a JAG on another team.
Did the Astros ever make an offer for him to turn down? I don’t remember one being reported. They traded for Diaz very early last offseason to replace him, so I guess it is possible he didn’t engage in discussions and the team quickly moved on. But I do not remember anything like that being reported.
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Did the Astros ever make an offer for him to turn down? I don’t remember one being reported. They traded for Diaz very early last offseason to replace him, so I guess it is possible he didn’t engage in discussions and the team quickly moved on. But I do not remember anything like that being reported.
I expect he made his financial demands known and the Astros moved on.
I agree with Jim — JAG at this point.
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Did the Astros ever make an offer for him to turn down? I don’t remember one being reported. They traded for Diaz very early last offseason to replace him, so I guess it is possible he didn’t engage in discussions and the team quickly moved on. But I do not remember anything like that being reported.
Crane said they did. I do not know.
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This thread may not be up your alley.
I understand the purpose of the thread and read all updates posted. I am saying what I think about unrequited love for Marwin.
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This thread may not be up your alley.
That's funny.
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I understand the purpose of the thread and read all updated posted. I am saying what I think about unrequited love for Marwin.
I compartmentalize. I like a few players on other teams. I want their teams to lose when they play the Astros but otherwise enjoy seeing them succeed as long as it's not at the Astros expense. There are guys on other teams that I also hate and hope they never become Astros. Sometimes, as in the cases of Carlos Gomez's and Roger Clemen's times as Astros, I'm conflicted by wanting someone I dislike to do well. That said no one misses "The King" more than I do. Also, how do you know it's unrequited?
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I compartmentalize. I like a few players on other teams. I want their teams to lose when they play the Astros but otherwise enjoy seeing them succeed as long as it's not at the Astros expense. There are guys on other teams that I also hate and hope they never become Astros. Sometimes, as in the cases of Carlos Gomez's and Roger Clemen's times as Astros, I'm conflicted by wanting someone I dislike to do well. That said no one misses "The King" more than I do. Also, how do you know it's unrequited?
The name on his jersey told me. I wish him well and thank him for all he did, but he is a JAG.
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I will always hold Marwin as special. Diaz is my guy now.
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I will always hold Marwin as special. Diaz is my guy now.
After his kind of rocky start, I like what we're seeing out of Diaz now. But I'm not sure he'll ever get on top of a Kenley Jansen fastball and drive it out of the park when his team needs it the most.
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After his kind of rocky start, I like what we're seeing out of Diaz now. But I'm not sure he'll ever get on top of a Kenley Jansen fastball and drive it out of the park when his team needs it the most.
I hope he gets the chance.
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After his kind of rocky start, I like what we're seeing out of Diaz now. But I'm not sure he'll ever get on top of a Kenley Jansen fastball and drive it out of the park when his team needs it the most.
Well, neither did Marwin. He lifted a cutter. That was two years ago. This is now. Diaz is an Astro. Marwin is a Twin. Biggest swing in Astros history, and the key word is history.
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I will always hold Marwin as special. Diaz is my guy now.
Always liked Marwin except his plodding around between pitches. I hope him the best except when facing the good guys.
To me defense is where Marwin separates himself from Diaz so far. Diaz made a great play to his right at 2nd last night, but he doesn't look comfortable in the outfield. He doesn't show to have Marwin's arm strength at SS or outfield either.
I haven't seen any indication that the Astros made Marwin an offer. Although, I have no doubt that if Marwin asked to stay (for a reasonable amount) the Astros would have made that offer in a heartbeat. The Stros signing Diaz early to me indicates that Marwin made it clear he wanted to test the market.
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WTF. We do not have Marwin or Cesar Cedeno either. This thread is great for keeping up with guys who were in our past, but guys we have now are our future.
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Brantley is Marwin's replacement on offense.
And he's a bonafide professional hitter.
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Always liked Marwin except his plodding around between pitches. I hope him the best except when facing the good guys.
To me defense is where Marwin separates himself from Diaz so far. Diaz made a great play to his right at 2nd last night, but he doesn't look comfortable in the outfield. He doesn't show to have Marwin's arm strength at SS or outfield either.
I haven't seen any indication that the Astros made Marwin an offer. Although, I have no doubt that if Marwin asked to stay (for a reasonable amount) the Astros would have made that offer in a heartbeat. The Stros signing Diaz early to me indicates that Marwin made it clear he wanted to test the market.
Crane: “we want to keep Marwin and Keuchel.” How do you keep him without at least asking what it will take?
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Crane: “we want to keep Marwin and Keuchel.” How do you keep him without at least asking what it will take?
Yea, no doubt that Luhnow did his part in starting the conversation to keep him. Marwin obviously wanted to test the market. All while Diaz is filling the role for a MUCH lesser price.
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#KHOU @SL_Skeeters The Skeeters’ newest player is former #Astros outfielder Willy Taveras. He signed a contract yesterday and went 1 for 4 at the plate at age 36.
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Jordan Lyles is 4-1 with a 1.97 ERA for the Pirates.
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Greggerson released by the Turdinals.
https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1130522242440466433?s=19 (https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1130522242440466433?s=19)
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Jordan Lyles is 4-1 with a 1.97 ERA for the Pirates.
Hope he keeps it up. Always liked that guy. I predicted he would be good and I've been wrong for a long long time.
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Michael Feliz (sent as part of Cole trade) started for the Pirates tonight against the Dodgers. Only recorded one out, left losing 5-0 after giving up a run scoring double and a grand slam in the 1st.
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Michael Feliz (sent as part of Cole trade) started for the Pirates tonight against the Dodgers. Only recorded one out, left losing 5-0 after giving up a run scoring double and a grand slam in the 1st.
And then got optioned out.
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Jake Elmore got DFA'd.
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Heard on a recent Effectively Wild that Chris Carter is the king of the Mexican League right now. Mashing insanely and not in a particularly hitter-friendly stadium. Goes to show how great Big Leaguers are.
I was happy to hear it. I always liked Gentle Bear--especially when he was DHing. I will long remember the ripping singles he'd smash through the gap on clotheslines that got to the wall too fast for him to advance.
Anyway, he even became a Mexican citizen! How easy is that, by the way? (Asking for a friend.)
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Keuchel just signed with the Atlanta Braves. No terms announced as I type but sounds like a one year deal.
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$20 million, prorated to $13 million.
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Is boras going to make him whole on the $5mm he lost?
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Is boras going to make him whole on the $5mm he lost?
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Please let us know how things are over there in your alternate reality.
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Please let us know how things are over there in your alternate reality.
Sarc meter malfunctioning?
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Sarc meter malfunctioning?
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Yours or mine?
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Is boras going to make him whole on the $5mm he lost?
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Boras is proclaiming loudly that he "won". He got a $20MM/year contract instead of the $17.9MM QO from the Astros. Scoreboard.
I'm not sure how he's going to explain to Mrs. Keuchel that she has $4.9MM less to spend this year though.
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Is boras going to make him whole on the $5mm he lost?
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And I have it from a fairly reliable source that Boras advised him to take the Astros $17.9MM QO, but Keuchel insisted on testing free agency. Either way, this is 100% on Keuchel, not his agent.
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And I have it from a fairly reliable source that Boras advised him to take the Astros $17.9MM QO, but Keuchel insisted on testing free agency. Either way, this is 100% on Keuchel, not his agent.
They're both fucksticks. Moving on...
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And I have it from a fairly reliable source that Boras advised him to take the Astros $17.9MM QO, but Keuchel insisted on testing free agency. Either way, this is 100% on Keuchel, not his agent.
If this is true, I have to at least give credit to Boras for keeping it quiet even though the entire episode has made him (Boras) look bad to outsiders.
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If this is true, I have to at least give credit to Boras for keeping it quiet even though the entire episode has made him (Boras) look bad to outsiders.
Anyone who matters understands its always 100% the player's call. He probably doesn't lose any sleep over what the talk radio crowd thinks.
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Anyone who matters understands its always 100% the player's call. He probably doesn't lose any sleep over what the talk radio crowd thinks.
This. This right here. Boras is laughing all the way to the bank.
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Ken Giles headed to the
DL IL right before the Astros-Blue Jays series:
https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/blue-jays-ken-giles-out-with-elbow-inflammation/
He's been having a pretty good year: 1.08 ERA, 11 saves in 12 tries, 1.04 WHIP, 42 K in 25 IP.
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Not sure if this should go here or the bus ride but...
The triumphant return of Felipe Paulino??? Astros have signed him and he's headed to RR, yes THAT Felipe Paulino who debuted 10+ years ago. He's been with the Skeeters most recently
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Not sure if this should go here or the bus ride but...
The triumphant return of Felipe Paulino??? Astros have signed him and he's headed to RR, yes THAT Felipe Paulino who debuted 10+ years ago. He's been with the Skeeters most recently
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Went to a Skeeters game earlier this summer and got to see him pitch. He still has some swing and miss in him; wasn't he a fireballer when he came up? Because I think his velocity topped out at 93-94.
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Went to a Skeeters game earlier this summer and got to see him pitch. He still has some swing and miss in him; wasn't he a fireballer when he came up? Because I think his velocity topped out at 93-94.
Yes he was throwing up to 100 when he was younger.
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Cam Maybin has homered in 4 consecutive games.
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Cam Maybin has homered in 4 consecutive games.
Mrs Maybin told me the other day that he is really impressed by the Yankee esprit de corps. Said with a lot of teams there is a sense of resentment or competition directed to the guy brought in to fill the slot of an injured player; not so in the Bronx, she said. They just want to win.
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J D Martinez's former agent has filed a law suit against Martinez's financial adviser and Merrill Lynch (who the adviser used to work for) for "intentional interference with his contract" (https://theathletic.com/1028048/2019/06/17/wendy-thurm-why-the-lawsuit-filed-by-j-d-martinezs-ex-agent-is-different-and-raising-some-interesting-questions/) $Athletic$
According to the complaint, as the 2017 season drew to a close, Boras tried to lure Martinez to his agency. Lee got wind of this (presumably from Martinez) and became curious. Lee hadn’t heard of Boras (clearly he wasn’t a baseball fan), but a few Google searches later, he understood that Boras regularly negotiates huge deals for his clients. And that, says Garber, is when Lee decided to double-cross his friend and hitch his star to Boras. The motive? If he steered Martinez to Boras, Boras would thank him by introducing his clients to Lee for financial and wealth services. A win-win for everyone, except for Garber.
According to Garber, Lee started telling Martinez that Garber was washed up and would sell Martinez short in his upcoming contract negotiations. Lee told Martinez to fire Garber and go with Boras. And that’s exactly what Martinez did.
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Jon Kemmer signed to a minor league contract after a great first half in the Mexican League.