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General Discussion => Talk Zone => Topic started by: Reuben on November 06, 2015, 10:45:40 am
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Today at 5pm (ET?) is the deadline for teams to make Qualifying Offers to their eligible free agents. In the Astros' case, kazmir isn't eligible because he was traded mid-season. Sipp won't get one, because the QO amount is $15.8m. So the only suspense is whether Rasmus will get one. If the Astros do offer him one, and he rejects it and then signs elsewhere, the Astros will get an extra draft pick next year in the sandwich round.
Also, beginning tomorrow all teams are free to negotiate with any free agents.
I have a feeling the Astros won't offer Rasmus a QO. Anyone feel differently?
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Today at 5pm (ET?) is the deadline for teams to make Qualifying Offers to their eligible free agents. In the Astros' case, kazmir isn't eligible because he was traded mid-season. Sipp won't get one, because the QO amount is $15.8m. So the only suspense is whether Rasmus will get one. If the Astros do offer him one, and he rejects it and then signs elsewhere, the Astros will get an extra draft pick next year in the sandwich round.
Also, beginning tomorrow all teams are free to negotiate with any free agents.
I have a feeling the Astros won't offer Rasmus a QO. Anyone feel differently?
I agree on Rasmus.
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I'm not sure why you wouldn't.
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I'm not sure why you wouldn't.
They might want a different type of player for the OF (Gordon, for example), or want to focus their FA dollars on a different positional target (Chris Davis? wishful thinking...) and go with a Marisnick/Tucker/whoever combo for LF.
Or they might want Colby back, but only at something like 2 yrs/$20-24 mil, nowhere close to $16m per.
Basically, if I'm Rasmus I'd be very tempted to accept a QO. And the Astros may not feel the risk is worth the reward. I could see it going either way.
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They might want a different type of player for the OF (Gordon, for example), or want to focus their FA dollars on a different positional target (Chris Davis? wishful thinking...) and go with a Marisnick/Tucker/whoever combo for LF.
Or they might want Colby back, but only at something like 2 yrs/$20-24 mil, nowhere close to $16m per.
Basically, if I'm Rasmus I'd be very tempted to accept a QO. And the Astros may not feel the risk is worth the reward. I could see it going either way.
Cobly's Sept/Oct numbers: 289/385/614. And then he had that post season. I have not seen a Astros hitter be as feared as he was in the post season. If Colby was a free agent and said to everyone, give me a 1 year deal. I think he could get 15.8 easily
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It'll be interesting to see if there actually is this Royals-induced industry-wide move the media is predicting toward contact hitters. And if so, how might that affect free agents like Rasmus that strike out a lot. I'm guessing the Astros don't make a qualifying offer to Colby, but they'd probably welcome what Reuben proposed about a multi-year deal for less than the 15.8 annually.
It'll also be interesting to see how much Crane loosens the purse strings for Luhnow this winter.
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No doubt they could use Rasmus on multiyear deal. Gomez has only one year left. So for 2017 it's Springer and question marks. And with a multi year deal you'd likely can keep it to 13-14 mil per (3 year minimum).
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No doubt they could use Rasmus on multiyear deal. Gomez has only one year left. So for 2017 it's Springer and question marks. And with a multi year deal you'd likely can keep it to 13-14 mil per (3 year minimum).
As things are now. I have no doubt that Luhnow will swing a deal that will affect the outfield.
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If prognostications that Gordon may get offers in the range of $20mm per for 4-6 years, Rasmus should not and probably will not sign the QO. He won't get Gordon money of course, but even a steep discount is a lot more guaranteed cheddar than $15.8mm per, although some teams have been reluctant to sign non-tier 1 FAs with QOs due to the draft pick.
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Some Luhnow-tes:
"Our rotation is fine, but in every area, you have to look at is there an opportunity to upgrade here? And push everybody down a spot," Luhnow said. "It's highly unlikely we're going to get a No. 1 ahead of Dallas (Keuchel). It really is (thinking about) … are there some options to get guys behind or pair with Dallas to be a kind of 1-2 punch? That seems to be really important in the postseason and important to getting into the postseason...Or is it a guy that fits more of the back of the rotation, that gives us more depth and insurance if one of our guys has a hiccup?
There's a lot of variables," Luhnow said of his payroll. "We've got a lot of arbitration players that we don't know where they're going to end up, and obviously, trades could change things right out of the gate. But we have resources to improve this team. That's not a constraint that I'm necessarily worried about right now.
In an informal poll, MLB Radio asked where several of the top free agents would land. The Astros were picked to sign the following:
Cespedes (Lidge)
Davis (Mike Stanton, Jim Memelo, Mel Antonen)
Zimmerman (Stanton, again)
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/External-upgrades-could-be-limited-for-Astros-6614287.php?t=4f007e373e438d9cbb&cmpid=twitter-premium (http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/External-upgrades-could-be-limited-for-Astros-6614287.php?t=4f007e373e438d9cbb&cmpid=twitter-premium)
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Sipp said he wants to return in no uncertain terms after the last KC game.
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Sipp said he wants to return in no uncertain terms after the last KC game.
Pay the man. I love Sipp.
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Sipp said he wants to return in no uncertain terms after the last KC game.
I fully expect sipp to be back. 2/7 sounds about right to me. Maybe a club option for about 4 million on a 3rd year
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Qualifying offer made to Rasmus.
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Qualifying offer made to Rasmus.
outstanding!
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Qualifying offer made to Rasmus.
I'm surprised, but glad.
a) it shows that the budget isn't so tight that they can't risk overpaying a bit on a 1-year guarantee
b) I like Rasmus, and I'd be happy if he came back.
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I'm surprised, but glad.
a) it shows that the budget isn't so tight that they can't risk overpaying a bit on a 1-year guarantee
b) I like Rasmus, and I'd be happy if he came back.
I'll be more surprised if he accepts it. The Astros didn't have much to lose by offering it given that (a) it's a 1 year deal for around his market value for a contending team with a low payroll and no obvious player to supplant him in the OF and (b) if he declines, it's a first round pick in Luhnow's pocket.
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I'll be more surprised if he accepts it. The Astros didn't have much to lose by offering it given that (a) it's a 1 year deal for around his market value for a contending team with a low payroll and no obvious player to supplant him in the OF and (b) if he declines, it's a first round pick in Luhnow's pocket.
I will not be surprised. he was happy for the first time in his baseball life.
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I will not be surprised. he was happy for the first time in his baseball life.
I'm pretty sure that no player has ever taken a qualifying offer, and, if he declines it, nothing prohibits him from re-signing with the Astros under different terms.
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I'll be more surprised if he accepts it. The Astros didn't have much to lose by offering it given that (a) it's a 1 year deal for around his market value for a contending team with a low payroll and no obvious player to supplant him in the OF and (b) if he declines, it's a first round pick in Luhnow's pocket.
I don't think his market value is around $16m per year. Keep in mind, while he was amazing in September and October, and very solid all year before that, he still batted .238 for the year, with a .314 OBP and a 113 OPS+. Some teams will look at the batting avg and dismiss him. Others will look at his up-and-down career and say "not on a multi-year deal, no thanks," or "good player, but he had issues with management in STL and Toronto; not worth the trouble" or whatever.
Again, I love Colby. And I think it's very possible that he could hit even better than what he did this year. But there's a lot of quality OFs on the market - Heyward, Upton, Cespedes, Gordon, Fowler, Span - and it seems, anecdotally, like a lot of teams have cheap young OFers they want to give playing time to. I'm just not sure some other team is gonna go crazy to sign Colby. Maybe more like $10-12m per year, 2-3 years.
And like Jim says, he seemed to love being on the Astros, and given that he sort of marches to his own drummer, maybe he'll break the mold and be the first FA to accept a QO.
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I'm pretty sure that no player has ever taken a qualifying offer, and, if he declines it, nothing prohibits him from re-signing with the Astros under different terms.
This is how I see it. If he wants to stay (and by all accounts he does), I still think it makes more sense for him to decline the initial offer then negotiate a 2 or 3 year deal. I would be happy to see him return.
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Free Agent Trivia Question:
Which current Free Agent ranks #1 among active pitchers in fewest BB/9? Min 1,000 IP.
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Free Agent Trivia Question:
Which current Free Agent ranks #1 among active pitchers in fewest BB/9? Min 1,000 IP.
Bartolo?
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Free Agent Trivia Question:
Which current Free Agent ranks #1 among active pitchers in fewest BB/9? Min 1,000 IP.
I wanna say I heard that Zimmerman had a really good rate?
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I wanna say I heard that Zimmerman had a really good rate?
Good guess.
Answer: Doug Fister, with 1.76 BB/9, just beats out fellow-FA Jordan Zimmermann. Greinke is 10th at 2.18 and Price is 16th at 2.32.
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Qualifying offer made to Rasmus.
Nice. Really hoping this leads to a 3-4 year deal.
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Good guess.
Answer: Doug Fister, with 1.76 BB/9, just beats out fellow-FA Jordan Zimmermann. Greinke is 10th at 2.18 and Price is 16th at 2.32.
I've always liked Fister, and it seems injuries have set him back a bit over his career. I wouldn't mind Luhnow taking a flier on him.
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Anyone think the mystery team could be our very own Astros?
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/nexen-heros-accept-12-85mm-posting-fee-for-byung-ho-park.html (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/nexen-heros-accept-12-85mm-posting-fee-for-byung-ho-park.html)
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Anyone think the mystery team could be our very own Astros?
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/nexen-heros-accept-12-85mm-posting-fee-for-byung-ho-park.html (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/nexen-heros-accept-12-85mm-posting-fee-for-byung-ho-park.html)
It would not surprise me. He could replace Carter (hopefully with better production) as a real RH power option at a controlled cost for 4 years or so.
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I bet it's the Pirates. They need a better 1B than Alvarez, and they've got Kang and obviously have scouted that team extensively.
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I bet it's the Pirates. They need a better 1B than Alvarez, and they've got Kang and obviously have scouted that team extensively.
It sounds like they'll announce it tomorrow morning Korea time. He hit a lot of home runs here but the stadiums are generally pretty small so I don't know how much of that power will translate.
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It sounds like they'll announce it tomorrow morning Korea time. He hit a lot of home runs here but the stadiums are generally pretty small so I don't know how much of that power will translate.
So you mean like 10 or so hours from now? That's rather inconsiderate, to keep us all in suspense that long.
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So you mean like 10 or so hours from now? That's rather inconsiderate, to keep us all in suspense that long.
Depends on the definition of "tomorrow". It is already after dinner Monday here in Thailand. If they had to decide by Monday we should already know.
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Depends on the definition of "tomorrow". It is already after dinner Monday here in Thailand. If they had to decide by Monday we should already know.
What part of Thailand are you?
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According to MLBTR, not the Pirates. Why would a team not want to everyone to know they made the offer? Or are they just trying to avoid NFL Sunday?
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According to MLBTR, not the Pirates. Why would a team not want to everyone to know they made the offer? Or are they just trying to avoid NFL Sunday?
Olney tweeted he has heard it is the A's.
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Multiple reporters all saying Twins now.
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I'm expecting it to not be the Astros. I can't help but think Luhnow is really hoping Reed steps forward and takes the job. Power hitting 1b who can also hit for average command sizable salaries. If he continues what he's been doing he is exactly that and extremely cost controlled.
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I'm expecting it to not be the Astros. I can't help but think Luhnow is really hoping Reed steps forward and takes the job. Power hitting 1b who can also hit for average command sizable salaries. If he continues what he's been doing he is exactly that and extremely cost controlled.
I think I'm just hoping for an increase in Houston Astros coverage here in Korea.
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Yep the media here is reporting its the Twins which is funny since one of the Seoul teams is actually the LG Twins so that works out for those fans. Sounds like there's another player being posted soon by the KBO though.
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What part of Thailand are you?
กรุงเทพฯ or as it is more widely known outside of Thailand, Bangkok.
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กรุงเทพฯ or as it is more widely known outside of Thailand, Bangkok.
Are you a hard man, and has your time there made you humble?
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กรุงเทพฯ or as it is more widely known outside of Thailand, Bangkok.
I'll be there in December. I love Bangkok. There's a lot going on.
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Are you a hard man, and has your time there made you humble?
It is probably hard to say, there being so little between despair and ecstasy.
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I've never been on the Gattis bandwagon, but non-tendering him seems extremely unlikely (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/offseason-outlook-houston-astros-7.html)
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Are you a hard man, and has your time there made you humble?
I'm either missing that reference or having a frieda moment
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I'm either missing that reference or having a frieda moment
It's a drag, it's a bore, it's really such a pity to be looking at (this) board, not looking at the city.
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I'm either missing that reference or having a frieda moment
I had to google it and was deeply sorry that I did.
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I had to google it and was deeply sorry that I did.
Not nearly as sorry than if you hadn't needed too.
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Not nearly as sorry than if you hadn't needed too.
True. But now I find myself in the don't need to group, a pitiable lot.
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True. But now I find myself in the don't need to group, a pitiable lot.
Welcome.
Kill me.
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I had to google it and was deeply sorry that I did.
I googled it and still don't know what y'all are talking about.
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I googled it and still don't know what y'all are talking about.
I guess I'll just file it under "ignorance is bliss".
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So I'm looking at the roster and I don't know that Luhnow has to be very creative to improve the starting 8. At catcher Castro is fine and hits 9th anyway. I'd lose Conger and install Stassi. At 1b I'd go with a platoon of Valbuena and Duffy. Duffy's inexperienced but would only see the field against lefties. His minor league history says he hits them well. 2b Altuve. SS Correa. 3b I'd give the job to Marwin full-time. He's an excellent defender and was good enough with the bat last year against lefties and righties. RF Springer. CF Gomez. LF I'd get Rasmus signed and use a pseudo platoon with Marisnick. At DH I'd get a little radical and install Tyler White. If he's the hitter he demonstrated last year as primarily a DH he should be better than Gattis. So my batting order would then be:
Altuve
Springer
Correa
Valbuena/Duffy
Gomez
Rasmus/Marisnick
Gonzalez
White
Castro
That's as good a defensive team as last year and what looks to me like a better offensive team.
That would free up deals to include Conger, Carter, Lowrie, Singleton, Tucker, and Gattis. Tucker especially could help land a closer.
A lineup thus would not require a free agent signing. The focus could then be on the pitching staff and shoring up the thinner parts of the prospect pool.
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Rasmus will become the first player ever to accept the qualifying offer, per Rosenthal.
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He's giving up a fair chunk of guaranteed change with that decision. Glad to have him back.
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He's giving up a fair chunk of guaranteed change with that decision. Glad to have him back.
Sort of....
1. There is no guarantee he gets more (see Nelson Cruz, et al)
2. $15+ MM is quite a bit of guarantee - more than most people will make in a lifetime
Great to have him on this team.
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I'm a little surprised. Luhnow probably has mixed feelings.
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That would close the door on a potential Gordon signing:
http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/houston-astros-kansas-city-royals-alex-gordon-free-agency-interest-possibility-111115
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That would close the door on a potential Gordon signing:
http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/houston-astros-kansas-city-royals-alex-gordon-free-agency-interest-possibility-111115
I'd have been shocked if he gave up a first round pick for him.
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Cheers to another year of Colby Jacks!
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How much of the farm do you think we would have to give away for both Chapman & Fraizer from the Reds?
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How much of the farm do you think we would have to give away for both Chapman & Fraizer from the Reds?
Most of it
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Sort of....
1. There is no guarantee he gets more (see Nelson Cruz, et al)
2. $15+ MM is quite a bit of guarantee - more than most people will make in a lifetime
Great to have him on this team.
Plus, it doesn't guarantee that he makes $15.8M this season, just that his worst-case scenario is a one-year deal for $15.8M. He could still work out a multi-year deal, so accepting the QO gives him some bargaining power.
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So I'm looking at the roster and I don't know that Luhnow has to be very creative to improve the starting 8. At catcher Castro is fine and hits 9th anyway. I'd lose Conger and install Stassi. At 1b I'd go with a platoon of Valbuena and Duffy. Duffy's inexperienced but would only see the field against lefties. His minor league history says he hits them well. 2b Altuve. SS Correa. 3b I'd give the job to Marwin full-time. He's an excellent defender and was good enough with the bat last year against lefties and righties. RF Springer. CF Gomez. LF I'd get Rasmus signed and use a pseudo platoon with Marisnick. At DH I'd get a little radical and install Tyler White. If he's the hitter he demonstrated last year as primarily a DH he should be better than Gattis. So my batting order would then be:
Altuve
Springer
Correa
Valbuena/Duffy
Gomez
Rasmus/Marisnick
Gonzalez
White
Castro
That's as good a defensive team as last year and what looks to me like a better offensive team.
That would free up deals to include Conger, Carter, Lowrie, Singleton, Tucker, and Gattis. Tucker especially could help land a closer.
A lineup thus would not require a free agent signing. The focus could then be on the pitching staff and shoring up the thinner parts of the prospect pool.
Pretty bold to count on Marwin and White as everyday players, I'll give you that. Seems like you'd have to hold on to both Lowrie and Gattis in case either player faltered.
Other than catcher and lefty pitchers, what do you regard as "thinner parts of the prospect pool"?
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I'm a little surprised. Luhnow probably has mixed feelings.
No, he does not. He wanted this.
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Pretty bold to count on Marwin and White as everyday players, I'll give you that. Seems like you'd have to hold on to both Lowrie and Gattis in case either player faltered.
Other than catcher and lefty pitchers, what do you regard as "thinner parts of the prospect pool"?
I think Marwin had enough at bats last season to show he can hit enough.
Upper level outfield, middle infield, third base, catcher, lefties.
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Pretty bold to count on Marwin and White as everyday players, I'll give you that. Seems like you'd have to hold on to both Lowrie and Gattis in case either player faltered.
Other than catcher and lefty pitchers, what do you regard as "thinner parts of the prospect pool"?
I don't have a problem with White getting a full time shot. He's had no problem moving up each level so far. If he keeps his same approach he'll at least give you a good at bat each time. I think Gattis has some trade value as well as Lowrie. Lowrie's contract was front loaded. And with Colby accepting you now can look to move Tucker. Just 7 days left to make the rule 5 40 man decisions. I would guess Singleton, Tucker, Gattis, Lowrie and Carter are all on the block. Expect they will trade/release at least 2 of them if not 3.
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I don't have a problem with White getting a full time shot. He's had no problem moving up each level so far.
Not that he can't do it, but...moving up to the big leagues is a HUGE leap. The biggest jump in baseball is from AAA to the Majors.
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Not that he can't do it, but...moving up to the big leagues is a HUGE leap. The biggest jump in baseball is from AAA to the Majors.
This is the truth. Ask Jon Singleton.
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This is the truth. Ask Jon Singleton.
There are players that succeeded immediately at every level then bombed out in the majors. But Singleton is not one of them.
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It's a "flood": Matt Wieters and Brett Anderson also accepted their QOs today.
So will this quiet all the talk that the QO system needs to be changed?
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@PeteAbe: #RedSox sent Margot, Guerra, infielder Carlos Asuaje and LHP Logan Allen to Padres for Kimbrel.
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Chapman still in play.
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FWIW, a few weeks back Drellich reported that the Astros could have had Kimbrel at the deadline for Martes, Hader, and Musgrove (deal would have changed obviously after Hader went to Milwaukee). So that gives us an idea at least of what Luhnow isn't willing to part with to get one of these guys.
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Red Sox get 3 years of Kimbrel. The price for chapman would presumably be much less, considering he's only got one year left on his contract.
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Chapman was my first choice all along.
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As much as I want Chapman, it would be nice to convert some of these pitchers coming up to relievers...seems like the best way to build a bullpen.
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As much as I want Chapman, it would be nice to convert some of these pitchers coming up to relievers...seems like the best way to build a bullpen.
You think anyone can pitch relief?
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Comes with a $118MM price tag ($12MM in 2016 and roughly $21MM owed each year from 2017-2021) but Rosenthal reporting the Braves are shopping (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/padres-matt-kemp-braves-freeman.html) Freddie Freeman.
Just 26, lotsa walks, lefty bat.
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Freeman had one great year. His last two years have just been okay. He does get a lot of walks, but he also strikes out a ton. Given his tremendous salary, I would pass.
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He does get a lot of walks, but he also strikes out a ton.
Um, what team do you watch? Freeman doesn't even make the top 5 in K rate on the Astros. I mean if you are going to describe Freeman as strikes out a ton, how do you plan on describing the Astros players?
That being said, Freeman doesn't make sense for the Stros. Ton of money to lock up for that long when Reed will be ready soon. Then again if you trade Reed for Freeman, that problem goes away. Wouldn't give up much more though. Freeman is being payed full value with that backloaded contract the Braves set up. Also have to be ready to rip open the purse strings if you made a move like that. Which I don't think Crane and company are interested in.
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Villar gone. Traded to the brewers for minor league pitcher Cy Sneed
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Villar gone. Traded to the brewers for minor league pitcher Cy Sneed
Sounds good to me. His offense and speed make him valuable to some, but I will be glad to see his defense (sic) be somebody else's albatross. And his boneheaded base running will be amusing instead of infuriating.
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So I guess this was a yes (http://www.orangewhoopass.com/forums/index.php?topic=118289.msg541621#msg541621)
Also Grossman and Luis Cruz released
40 man at 34.
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Sounds good to me. His offense and speed make him valuable to some, but I will be glad to see his defense (sic) be somebody else's albatross. And his boneheaded base running will be amusing instead of infuriating.
Never forget. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15L7IjGASg0)
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Remember who is now GM in sudsville. Former Asst GM to Luhnow (Godfrey?). I predict Villar will have a nice career and play at the ML level for several years as a utility guy.
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40-man down to 34...making quite a bit of room for contracts being purchased ahead of Rule 5 and then FAs.
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Remember who is now GM in sudsville. Former Asst GM to Luhnow (Godfrey?).
Stearns
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Villar gone. Traded to the brewers for minor league pitcher Cy Sneed
From MLBTR: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/brewers-acquire-jonathan-villar-astros.html
The 23-year-old Sneed spent this past season, his age-22 campaign, pitching for the Brewers’ Class-A affiliates in the Midwest and Florida State Leagues. The 2014 third-rounder posted a combined 2.58 ERA with 7.9 K/9 against 1.8 BB/9 in 139 1/3 innings of work. MLB.com didn’t rank Sneed among Milwaukee’s Top 30 prospects, and J.J. Cooper of Baseball America tweets that Sneed is a “three-pitch right-haner who competes with fringe-average stuff.”
I find it hard to believe that a 3rd round pick from two years ago has "fringe-average stuff"
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Here's a Brewers SB Nation review from when he was drafted:
http://www.brewcrewball.com/2014/6/6/5786540/brewers-cy-sneed-2014-mlb-draft
And here's MLB's video review:
http://m.mlb.com/video/topic/67565098/v33270427/draft-report-cy-sneed-college-pitcher
(Short version: Maintains 90-92 deep into games; capable of reaching 95; heater is a bit straight; changeup and curve are below average)
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Cooper of Baseball America tweets that Sneed is a “three-pitch right-haner who competes with fringe-average stuff.
From MLBTR: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/brewers-acquire-jonathan-villar-astros.html
I find it hard to believe that a 3rd round pick from two years ago has "fringe-average stuff"
Sound a bit like Keuchel? That would be nice.
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From MLBTR: http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/brewers-acquire-jonathan-villar-astros.html
I find it hard to believe that a 3rd round pick from two years ago has "fringe-average stuff"
That's about right. He was kind of a low-risk but bonus money saver pick.
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Sneed pitched well late last year. August+ was 35 innings over 6 starts. 35 Ks to just 9 walks and 33 hits. Only gave up 4 homeruns in 139+ innings last year.
Last game was stellar. Write up mentions a splitter (http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20150904&content_id=147457102&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb&sid=milb)
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Sound a bit like Keuchel? That would be nice.
From the right side. The Astros have a number of low-90's/average secondary right-handed pitchers.
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From the right side. The Astros have a number of low-90's/average secondary right-handed pitchers.
I get the feeling that the Astros generally target strike throwers first, and hope to develop something off that base to make them special. Sure, they grab and value pure arms also, but that's not where the inefficiencies lie. The organization seems capable of churning out 4s and 5s (and hope a few eventually become 2s or 3s) without expending much. This strategy seems to work well.
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Somehow it feels like a trade made to free up spots on the 40 more than it was to add talent to the system. Or put better, Snead may be less valuable than the 40 man roster spot we freed up.
As a total homer, I have to admit that it seems like limited return on a young middle infielder with proven bat and great legs. I'm even afraid of Grossman coming back to be a solid #4 outfielder for some MLB team.
But again 40 man for Houston is harder to make than some major league rosters.
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I get the feeling that the Astros generally target strike throwers first, and hope to develop something off that base to make them special. Sure, they grab and value pure arms also, but that's not where the inefficiencies lie. The organization seems capable of churning out 4s and 5s (and hope a few eventually become 2s or 3s) without expending much. This strategy seems to work well.
AAAA players are valuable particularly because they can help AAA and AA teams win games as well.
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Um, what team do you watch? Freeman doesn't even make the top 5 in K rate on the Astros.
Freeman struck out 145 times in 2014 and almost 100 times in 2015 in only about 400 at bats.
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Freeman struck out 145 times in 2014 and almost 100 times in 2015 in only about 400 at bats.
I prefer to consider strikeout rate with plate appearances, but either way my statement holds true
Interesting how close it apparently came (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/trust-the-process--rebuilding-plan-is-what-s-best-for-atlanta-braves-230151408-mlb.html)
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I prefer to consider strikeout rate with plate appearances, but either way my statement holds true
Interesting how close it apparently came (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/trust-the-process--rebuilding-plan-is-what-s-best-for-atlanta-braves-230151408-mlb.html)
Doesn't sound all that close, but it is interesting.
" Three sources told Yahoo Sports that Freeman’s name came up in conversations with the Houston Astros as part of a mega-trade that would’ve included more than five players. It went nowhere"
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A bit more on Mr. Sneed from BA along a similar vein to what was posted above:
As a durable innings-eater with three fringe-average to average offerings, he has the makings of a fifth starter if he reaches his ceiling, although he’s more likely to be a “sixth starter” who sits at Triple-A and gets called on when injuries arise. He fills the strike zone with strikes and has above-average control, which is vital as none of his offerings–a 90-92 mph fastball, curveball and change–are plus pitches.
Link (http://www.baseballamerica.com/majors/trade-central-astros-clear-40-man-spot-villar-trade/?utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A+Trending+Content&utm_content=564ea8d604d3011c44a6a8d5&utm_medium=trueAnthem&utm_source=twitter)
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A bit more on Mr. Sneed from BA along a similar vein to what was posted above:
Link (http://www.baseballamerica.com/majors/trade-central-astros-clear-40-man-spot-villar-trade/?utm_campaign=trueAnthem%3A+Trending+Content&utm_content=564ea8d604d3011c44a6a8d5&utm_medium=trueAnthem&utm_source=twitter)
At AAA and AA: Wojo, Straily, Hauschild, Rodgers, Devenski. They at least help you win there.
This is more about a 40-man spot.
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So the Dodgers are having issues with Puig. Due just 27 million over the next three years. The Astros currently have only Springer locked up in the outfield past this year. Would a trade say involving Gomez make sense? Maybe something like Gomez, Feldman, and Appel?
And is Puig just too much a pain in the ass or would the quieter environment of the Astros fit him well(as others have benefited from before)?
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So the Dodgers are having issues with Puig. Due just 27 million over the next three years. The Astros currently have only Springer locked up in the outfield past this year. Would a trade say involving Gomez make sense? Maybe something like Gomez, Feldman, and Appel?
And is Puig just too much a pain in the ass or would the quieter environment of the Astros fit him well(as others have benefited from before)?
I don't want anything to do with puig.
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yikes, no thanks.
The Reds and Red Sox discussed a trade for Aroldis Chapman, but Cincinnati wanted more from Boston than the Sox eventually sent to the Padres to land Craig Kimbrel. (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/cafardos-latest-giants-braves-gordon-chapman.html)
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yikes, no thanks.
The Reds and Red Sox discussed a trade for Aroldis Chapman, but Cincinnati wanted more from Boston than the Sox eventually sent to the Padres to land Craig Kimbrel. (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/cafardos-latest-giants-braves-gordon-chapman.html)
Yeah, fuck that. Now, this is kinda interesting:
The Astros have (Andrew) Miller atop their list for a closer, according to a major league source, and Melancon is also on that list. The Astros have several prospects they could deal for a top reliever.
link (http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/11/22/teams-are-open-dealing-closers/4VnmpXpvKUaqkM1EsTzUiN/story.html)
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Dallas setting up free agents not on the radar (http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/11/21/astros-notes-dallas-keuchel-would-be-pleased-with-rotation-additions/)
There’s a rich free-agent starting pitching market out there, and Dallas Keuchel wouldn’t mind if the Astros add from it.
“The baseball fan in me definitely would like to see an upgrade but that’s not in my control,” Keuchel said. “I know I’ve made pitches to David Price — it’s just the baseball fan in me at the end of the day. I just play. … I think (the bosses) know that we’re in a good position.”
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Yeah, fuck that. Now, this is kinda interesting:link (http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/11/22/teams-are-open-dealing-closers/4VnmpXpvKUaqkM1EsTzUiN/story.html)
Melancon is who I told my friend Dan I thought might want to return.
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Melancon is who I told my friend Dan I thought might want to return.
Melancon lives in Houston.
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Melancon lives in Houston.
But does he have a ranch?
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Melancon gets outs, but he may not be the Astros' favorite option considering their desire for a hard thrower.
Then again, he gets outs.
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Melancon gets outs, but he may not be the Astros' favorite option considering their desire for a hard thrower.
Then again, he gets outs.
It seems that the hard-thrower is what they are looking for.
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It seems that the hard-thrower is what they are looking for.
We'll see how important that is to them. If they were totally obsessed with velocity out of the pen, they probably would've protected Reymin Guduan for the Rule 5.
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Hoes dealt back to Baltimore.
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Hoes dealt back to Baltimore.
Just another area code.
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Non-tender deadline is Wednesday. MLBTR with their list (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/non-tender-candidates-7.html) of guys who may be on the bubble.
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Can he sing? Aroldis Chapman now represented by Magnus Sports (along with traditional sports agent Praver Shapiro), a newly-formed company run by Jay Z wannabe Marc Anthony.
Read the PR Flackery (http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/marc-anthonys-magnus-media-launches-sports-division-and-baseball-agency-joint-venture-300185011.html)
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Non-tender deadline is Wednesday. MLBTR with their list (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/non-tender-candidates-7.html) of guys who may be on the bubble.
It will be interesting with Carter. Unloading Lowrie may have opened the door back up for him. Still think he has a good chance of being non-tendered though. With both White and Reed waiting in the wings.
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It will be interesting with Carter. Unloading Lowrie may have opened the door back up for him. Still think he has a good chance of being non-tendered though. With both White and Reed waiting in the wings.
I can't see them non-tendering Carter. They had plenty of reasons to dump his ass this past season and never did. Surely even if they don't see him as their 1B next year, they can at least get something in trade for him. Lots of teams looking for power hitters, flawed or not.
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The #Astros are shopping Chris Carter in advance of tender deadline, sources say. They're focusing on AL clubs.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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The #Astros are shopping Chris Carter in advance of tender deadline, sources say. They're focusing on AL clubs.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
MLBTR also mentions they're listening to offers on Marisnick:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-shopping-chris-carter.html
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MLBTR also mentions they're listening to offers on Marisnick:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-shopping-chris-carter.html
hard for me to believe they'd pursue another high strikeout guy while unloading Carter, and I hope Marisnick stays.
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hard for me to believe they'd pursue another high strikeout guy while unloading Carter, and I hope Marisinick stays.
I hope they don't sell short on Marisnick. I really think this guy will breakout with the bat and he has the other tools. Gomez is signed for one more year and Marisnick could be ready for prime time by then. I don't see another CFer in the MiLs that is near ready with Phillips dealt in the Gomez deal.
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I hope they don't sell short on Marisnick. I really think this guy will breakout with the bat and he has the other tools. Gomez is signed for one more year and Marisnick could be ready for prime time by then. I don't see another CFer in the MiLs that is near ready with Phillips dealt in the Gomez deal.
I agree. Andrew Aplin is not the answer.
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Marisnick has options. No reason to unload him at all unless you get a surprise offer. This just doesn't make any sense. Marisnick will be needed if any of Springer, Gomez, or Rasmus misses time next year. And neither Rasmus or Gomez are locked up beyond 2016.
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I agree. Andrew Aplin is not the answer.
Trying to find out more information on Aplin and whether or not that OBP could possibly carry over to the majors... Most of the links for Alpin are for this catch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvocAAXDXCg)
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Trying to find out more information on Aplin and whether or not that OBP could possibly carry over to the majors... Most of the links for Alpin are for this catch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvocAAXDXCg)
Maybe but the bigger question is can he hit major league pitching. His comps are more in line with Grossman and Presley than, say, a Michael Bourn type player.
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7yr/$217MM contract being reported between David Price and Boston.
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7yr/$217MM contract being reported between David Price and Boston.
obscene
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7yr/$217MM contract being reported between David Price and Boston.
Ties Miggy as the highest per year MLB contract at $31M per. Agree with Jim, that's just obscene.
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Some of today's speculation re Carter involved Baltimore as a possible destination but the Orioles have apparently just pulled the trigger on a deal for Trumbo.
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Ties Miggy as the highest per year MLB contract at $31M per. Agree with Jim, that's just obscene.
"Miggy" still makes me think of Miguel Tejada first. Especially on this site.
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"Miggy" still makes me think of Miguel Tejada first. Especially on this site.
Same here
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Come on folks, let's get with the crazy-ass trade ideas. And I'll be the dumbass that kicks it off:
Send Chris Carter and Evan Gattis to the Mariners for Nelson Cruz. Carter has a .911 career OPS at Safeco and would fill the 1B vacancy created by the Trumbo trade. Gattis replaces Cruz at DH. Seattle also gets financial relief, shedding nearly $43MM ($14.3MM annual salary owed Cruz for the next 3 years) while taking on $9MM of 2016 combined salary (MLBTR estimate) in Carter/Gattis thru arbitration (Carter/Gattis both of course will be under club control thru 2018). Frees up money to re-sign Iwakuma (whose cost to re-sign just got a lot higher in the past week as we now know what starting pitcher prices are this off-season). They'll also be getting younger.
No need to discuss what Cruz has done the last two seasons. His career OPS at MMP is .969 (vs just .836 at Safeco). Risk for Houston is his age as he turns 36 in July. Another possible issue is his offensive numbers throughout his career are less robust when DHing than when playing the OF.
Almost certainly some prospects would need to go in the deal. Maybe a Joe Musgrove and a Nolan Fontana?
Is Nelson Cruz available? Dunno, although this Seattle Times columnist writes (http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/should-the-seattle-mariners-next-move-be-trading-nelson-cruz/) that trading Cruz is not a ridiculous idea for the Ms to consider as his trade value is unlikely to get any higher.
Flame on.
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Come on folks, let's get with the crazy-ass trade ideas. And I'll be the dumbass that kicks it off:
Send Chris Carter and Evan Gattis to the Mariners for Nelson Cruz. Carter has a .911 career OPS at Safeco and would fill the 1B vacancy created by the Trumbo trade. Gattis replaces Cruz at DH. Seattle also gets financial relief, shedding nearly $43MM ($14.3MM annual salary owed Cruz for the next 3 years) while taking on $9MM of 2016 combined salary (MLBTR estimate) in Carter/Gattis thru arbitration (Carter/Gattis both of course will be under club control thru 2018). Frees up money to re-sign Iwakuma (whose cost to re-sign just got a lot higher in the past week as we now know what starting pitcher prices are this off-season). They'll also be getting younger.
No need to discuss what Cruz has done the last two seasons. His career OPS at MMP is .969 (vs just .836 at Safeco). Risk for Houston is his age as he turns 36 in July. Another possible issue is his offensive numbers throughout his career are less robust when DHing than when playing the OF.
Almost certainly some prospects would need to go in the deal. Maybe a Joe Musgrove and a Nolan Fontana?
Is Nelson Cruz available? Dunno, although this Seattle Times columnist writes (http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/should-the-seattle-mariners-next-move-be-trading-nelson-cruz/) that trading Cruz is not a ridiculous idea for the Ms to consider as his trade value is unlikely to get any higher.
Flame on.
I'll take the bait. Where would you play Cruz? I'm guessing DH, since his OF defense doesn't hold a candle to any of the incumbents. Which leaves 1B wide open, so you're assuming that one of the kids (White/Reed) steps up or you've got Marwin over there on a regular basis.
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obscene
Very similar to numbers to Kershaw's deal. Neither of whom have been especially dominant in the post-season.
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I'll take the bait. Where would you play Cruz? I'm guessing DH, since his OF defense doesn't hold a candle to any of the incumbents. Which leaves 1B wide open, so you're assuming that one of the kids (White/Reed) steps up or you've got Marwin over there on a regular basis.
Cruz at DH. If (as Drellich seems to believe) Carter is pretty much gone anyway at this point, 1B is wide open whether you acquire Cruz or not. But yeah it's gonna be a pecking order along these lines:
1. Marwin/Valbuena (whoever's not manning 3rd)
2. Singleton
3. Duffy/White/Reed
Personally I would have kept Lowrie and had him in the 1B/3B mix. If one of the younger guys seize the day later in the year, that's when I would have (perhaps) traded Lowrie
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Very similar to numbers to Kershaw's deal. Neither of whom have been especially dominant in the post-season.
big understatement
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1. Marwin/Valbuena (whoever's not manning 3rd)
2. Singleton
3. Duffy/White/Reed
Or maybe that pecking order looks like this (so as not to leave out anyone with 1B experience at some level, be it however limited):
1. Marwin/Valbuena (whoever's not manning 3rd)
2. Singleton/Tucker
3. Duffy/White/Reed
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Or maybe that pecking order looks like this (so as not to leave out anyone with 1B experience at some level, be it however limited):
1. Marwin/Valbuena (whoever's not manning 3rd)
2. Singleton/Tucker
3. Duffy/White/Reed
As many times as Hinch as shot down Tucker at 1B (when even Conger was getting reps there during the summer), I think you were closer the first time.
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Or maybe that pecking order looks like this (so as not to leave out anyone with 1B experience at some level, be it however limited):
1. Marwin/Valbuena (whoever's not manning 3rd)
2. Singleton/Tucker
3. Duffy/White/Reed
I honestly think if Carter is gone that first base is White's to lose come spring training. Just seems like he has a real good shot of translating to the bigs well.
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The news about the Astros supposed interest in PHillies closer Ken Giles has been out there for several weeks now. But Jerry Crasnick adds a bit more in a tweet earlier today:
Jerry Crasnick @jcrasnick 2 hours ago
#Astros and #Phillies recently discussed Ken Giles. #Phillies brought up Lance McCullers and Vincent Velasquez, sources say.
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Jerry Crasnick @jcrasnick 2 hours ago
#Astros and #Phillies recently discussed Ken Giles. #Phillies brought up Lance McCullers and Vincent Velasquez, sources say
Velasquez I could see. But McCullers is insane. And both would be ludicrous
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Velasquez I could see. But McCullers is insane. And both would be ludicrous
I'd just as soon they install Velasquez as closer. He throws nearly as hard as Giles and can get major league hitters out.
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Luhnow (per McTaggart (http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/158573640)):
"I think I'd be disappointed if we didn't have at least one, if not two transactions between now and the end of the Winter Meetings." (that would be Dec 10)
"...so naturally, [corner infield] would be an area where there could be some possible moves."
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Velasquez I could see. But McCullers is insane. And both would be ludicrous
crazy talk. the Phillies are nuts.
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crazy talk. the Phillies are nuts.
+1
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Ken Rosenthal @Ken_Rosenthal 8 minutes ago
Two non-tender candidates who have been offered in trades today, according to sources: #Astros’ Hank Conger and #SFGiants’ Yusmeiro Petit.
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If Conger is non-tendered (or traded), will the Astros go after this guy?
C Tyler Flowers was non-tendered earlier today by the ChiSox. He's an excellent pitch framer (see this article (http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/7/71/907574/tyler-flowers-now-among-best-pitch-framers) citing the FG stats). He threw out 25% of baserunners this past season (and 27% in his career). 29 years old. Hit .239/.295/.356 in 2015 (in line with career numbers). Righty swinger. Big boy at 6'4" 245 lbs.
Phil Rogers @philgrogers 2 minutes ago
Tyler Flowers, who was non-tendered by the #WhiteSox, will be missed by Chris Sale and the pitcher's staff. He'd be fine in better lineup.
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crazy talk. the Phillies are nuts.
I suspect Jerry Crasnick and his sources are the ones who are nuts.
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The Tags Twitter feed:
Can confirm Chris Carter has been non-tendered by the Astros.
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The Tags Twitter feed:
Can confirm Chris Carter has been non-tendered by the Astros.
Should be noted that White has been playing a lot of first recently down in the Dominican. Every game since his Thanksgiving break and a couple before that.
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Conger dealt to the Rays for cash.
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Conger dealt to the Rays for cash.
Well, that acquisition didn't work out. Oh well, much more good than bad thus far. Next.
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Well, that acquisition didn't work out. Oh well, much more good than bad thus far. Next.
Agree. He supplied some power and seemed to be a good, fun guy.
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Well, that acquisition didn't work out. Oh well, much more good than bad thus far. Next.
Hey, you never know. Maybe the cash is a cool 20 mil.
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Have to agree with Conger and Carter moves. Props to both - the 2015 team would bot have made the playoffs without Carter's amazing finish.
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Have to agree with Conger and Carter moves. Props to both - the 2015 team would bot have made the playoffs without Carter's amazing finish.
This cuts both ways. Perhaps the Astros have another couple games in their pocket had Carter played better earlier in the season. Still, he played well at the end, as did the entire team, after they'd been struggling, and I wasn't sure they still had anything left in tank. I wish them both well, but the Astros are at a point that they simply cannot afford the ups and downs with these guys.
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Agree. He supplied some power and seemed to be a good, fun guy.
He will be missed in the clubhouse.
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sad about konger
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Obviously, Conger's problem was his defense. Which is puzzling because isn't that something that could be improved upon with work and proper instruction? Or is the general consensus that once you're 27 years old you're too old to learn new tricks?
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Obviously, Conger's problem was his defense. Which is puzzling because isn't that something that could be improved upon with work and proper instruction? Or is the general consensus that once you're 27 years old you're too old to learn new tricks?
Transforming a noodle arm to a cannon at age 27 would be one hell of a trick.
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I've never hid my feelings about the Conger, he should never have been on the team at all. He seemed like a good guy and I know he was well liked in the clubhouse, but this is great for the team.
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I've never hid my feelings about the Conger, he should never have been on the team at all. He seemed like a good guy and I know he was well liked in the clubhouse, but this is great for the team.
Dude could do the robot dance like no other.
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Transforming a noodle arm to a cannon at age 27 would be one hell of a trick.
Exactly. Can he improve? Probably. But he's no spring chicken for a catcher. He's a mid-career guy, and making a project out of such a guy is not a luxury this team has.
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Dude could do the robot dance like no other.
Will the Congerbot resurface in whatever dugout he finds himself next year? Or was that, like, a you-had-to-be-there 2015 Astros thing?
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I'm quite happy about the Conger deal because this hopefully means that Stassi can get at bats. I've only been impressed from what I've seen from Stassi in his MLB at bats.
I understood the Comger deal when it happened. I think that the Astros wanted to trade Castro and they saw Conger as a very good defensive catcher who also had pop. But Conger couldn't throw out a baserunner. And Castro was a very good defensive catcher (he deserved to be a gold glove finalist). And even though Conger hit some home runs, I thought he looked totally overmatched at the plate. The better option going forward is Castro.
I'm a little disappointed that the Astros got nothing for Carter. I think that every team knew that the Astros were going to nontender him. So why make a trade. I think he'll do well in free agency. What I don't understand are the articles that I have read that say that Carter is a defensive liability at first. I thought that he was a very good defensive firstbaseman. I don't think the Astros are going to go outside the org for a replacement. Between Singleton, Duffy, Gonzalez, White and Reed, there are plenty of options who should be able to produce at least what the Astros got from Carter last season.
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Exactly. Can he improve? Probably. But he's no spring chicken for a catcher. He's a mid-career guy, and making a project out of such a guy is not a luxury this team has.
I wonder if he always had a poor arm or if there was an injury? If his arm was always poor it was no secret around the league and the club still dealt for him. Just an odd trade to me in the first place and it cost them a young catcher that could have a nice career in the league.
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Transforming a noodle arm to a cannon at age 27 would be one hell of a trick.
He doesn't need a cannon to be an effective catcher, just needs to be effective enough to deter baserunners from running at will. So my question should have been, did anyone detect bad footwork/lack of followthrough, or did his sudden inability to control the running game (he wasn't bad before he came here) develop because he's got a weak-ass arm?
The injury thing could be a possibility too.
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I wonder if he always had a poor arm or if there was an injury? If his arm was always poor it was no secret around the league and the club still dealt for him. Just an odd trade to me in the first place and it cost them a young catcher that could have a nice career in the league.
His CS rate was 24% in both '13 and '14. It was pretty good in the minors. For it to drop all the way to 2% this year, it seems likely that he was injured.
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His CS rate was 24% in both '13 and '14. It was pretty good in the minors. For it to drop all the way to 2% this year, it seems likely that he was injured.
Thanks for the stats. I agree that injury seems likely.
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I'm quite happy about the Conger deal because this hopefully means that Stassi can get at bats. I've only been impressed from what I've seen from Stassi in his MLB at bats.
I understood the Comger deal when it happened. I think that the Astros wanted to trade Castro and they saw Conger as a very good defensive catcher who also had pop. But Conger couldn't throw out a baserunner. And Castro was a very good defensive catcher (he deserved to be a gold glove finalist). And even though Conger hit some home runs, I thought he looked totally overmatched at the plate. The better option going forward is Castro.
I'm a little disappointed that the Astros got nothing for Carter. I think that every team knew that the Astros were going to nontender him. So why make a trade. I think he'll do well in free agency. What I don't understand are the articles that I have read that say that Carter is a defensive liability at first. I thought that he was a very good defensive firstbaseman. I don't think the Astros are going to go outside the org for a replacement. Between Singleton, Duffy, Gonzalez, White and Reed, there are plenty of options who should be able to produce at least what the Astros got from Carter last season.
His glove is what I'll miss the least.
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He doesn't need a cannon to be an effective catcher, just needs to be effective enough to deter baserunners from running at will. So my question should have been, did anyone detect bad footwork/lack of followthrough, or did his sudden inability to control the running game (he wasn't bad before he came here) develop because he's got a weak-ass arm?
The injury thing could be a possibility too.
He may be injured, but the result is that he just has a noodle arm. I don't think it's mechanical, he just doesn't have the arm strength to throw the ball that far effectively. A rotator cuff issue would be the first injury or think of. But even beyond that, he's a poor defensive catcher in most other aspects as well.
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He may be injured, but the result is that he just has a noodle arm. I don't think it's mechanical, he just doesn't have the arm strength to throw the ball that far effectively. A rotator cuff issue would be the first injury or think of. But even beyond that, he's a poor defensive catcher in most other aspects as well.
Except pitch framing.
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Except pitch framing.
Not sure if you're being facetious or not, but I don't know how he got the reputation of being good at framing pitches. He's particularly bad at it.
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Not sure if you're being facetious or not, but I don't know how he got the reputation of being good at framing pitches. He's particularly bad at it.
I think he was being facetious with regards to the importance of framing, but Conger is not bad at it, much less particularly bad at it.
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What I don't understand are the articles that I have read that say that Carter is a defensive liability at first. I thought that he was a very good defensive firstbaseman.
Carter was pretty good at snaring ground balls hit his way, but I thought he was woefully deficient in all other aspects of playing first base. He couldn't pick low throws, he stretched with the wrong leg, and by the end of the year it seemed only a matter of time before he got Correa killed with a bad throw to second base.
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And right on cue Fangraphs comes up with an article discussing this.
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/ (http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/)
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And right on cue Fangraphs comes up with an article discussing this.
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/ (http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/)
I don't see what you guys see in Conger's glove.
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And right on cue Fangraphs comes up with an article discussing this.
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/ (http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/hank-congers-jon-lester-season-behind-the-plate/)
That article - the Scioscia quote, in particular - pretty much nailed it. It's all about the pop time. Long exchange and long arm sweep combined with low throwing velocity (and I'd add fairly slow footwork) is a recipe for disaster. You can mask a deficiency in one or two of those areas if you are excellent in others. Conger may have been better at one of those areas in 2013/14, and may have been working with "quicker" pitchers. When the difference between an excellent and terrible pop time is about 0.3 seconds there is no room for regression.
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Not sure if you're being facetious or not, but I don't know how he got the reputation of being good at framing pitches. He's particularly bad at it.
I am profoundly unqualified to evaluate catchers, but that was always the story with him. I find the whole thing a bit funny.
For the more complicated way, we turn to Baseball Prospectus. Their framing numbers are based on more intricate formulas, controlling for a great number of variables. In 2013, out of regular and semi-regular catchers, Conger ranked tied for fifth in framing runs expressed as a rate stat. He was third in extra strikes per game. In 2014, Conger ranked first in runs as a rate stat, and second in extra strikes per game. Let’s combine the last two years. Let’s set a minimum of 5,000 so-called “framing opportunities”. We’re left with a pool of 56 catchers. Within that pool, Conger ranks second in extra strikes per game, and second in framing runs per game. The only catcher better: Jose Molina, who wasn’t better in the season that just ended.
Take the BP numbers at face value, and the last two years, Conger’s framing has been worth more than 30 runs alone. People quibble with the magnitudes of these things, and people debate over how to distribute responsibility, but it makes sense that the Astros would be believers in this, just as the Rays have been and just as the Brewers obviously are. The Astros, presumably, see Conger as an elite-level framer, and though he doesn’t have too many other skills, Nelson Cruz doesn’t have too many other skills aside from clobbering dingers, and the dingers make him valuable. It doesn’t matter how a guy’s good, as long as he’s good. The Astros identified and got a good player, according to the ways they evaluate players.
http://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/the-astros-get-their-jose-molina/
http://m.mlb.com/news/article/111627786/astros-catcher-hank-conger-adept-at-pitch-framing
This article suggests statistical fluke:
http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/11/5/7164887/hank-congers-suspect-framing-numbers
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This is oddly mesmerizing:
http://cdn.fangraphs.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/catcherszones.gif
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This article suggests statistical fluke:
http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2014/11/5/7164887/hank-congers-suspect-framing-numbers
Statistical fluke or not, watching him tells me he's poor at pitch framing and other areas of catcher defense. He routinely cost his pitchers strikes last year. He moves around way too much, snatches at the ball, reaches and doesn't turn the glove over when he should. His blocking skills are ok, and as far as I know he had no trouble "handling" pitchers. But receiving and throwing were really bad.
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I may be the only one around here who (will be) is sad to see Carter go. I know his K's were a major problem but that kind of power doesn't grow on trees and his defense had improved. Oh well. Lunhow has been so solid that I have stopped 2nd guessing them anymore. Go Stros!
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I don't see what you guys see in Conger's glove.
I also get a little irritated about the pitch framing crap and the fangraphs article. Notwithstanding the method of measuring pitch framing, and whether the measured skill is real or valuable, nor whether Conger is or isn't a master at it, one will never convince me that it is "probably the most important skill for a catcher to have!" (fangraphs article). Seriously?
The Astros were damn smart to limit Conger to teams without many plus base-stealers, but that was a huge fucking liability. It meant that Castro couldn't be pinch for against a team with some base-stealers, and it meant that Conger was basically worthless against KC. Did he even play in the post season?
I liked the guy and I will always fondly remember his interaction with the Ranger's jackoff, but the reason he is gone is precisely because he is a defensive liability, whether he possesses some magical skill or not.
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The Astros were damn smart to limit Conger to teams without many plus base-stealers, but that was a huge fucking liability. It meant that Castro couldn't be pinch for against a team with some base-stealers, and it meant that Conger was basically worthless against KC. Did he even play in the post season?
Conger caught the last inning of the infamous Game 4. He didn't bat.
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But receiving and throwing were really bad.
Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln....
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I read something interesting today about the Astros pitchers holding guys on 1B. Astros staff attempted 23 pickoffs per 100 stolen base opportunities, last in the AL. MLB ave. per 100 = 40.
That doesn't really excuse Congers' poor throwing performance as Castro did pretty well but it is worth noting. Makes me wonder if the front office has some stat that holding a guy on is overrated or something.
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Seriously, 1 out of 43. Stassi might have had the #2 spot coming out of camp anyways. They saved 1.8ish million plus whatever the Rays gave for him and have another spot open on the 40 man. You're not carrying 3 catchers and you can't send him down. Was his bot routine that intoxicating to the fan base?
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Was his bot routine that intoxicating to the fan base?
Yes.
https://media.giphy.com/media/xTiTnLEFbMFovvL4IM/giphy.gif
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your picture is mesmerizing
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I may be the only one around here who (will be) is sad to see Carter go. I know his K's were a major problem but that kind of power doesn't grow on trees and his defense had improved. Oh well. Lunhow has been so solid that I have stopped 2nd guessing them anymore. Go Stros!
I'll miss Carter too. In addition to the power, I enjoyed his personality and demeanor. Very calm, surprisingly introspective. I won't miss the baserunning though. God that was maddening.
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Yes.
https://media.giphy.com/media/xTiTnLEFbMFovvL4IM/giphy.gif
How long do I have to wait after viewing before I can get in the car and drive?
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I'll miss Carter too. In addition to the power, I enjoyed his personality and demeanor. Very calm, surprisingly introspective. I won't miss the baserunning though. God that was maddening.
I liked Carter too, but he made Mark apoplectic.
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Oliver Perez signed with the Nats for 2 years, $7 million. I'm curious to see how Luhnow addresses the lack of lefties in the pen.
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Oliver Perez signed with the Nats for 2 years, $7 million. I'm curious to see how Luhnow addresses the lack of lefties in the pen.
Tony Sipp should be one. He said he wanted to return.
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Oliver Perez signed with the Nats for 2 years, $7 million. I'm curious to see how Luhnow addresses the lack of lefties in the pen.
I'm liking the chances of a deal with Tampa for Boxberger and lefty McGee. If Chapman was meant to be an Astro, I think it would have already happened.
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I'm liking the chances of a deal with Tampa for Boxberger and lefty McGee. If Chapman was meant to be an Astro, I think it would have already happened.
I'm not that impressed with Boxberger. McGee has put up some awesome numbers though.
I hope SIPPERSTAR comes back, but the inferior Perez getting 2/$7m isn't encouraging. Sipp might want something like 3/$12, and while I'm happy to spend Crane's money in that way, Luhnow might not be so eager.
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Tony Sipp should be one. He said he wanted to return.
Yeah, I don't know why they wouldn't bring Sipp back. He was pretty solid all year - without looking at numbers it seemed like he was more immune to the bullpen collapse than the others.
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Yeah, I don't know why they wouldn't bring Sipp back. He was pretty solid all year - without looking at numbers it seemed like he was more immune to the bullpen collapse than the others.
Sipp, if I remember correctly, had his struggles mid-season when the rest of the pen was pretty good. He was one of the most reliable down the stretch.
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sometimes the plans for the team for next year seem a bit fuzzy. a sipp of something might help
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Greinke to the Dbacks.
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Greinke to the Dbacks.
Apparently 206 for 6 years. Damn, that's a hunk of change
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Sipp, if I remember correctly, had his struggles mid-season when the rest of the pen was pretty good. He was one of the most reliable down the stretch.
That is my recollection as well.
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Luhnow has remained remarkably silent throughout frankly a pretty active signing period. This is good. Why pay when you can trade? I like that the Astros haven't paid out the ass for starting pitching that will be good for two years and then be unfathomably shitty. Trade young for young and hope your analysis and scouts get it right. Lunhow has a plan and it seems to me at least to not involve high priced free-agents.
Highly priced trade targets however.... The team gives up a lot and gets a lot. I like that "roll of the dice".
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Samalphabet signs with the Giants, 5 years/90 mil. And he's not a difference maker in the rotation.
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Samalphabet signs with the Giants, 5 years/90 mil. And he's not a difference maker in the rotation.
Crazy valuation.
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Keuchel hasn't had a bad last few days.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Keuchel hasn't had a bad last few days.
No shit. That's going to be an interesting situation.
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Samalphabet signs with the Giants, 5 years/90 mil. And he's not a difference maker in the rotation.
I don't know what's going on in SFO. That looks like a desperation signing after missing out on Price and Greinke, which is unlike Sabean.
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I don't know what's going on in SFO. That looks like a desperation signing after missing out on Price and Greinke, which is unlike Sabean.
Exactly. It's one thing to sign a guy like that on a 1-2 year make-good deal, and reasonably say "Hey, he had a rough 2015, but this guy still has the upside of a #2 starter and could really help us".
It's quite another to say "Hey, this guy has a 50/50 chance to pitch like a #2 starter, so we're gonna wager $90m on that and pay him like one." And this is the Giants we're talking about. They don't have to pay guys extra to sign there, because they're a legit contender year-in, year-out.
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I don't know what's going on in SFO. That looks like a desperation signing after missing out on Price and Greinke, which is unlike Sabean.
That's exactly what I thought when he signed Barry Zito and Aaron Rowand.
He makes bad decisions every year, IMO, and somehow Bochy turns them into World Series rings.
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Kenley ain't gonna be happy...
Ken Rosenthal @Ken_Rosenthal 1 hour ago
Sources: #Dodgers making progress on Chapman deal with #Reds.
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Kenley ain't gonna be happy...
We are supposed to be in this too.
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2 prospects that are not Seager, Urias, or DeLeon....sounds like a deal the Astros could have made without too much pain.
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2 prospects that are not Seager, Urias, or DeLeon....sounds like a deal the Astros could have made without too much pain.
I wonder who our primary target is.
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I wonder who our primary target is.
I keep reading they are still in on Chapman but maybe not the favorite. 1B slugger Chris Davis is getting tied to Houston lately as a FA.
I personally hope Houston does not give up a top-shelf player for a one-year guy like Chapman. McCullers and Reed are names that keep coming up as leaving. I can see Reed if Davis is signed but McCullers in a Chapman deal I am not for.
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I keep reading they are still in on Chapman but maybe not the favorite. 1B slugger Chris Davis is getting tied to Houston lately as a FA.
I personally hope Houston does not give up a top-shelf player for a one-year guy like Chapman. McCullers and Reed are names that keep coming up as leaving. I can see Reed if Davis is signed but McCullers in a Chapman deal I am not for.
I have read elsewhere the Chapman to the Dodgers deal is done.
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I'm happy we didn't overpay for one year of Chapman. And we don't need Chris Davis. We have plenty of good fist base options, ultimately leading to AJ Reed.
Find guys under team control. Make a deal with the Rays.
Don't abandon the plan.
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Reliever Drew Storen of Washington is on the market apparently with Houston as a possible.
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Crasnick says Sipp looking for 3 year deal at $5/6MM per.
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I personally hope Houston does not give up a top-shelf player for a one-year guy like Chapman. McCullers and Reed are names that keep coming up as leaving. I can see Reed if Davis is signed but McCullers in a Chapman deal I am not for.
I can't think of too many players that I'd like to have that would be worth McCullers. Legit potential #1 if he can stay healthy with his (seemingly) unorthodox delivery.
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Crasnick says Sipp looking for 3 year deal at $5/6MM per.
I'd gladly pay Crane's $$ for this. I like Sipp. Very good in '14, total workhorse in '15.
Edited to add: look at his nums from the last two years. Very similar except for ERA. The value of having an improved D behind you.
http://m.mlb.com/player/448609/tony-sipp
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1B slugger Chris Davis is getting tied to Houston lately as a FA.
Do you have a source on this?
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Reliever Drew Storen of Washington is on the market apparently with Houston as a possible.
Heyman tweets that chapman, Miller, and Melancon are the Astros top three targets and that Storen is fallback.
I really like the Miller idea. And the Yankees are definitely looking to get younger so I would think the Astros are a good trading partner.
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Do you have a source on this?
There was one ESPN guy who predicted Davis to Houston, but he also predicted Chapman to Houston. It looks like he was one of a bunch of dudes who were asked to make bold predictions.
http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/page/wintermeetings15_predictions/2015-winter-meetings-predictions (http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/page/wintermeetings15_predictions/2015-winter-meetings-predictions)
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Crasnick says Sipp looking for 3 year deal at $5/6MM per.
Well that would explain why the Astros haven't wrapped him up yet. Pretty steep for 50 middle relief innings innings.
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everyone seems to be a bit pricy in the offseason
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Heyman tweets that chapman, Miller, and Melancon are the Astros top three targets and that Storen is fallback.
I really like the Miller idea. And the Yankees are definitely looking to get younger so I would think the Astros are a good trading partner.
I like Miller too, and agree Luhnow should not have overpaid for Chapman.
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I like Miller too, and agree Luhnow should not have overpaid for Chapman.
No one thinks that Luhnow should have overpaid for Chapman. The real question is ... should Luhnow have given up the amount the Dodgers gave up in order to get Chapman.
"The two prospects have not yet been identified, but reports say it is not any of the Dodgers' top three prospects -- shortstop Corey Seager, left-hander Julio Urias or right-hander Jose De Leon."
That doesn't sound like overpaying to me, to get one of the best closers in baseball and solve a gaping hole in your team.
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That doesn't sound like overpaying to me, to get one of the best closers in baseball and solve a gaping hole in your team.
Dodgers #4 and #5 prospects are the #24 and #58 overall prospects. That would be Bergman and Daz Cameron from the Astros.
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No one thinks that Luhnow should have overpaid for Chapman. The real question is ... should Luhnow have given up the amount the Dodgers gave up in order to get Chapman.
"The two prospects have not yet been identified, but reports say it is not any of the Dodgers' top three prospects -- shortstop Corey Seager, left-hander Julio Urias or right-hander Jose De Leon."
That doesn't sound like overpaying to me, to get one of the best closers in baseball and solve a gaping hole in your team.
you know more than I know. As for me, I will rely on Luhnow's judgment 100% of the time.
ETA: closer was not a "gaping hole" in the 2015 Astros.
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Dodgers #4 and #5 prospects are the #24 and #58 overall prospects. That would be Bergman and Daz Cameron from the Astros.
#56 Kyle Tucker is closer to their #58 prospect than #53 Daz Cameron. But still, your point is valid. The Dodgers' 4th and 5th best prospects are better than most teams' 4th and 5th best prospects.
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you know more than I know. As for me, I will rely on Luhnow's judgment 100% of the time.
ETA: closer was not a "gaping hole" in the 2015 Astros.
Agree on closer. The gaping hole I was referring to was the late inning bullpen as a group, that Luhnow has been trying to address for months.
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you know more than I know. As for me, I will rely on Luhnow's judgment 100% of the time.
ETA: closer was not a "gaping hole" in the 2015 Astros.
/ass kisser alert/ I agree with Coach. Outside of the Conger deal, I really like what Luhnow has done./ass kisser alert/ All I know is that I don't know.
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Agree on closer. The gaping hole I was referring to was the late inning bullpen as a group, that Luhnow has been trying to address for months.
he wants a flame thrower. the last pen had everything else. the key to the collapse was having to overwork the others because of Neshek's ineffectiveness. I wonder if he was injured or just tired. his pitches all lost their tilt and bite.
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I like Miller too, and agree Luhnow should not have overpaid for Chapman.
What bothers me about Miller is the Stros offered a tidbit more for his services. And now thanks to his decision the Stros will have to give the Yankees a top prospect or 2 AND they missed out on his fantastic 2015 campaign. Disappointing
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he wants a flame thrower. the last pen had everything else. the key to the collapse was having to overwork the others because of Neshek's ineffectiveness. I wonder if he was injured or just tired. his pitches all lost their tilt and bite.
It's complete 20/20 hindsight, but considering the lead was 4 runs, you have to wonder what would have happened if Hinch had just given the ball to Neshek for the eighth inning of game 4.
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It's complete 20/20 hindsight, but considering the lead was 4 runs, you have to wonder what would have happened if Hinch had just given the ball to Neshek for the eighth inning of game 4.
I have thought that too.
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It's complete 20/20 hindsight, but considering the lead was 4 runs, you have to wonder what would have happened if Hinch had just given the ball to Neshek for the eighth inning of game 4.
Well that's just silly. Given how bad that fateful inning worked out, just about any different decision would have likely worked out better. Could have probably let Gattis pitch and it might have worked out better.
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Chapman deal not official (https://twitter.com/jaysonst/status/673963104313679872), per Jayson Stark. Another writer (https://twitter.com/m_sheldon) in the twitterverse seems to think that other teams have upped their offer, causing Cincy to reopen the bidding.
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Rosenthal just tweeted Reed and another prospect for chapman. Fuck that. I'm seriously pissed.
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Rosenthal says it's a done deal. Calls it a "stunning turn of events."
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Rosenthal just tweeted Reed and another prospect for chapman. Fuck that. I'm seriously pissed.
if it is just two, I am not. We are deep in prospects, and there has to be another hitter among them. I am going to say again: I trust Luhnow.
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Rosenthal says it's a done deal. Calls it a "stunning turn of events."
I don't think that's actually Ken Rosenthal. I'm looking at his feed. Might be a fake account, they pop up all the time during trade season.
Yeah, found it. Fake.
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This feels a little like Larry Anderson for Bagwell to me.
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Rosenthal says it's a done deal. Calls it a "stunning turn of events."
Are you sure that's right? I don't have that on Rosenthal's timeline.
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I don't think that's actually Ken Rosenthal. I'm looking at his feed. Might be a fake account, they pop up all the time during trade season.
Yeah, found it. Fake.
Yeah I follow Rosenthal and saw nothing.
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I don't think that's actually Ken Rosenthal. I'm looking at his feed. Might be a fake account, they pop up all the time during trade season.
Yeah, found it. Fake.
Shit. You are right. I hate the Internet. (This site notwithstanding.)
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Still, Chapman to the Dodgers isn't done so a deal to the Astros could still happen.
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What would the Reds need with Reed anyhow. Votto is locked up till 2023
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Shit. You are right. I hate the Internet. (This site notwithstanding.)
Someone made a fake Drellich account the other day and reported Giles to Houston. I think another reporter tweeted out "oh for fuck's sake, who makes a fake Evan Drellich account?"
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if it is just two, I am not. We are deep in prospects, and there has to be another hitter among them. I am going to say again: I trust Luhnow.
As a general matter, I agree with you. Except for Reed. I think he needs to be untouchable. Maybe the only untouchable in the Astros system.
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As a general matter, I agree with you. Except for Reed. I think he needs to be untouchable. Maybe the only untouchable in the Astros system.
Maybe he is.
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As a general matter, I agree with you. Except for Reed. I think he needs to be untouchable. Maybe the only untouchable in the Astros system.
Thought the same thing about Phillips in July
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As a general matter, I agree with you. Except for Reed. I think he needs to be untouchable. Maybe the only untouchable in the Astros system.
Power/average lefty hitters aren't easy to find. He might be a high enough leverage prospect in Luhnow's mind to make him untouchable.
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Thought the same thing about Phillips in July
The only way that deal begins to make any sense to me is if they project Phillips as more of a .280/ 10-15 HR RF with a poor SB rate, rather than a true 5-tool CF.
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Reason #8634 I need to get a life:
Mike Hiserman, the deputy sports editor for the LA times, tweets that "stud reporter" Dylan Hernandez (Dodgers beat reporter) says Chapman to Astros.
I think this is at least triple hearsay.
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Reason #8634 I need to get a life:
Mike Hiserman, the deputy sports editor for the LA times, tweets that "stud reporter" Dylan Hernandez (Dodgers beat reporter) says Chapman to Astros.
I think this is at least triple hearsay.
It's easier just to follow mlbtr. They filter twitter.
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someone is stocking the stove with lots of cow chips...
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It's easier just to follow mlbtr. They filter twitter.
I do. But damnit, I need more. I'm a junkie.
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My best baseball source says tap the brakes on Reed.
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My best baseball source says tap the brakes on Reed.
In terms of the enthusiasm that Astros fans have for him, or for the FO's willingness to trade him?
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In terms of the enthusiasm that Astros fans have for him, or for the FO's willingness to trade him?
I'm assuming in terms of the expectations and projections of him as a major leaguer.
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I'm assuming in terms of the expectations and projections of him as a major leaguer.
Yes
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I'm assuming in terms of the expectations and projections of him as a major leaguer.
I want to see what Reed has got but what I don't want is to go into the season saying "it's Reed, singleton or bust"
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I want to see what Reed has got but what I don't want is to go into the season saying "it's Reed, singleton or bust"
cough White cough
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Gunshots, girlfriend-choking = trade scuttling?
Passan tweeting about Chapman.
Link to article (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/aroldis-chapman-s-girlfriend-alleged-he--choked--her--according-to-police-report-023629095.html?nf=1)
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Gunshots, girlfriend-choking = trade scuttling?
Passan tweeting about Chapman.
Link to article (http://sports.yahoo.com/news/aroldis-chapman-s-girlfriend-alleged-he--choked--her--according-to-police-report-023629095.html?nf=1)
Wow, how is a story like that not known before now?
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cough White cough
White is tearing it up in winter ball. Dude can rake.
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Luhnow talking 'bout pen help (http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/159056376/astros-seek-relief-pitching-at-winter-meetings) today:
"We've stated it's a priority for us this offseason to add an arm or two to the bullpen, but there are lots of avenues to get there, and we've got some guys in our system that may be able to help," Luhnow said. "Will Harris was not even on most peoples' penciled-in roster, and he ended up being a big part of our bullpen. Maybe [Minor Leaguer] James Hoyt is that guy, who knows? But we're going to continue to work hard to improve the bullpen one way or another."
Hoyt of course came in the Gattis deal from the Braves. Reported mid-90s FB. Had an excellent back half of the season with Fresno, with just 18 hits and 4 walks allowed in 28 IP while whiffing 40. Carried that over to winter ball with a 26/5 K to W ratio in 19 IP and 15 hits allowed in the VWL. 29 years-old after a late start in professional BB. Not on 40-man so he'll come to camp as an NRI (as he did last year).
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I really like the Miller idea. And the Yankees are definitely looking to get younger so I would think the Astros are a good trading partner.
Mentioned here (http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-widen-relief-options-as-Chapman-s-status-6682761.php?t=ee8951bd40438d9cbb&cmpid=twitter-premium) is the health issue regarding Miller because of the month he spent on the DL due to the forearm strain in June. Maybe that's a factor as well if the Yankees are willing to part with him, being afraid that a TJ is in his near-future?
(FWIW, his K rate pre and post injury was about the same--57 Ks in 35.1 IP vs 43 Ks in 26.1 IP pre-injury.)
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And the Chapman saga may get even more interesting:
Ken Rosenthal @Ken_Rosenthal 57 minutes ago
Sources: At least one team that spoke with #Reds believes that Chapman might have injured a hand in alleged domestic-violence incident.
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Has Chapman become an albatross for the Reds?
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And the Chapman saga may get even more interesting:
Attack the girlfriend, shoot up the joint, twelve cops at the house but more importantly, he might have fucked up his hand.
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Find guys under team control. Make a deal with the Rays.
I don't know about Boxberger but McGee would fit right nicely into the plan. He's got the flamethower/closer stuff.
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Was Walt Jocketty being deceitful in hiding Chapman's issue or were teams really going after him knowing all this crap was going on?
Or perhaps the Dodgers are fixing their Puig issues by threatening to room him with Chapman
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My best baseball source says tap the brakes on Reed.
Was there a reason given for this? I realize he hasn't yet taken an AB at AAA, but his production thus far speaks for itself. Does he have problems in the clubhouse or off the field?
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Was there a reason given for this? I realize he hasn't yet taken an AB at AAA, but his production thus far speaks for itself. Does he have problems in the clubhouse or off the field?
Curious to hear what Jim says, but I feel like I've read that scouts are not impressed by his bat speed, despite the big numbers.
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I don't know about Boxberger but McGee would fit right nicely into the plan. He's got the flamethower/closer stuff.
I would love to get both these guys. When you look at Boxberger's incredible 2014 season, and then consider that while his 2015 measurables were down he still managed to lead the league with 41 saves, I think getting both of them would be a MAJOR upgrade in the bullpen.
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Curious to hear what Jim says, but I feel like I've read that scouts are not impressed by his bat speed, despite the big numbers.
I have read the bat speed concerns, too.
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Did I miss something? Is Gomez on the block? His name was mentioned as a possible trade piece in a Storen trade and now as a possible backup for the Cubs should they fail to sign Gordon. I wasn't aware they were shopping him. Odd
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Was there a reason given for this? I realize he hasn't yet taken an AB at AAA, but his production thus far speaks for itself. Does he have problems in the clubhouse or off the field?
nothing off the field or clubhouse mentioned, and he talked to someone yesterday who saw him play every day. the big numbers were at a launching pad and are discounted somewhat.
the general opinion was Correa was untouchable, but Reed is not. this is not to say he is not a great prospect.
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I have read the bat speed concerns, too.
There were things like this written after the first month of the season while Reed was struggling. When his bat took off those same writers were nowhere to be found.
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FWIW
Jayson Stark @jaysonst 9m9 minutes ago
Sources: Mystery team making "very strong" bid for Jose Fernandez. Other clubs believe it's the Astros. More soon at http://ESPN.com
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There were things like this written after the first month of the season while Reed was struggling. When his bat took off those same writers were nowhere to be found.
my comments did not come from writers. again, the issue was "untouchable," not "great prospect."
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nothing off the field or clubhouse mentioned, and he talked to someone yesterday who saw him play every day. the big numbers were at a launching pad and are discounted somewhat.
Lancaster is one of the best hitters parks in all of minor league baseball. Reed spent the majority of time there last season.
Corpus can be hitter friendly too. But Reed's road hitting at AA was good over about 100 at-bats.
I don't know if Reed will be able to hit major league pitching, but his rapid rise in the system (he was drafted in 2014) tells me Luhnow and company think a lot of his bat. Folks will know better in spring training when he faces major league pitchers.
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my comments did not come from writers. again, the issue was "untouchable," not "great prospect."
And my comment was not directed at what you wrote, only at the reports published about bat speed.
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FWIW
I would swear the Marlins brass are on record saying Fernandez was untouchable.
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I would swear the Marlins brass are on record saying Fernandez was untouchable.
recently, too. maybe yesterday.
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Clearly the Marlins are expecting a haul as if he'll be healthy for the next 3 years. But Tommy John, Biceps strain and hasn't seen the 7th inning since July. Man that's a huge risk.
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Crasnick tweets that Bregman would be involved.
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Crasnick tweets that Bregman would be involved.
Link? I don't see that on Crasnick's Twitter. This is Christmas for Fake Ass Twitter Accounts.
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Drellich source says Astros not in on Fernandez (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674272974422147072)
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Drellich source says Astros not in on Fernandez (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674272974422147072)
I hope Drelich is correct.
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I hope Drelich is correct.
I agree, but man that kid is good (when healthy).
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I would love to get both these guys. When you look at Boxberger's incredible 2014 season, and then consider that while his 2015 measurables were down he still managed to lead the league with 41 saves, I think getting both of them would be a MAJOR upgrade in the bullpen.
Absolutely, I would just be concerned with what the Rays will want for both.
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Consider the source, PLEASE
Jon Heyman @JonHeymanESPN 2m2 minutes ago
Astros offering Correa and Appel for Fernandez per report #Astros #Marlins
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Consider the source, PLEASE
Fake. I believe his official account is @jonheymancbs.
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Fake. I believe his official account is @jonheymancbs.
Thank you.
I'll go back to RMPL.
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I agree, but man that kid is good (when healthy).
There were comments on MLB the other night that indicate he is a bit of an attitude problem. May contribute to why he is even rumored to be available.
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At least I got to learn what "RMPL" stands for in the midst of all the lunacy, which is nice.
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the Astros ain't offering Correa to anyone for anything.
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There were comments on MLB the other night that indicate he is a bit of an attitude problem. May contribute to why he is even rumored to be available.
Me too. I can't decide which result is funnier, though, between "Rocky Mountain Philatelic Library" and the other thing.
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Not that this would be news:
Evan Drellich @EvanDrellich 2 hours ago
Jeff Luhnow said the Astros are going to explore possibilities at backup catcher and first base. Rival scout confirms they're indeed looking.
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I am way past ready for something to happen.
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I think the Marlins are just having fun with this:
Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria says there’s “nothing I am thinking about doing at the moment” with Fernandez, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports
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the Astros ain't offering Correa to anyone for anything.
That seems rather closed-minded of them. I think they should consider trading Correa in a 3-team deal that brings back Trout, Harper, and a Brinks truck.
Otherwise though, I think he should be off-limits.
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That seems rather closed-minded of them. I think they should consider trading Correa in a 3-team deal that brings back Trout, Harper, and a Brinks truck.
Otherwise though, I think he should be off-limits.
Out of boredom,
What if the Dodgers called and offered Coery Seager, Julio Urias, Jose De Leon, Jose Peraza and Grant Holmes for Correa?
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I am way past ready for something to happen.
I would not be surprised if nothing happens this week. Seems like more and more the Winter Meets are about seeing what is available.
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I am way past ready for something to happen.
I keep thinking something will have happened every time I get on twitter or this site.
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Out of boredom,
What if the Dodgers called and offered Coery Seager, Julio Urias, Jose De Leon, Jose Peraza and Grant Holmes for Correa?
No
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No
Wow.
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I would swear the Marlins brass are on record saying Fernandez was untouchable.
Shelby Miller seems to be available. No doubt the Braves want a lot back but Houston could probably satisfy them.
Any takers?
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Crasnick tweets that Bregman would be involved.
If you see any 2015 draft picks in a rumor. Ignore it. You can't trade someone until a year after they have been drafted.
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If you see any 2015 draft picks in a rumor. Ignore it. You can't trade someone until a year after they have been drafted.
I believe this was changed after the Trea Turner mess and that players can now be traded after the end of the WS in their draft year.
On the other hand, no player can be listed as a PTBNL before he is eligible to be traded.
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I believe this was changed after the Trea Turner mess and that players can now be traded after the end of the WS in their draft year.
On the other hand, no player can be listed as a PTBNL before he is eligible to be traded.
I THINK this is correct
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C Tyler Flowers was non-tendered earlier today by the ChiSox. He's an excellent pitch framer (see this article (http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/7/71/907574/tyler-flowers-now-among-best-pitch-framers) citing the FG stats). He threw out 25% of baserunners this past season (and 27% in his career). 29 years old. Hit .239/.295/.356 in 2015 (in line with career numbers). Righty swinger. Big boy at 6'4" 245 lbs.
Signed 2 year/$5.3MM deal with the Braves.
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in the words of the great charlie brown and i quote "AUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG"
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I believe this was changed after the Trea Turner mess and that players can now be traded after the end of the WS in their draft year.
On the other hand, no player can be listed as a PTBNL before he is eligible to be traded.
Just to illustrate this point, #1 overall pick Dansby Swanson just got traded from the D-Backs to the Braves in a package for Shelby Miller.
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Stay the course Jeff! Don't overpay for anything.
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Are the dbacks taking crazy pills?
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Starlin Castro going to the Yankees. I can't really think of another player more ill-suited to the pressure and microscope of NY. It will be interesting watch that play out.
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qualls to the rockies for two years..go figure
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The Diamondbacks are nuts. Hopefully Jeff will be there waiting when they have a fire sale in August and buys low.
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You guys are right. I was operating off old info. Happening more often these days. As I get older, so does my info apparently.
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Does anyone here pull the trigger on Bregman, Appel, and Marisnick for Miller and Speier?
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The NY Post says that the Yankees are interested in VV for Miller. Sounds about right.
http://nypost.com/2015/12/08/yankees-eyeing-astros-young-righty-flame-thrower/
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The NY Post says that the Yankees are interested in VV for Miller. Sounds about right.
http://nypost.com/2015/12/08/yankees-eyeing-astros-young-righty-flame-thrower/
I would do that.
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I would do that.
Seems very reasonable.
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Heyman just tweeted the Astros are "still trying" to acquire Ken Giles.
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Heyman just tweeted the Astros are "still trying" to acquire Ken Giles.
...and Drellich reports that the Astros / Kazmir talks have started up again.
http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/12/07/astros-scott-kazmir-have-mutual-interest-in-reunion/
At what point does this start to make sense to the Astros given the makeup and trajectory of this team? 2 years, $30M? 3 years, $45M? One year deal only?
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...and Drellich reports that the Astros / Kazmir talks have started up again.
http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/12/07/astros-scott-kazmir-have-mutual-interest-in-reunion/
At what point does this start to make sense to the Astros given the makeup and trajectory of this team? 2 years, $30M? 3 years, $45M? One year deal only?
I hope we resign him.
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I really don't understand the need for Kazmir. The Astros have Keuchel, McHugh, and McCullers as their top three starters. Then they have Feldman, Fiers, Velasquez, and Appel as potential 4-5 starters. And they have Straily, Oberholtzer, Wojo, and maybe Peacock in AAA. And there are other prospects as well. It seems to me that paying a shitload of money for an old starting pitcher makes no sense.
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Seems to be a bunch of pitchers that should be running out of options. Perhaps someone with better option calculation skills can check this list:
Seems to be out:
Straily
Peacock
Might have one left?
Oberholtzer
Already have these starters who you have to and want them to stay:
Keuchel
McHugh
McCullers
Fiers
Feldman
Velasquez can go to pen or back down
Wojciechowski has at least one option left
Seems like signing another starter would jam it up even more.
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what happened to the major request for a closer
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I hope we resign him.
I tend to agree. A proven 4-5 starter (that pokes up to a 2-3 starter for periods each year) and runs out a 3.50 ERA and keeps the ball in the park is a useful part of most playoff-caliber teams. The $15m per year (my total WAG on what he'd likely receive) seems steep considering what is in the pipeline but I'd wager Kazmir would equal more AIS (and other tangible benefits such as vet leadership to younger emerging pitchers and a + on team chemistry). That, plus, if he is signed for 2-3 years, that gives Lunhow additional trading chips from that stocked pipeline to fill other needs on the team.
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Astros Fielding Interest In Numerous Key Players, Including George Springer (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-fielding-interest-george-springer-willing-trade-rumors.html)
That would have to be one sweet haul. Springer has 5 years of club control including at least one year pre-arbitration
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Astros Fielding Interest In Numerous Key Players, Including George Springer (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-fielding-interest-george-springer-willing-trade-rumors.html)
That would have to be one sweet haul. Springer has 5 years of club control including at least one year pre-arbitration
Well, it makes sense that other teams are calling about the Astros best players. Of course it doesn't mean Luhnow isn't laughing after hanging up the phone.
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I tend to agree. A proven 4-5 starter (that pokes up to a 2-3 starter for periods each year) and runs out a 3.50 ERA and keeps the ball in the park is a useful part of most playoff-caliber teams. The $15m per year (my total WAG on what he'd likely receive) seems steep considering what is in the pipeline but I'd wager Kazmir would equal more AIS (and other tangible benefits such as vet leadership to younger emerging pitchers and a + on team chemistry). That, plus, if he is signed for 2-3 years, that gives Lunhow additional trading chips from that stocked pipeline to fill other needs on the team.
McCullers gave him credit last season for mentoring him.
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Well, it makes sense that other teams are calling about the Astros best players. Of course it doesn't mean Luhnow isn't laughing after hanging up the phone.
Same article mentions Carlos Carrasco. That's something that likely would require a Springer to jar loose. But then you leave a gaping hole in the outfield. But last check Gordon and Chris Davis are still available.
You install Chris Davis in left, move Rasmus to right and a starting rotation of:
Keuchel
Carrasco
McCullers
McHugh
Fiers/Feldman
Flip Velasquez for Miller, sign Sipp and you are sitting pretty.
And what the heck if I'm spending all of Crane's money get both Gordon and Chris Davis.
Altuve - R
Gordon - L
Correa - R
Davis - L
Gomez - R
Rasmus - L
White (trade Gattis to save a buck) - R
Valbueana/Gonzalez - L/S
Castro - L
That's an amazing line up., kick ass rotation and a solid bullpen
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Has anyone heard if the Astros have any interest in Seung-Hwan Oh, who is an international free agent. How much would it cost to bring a 33 year old Japanese closer. He does have the best nickname -- "the final boss".
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/seung-hwan-oh-free-agent.html
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Has anyone heard if the Astros have any interest in Seung-Hwan Oh, who is an international free agent. How much would it cost to bring a 33 year old Japanese closer. He does have the best nickname -- "the final boss".
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/11/seung-hwan-oh-free-agent.html
Well, there was this. (http://news.yahoo.com/mlb-hopeful-oh-seung-hwan-faces-gambling-charges-030922323--mlb.html) Killer nickname, though.
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Yikes, not sure why this just makes me nervous
CSNPhilly.com’s Jim Salisbury: Hearing talks between Phillies and Astros on Ken Giles are heating up. (https://twitter.com/JSalisburyCSN/status/674685361168216064)
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CSNPhilly.com’s Jim Salisbury: Phillies media session pushed back. Sign of something coming? Sources say talks w Astros on Giles are hot (https://twitter.com/JSalisburyCSN/status/674693596604428288)
Jayson Stark: Hearing the same. One name who won't be in any deal is Lance McCullers. Astros seem dug in on not moving him (https://twitter.com/jaysonst/status/674694161531052033)
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Stark also says the Phillies want pitching and more pitching.
I assume one of Appel or VV would be the centerpiece.
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Stark also says the Phillies want pitching and more pitching.
I assume one of Appel or VV would be the centerpiece.
With the price of closers right now that will likely be AND
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Giles is under control for several years, right?
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Giles is under control for several years, right?
Yep; BBRef says arbitration eligible in 2018, free agency in 2021.
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With the price of closers right now that will likely be AND
That would seem like way overpaying to me.
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That would seem like way overpaying to me.
Phillies have been said to be looking for 2 or 3 high ceiling prospects. Highly doubt just one of VV and Appel will close the deal.
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That would seem like way overpaying to me.
do you want a flame throwing closer or not?
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Phillies have been said to be looking for 2 or 3 high ceiling prospects. Highly doubt just one of VV and Appel will close the deal.
I've heard nothing that says Giles is worth that much. Any deal for Giles is based on hope not track record.
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do you want a flame throwing closer or not?
My only concern is that VV seems like a candidate for flame throwing closer.
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I've heard nothing that says Giles is worth that much. Any deal for Giles is based on hope not track record.
Exactly. And VV has almost as much of the former and not that much less of the latter.
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My only concern is that VV seems like a candidate for flame throwing closer.
I was thinking Feliz but who knows.
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do you want a flame throwing closer or not?
Yes, but... What is the typical shelf life of young guns throwing 100mph? Giles has 2 years on the odometer. Perennial heaters like Wagner and Chapman are the exception. I wonder if VV would have any interest in making the transition to closer if the Giles thing does not work out.
Edited to add: get outa my head, VB...
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do you want a flame throwing closer or not?
I want one that makes out. Hoffman wasn't a flame thrower, was he?
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Luhnow was a hard thrower.
I was NOT supporting VV and Appel. I was saying we will have to give up someone we hate to give up.
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Luhnow was a hard thrower.
I was NOT supporting VV and Appel. I was saying we will have to give up someone we hate to give up.
I just get more and more conservative the closer these things get. At the mere mention of Springer's name in trade talks I want to hold myself and rock and cry like a baby. There's tons of gas in the farm. Let's build our own bad ass closer.
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I want one that makes out.
Like a swingman?
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Stark reporting that the deal centers around VV and "two prospects" for Giles. The trade market seems pretty overly favorable to rebuilding teams this year but depending on the two prospects this deal might be decent.
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From Rosenthal:
Sources: #Astros continue to work on deal for #Phillies’ Giles and much more. Looking at SPs, RPs, hitters - the full gamut.
Drellich also tweeted that they're looking at Yovani Gallardo, who's a free agent.
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Please no on Gallardo.
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Justice was just on MLBnetwork on he thought a deal on Giles to Houston could happen very soon. He also added Houston is still on Kazmir.
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Philly beat writer says Oberholtzer may be part of Giles deal.
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Exactly. And VV has almost as much of the former [hope] and not that much less of the latter [track record].
Unless I'm looking at stats on a different Ken Giles, I'm a little confused by the suggestion that Giles hasn't proven much more than VElazquez at the big league level. Giles has had two excellent seasons and appears to be a stud who would be under club control for several years.
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Unless I'm looking at stats on a different Ken Giles, I'm a little confused by the suggestion that Giles hasn't proven much more than VElazquez at the big league level. Giles has had two excellent seasons and appears to be a stud who would be under club control for several years.
If Velazquez were to reach a Giles ceiling next season I'd be thrilled. Giles is a very good late inning arm. It's not like there's a ton of room in the rotation right now seeing as The Astros are looking at Kazmir or Gallardo. Vince would need to make it in the pen. Depending on the third piece from Houston.....
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Philly beat writer says Oberholtzer may be part of Giles deal.
I'm all for getting whatever you can for Oberholtzer. If he makes a deal happen, pull the trigger.
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Unless I'm looking at stats on a different Ken Giles, I'm a little confused by the suggestion that Giles hasn't proven much more than VElazquez at the big league level. Giles has had two excellent seasons and appears to be a stud who would be under club control for several years.
Is that the same Giles who was just 15 out of 20 on save opportunities last season?
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Please no on Gallardo.
Did Gallardo reject a qualifying offer?
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Philly writer again:
Jim Salisbury @JSalisburyCSN 4 minutes ago
Source on Giles to Houston trade: "It's close but not done."
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Did Gallardo reject a qualifying offer?
Yes.
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Yes.
Then it's unlikely Luhnow goes after him.
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Is that the same Giles who was just 15 out of 20 on save opportunities last season?
It's also the same Giles who had 40% of his runs allowed last season be of the unearned variety on a 99 loss team. Anybody here seen him pitch regularly?
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Is that the same Giles who was just 15 out of 20 on save opportunities last season?
He was the setup man before they traded Papelbon. Setup guys blow saves but never earn saves. Apples/oranges.
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He was the setup man before they traded Papelbon. Setup guys blow saves but never earn saves. Apples/oranges.
I'm not a fan of rolling some big dice on a guy who has 1/2 a season of closer duties on an awful team as his major league experience.
I'm not saying I wouldn't get him but is he really worth a guy like VV plus more talent. VV's proven he can get outs for a contending team. But at the same time I'm with HH dumping Oberholtzer would be good.
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Berman says "Brian" Fisher 3rd name in deal along w/VV and Obie. Derek?
ETA:
Mark Berman @MarkBermanFox26 18 seconds ago
Correction on the #Astros trade with Phillies for Ken Giles includes pitcher Derek Fisher from MLB sources.
Got the position wrong.
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If Berman proclaims it, then it is so.
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Deal is official pending physicals. According to mctaggart it is VV and Obie plus minor leaguer
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Would have loved to see VV mature in an Astros unit but excited to see 5 years of Giles. Astros now have one helluva pen and someone to slam the door.
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Deal is official pending physicals. According to mctaggart it is VV and Obie plus minor leaguer
That's a lot less than they'd have to give up for Miller or Boxberger.
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That's a lot less than they'd have to give up for Miller or Boxberger.
...and less expensive monetarily.
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Philly writers saying it's a four for one deal w/one additional pitcher.
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Sounds like a good deal if the 4th player is nobody. Adds a closer and no extra money.
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Jayson Stark @jaysonst 43 seconds ago
Just talked to an AL exec who thinks that if the Phillies shift Vincent Velazquez to the bullpen, he could be "just as good as (Ken) Giles".
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on astros site
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Sounds like a good deal if the 4th player is nobody. Adds a closer and no extra money.
Fisher may turn out to be a pretty good OFer but I think he'll be limited to LF.
Luhnow is thinning out the OF core from the MiLs. If Gomez and Rasmus are both gone after this season he is going to have to bring some talent into the organization.
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Jayson Stark @jaysonst 43 seconds ago
Just talked to an AL exec who thinks that if the Phillies shift Vincent Velazquez to the bullpen, he could be "just as good as (Ken) Giles".
Exactly my thoughts.
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Exactly my thoughts.
+1
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Fisher may turn out to be a pretty good OFer but I think he'll be limited to LF.
Luhnow is thinning out the OF core from the MiLs. If Gomez and Rasmus are both gone after this season he is going to have to bring some talent into the organization.
P-Tuck, K-Tuck, Daz, Maris, Kemp
And Springer of course. Not too concerned at the moment.
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Exactly my thoughts.
Giles was really really good last year. Look at the numbers. I like VV, but I would be shocked if he is that good next year.
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@darenw: Here's another fun one... #Astros have thrown 29 pitches 99 MPH+ since 2008. Ken Giles did it 37 times last year.
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Sidebar, but this takes the 40-man down to 36. Assuming a lefty RP and SP FA signing / allocation, that leaves 2 more spots. Would they take someone in the rule 5? Who do the other spots go to? Do they leave one open in case a youngster makes a push in ST for a starting spot?
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P-Tuck, K-Tuck, Daz, Maris, Kemp
And Springer of course. Not too concerned at the moment.
An off injured right fielder, 2 children, a rookie with mediocre defense, and a AAA player. I trust Luhnow to make sure they have the talent necessary.
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P-Tuck, K-Tuck, Daz, Maris, Kemp
And Springer of course. Not too concerned at the moment.
Something to keep in mind is that if the Astros find players who can consistently produce at the plate from 1B and or 3B, whether it be Reed, Singleton, White, Moran or anyone else, it's easier to plug Jake into CF every day and any value he creates at the plate is gravy. Would be awesome if that's the situation the team is facing after this season. It's a luxury to have silver slugger caliber hitters at SS and 2B, which also provides a great deal of flexibility.
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I'm sure there will be hand wringing about this trade but I think it makes the 2016 opening day roster better. I'm ready for more of that.
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Is that the same Giles who was just 15 out of 20 on save opportunities last season?
3 of those blown saves came as a setup guy, so he was really 15 out of 17 in save opportunities.
Side note ... both his blown saves as a closer came in the season's last two weeks against the Marlins, so in relatively meaningless games for both teams. Hopefully he won't be pitching in too many of those next year.
ETA: Reuben beat me to it. My bad.
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I'm sure there will be hand wringing about this trade but I think it makes the 2016 opening day roster better. I'm ready for more of that.
Agreed. Can't wait to see how he adjusts to the AL. But a high strikeout pitcher who has only given up 3 HR in over 115 IP is a nice pickup.
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Thomas eshelman is being pegged as the final piece of the trade according to drellich
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VV has a great arm but he struggled to put hitters away. You hand wringers want to trade our nothing for their something. I trust the plan.
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It sure makes opening day roster better. I'm curious to see how VV evolves, I think he has potential to be a good closer but I trust that the Astros "Brain Trust" have seen enough of the data and the mound work to determine that Giles is the better option going forward. No hand wringing here.
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Thomas eshelman is being pegged as the final piece of the trade according to drellich
I'm disappointed it's Eshelman. I was really looking forward to seeing how he would fare this year and how long it would take him to get called up, but I guess he was expendable considering how many rotation options we have already.
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The bullpen is looking good. Giles, Gregerson, Neshek, Harris, Fields... maybe throw in Feliz and bring back Sipp and hey baby, you got a stew goin'.
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He probably wants more than one LHP in the pen. Every time there is a name in a trade, someone is disappointed. I am glad we have such a deep system and Luhnow drafting each year. We can absorb the loss of VV and not notice it much. The folks who count had seen enough of him to determine if he was expendable in order to obtain a missing piece for the team. I trust their evaluation and judgment.
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He probably wants more than one LHP in the pen.
Internal lefty options:
Kevin Chapman - I used to loathe this guy, but he really seems to be improving
Reymin Guduan - struggled at Corpus but throws 100
Chris Cotton - smaller than Wesley Wright but has done nothing but impress through AA
That's pretty thin, I bet they grab someone a la Thatcher before spring training even if they resign Sipp (which I really hope they do).
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I'm disappointed it's Eshelman. I was really looking forward to seeing how he would fare this year and how long it would take him to get called up, but I guess he was expendable considering how many rotation options we have already.
Soft-tossing righthanders are commonplace. Losing him doesn't bother me at all.
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I'm not upset at all about the names that went to Philly. My only concern is that by trading 4 players (and presumably, the Astros are going to lose more in the draft today), the Astros will not have sufficient players to trade mid-season if we need to pick someone up without "mortgaging the future." This trade does thin the system.
Plus, we now need a starting pitcher. With Feldman being a question mark coming back from injury, the 4-5 slots in the rotation are potentially left to Appel, Fiers, Wojo, Straily, and Peacock.
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none of which seem to rise to the occassion
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I'm not upset at all about the names that went to Philly. My only concern is that by trading 4 players (and presumably, the Astros are going to lose more in the draft today), the Astros will not have sufficient players to trade mid-season if we need to pick someone up without "mortgaging the future." This trade does thin the system.
Plus, we now need a starting pitcher. With Feldman being a question mark coming back from injury, the 4-5 slots in the rotation are potentially left to Appel, Fiers, Wojo, Straily, and Peacock.
I'm expecting to see Kazmir back.
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I'm not upset at all about the names that went to Philly. My only concern is that by trading 4 players (and presumably, the Astros are going to lose more in the draft today), the Astros will not have sufficient players to trade mid-season if we need to pick someone up without "mortgaging the future." This trade does thin the system.
Plus, we now need a starting pitcher. With Feldman being a question mark coming back from injury, the 4-5 slots in the rotation are potentially left to Appel, Fiers, Wojo, Straily, and Peacock.
At this point Fiers has locked up a spot. I'd say it's more like Appel, Wojo, Straily, Peacock and Feliz fighting for the 5th spot until Feldman is ready.
Not excited about Kazmir. Really fell off when they needed him the most and didn't exactly hit an extra level when it came to his postseason start. Just hate to think we'd be stuck with him at 15 mil per year getting 4-5th starter results. Now if he comes closer to Feldman salary then I'd jump on it.
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Plus, we now need a starting pitcher. With Feldman being a question mark coming back from injury, the 4-5 slots in the rotation are potentially left to Appel, Fiers, Wojo, Straily, and Peacock.
Drellich reported that Feldman has resumed his normal offseason routine. I think there's a decent amount of depth there, especially if they resign Kazmir. I think Rodgers, Hauschild, and Buchanan could be candidates as well, and of course Feliz as pots mentioned.
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Round 1 of Rule 5 draft over and the Astros went unscathed. Can add Devenski to the backup pool of Feldman. Though he probably needs to stew in AAA for a while first
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Brian McTaggart:
Sipp deal could be announced tomorrow (https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/674970651455848448)
Source: Astros have reached a deal with left-handed pitcher Tony Sipp to return to the bullpen, pending physical. (https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/674970546027806720)
Drellich:
Tony Sipp could have deal soon as today. Closing in. Expected to be Astros, & if so, they have definite upgrade w Sipp back & Giles added (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674970120867983361)
Tony Sipp has an agreement with the Astros on a three year deal. Big, important move. (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674974070404984833)
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Astros take Octavio Acosta, (http://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=acosta002oct) RHP from Mets' Double-A roster (Minor league portion of Rule 5 draft)
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Brian McTaggart:
Sipp deal could be announced tomorrow (https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/674970651455848448)
Source: Astros have reached a deal with left-handed pitcher Tony Sipp to return to the bullpen, pending physical. (https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/674970546027806720)
Drellich:
Tony Sipp could have deal soon as today. Closing in. Expected to be Astros, & if so, they have definite upgrade w Sipp back & Giles added (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674970120867983361)
Tony Sipp has an agreement with the Astros on a three year deal. Big, important move. (https://twitter.com/EvanDrellich/status/674974070404984833)
Great news!
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Round 1 of Rule 5 draft over and the Astros went unscathed. Can add Devenski to the backup pool of Feldman. Though he probably needs to stew in AAA for a while first
Outstanding news. And now with Sipp re-signed, an all-around excellent 16 hours or so for the Astros.
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Sipp got paid.
Source: Sipp with #Astros is three years, $18M. (https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/674977854426324992)
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good news made it to check...now hope to get to check mate
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Really glad to hear about Sipp. This is a very solid bullpen -- especially if Harris can continue off what he was doing until basically the end of the season.
I really don't want Kazmir back. I don't think he showed very much after his first couple of starts with the Astros.
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Astros take Octavio Acosta, (http://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=acosta002oct) RHP from Mets' Double-A roster (Minor league portion of Rule 5 draft)
Not a single Astros farmhand picked in any phase of the draft.
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Sipp got paid.
Source: Sipp with #Astros is three years, $18M. (https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/674977854426324992)
To put that in perspective, it's only 20% more than Brandon Lyon got 6 years ago. That's less of an increase than the average MLB salary over that time.
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I will gladly take limited proven production over could be production. I like the trade.
I also don't worry about the depth. We had the top farm system in depth during the years we were loosing 100 games. You can't have both a stacked farm and top production in the majors. I will "settle" for competing for a world series and a top 15 farm system.
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I want Kazmir back if Luhnow likes the contract numbers.
He pitched very well in Game 2. That loss was Royals' magic.
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I want Kazmir back if Luhnow likes the contract numbers.
He pitched very well in Game 2. That loss was Royals' magic.
I think there are two ways to look at Kazmir. I believe he's had a history of good first halves and poor second halves. That would portend good things through July. Then there's the fact that he's a flyball pitcher who does better in large parks - like KC in Game 2 and Oakland for the first half last season.
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He probably wants more than one LHP in the pen.
At this point I don't see why Chapman is not your second lefty out of the pen. He's dominated lefties at all levels.
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Sipp was DFA'd 2 years ago and just got $18M guaranteed.
Mommas, make your babies grow up left handed.
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Is Luhnow through or is he still shopping?
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Is Luhnow through or is he still shopping?
IIRC he's still looking for a starting pitcher and a corner infielder.
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Is Luhnow through or is he still shopping?
Brian McTaggart ⚾️ @brianmctaggart 19h19 hours ago
Astros have turned their attention to starting pitching now.
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That's a lot less than they'd have to give up for Miller or Boxberger.
Jon Heyman @JonHeymanCBS 1h1 hour ago
Astros had talked to yanks about miller, but nyy seeks big SP (mccullers type). Houston solved closer with Giles deal now.
As disappointed as I was to see VV go in a trade for Giles, the alternative was worse. I like Miller, but not at the cost of McCullers.
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Please no on Gallardo.
Why?
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Reports are that Jason Heyward has a 200 million dollar offer on he table.
Wtf
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Reports are that Jason Heyward has a 200 million dollar offer on he table.
Wtf
He's really good.
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Reports are that Jason Heyward has a 200 million dollar offer on he table.
Wtf
Just like those reports that Ben Zobrist had a 4-year, $80m offer on the table? Or that samarzjdja had a $100m offer?
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Why?
He was incredibly lucky last year. In the first half (ERA = 2.62) he was able to keep the ball in the park, but couldn't continue the trend in the second half (ERA = 4.69). He's basically a fastball/slider guy now with a 90MPH fastball. No thanks, I'd rather see Feliz or Straily get a shot...and he's got Ranger taint all over him.
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and he's got Ranger taint all over him.
Particularly in his chin region.
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Why?
I can't imagine Luhnow thinks he's worth giving up his first round pick this year.
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I want Kazmir back if Luhnow likes the contract numbers.
He pitched very well in Game 2. That loss was Royals' magic.
My problem with Kazmir is he seemed to be running on fumes the last half of the season. And he ain't getting any younger. I'm not against bringing him back for a shot, if the numbers work, but I don't think he should be any sort of priority, nor should the Astros be counting on him.
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My problem with Kazmir is he seemed to be running on fumes the last half of the season. And he ain't getting any younger. I'm not against bringing him back for a shot, if the numbers work, but I don't think he should be any sort of priority, nor should the Astros be counting on him.
If Kazmir can pitch like he did in the first half, he'd be a welcome addition. However, his second halves concern me. If the numbers work, then bring him back, but if they don't, i won't cry about it.
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My problem with Kazmir is he seemed to be running on fumes the last half of the season. And he ain't getting any younger. I'm not against bringing him back for a shot, if the numbers work, but I don't think he should be any sort of priority, nor should the Astros be counting on him.
I think the same. I was really excited about getting him and he was outstanding for two games. And then not so much. I remember he pitched his ass off in his second start, in KC I believe, and it was really hot and he labored and battled out there and I wondered if that didn't take the starch out of him.
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He was incredibly lucky last year. In the first half (ERA = 2.62) he was able to keep the ball in the park, but couldn't continue the trend in the second half (ERA = 4.69). He's basically a fastball/slider guy now with a 90MPH fastball. No thanks, I'd rather see Feliz or Straily get a shot...and he's got Ranger taint all over him.
So did/do Nolan, Pudge, El Caballo, and a slew of other players/execs we've had over the years.
His second half ERA was largely fueled by a 3 start string in late July and a couple of bad outings in September. Did he make mechanical adjustments after those starts in July? I don't know, but his ERA was under 2 in August. He's had seasons where his ERA was better in the first half, he's had seasons where it was better in the second half.
I'm not saying we should break the bank for him (though that seems like a relative term this offseason), but there is value in a 29-year old pitcher who you can count on to give you 190 innings of mid-3 ERA baseball.
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I like Gallardo, and Kazmir, but $14 to $15 million per year just seems like a lot of money, to me anyway, for a number 4 or 5 starter. Is that what it has come to? They wont pitch for $9 or $10 million per? At least with Kazmir there is no loss of draft pick.
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I like Gallardo, and Kazmir, but $14 to $15 million per year just seems like a lot of money, to me anyway, for a number 4 or 5 starter. Is that what it has come to? They wont pitch for $9 or $10 million per? At least with Kazmir there is no loss of draft pick.
Scott Feldman makes $10mm per, and the contract was signed in a slightly less frothy FA environment. Pitching is esspensive.
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So did/do Nolan, Pudge, El Caballo, and a slew of other players/execs we've had over the years.
His second half ERA was largely fueled by a 3 start string in late July and a couple of bad outings in September. Did he make mechanical adjustments after those starts in July? I don't know, but his ERA was under 2 in August. He's had seasons where his ERA was better in the first half, he's had seasons where it was better in the second half.
I'm not saying we should break the bank for him (though that seems like a relative term this offseason), but there is value in a 29-year old pitcher who you can count on to give you 190 innings of mid-3 ERA baseball.
Agreed. I was surprised at his performance last year, but that level of production sure helped the Rangers.
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I like Gallardo, and Kazmir, but $14 to $15 million per year just seems like a lot of money, to me anyway, for a number 4 or 5 starter. Is that what it has come to? They wont pitch for $9 or $10 million per? At least with Kazmir there is no loss of draft pick.
not your money.
trust Luhnow.
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working well so far ...agreed
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not your money.
trust Luhnow.
The money comments are more of an expected constraint that will effect the team should too much be paid to the wrong people. So from a fan discussion perspective, I don't see where it is out of line to discuss when fans discuss a potential signing.
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I like Gallardo, and Kazmir, but $14 to $15 million per year just seems like a lot of money, to me anyway, for a number 4 or 5 starter. Is that what it has come to? They wont pitch for $9 or $10 million per? At least with Kazmir there is no loss of draft pick.
Kazmir and Gallardo are both solid #3 starters, in my opinion. Certainly nowhere near #5 level. You could even argue Kazmir has pitched like a #2 the last couple years.
That said, I think McHugh and McCullers give the Astros two pitchers of that caliber to go behind Keuchel. And Fiers is probably on that #3/4 bubble. I don't see the point in adding another SP, assuming Feldman is healthy enough to be the 5th starter. Unless you're talking about a legit #2 type guy.
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The money comments are more of an expected constraint that will effect the team should too much be paid to the wrong people. So from a fan discussion perspective, I don't see where it is out of line to discuss when fans discuss a potential signing.
affect?
wasted time. the team hires professionals to make those decisions.
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Kazmir and Gallardo are both solid #3 starters, in my opinion. Certainly nowhere near #5 level. You could even argue Kazmir has pitched like a #2 the last couple years.
That said, I think McHugh and McCullers give the Astros two pitchers of that caliber to go behind Keuchel. And Fiers is probably on that #3/4 bubble. I don't see the point in adding another SP, assuming Feldman is healthy enough to be the 5th starter. Unless you're talking about a legit #2 type guy.
That's who I thought Shelby Miller could be for this team, but that trade was effing ridiculous and and I'm glad the Astros had no part in it.
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The money comments are more of an expected constraint that will effect the team should too much be paid to the wrong people. So from a fan discussion perspective, I don't see where it is out of line to discuss when fans discuss a potential signing.
Right. Especially since Luhnow et al have Absolutely No Clue about how spending too much in one area might limit their options somewhere else.
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Right. Especially since Luhnow et al have Absolutely No Clue about how spending too much in one area might limit their options somewhere else.
right. fans need to ride herd on these decisions.
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Certainly has been an entertaining day to be following the @BestFansStLouis twitter feed (https://twitter.com/BestFansStLouis).
Also disturbing--lotsa racist, homophobic shit.
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Certainly has been an entertaining day to be following the @BestFansStLouis twitter feed (https://twitter.com/BestFansStLouis).
Also disturbing--lotsa racist, homophobic shit.
good grief
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A BFiB mentioned somewhere (maybe in a fangraphs chat or something else I was reading to pass the time at work) that STL had an advantage because Heyward understood, after playing there, "what it means to be a Cardinal."
I'm going to assume the guy who said it is one of the clowns featured in the link above.
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well he wants give him the bird please
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A BFiB mentioned somewhere (maybe in a fangraphs chat or something else I was reading to pass the time at work) that STL had an advantage because Heyward understood, after playing there, "what it means to be a Cardinal."
I'm going to assume the guy who said it is one of the clowns featured in the link above.
BFIB heads will blow when they read this:
@Ken_Rosenthal: Sources: #Nationals bid $200M for Heyward. Another team, believed to be #STLCards, also was at $200M. Heyward took less to play for #Cubs.
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right. fans need to ride herd on these decisions.
Sure, but it's okay to ponder.
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BFIB heads will blow when they read this:
@Ken_Rosenthal: Sources: #Nationals bid $200M for Heyward. Another team, believed to be #STLCards, also was at $200M. Heyward took less to play for #Cubs.
Oh that is hilarious...
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Right. Especially since Luhnow et al have Absolutely No Clue about how spending too much in one area might limit their options somewhere else.
Would it give fans a clue as to where the FO might see their internal priorities?
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Right. Especially since Luhnow et al have Absolutely No Clue about how spending too much in one area might limit their options somewhere else.
YOU SHOULD HAVE TYPED IT IN ALL CAPS TOO.
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Right. Especially since Luhnow et al have Absolutely No Clue about how spending too much in one area might limit their options somewhere else.
No one is saying that. Some people actually find it fun to talk about what players are worth and which ones might be good fits for the Astros. I don't think anyone expects their discussions to affect any decision. Nor do they feel they know more than Luhnow.
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No one is saying that. Some people actually find it fun to talk about what players are worth and which ones might be good fits for the Astros. I don't think anyone expects their discussions to affect any decision. Nor do they feel they know more than Luhnow.
Agreed.
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Now it's Giles and Jonathan Arauz for Appel, Harold Arauz, Eshelman, Velasquez and Obie.
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Now it's Giles and Jonathan Arauz for Appel, Harold Arauz, Eshelman, Velasquez and Obie.
That seems like an awful lot to give up. VV & Appel? I guess the Astros were as down on Appel as many of the fans were, despite them trying to tell everyone he was fine...
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Someone explain the changes, please.
ETA we got Fisher back and a Phillies infielder for Appel and some guy with the same name.
Not interested in second-guessing. Just want to know about the players.
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Alyson Footer @alysonfooter 3m3 minutes ago
I’ve never been a true believer in Appel being a ML starter so to be honest at this point I think it’s better that they hung onto Fisher.
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Jayson Stark @jaysonst 2m2 minutes ago
Inside the industry, Appel is no longer viewed as a future star. But I like the idea of adding him as an intriguing rotation option
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Someone explain the changes, please.
Add two Arauzes and swap Appel for Fisher.
Are the Arauzes related or is it just coincidence?
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So like many of us thought, Appel was trending towards bust. His numbers sure said that. Luhnow has been blowing smoke about Appel the last year hoping to keep his trade value up. Appears nobody was buying it, now he is a throw in on a deal to get a relief pitcher.
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@Ken_Rosenthal: #Phillies get RHP Harold Arauz, 20, in Giles trade, #Astros get IF Jonathan Arauz, 17. HOU views its Arauz as legit, toolsy SS who can hit.
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YOU SHOULD HAVE TYPED IT IN ALL CAPS TOO.
I was showing restraint.
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So like many of us thought, Appel was trending towards bust. His numbers sure said that. Luhnow has been blowing smoke about Appel the last year hoping to keep his trade value up. Appears nobody was buying it, now he is a throw in on a deal to get a relief pitcher.
If there is a reason for the masses to bitch, it's that the Astros drafted Appel over Bryant, who would now be a perfect fit on this club, whereas Appel, as you said, is a throw in. Hindsight is always 20-20 though, and it's better to focus on the management's entire body of work, which has been strong.
Let's hope the club is ready to back up the Brinks for Dallas because the organization pitching depth has been depleted over the last year.
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@Ken_Rosenthal: #Phillies get RHP Harold Arauz, 20, in Giles trade, #Astros get IF Jonathan Arauz, 17. HOU views its Arauz as legit, toolsy SS who can hit.
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and we keep Fisher. Appel for Fisher, and same names for each other.
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Let's hope the club is ready to back up the Brinks for Dallas because the organization pitching depth has been depleted over the last year week.
Fixed.
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and we keep Fisher. Appel for Fisher, and same names for each other.
I like Fisher, and it looks like we may have gotten the better of the Arauz swap too.
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If there is a reason for the masses to bitch, it's that the Astros drafted Appel over Bryant, who would now be a perfect fit on this club, whereas Appel, as you said, is a throw in. Hindsight is always 20-20 though, and it's better to focus on the management's entire body of work, which has been strong.
Let's hope the club is ready to back up the Brinks for Dallas because the organization pitching depth has been depleted over the last year.
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I have slept since then, but I do not remember wholesale bitching when we drafted Appel.
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Now-Astro-Arauz appears to be more highly regarded than now-Phillie-Arauz.
The FO has done pretty well with their low-level pickups (Martes, David Paulino). Fingers crossed that they managed another good snag here.
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Let's hope the club is ready to back up the Brinks for Dallas because the organization pitching depth has been depleted over the last year.
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Last 12 months the Astros have traded away, Velaquez, Appel, Tropeano, Foltynewicz, Mengden, Hader, & Houser.
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Last 12 months the Astros have traded away, Velaquez, Appel, Tropeano, Foltynewicz, Mengden, Hader, & Houser.
Thurman and Eshelman too, plus Junior Garcia in the Ollie Perez deal. That's a lot of talent to lose but I find it hard to argue that hard against any particular move.
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Last 12 months the Astros have traded away, Velaquez, Appel, Tropeano, Foltynewicz, Mengden, Hader, & Houser.
This is the kind of stuff that drives me crazy. How did the big club do?
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I'm not saying it is bad thing, just pointing out how depth has been hit. But in most of those cases, you needed to either move them or convert them to relievers, as there is no room in the current rotation. Getting rid of AAA/MLB ready minor leaguers was sort of a must do. Now lets hope the returns are good.
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If there is a reason for the masses to bitch, it's that the Astros drafted Appel over Bryant, who would now be a perfect fit on this club, whereas Appel, as you said, is a throw in. Hindsight is always 20-20 though, and it's better to focus on the management's entire body of work, which has been strong.
Let's hope the club is ready to back up the Brinks for Dallas because the organization pitching depth has been depleted over the last year.
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The left side of the infield with Correa and Bryant would be unreal. But Bryant has exceeded expectations to some degree and Appel has seemed to go backwards. Seemed like a good pick at the time. As Pat Dye used to say, hindsight is 50/50
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I'm not saying it is bad thing, just pointing out how depth has been hit. But in most of those cases, you needed to either move them or convert them to relievers, as there is no room in the current rotation. Getting rid of AAA/MLB ready minor leaguers was sort of a must do. Now lets hope the returns are good.
Agree
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The SS coming back if 16, a switch-hitter with gap power, strong arm and good hands. Considered one of the top players in Panama.
McTaggert reporting the Phils had a problem with a physical of one of the incoming (had to Fisher).
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The SS coming back if 16, a switch-hitter with gap power, strong arm and good hands. Considered one of the top players in Panama.
McTaggert reporting the Phils had a problem with a physical of one of the incoming (had to Fisher).
You sure about the failed physical thing? I haven't seen that on McT's twitter.
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You sure about the failed physical thing? I haven't seen that on McT's twitter.
3rd Paragraph. http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/159500100/astros-acquire-closer-ken-giles-from-phillies
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Interesting, thanks. Hope it's not a serious issue with Fisher.
Here's mlb pipeline's report on the new Arauz:
Arauz landed the largest bonus of any Panamanian during the 2014-15 international signing period, joining the Phillies for $600,000. They thought enough of his skills and maturity to send him to the United States for his pro debut at age 16 in 2015. The Astros also were impressed, enough to make sure they acquired him as part of the Ken Giles trade in December.
Philadelphia envisioned Aruaz developing into a Freddy Galvis-esque defender with a more potent bat, while Houston was thrilled to get him as a secondary piece in the Giles deal. He isn't flashy or fast, but he's quick and athletic enough to stay at shortstop after playing a lot of second base in 2015 in deference to $900,000 bonus baby Arquimedes Gamboa. A relatively polished defender for his age, Arauz has a strong arm and quality actions.
He also has some intriguing offensive upside. Arauz is a switch-hitter who already makes line-drive contact from both sides of the plate. He needs to get stronger but could develop into a 10-12 home-run threat once he matures physically.
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3rd Paragraph. http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/159500100/astros-acquire-closer-ken-giles-from-phillies
That says that concerns about "one of the players" caused the deal to be "augmented". It does not identify which player. And given that both Appel and VV have had so e injury problems, it is by no means certain that Fisher was the one with problems. The Phillies may just have wanted to increase their chances of a near-MLB-ready starter and willing to give up a top rookie league infielder to do so.
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This was a disappointing end to Appel's tenure with the Astro org. I'm happy about the Giles acquisition for sure but I remember being so excited when they drafted Appel. Just goes to show that hopefully the days of following the MiLB rosters closer than the parent club rosters are hopefully over.
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This was a disappointing end to Appel's tenure with the Astro org. I'm happy about the Giles acquisition for sure but I remember being so excited when they drafted Appel. Just goes to show that hopefully the days of following the MiLB rosters closer than the parent club rosters are hopefully over.
You used hopefully twice in one sentence. Some sort of penalty will ensue.
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Well no more devising trades that include Appel. Wonder what percentage of fan proposed trades included Appel over the last 2 years. Got to be over half easily.
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You used hopefully twice in one sentence. Some sort of penalty will ensue.
Yikes! Scary thing is I read that over before posting. My 8 year old is writing better than daddy already. Thanks Rice U. !
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Well no more devising trades that include Appel. Wonder what percentage of fan proposed trades included Appel over the last 2 years. Got to be over half easily.
When people with the club are even telling JdJO that they questioned Appel's intestinal fortitude, it was not a good sign. My only regret about this deal is that I hated to part with VV.
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When people with the club are even telling JdJO that they questioned Appel's intestinal fortitude, it was not a good sign.
For the last 2 years I have heard this a bunch from a current and a former Astros writer. I think Luhnow and company did all they could publicly to try and prop up Appel. Thus while the talking heads still ranked Appel as a top line prospect, nobody that was actually in baseball believed it. Which is why at the end of the day, he ended up being a throw in on a trade.
Is there a place that someone with intestinal fortitude issues is less likely to succeed than Philly? At least now he doesn;t have the, #1 overall pick of his current org expectations on his shoulders.
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i know ball players are professional. i know it is a business. that said could they mess up the chemistry of the team and would that affect play. i saw the comparability and the joyful dances. it stands to reason that a working situation that works is better than one that there is little comfort and no happiness
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i know ball players are professional. i know it is a business. that said could they mess up the chemistry of the team and would that affect play. i saw the comparability and the joyful dances. it stands to reason that a working situation that works is better than one that there is little comfort and no happiness
What are you talking about?
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What are you talking about?
Is this a rhetorical question? It's Fredia for crissakes!
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What are you talking about?
I think he's saying we should have kept Conger for the congerbot dance
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I think he's saying we should have kept Conger for the congerbot dance
The problem here is that the he is a she.
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The problem here is that the he is a she.
Oops my bad
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This new Drellich article contains nothing too revelatory:
"I think we’re going to look at either bringing in another pitcher for the rotation or a bat of some sort,” general manager Jeff Luhnow said Saturday. “We’re going to be creative and think through different options and see where we end up but our work’s not done.”
Personally I see the 4-5 slots of the rotation being less of an issue than "bats of some sort" at the corners. I don't mind heading to spring training with Fiers and Feldman as the 4th and 5th starters (in fact, I think we could do much worse). I would rather the corner infield spots be addressed. I'm in camp "bats of some sort" rather than "another pitcher for the rotation". If Jeff is looking more towards a "6th starter/insurance type" fine. I just hope that doesn't reflect on the quality of bat he has in mind.
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You used hopefully twice in one sentence. Some sort of penalty will ensue.
Hopefully, some sort of penalty.
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What are you talking about?
" ... there is little comfort and no happiness."
J.P. Sartre for one used to say this a lot, back in the good old days. I never really understood what the fuck he was talking about, either.
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The problem here is that the he is a she.
only a small part of the problem
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Cueto to the Giants for 6 years, $130 million with an opt-out after year two.
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major cha ching..worth it?
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Cueto to the Giants for 6 years, $130 million with an opt-out after year two.
I assume the opt-out is Cueto opting out. Correct? I think Price also had that. Seems odd, but is the working assumption underlying the player opt-out of these seemingly monster contracts that salaries might jump again soon?
I keep thinking it is a bubble, but keep getting proven wrong.
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I assume the opt-out is Cueto opting out. Correct? I think Price also had that. Seems odd, but is the working assumption underlying the player opt-out of these seemingly monster contracts that salaries might jump again soon?
I keep thinking it is a bubble, but keep getting proven wrong.
Yes, the option is Cueto's.
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I assume the opt-out is Cueto opting out. Correct? I think Price also had that. Seems odd, but is the working assumption underlying the player opt-out of these seemingly monster contracts that salaries might jump again soon?
I keep thinking it is a bubble, but keep getting proven wrong.
MLB revenues have outpaced salaries 2 to 1 since 1970. Seems like a good bet.
And almost everyone who has included an early opt out in a monster contract has in fact opted out, or had that option bought out, for a bigger contract.
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MLB revenues have outpaced salaries 2 to 1 since 1970. Seems like a good bet.
And almost everyone who has included an early opt out in a monster contract has in fact opted out, or had that option bought out, for a bigger contract.
What does the first sentence actually mean: salaries have a historical growth rate of X%, while revenues have a historical growth rate of 2X%?
I'm not doubting what you are saying, but the implication is that there is a shitload of slack, and if that is the case, why wouldn't teams just bid a bit higher now in order to obtain their target? I mean, if I am really swimming in boatloads of extra cash and highly desire a certain player, why screw myself out of that player over relatively minor amounts of cash?
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My guess would be that the costs other than players have increased by an even greater percentage. Front-office personnel, Facilities, Travel, Minor Leagues, Marketing, etc.
While the number of players on a team has remained static. Every other aspect of a Baseball organization has expanded exponentially.
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What does the first sentence actually mean: salaries have a historical growth rate of X%, while revenues have a historical growth rate of 2X%?
I'm not doubting what you are saying, but the implication is that there is a shitload of slack, and if that is the case, why wouldn't teams just bid a bit higher now in order to obtain their target? I mean, if I am really swimming in boatloads of extra cash and highly desire a certain player, why screw myself out of that player over relatively minor amounts of cash?
It means that MLB's revenues have increased at a greater rate than salaries.
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Drellich also tweeted that they're looking at Yovani Gallardo, who's a free agent.
From earlier today:
Jon Morosi @jonmorosi 5 hours ago
#Astros and #Orioles remain the most aggressive suitors for Yovani Gallardo, sources say.
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From earlier today:
Jon Morosi @jonmorosi 5 hours ago
#Astros and #Orioles remain the most aggressive suitors for Yovani Gallardo, sources say.
I'm pulling for the Orioles. I would like to see one of the kids actually get a shot. Feliz? Musgrove? Are these guys just trade chips?
I know, I know. Trust Luhnow.
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I'm pulling for the Orioles. I would like to see one of the kids actually get a shot. Feliz? Musgrove? Are these guys just trade chips?
I know, I know. Trust Luhnow.
I'm with you. I don't want gallardo. I live in fort worth, he's good for 5 innings on 1 or 2 run ball but he's spent after 5. No thanks
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I would prefer Gallardo over Feldman. Maybe slightly over Fiers. But we already have Fiers and Feldman on the roster, and adding Yovani also means sacrificing a first round draft pick. It's Luhnow's call, I'm fine either way.
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I'm pulling for the Orioles. I would like to see one of the kids actually get a shot. Feliz? Musgrove? Are these guys just trade chips?
I know, I know. Trust Luhnow.
I definitely trust Luhnow, but I doubt that Gallardo is worth losing a first round draft pick.
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I definitely trust Luhnow, but I doubt that Gallardo is worth losing a first round draft pick.
Yeah, I don't get the attraction. Feldman has posted better numbers than Gallardo. Gallardo's strikeout percentage year over year is alarming. And it's not as though he's found other ways of getting folks out. 2015 WHIP: 1.416
Strike out percentage:
2009 - 25.7%
2010 - 24.9%
2011 - 23.9%
2012 - 23.7%
2013 - 18.6%
2014 - 17.9%
2015 - 15.3% (first year in AL)
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Yeah, I don't get the attraction. Feldman has posted better numbers than Gallardo. Gallardo's strikeout percentage year over year is alarming. And it's not as though he's found other ways of getting folks out. 2015 WHIP: 1.416
Strike out percentage:
2009 - 25.7%
2010 - 24.9%
2011 - 23.9%
2012 - 23.7%
2013 - 18.6%
2014 - 17.9%
2015 - 15.3% (first year in AL)
That's a disturbing trend and doesn't portend well. He is lacking an out pitch, and pitchers who don;'t have an out pitch turn into pinball machines.
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My concern is more along the lines of the fact that this team will get old(er) and more expensive very quickly in 3-4 years and currently there is only one young stud in the rotation. I keep reading we have plenty of good arms in the rotation. I say put one at the back of the rotation and see if he doesn't become a capable MOR starter in a couple of years when the club has to jettison some contracts. I'm too old to go through another ten year rebuild job in four years from now because the players have outgrown Crane's budget.
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point well made. and it was just fun watching the bunch last season
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My concern is more along the lines of the fact that this team will get old(er) and more expensive very quickly in 3-4 years and currently there is only one young stud in the rotation. I keep reading we have plenty of good arms in the rotation. I say put one at the back of the rotation and see if he doesn't become a capable MOR starter in a couple of years when the club has to jettison some contracts. I'm too old to go through another ten year rebuild job in four years from now because the players have outgrown Crane's budget.
Oh, please.
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My concern is more along the lines of the fact that this team will get old(er) and more expensive very quickly in 3-4 years and currently there is only one young stud in the rotation. I keep reading we have plenty of good arms in the rotation. I say put one at the back of the rotation and see if he doesn't become a capable MOR starter in a couple of years when the club has to jettison some contracts. I'm too old to go through another ten year rebuild job in four years from now because the players have outgrown Crane's budget.
Out of curiosity, who has Crane failed to re-sign that gives you reason to think he won't be willing to pay the going rate for top notch starters in 3 years?
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Out of curiosity, who has Crane failed to re-sign that gives you reason to think he won't be willing to pay the going rate for top notch starters in 3 years?
I don't think I made my point very eloquently. Not trying to paint Crane as miserly but he hasn't really been tested yet with many vets going on the market. I don't doubt that Correa, Springer and Keuchel will get paid but in a couple of years the club will have several guys going into arb/free agency. No mid-market team can pay everyone. Would it not make sense to have a couple of young pitchers move into those middle-of-the rotation spots that will still be working cheap so that they have more resources for the better, older players? Pay a couple of guys like Gallardo and that is real money tied up on a back-of-the-rotation guy.
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I don't think I made my point very eloquently. Not trying to paint Crane as miserly but he hasn't really been tested yet with many vets going on the market. I don't doubt that Correa, Springer and Keuchel will get paid but in a couple of years the club will have several guys going into arb/free agency. No mid-market team can pay everyone. Would it not make sense to have a couple of young pitchers move into those middle-of-the rotation spots that will still be working cheap so that they have more resources for the better, older players? Pay a couple of guys like Gallardo and that is real money tied up on a back-of-the-rotation guy.
I think this is a big part of why Luhnow has made a point of trading for cost-controlled talent like Gattis, Giles, and Fiers (an underrated pickup, IMO). You have to pay your stars at some point, but the complementary pieces don't need to eat up your payroll.
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I don't think I made my point very eloquently. Not trying to paint Crane as miserly but he hasn't really been tested yet with many vets going on the market. I don't doubt that Correa, Springer and Keuchel will get paid but in a couple of years the club will have several guys going into arb/free agency. No mid-market team can pay everyone. Would it not make sense to have a couple of young pitchers move into those middle-of-the rotation spots that will still be working cheap so that they have more resources for the better, older players? Pay a couple of guys like Gallardo and that is real money tied up on a back-of-the-rotation guy.
Of course it makes sense to keep developing guys. But your first post smacked of a "now that Player X has some value, trade him for prospects" kind of mentality. The point is for the big club to win and compete. Young guys, minor leaguers, prospects ect are only there to serve that end. The Astros have had one successful year, are still very young and have an incredibly bright future. Worrying about how they are going to pay for Correa in free agency is just unnecessary handwringing and worrying for worrying' sake at this point.
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Yeah they just picked up a closer 2 years before arbitration. McCullers isn't arbitration eligible till 2019.
As far as free agency:
Keuchel: 2019
McHugh: 2020
Fiers: 2020
McCullers: 2022
They've done a great job at locking up players relatively cheap for the next few years. Definitely could see a need for a veteran presence, middle of the rotation starter. Just can't see why Gallardo is that interesting. He pulled a Houdini act last year with his ERA. Doesn't pitch deep into games. He gets any worse and it could all come crumbling down.
Rather see them sign Mike Leake. He's been pretty consistent over the last few years and is still young pitching at 28 next year. Never relied upon the strikeout so you might assume he wouldn't age as poorly. And he's pitched slightly better in AL parks (over 22 games) so you'd hope the league change wouldn't hurt him.
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Just can't see why Gallardo is that interesting. He pulled a Houdini act last year with his ERA. Doesn't pitch deep into games. He gets any worse and it could all come crumbling down.
I don't care if they get Gallardo or not. I trust that they will make good decisions.
However, I get really tired of what I consider shitty statistical "analyses." They are so fucking weak. They basically go: "I have a theory for this data. If the data point doesn't match my theory, then it must be a lucky outlier." I haven't watched Gallardo closely throughout his career, but if I had, I bet that there are perfectly rational reasons for his success the last few years, even with a declining K rate.
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I don't care if they get Gallardo or not. I trust that they will make good decisions.
However, I get really tired of what I consider shitty statistical "analyses." They are so fucking weak. They basically go: "I have a theory for this data. If the data point doesn't match my theory, then it must be a lucky outlier." I haven't watched Gallardo closely throughout his career, but if I had, I bet that there are perfectly rational reasons for his success the last few years, even with a declining K rate.
Look you want to play blind man, go walk with the shepherd, but me - my eyes are wide fucking open.
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A blind man would be someone who refuses to see reality with his eyes and instead translates reality into stats. A blind man in need is one who can't even properly interpret the translation.
Just suffice it to say that if more than one front office (including one as successful and as supposedly stat crazed as the Astros) is entertaining big money for Gallardo, then declining K rates might not tell the entire story.
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A blind man would be someone who refuses to see reality with his eyes and instead translates reality into stats. A blind man in need is one who can't even properly interpret the translation.
Just suffice it to say that if more than one front office (including one as successful and as supposedly stat crazed as the Astros) is entertaining big money for Gallardo, then declining K rates might not tell the entire story.
Jules Winnfield is an amazing evaluator of talent. You should listen to him.
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I'm clueless. It was a good line; I should have realized it had a history.
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Jules Winnfield is an amazing evaluator of talent. You should listen to him.
I'm trying Ringo...I'm trying real hard to be the shepherd.
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As per MLBTR: The A's are out of the mix for Kazmir because they signed Henderson Alvarez, and the Co-ards should be out since they signed Mike Leake. That supposedly leaves Houston, Baltimore, Kansas City, and Washington as the serious teams remaining.
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What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?
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What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?
$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October.
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$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October.
An appropriately front-loaded deal.
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$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October.
Who's in charge of the POTwhatever?
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Who's in charge of the POTwhatever?
POTS I believe.
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What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?
According to this (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/denard-span-seeking-three-years.html), apparently has received 3-yr offers at $12-13MM per but wants a 4th year.
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Mark Berman @MarkBermanFox26 1m1 minute ago
#Astros announce they've claimed RHP Danny Reynolds from the #Dodgers
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Mark Berman @MarkBermanFox26 1m1 minute ago
#Astros announce they've claimed RHP Danny Reynolds from the #Dodgers
The MLBTR write-up (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-claim-danny-reynolds-waivers-dodgers.html) is rather informative.
Sounds like one of those guys where the Astros must really like something about him and feel that they can fix something they don't like. Here's hoping he'll be the next McHugh or Harris.
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This article from April 2015 talks about his transition to reliever (http://www.ocregister.com/articles/reynolds-655999-angels-dipoto.html)
Still leaves them 2 spots on the 40 man.
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The MLBTR write-up (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-claim-danny-reynolds-waivers-dodgers.html) is rather informative.
Sounds like one of those guys where the Astros must really like something about him and feel that they can fix something they don't like. Here's hoping he'll be the next McHugh or Harris.
101mph FB and "electric" breaking ball. I wonder if his control issues last year were him working on stuff as he transitioned ala McCullers when he worked on his change.
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The MLBTR write-up (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/12/astros-claim-danny-reynolds-waivers-dodgers.html) is rather informative.
Sounds like one of those guys where the Astros must really like something about him and feel that they can fix something they don't like. Here's hoping he'll be the next McHugh or Harris.
Sounds a bit like Reymin Guduan....
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astros seem to do will with rounding up the strays and turning them into studs
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Sounds a bit like Reymin Guduan....
I don't get the impression Reynolds regularly hits 100. Sounds more like he works in the mid-90's. Plus, Guduan is a lefty.
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I don't get the impression Reynolds regularly hits 100. Sounds more like he works in the mid-90's. Plus, Guduan is a lefty.
Talking about high 90's and lack of control plus a converted starter.
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Aroldis to the Yankees for prospects (various reports).
Supposedly does NOT include any of their "top tier" guys including Aaron Judge.
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Aroldis to the Yankees for prospects (various reports).
Supposedly does NOT include any of their "top tier" guys including Aaron Judge.
Reds should have moved him at the deadline - they had good leverage. Now with domestic violence issue outstanding it created an unknown and they got less. Reds mgt has struggled recently with committing to the rebuild.
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Reds should have moved him at the deadline - they had good leverage. Now with domestic violence issue outstanding it created an unknown and they got less. Reds mgt has struggled recently with committing to the rebuild.
In my opinion, the Reds have done a poor job of collecting prospects for their top-shelf talent pieces.
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In my opinion, the Reds have done a poor job of collecting prospects for their top-shelf talent pieces.
Sounds like a good time to ask about Votto.
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Aroldis to the Yankees for prospects (various reports).
Supposedly does NOT include any of their "top tier" guys including Aaron Judge.
Just saw the scroll on ESPN...says the deal includes Eric Jagielo, who was the Yankees' 1st round pick in 2013. Not sure where he ranks on their list of prospects, but that recent of a first round pick sounds like a pretty good prospect, no?
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Just saw the scroll on ESPN...says the deal includes Eric Jagielo, who was the Yankees' 1st round pick in 2013. Not sure where he ranks on their list of prospects, but that recent of a first round pick sounds like a pretty good prospect, no?
From BP:
"Jagielo has the best chance of becoming a regular in this deal, but he's far from a lock. He's a smart hitter who will work counts, and his feel for hitting gives him a chance for a solid-average hit tool. He's strong, and the natural loft in his swing makes him a 20-25 homer candidate. He's not a good defender at third and has battled injuries, so corner bench bat or DH is a real possibility."
Sounds like he has value, maybe not as much at this point as you'd hope from his draft position.
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Sounds like a good time to ask about Votto.
Today's Astros County has Votto's contract details and why he is probably not a good fit for the Astros model.
Paragraph #9. http://www.astroscounty.com/
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Just saw the scroll on ESPN...says the deal includes Eric Jagielo, who was the Yankees' 1st round pick in 2013. Not sure where he ranks on their list of prospects, but that recent of a first round pick sounds like a pretty good prospect, no?
Mark Appel concurs with this reasoning.
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In my opinion, the Reds have done a poor job of collecting prospects for their top-shelf talent pieces.
Jocketty is probably the most ardent anti-sabermetrics GM still working, and it's the opinion of sabermetricians that the Reds got royally hosed in both the Frazier and Chapman deals. It'll be interesting to see how things pan out.
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Dodgers get Kazmir. 3 years, $48 million. Opt-out after year one.
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Dodgers get Kazmir. 3 years, $48 million. Opt-out after year one.
Wow, $16m per for Kazmir. Good for him. Dodger Dog Park will be good for him.
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Wow, $16m per for Kazmir. Good for him. Dodger Dog Park will be good for him.
Yeah, that's more than what I expected, but what FA contract isn't these days?
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Dodgers get Kazmir.
Cornering the LHP market. Five southpaws in the rotation (Kershaw, Anderson, Wood, Ryu and now Kazmir).
Dodgers had been tied to Kenta Maeda out of the NPB. Wonder if they'll still go after him as insurance if one of the other guys breaks down (and giving them a righty).
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seems to be many cases of take the money and run or in this case throw
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Along with LHSPs, Dodgers also seem to be collecting GMs. With today's hiring of AA, front office now has five executives who were big league GMs with other organizations: Alex Anthopoulos (Blue Jays), Andrew Friedman (Rays), Ned Colletti (Dodgers), Josh Byrnes (D-Backs, Padres) and Hunsicker.
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I don't know if I knew The Hun worked for the Didgers now.
Speaking of LAD, the Chron had a short story today saying that the Astros were bidders for Kenta Maeda. It did not give any indication how strong their offer was.
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what was the dojers pay roll last year vs the astros
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Extremely High vs. Not Very High
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First big hitter off the board Alex Gordon signd for 4 year 72 million. About 1 year and 30 million less than guessed.
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First big hitter off the board Alex Gordon signd for 4 year 72 million. About 1 year and 30 million less than guessed.
Staying with the Royals.
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Staying with the Royals.
Good for him, good for baseball. Love to see guys stay with their original team, especially local kids like Gordon.
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Good for him, good for baseball. Love to see guys stay with their original team, especially local kids like Gordon.
I know I'm getting WAY ahead of myself but I've wondered if Derek Fisher does not have similar skills to Gordon.
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I know I'm getting WAY ahead of myself but I've wondered if Derek Fisher does not have similar skills to Gordon.
Me too.
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I know I'm getting WAY ahead of myself but I've wondered if Derek Fisher does not have similar skills to Gordon.
From what I've seen and read, Fisher is nowhere close to the defensive OF Gordon is. He's fast, yes, but poor routes/reads, and below-average arm. Maybe he can improve, but that would be extreme improvement.
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From what I've seen and read, Fisher is nowhere close to the defensive OF Gordon is. He's fast, yes, but poor routes/reads, and below-average arm. Maybe he can improve, but that would be extreme improvement.
Thanks for the info. Obviously I got the impression he was pretty good although the arm has always "limited him to LF".
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6 weeks until pitchers/catchers report (Feb 18)!
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light at the end of the rainbow
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Drellich (http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-winter-of-contentment-6743967.php?t=a52fdd45ce438d9cbb&cmpid=twitter-premium): "preliminary dialogue" with Justin Upton and Ian Desmond but no evidence Astros currently in pursuit.
Apparently "nothing brewing" on the Gallardo front either.
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I was going to ask yesterday but forgot if there is any talk of a pitcher or pitchers after Kazmir bolted.
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I was going to ask yesterday but forgot if there is any talk of a pitcher or pitchers after Kazmir bolted.
I think they're lying (laying?) in the weeds right now, waiting to see if the price drops on one of the pitchers they like. I could also see them signing a hitter (they supposedly kicked the tires on justin Upton), again if the price is right. Drellich or someone pointed out that at this point last year, they did not have Gattis, Valbuena, or Rasmus yet. So I would not be surprised if there's another significant move or two to come.
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I was kind of wondering about Ian Desmond? Wondering if he could be a fit for the good guys at 3B on a 1 year deal. He hasn't garnered much interest on the market that I can tell.
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I was kind of wondering about Ian Desmond? Wondering if he could be a fit for the good guys at 3B on a 1 year deal. He hasn't garnered much interest on the market that I can tell.
With ZERO of his 920 MLB games and ZERO of his 630 MiLB games at 3B, I doubt it.
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Marlins (?) sign lefty Wei-Yin Chen to a 5 yr/$80MM deal. As seems de rigueur these days, also comes with an opt-out after 2 years.
Link (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2016/01/marlins-closing-in-on-deal-with-wei-yin-chen.html)
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Jon Heyman @JonHeyman 2 hours ago
w/ starting pitching field narrowed, teams seen as most likely spots for ian kennedy include royals, nats, astros & rockies
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Jon Heyman @JonHeyman 2 hours ago
w/ starting pitching field narrowed, teams seen as most likely spots for ian kennedy include royals, nats, astros & rockies
I'll eat my goddamn hat if the Astros give up a first round pick for Ian fucking Kennedy.
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Tim Lincecum of Cliff Lee. The Astros will end up with one of them.
Or they will trade Carlos Gomez for a starter.
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Jerry Crasnick @jcrasnick 7 hours ago
The #Astros have inquired on #Braves CF Ender Inciarte. Presumably would have to move Carlos Gomez to make a deal work.
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A bit more on that:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14563718/mlb-hot-stove-daily-wednesday-trade-free-agency-buzz
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If they are moving Gomez, wouldn't getting some corner OF/IF make more sense. Even with Gomez gone you have 3 guys who can play CF on the roster.
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With the O's reportedly making an offer to Cespedes, does that mean they're moving on from Davis? As the offseason gets further along, maybe he'll be motivated to take a more reasonable deal.
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For those worried about signing Ian Kennedy, the Royals pick him up for 5/$70M with an opt-out clause after 2 seasons. He'll be reunited with a former pitching coach with the Royals, so seems like a good deal for him.
Also, this morning, the biggest available FA bat has been signed, with Davis going back to Baltimore on a 7/$161M deal. He'll get a full no-trade clause, as well.
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For those worried about signing Ian Kennedy, the Royals pick him up for 5/$70M with an opt-out clause after 2 seasons.
I might be turning into a broken record on this point, but this is why Mike Fiers was such a good acquisition.
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Am i crazy for wanting to keep gomez? I would love to see what he does when healthy. Seems like every day he is rumored to go somewhere.
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I feel the same. A healthy Gomez is a star-level player, and a star-level player added to Correa and Springer makes a really solid lineup.
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I'd love to be wrong but I'd have zero problems with a Gomez trade as long as it's something Luhnow creates. Yes, Gomez can be exciting but that swing-as-hard-as-fucking-possible-and-fall-to-a-knee shit gets old fast. Marisnick is an electric center fielder. I think he'll hit too. The Inciarte talk is "intruiging".
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Am i crazy for wanting to keep gomez? I would love to see what he does when healthy. Seems like every day he is rumored to go somewhere.
Nope, not crazy at all. If we trade him, I hope the return is very good.
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Peter Gammons @pgammo 5 minutes ago
Thrice today I had execs say "watch the Astros on Cespedes." 5th best HR park in MLB in '15. Good lineup. OK, I'm watching.
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Peter Gammons @pgammo 5 minutes ago
Thrice today I had execs say "watch the Astros on Cespedes." 5th best HR park in MLB in '15. Good lineup. OK, I'm watching.
I thought he had already signed with Baltimore? I guess that was a premature assumption on my part.
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I thought he had already signed with Baltimore? I guess that was a premature assumption on my part.
O's made an offer on him but that was prior to their re-signing Davis.
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If we sign Cespedes, then trade Gomez?
Cespedes, Rasmus, Springer, Marisnick, Tucker?
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Tucker played 1B in college, did he not? Given the logjam in the OF and his less than stellar OF glove, I am curious why he would not get a look there.
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Tucker played 1B in college, did he not? Given the logjam in the OF and his less than stellar OF glove, I am curious why he would not get a look there.
Tucker tweeted the other day that he made the all-SEC defensive team as a first baseman:
https://twitter.com/PrestonTucker20/status/687328116268789761
Slotting him at 1B does give the club some options as long as his production improves. I would take him over Singleton.
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The Mets’ front office according, to Harper, doesn’t think Cespedes is a “bad guy,” but is someone who “marches to his own drumbeat.” Among the gripes the Mets have are Cespedes not taking batting practice, not always hustling during games, and constantly smoking cigarettes between innings. They are also concerned with his willingness to play center field, which is really the only place he could play if he were to re–sign.
“Cespedes is a throwback,” (http://www.sportressofblogitude.com/2015/08/19/yoenis-cespedes-chain-smoking-seafood-eating-madman/) the New York Post’s Mike Puma reports on Twitter. “He was smoking like a chimney – one cigarette after another – in the runway before batting practice.”
Oh they have got to sign this guy. Do you they have to pay out his whole contract if he keels over on the way to first?
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Tucker tweeted the other day that he made the all-SEC defensive team as a first baseman:
https://twitter.com/PrestonTucker20/status/687328116268789761
Slotting him at 1B does give the club some options as long as his production improves. I would take him over Singleton.
so far, Luhnow disagrees.
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Seems like getting Tucker reps at 1st would make him more valuable, unless they have already tried and he is just awful at 1st.
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A person familiar with the Astros’ thinking said on Sunday they had not previously heard of a connection between the Astros and Cespedes and made his signing in Houston sound unlikely. (http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2016/01/18/yoenis-cespedes-still-available-but-astros-not-likely-destination/)
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I'd like to see the Astros make a go at Bronson Arroyo for the 5th rotation spot. The guy has a great work ethic. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back in form this season.
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I'd like to see the Astros make a go at Bronson Arroyo for the 5th rotation spot. The guy has a great work ethic. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back in form this season.
MLBTR does a roundup (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2016/01/remaining-free-agent-market-starters-2015-2016.html) of who's still available on the starting pitcher market.
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Ken Rosenthal is in speculation mode (http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/ken-rosenthal-blue-jays-josh-donaldson-arbitration-risk-damaging-relation-long-term-450k-011816) as to what the Astros might do in lieu of signing Cespedes:
Another addition could come at first base; the Astros could sign free-agent third baseman David Freese, whom the Cardinals acquired when Astros GM Jeff Luhnow was in their front office, and move him to first.
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MLBTR does a roundup (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2016/01/remaining-free-agent-market-starters-2015-2016.html) of who's still available on the starting pitcher market.
ugh.
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It is not a very inspiring list.
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Ken Rosenthal is in speculation mode (http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/ken-rosenthal-blue-jays-josh-donaldson-arbitration-risk-damaging-relation-long-term-450k-011816) as to what the Astros might do in lieu of signing Cespedes:
Another addition could come at first base; the Astros could sign free-agent third baseman David Freese, whom the Cardinals acquired when Astros GM Jeff Luhnow was in their front office, and move him to first.
That sounds like an enormously stupid idea. Take someone whose bat is barely good enough to warrant him being an everyday 3B, and move him to 1st, where it will be below-average, AND where he'll block a former top prospect from getting one last shot at earning the job. Try again, Kenny.
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That sounds like an enormously stupid idea. Take someone whose bat is barely good enough to warrant him being an everyday 3B, and move him to 1st, where it will be below-average, AND where he'll block a former top prospect from getting one last shot at earning the job. Try again, Kenny.
yep, I did not that that very seriously either.
Kazmir looks like Koufax compared to the list of the leftovers. I wish we had signed him.
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yep, I did not that that very seriously either.
Kazmir looks like Koufax compared to the list of the leftovers. I wish we had signed him.
Same here.
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No January discount for Justin Upton--$22MM AAV in 6 year deal with Tigers.
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No January discount for Justin Upton--$22MM AAV in 6 year deal with Tigers.
Opt-out after second year. Only costs the Tigers a third-round pick due to protected first-round pick and giving up second-rounder for Jordan Zimmerman. As usual, Tigers lineup is going to be fierce.
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Opt-out after second year. Only costs the Tigers a third-round pick due to protected first-round pick and giving up second-rounder for Jordan Zimmerman. As usual, Tigers lineup is going to be fierce.
This is indeed the way to do it - if you finish in bottom half and spend...spend to get two of QO guys. It's a tough draft year but at least you're only giving up a 2nd and 3rd and still have the 1st.
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This is indeed the way to do it - if you finish in bottom half and spend...spend to get two of QO guys. It's a tough draft year but at least you're only giving up a 2nd and 3rd and still have the 1st.
Yep, and they're both good players still in their prime. With a little better health, they should be back in the playoff hunt next season.
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The Upton fallout--
Evan Drellich @EvanDrellich 2 hours ago
Source w knowledge of Astros talks with Justin Upton noted they never got "serious.” Astros not believed to have talked much more than 3 yrs.
Bob Nightengale @BNightengale 3 hours ago
The Washington #Nats and Houston #Astros, each who had expressed interest in Justin Upton, may now turn their attention to Yoenis Cespedes.
Ken Rosenthal @Ken_Rosenthal 23 minutes ago
Source confirm that #Nationals interested in Cespedes if price drops, as @BNightengale said. The question: Which team, if any, will jump?
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Jonathan Lucroy thinks trade would be best for him and Brewers. (http://www.jsonline.com/sports/brewers/jonathan-lucroy-thinks-trade-would-be-best-for-him-and-brewers-b99654302z1-365824811.html)
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Not sure if this belongs in the ex-Astros thread, a Bus Rider thread or here.... but the Astros have signed Wandy Rodriguez to a minor league deal.
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Not sure if this belongs in the ex-Astros thread, a Bus Rider thread or here.... but the Astros have signed Wandy Rodriguez to a minor league deal.
!!!!!!!!!!
I'm so excited. Here's hoping his left arm still has some of that old MMP magic.
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stranger signings have turned out well
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Just the signing we were hoping for.
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Damn Yankees. Chapman's girlfriend story changes... (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2016/01/no-criminal-charges-filed-against-aroldis-chapman.html)
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ain't it strange how this happens
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ain't it strange how this happens
Victim to Opportunist in 10 (million) easy steps.
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Free-agent right-hander Yovani Gallardo is negotiating with the Rockies, Orioles and Astros, one of his representatives said Friday (http://m.rockies.mlb.com/news/article/162599450/yovani-gallardo-talking-with-rockies-2-others?tcid=tw_share).
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Cespedes goes back to Mets on a 3/$75M contract. He'll earn $25M/season, but has an opt-out after the first season that would grant him an extra $2.5M. There were multiple teams bidding on him, with the Nats being the only known one right now. Despite ties to him in the past, McTaggart said last night that the Astros weren't one of the teams (I'm still waiting for confirmation from the Cards, though).
Modified for poor spelling
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Cespedes goes back to Mets on a 3/$75M contract. He'll earn $25M/season, but has an opt-out after the first season that would grant him an extra $2.5M. There were multiple teams bidding on him, with the Nats being the only known one right now. Despite ties to him on the past, McTaggart said last night that the Astros weren't one of the teams (I'm still waiting for confirmaation from the Cards, though).
/photoshops Luhnow dodging bullets in the Matrix
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Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe in today's Sunday notes column (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/01/23/nick-cafardo-which-mlb-teams-improved-and-which-took-step-back/aIWHoXU0izIfJkgKydCumN/story.html):
"Doug Fister, RHP, free agent — The Astros have been exploring the possibility of Fister to round out their rotation. They’ve also discussed Yovani Gallardo, Alfredo Simon, and Kyle Lohse. The Astros would like to add a starter but are looking for a bargain at this stage."
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Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe...... Astros would like to add a starter but are laooking for a bargain at this stage."
I sure hope Nick is full of shit, but I worry that this might be the way things are under current ownership.
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I sure hope Nick is full of shit, but I worry that this might be the way things are under current ownership.
Context matters. Why wouldn't they be looking for a bargain in the FA pitcher leftover bin "at this stage" of the offseason? It doesn't necessarily mean Crane is a cheapass.
I've said this ad nauseum, probably, but the real "test" of Crane for me will be whether he greenlights the money to give guys like Keuchel, Springer, McCullers and Correa long-term extensions to lock them up past their arbitration years. I'd like them to buy the occasional complementary piece they need on the FA market, of course, but first and foremost I'd like them to keep the core young talent they produce.
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I sure hope Nick is full of shit, but I worry that this might be the way things are under current ownership.
Unwarranted cheapshot
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Context matters. Why wouldn't they be looking for a bargain in the FA pitcher leftover bin "at this stage" of the offseason? It doesn't necessarily mean Crane is a cheapass.
I've said this ad nauseum, probably, but the real "test" of Crane for me will be whether he greenlights the money to give guys like Keuchel, Springer, McCullers and Correa long-term extensions to lock them up past their arbitration years. I'd like them to buy the occasional complementary piece they need on the FA market, of course, but first and foremost I'd like them to keep the core young talent they produce.
Exactly!!
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Unwarranted cheapshot
He should know better. I'm with Reuben-let's get our young talent locked up. That has to be their strategy.
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I just said that it worries me, I didn't say it was a fact.
They have a team that is a legit contender going into the season for the 1st time since Crane got here. There are a couple areas that could have used an upgrade, corner IF, closer, starting pitcher. They addressed one of those, and it was by trading away solid talent to land a young arm they are hopeful can be the closer.
It is probable they just didn't see a player they felt comfortable giving money to. Maybe they have a salary # in mind (hopefully it is way higher than the current number) and they find it more prudent to use that money on the salaries that will be coming due in a few years.
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I just said that it worries me, I didn't say it was a fact.
They have a team that is a legit contender going into the season for the 1st time since Crane got here. There are a couple areas that could have used an upgrade, corner IF, closer, starting pitcher. They addressed one of those, and it was by trading away solid talent to land a young arm they are hopeful can be the closer.
It is probable they just didn't see a player they felt comfortable giving money to. Maybe they have a salary # in mind (hopefully it is way higher than the current number) and they find it more prudent to use that money on the salaries that will be coming due in a few years.
I hear you. I just think that it's premature to characterize Crane as a cheapskate or anything like that, and in fairness to you, you didn't call Crane that.
Y'all know my opinions on these insane long-term contracts that some of these clubs hand out. If I was Crane, I'd be looking to upgrade within a budget because we do have some potential internal options. I guarantee you that some of these free agent players will go into the season without a contract and will be watching for a desperate club to come calling.
Personally, I'd probably pass on Gallardo because I see him as a declining player who will want more years than is warranted. Cliff Lee, assuming that he's healthy, may be worth a one year deal.
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It is hilarious to me that even though it is proven year in and year out in baseball to be a poor long term strategy, fans (and I guess troll reporters like Drellich) think their team has a bad owner if he doesn't spend gobs of money on free agents.
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I just said that it worries me, I didn't say it was a fact.
They have a team that is a legit contender going into the season for the 1st time since Crane got here. There are a couple areas that could have used an upgrade, corner IF, closer, starting pitcher. They addressed one of those, and it was by trading away solid talent to land a young arm they are hopeful can be the closer.
It is probable they just didn't see a player they felt comfortable giving money to. Maybe they have a salary # in mind (hopefully it is way higher than the current number) and they find it more prudent to use that money on the salaries that will be coming due in a few years.
I really don't think they liked their options. Most of the best talent would have cost them not only huge money but also their first pick this year and the signing money that goes with it. The Cardinals have shown the way to keep your team at the top all the time is to have a great system while being very selective with your FA signings. Seems to me Luhnow is copying that exactly.
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The problem with free agents this year is that once Rasmus took the qualifying offer, there weren't a lot of free agents that meshed well with the Astros. The Astros don't need another outfielder and that's where a lot of the free agent bats were. Sure, a case could have been made for Chris Davis, but the Astros weren't going to spend $160 million on one player, particularly when AJ Reed is waiting in the wings.
And where were the Astros going to put a high priced starting pitcher when they have Feldman (who is getting a not insubstantial amount of money) and Fiers?
I don't think this was a team geared to signing a big name free agent this offseason. If there had been a great guy for third, then I think the Astros might have pounced, but that player wasn't available on the free agent market.
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The problem with free agents this year is that once Rasmus took the qualifying offer, there weren't a lot of free agents that meshed well with the Astros. The Astros don't need another outfielder and that's where a lot of the free agent bats were. Sure, a case could have been made for Chris Davis, but the Astros weren't going to spend $160 million on one player, particularly when AJ Reed is waiting in the wings.
And where were the Astros going to put a high priced starting pitcher when they have Feldman (who is getting a not insubstantial amount of money) and Fiers?
I don't think this was a team geared to signing a big name free agent this offseason. If there had been a great guy for third, then I think the Astros might have pounced, but that player wasn't available on the free agent market.
In my opinion, the Astros are set at third. Valbuena/Marwin are a pretty good L/R platoon at third and will be for the next couple of years with Moran possibly pushing for time in a year or two. And in the event that Marwin or Valbuena miss some time, Duffy can backup for a while.
I really don't think first base is an issue either. You have a solid enough lineup to give White a full shot. And if he fails and Reed shows he's ready then you're set as well. Oh and there is that Singleton guy who has shown he can improve at a level after first failing.
Where it gets interesting is the outfield. Right now they only have one starter locked up past 2016 in the outfield (considering Tucker a 4th outfielder). Next years crop of outfielders is very thin. I really hope they take a chance with Rasmus and sign him to a 3 year deal now. He said he wants to retire an Astro.
The starting 5 is solid as is. The issue is depth. Peacock is the first one up and he is no sure thing. After that you are hoping for somebody to step up. Wojciechowski and Rodgers are the only ones from last years AAA team that are at all interesting. Straily is optionless so if he's still with the team after camp breaks it's because something horrendous has occurred or no other team in the majors has a 25-man roster spot for him. AA has the most potential. Feliz likely being the closest. Musgrove has only 7 games there and Devenski though a fan favorite hasn't impressed the brass much nor any other team's brass.
Edit:
Forgot about Wandy
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I am curious as to how you know what the Astros brass thinks of Devenski?
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I am curious as to how you know what the Astros brass thinks of Devenski?
Didn't get promoted to AAA even though he was lights out for a half a season (pitched in 10 games at AA the year prior). And he did pitch in 2 postseason games in the minors this year, once for AA and the other for AA. Both wins for a combined 15 total innings, 21 Ks, 1 BB, 8 Hits, 1 HR and 2 runs. Wasn't protected on the 40-man (and rightfully so as he didn't get taken). Just reading the tea leaves though, I have no source.
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Didn't get promoted to AAA even though he was lights out for a half a season (pitched in 10 games at AA the year prior). And he did pitch in 2 postseason games in the minors this year, once for AA and the other for AA. Both wins for a combined 15 total innings, 21 Ks, 1 BB, 8 Hits, 1 HR and 2 runs. Wasn't protected on the 40-man (and rightfully so as he didn't get taken). Just reading the tea leaves though, I have no source.
To be fair, he did start the AAA championship game and threw 5 perfect innings before giving up a single to lead off the sixth.
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To be fair, he did start the AAA championship game and threw 5 perfect innings before giving up a single to lead off the sixth.
I'm pulling for him. Been following him since he ended the 2012 season with a 16 K no hitter (1 walk) (http://www.milb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120902&content_id=37751804&fext=.jsp&vkey=news_milb). If he makes it to the show, it will be Smith Barney style.
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In my opinion, the Astros are set at third. Valbuena/Marwin are a pretty good L/R platoon at third and will be for the next couple of years with Moran possibly pushing for time in a year or two. And in the event that Marwin or Valbuena miss some time, Duffy can backup for a while.
I really don't think first base is an issue either. You have a solid enough lineup to give White a full shot. And if he fails and Reed shows he's ready then you're set as well. Oh and there is that Singleton guy who has shown he can improve at a level after first failing.
Where it gets interesting is the outfield. Right now they only have one starter locked up past 2016 in the outfield (considering Tucker a 4th outfielder). Next years crop of outfielders is very thin. I really hope they take a chance with Rasmus and sign him to a 3 year deal now. He said he wants to retire an Astro.
The starting 5 is solid as is. The issue is depth. Peacock is the first one up and he is no sure thing. After that you are hoping for somebody to step up. Wojciechowski and Rodgers are the only ones from last years AAA team that are at all interesting. Straily is optionless so if he's still with the team after camp breaks it's because something horrendous has occurred or no other team in the majors has a 25-man roster spot for him. AA has the most potential. Feliz likely being the closest. Musgrove has only 7 games there and Devenski though a fan favorite hasn't impressed the brass much nor any other team's brass.
Edit:
Forgot about Wandy
I think that there is the possibility that Bregman will be moved to 3b in the near future just before his promotion.
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I think that there is the possibility that Bregman will be moved to 3b in the near future just before his promotion.
I would not be surprised. He should move very quickly (and has so far), but the obvious choices of SS and 2B will hopefully be locked up for a while. 3B and the outfield would seem to be the best fits after those positions. Luhnow made a comment recently about SS being able to pick up 3B, so that could be hinting at his plans.
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What are the chances Correa moves to third?
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What are the chances Correa moves to third?
I say 0 chance although I have no insider knowledge. If Bregman pushes Correa out of SS after his highlight reel rookie season, then he is a heck of a SS.
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What are the chances Correa moves to third?
I wouldn't say that the chances are high, but suppose the club goes to Correa and asks him to do an ARod to get Bregman to the show quicker. Correa impresses me as a mature young man who would seriously consider such a request.
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I wouldn't say that the chances are high, but suppose the club goes to Correa and asks him to do an ARod to get Bregman to the show quicker. Correa impresses me as a mature young man who would seriously consider such a request.
Plus all the national bloviots expect Correa to be a career third baseman in a couple of years anyway.
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i never knew that work and how it fits me perfectly. thanks
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I wouldn't say that the chances are high, but suppose the club goes to Correa and asks him to do an ARod to get Bregman to the show quicker. Correa impresses me as a mature young man who would seriously consider such a request.
I suspect Correa would catch if asked but I doubt he is the one asked to move. Bregman intrigues me but it is real premature to discuss him forcing a star player to move over for him. And is Bregman a better prospect than Moran? Remember Moran was under consideration with the #1 pick one year ( I think the Correa pick).
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I sure hope Bregman is a better prospect than Moran
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Remember Moran was under consideration with the #1 pick one year ( I think the Correa pick).
2013 (Appel) rather than 2012 (Correa).
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For whatever it's worth, Correa has said repeatedly that he takes pride in being a SS and staying in the kind of shape it takes to stick there.
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I sure hope Bregman is a better prospect than Moran
We'll see but do you possibly undersell Moran? You make him sound like a disappointment. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2016/1/27/10837746/astros-moran-just-misses-mlb-top-10-3b-list
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For whatever it's worth, Correa has said repeatedly that he takes pride in being a SS and staying in the kind of shape it takes to stick there.
I was going to say something about Carter being less likely to kill him if he's at 3B, but I guess that problem has been dealt with in a different fashion.
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We'll see but do you possibly undersell Moran? You make him sound like a disappointment. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2016/1/27/10837746/astros-moran-just-misses-mlb-top-10-3b-list
He's never looked good to me, but hopefully he's turned a corner.
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After watching Correa play SS ,in MLB, as a 20 year old. The only way I see him moving is if, he hits a late growth spurt and somehow effects his range, or Bergman is better than in the field than Ozzie Smith.
Correa is already really good at playing SS, and he has played 4 whole years of professional baseball. Considering his work ethic and makeup it is hard to think he won't continue to get better at SS for the next 7+ years.
Having a SS that hits like Correa is such a huge advantage, moving him away from SS seems like it would be a really terrible idea.
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We'll see but do you possibly undersell Moran? You make him sound like a disappointment. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2016/1/27/10837746/astros-moran-just-misses-mlb-top-10-3b-list
I don't know, I have a hard time getting excited over statements like "in 2014, Moran's five home runs in 392 plate appearances ranked 9th in that league among 3B" when there are only 12 teams in the FSL. I wouldn't call him a disappointment, but he hasn't done enough for me to get excited, either. At the time of the draft, he was seen as a guy whose bat would let him fly through the minors. I don't remember anyone saying his defense was "terrific", either; the range of reports were more along the lines of "bat without a position" to "adequate". The Marlins soured on him fairly quickly reportedly over his lack of energy. Whether that was fair or not, we did buy low on him (not a good sign for someone who was that high of a pick that recently).
Maybe he becomes a major-leaguer, maybe he ends up having a decent career; he's still relatively young. I wouldn't block Bregman because of his presence, though. Bregman has lived up to the high expectations, so far, and while 3B isn't the ideal spot for him, he's a guy that you make room for. Moran just hasn't been that type of player.
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I don't know, I have a hard time getting excited over statements like "in 2014, Moran's five home runs in 392 plate appearances ranked 9th in that league among 3B" when there are only 12 teams in the FSL. I wouldn't call him a disappointment, but he hasn't done enough for me to get excited, either. At the time of the draft, he was seen as a guy whose bat would let him fly through the minors. I don't remember anyone saying his defense was "terrific", either; the range of reports were more along the lines of "bat without a position" to "adequate". The Marlins soured on him fairly quickly reportedly over his lack of energy. Whether that was fair or not, we did buy low on him (not a good sign for someone who was that high of a pick that recently).
Maybe he becomes a major-leaguer, maybe he ends up having a decent career; he's still relatively young. I wouldn't block Bregman because of his presence, though. Bregman has lived up to the high expectations, so far, and while 3B isn't the ideal spot for him, he's a guy that you make room for. Moran just hasn't been that type of player.
this season will be very telling on Moran. Looking forward to seeing if he is a legit prospect. Hopefully he will stay healthy.
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After watching Correa play SS ,in MLB, as a 20 year old. The only way I see him moving is if, he hits a late growth spurt and somehow effects his range, or Bergman is better than in the field than Ozzie Smith.
Correa is already really good at playing SS, and he has played 4 whole years of professional baseball. Considering his work ethic and makeup it is hard to think he won't continue to get better at SS for the next 7+ years.
Having a SS that hits like Correa is such a huge advantage, moving him away from SS seems like it would be a really terrible idea.
This stuff just makes me laugh. Correa is a good defender. So is Bregman. Who cares which one plays SS and which one plays 3b? The batting order isn't the fielding position. Who cares if the SS hits like a 3b and the 3b hits like a SS?
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This stuff just makes me laugh. Correa is a good defender. So is Bregman. Who cares which one plays SS and which one plays 3b? The batting order isn't the fielding position. Who cares if the SS hits like a 3b and the 3b hits like a SS?
Me too. There is no advantage to having a .300 hitting SS, unless he's replacing a guy hitting .250. If you simply swap two guys' position in the field, there is no advantage.
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this season will be very telling on Moran. Looking forward to seeing if he is a legit prospect. Hopefully he will stay healthy.
Agreed. The way he hit from July 1 on was very encouraging. If he can keep up that pace, he's legit.
As for his defense, the common thread of most reports I've seen is that he doesn't have great range (slow, tall, unathletic-looking white guy syndrome), but he has soft hands, and an accurate, rocket arm.
Bregman, I keep thinking he's going to be trade bait, unless something unexpected happens to Correa or Altuve.
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Astros and Doug fister have agreed to terms on a 1 year deal
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Astros and Doug fister have agreed to terms on a 1 year deal
Mr. Happy is going to have a field day with how the catchers handle Fister. Soft hands, forsooth.
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Doug Fister's playoff stats -- 4-2, 2.60 ERA in 55.1 IP, 40 K's, 16 BBs
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Fister Fills Gaping Hole in Astros Rotation
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Fister Fills Gaping Hole in Astros Rotation
#59 coming along as a PTBNL?
http://www.sbnation.com/lookit/2014/5/31/5767594/someone-got-a-barelyknower-jersey-to-compliment-a-doug-fister-jersey
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Doug Fister's playoff stats -- 4-2, 2.60 ERA in 55.1 IP, 40 K's, 16 BBs
And he was great in the regular season from 2011-14, despite being a contact pitcher and having lousy Tiger defenses behind him for most of that. If he can come anywhere close to regaining that form, it's a great move.
Plus, with McCullers part of the staff now, this helps them keep that average fastball velocity down at or near last in the league.
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Fister anal ysis based on his numbers isn't terribly meaningful, it's really all about health with him.
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McCullers, McHugh, Feldman, Fiers, Fister. The MF'ers.
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Great acquisition at this point. In Lunhow I trust.
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McCullers, McHugh, Feldman, Fiers, Fister. The MF'ers.
Sounds like a band name ... Killer & the McF'ers.
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Sounds like a band name ... Killer & the McF'ers.
Keuchel and the MF'ers. I dare McBrag to use that.
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Keuchel and the MF'ers. I dare McBrag to use that.
I love this. I would nominate it if there were any reason to do that sort of thing.
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maybe they can have a section and tshirts like hunters lodge or whatever it was
this one would have more meaning and more fans than 12 year old girls
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I love this. I would nominate it if there were any reason to do that sort of thing.
Ha, nominated.
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POTWA to be resurrected ?
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Fister analysis based on his numbers isn't terribly meaningful, it's really all about health with him.
I had to look it up, but for anyone else who was unaware it was a forearm strain that bothered him in 2015.
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Nice, that pretty much fixes the starter depth concern.
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Fister? Damned near killed her...
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Looking forward to Fister dominating Pujols this season.
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are we done or is Luhnow still looking for a bat?
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are we done or is Luhnow still looking for a bat?
I read somewhere that Luhnow said he was done adding any significant pieces to the roster.
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I read somewhere that Luhnow said he was done adding any significant pieces to the roster.
Sounds like, though he did leave the door slightly ajar (http://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/astros/article/Doug-Fister-fills-out-Astros-rotation-6791293.php):
"The major piece wrapping it up is today's signing of Fister. … We will continue to talk to the players who are out there and see if there are additional moves. We'll talk to teams, but I feel good about the team that we have right now."
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He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/01/30/rebuilt-cubs-ready-for-next-step/u1TUZbHVO7SxuF2IglV9eP/story.html)?
"Jonathan Lucroy, C, Brewers — A few baseball folks feel something’s brewing with Lucroy, as teams such as Houston and Washington may be interested in adding a top catcher. Lucroy does have a limited no-trade clause, but as we’ve learned, no-trade provisions are negotiable. Adding Lucroy would allow the Astros to play Jason Castro some at first base."
Speaking of Fister, Cafardo says a "few teams" had concerns about the medicals and that "some teams" thought they would be able to sign him to a minor league deal.
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He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/01/30/rebuilt-cubs-ready-for-next-step/u1TUZbHVO7SxuF2IglV9eP/story.html)?
"Jonathan Lucroy, C, Brewers — A few baseball folks feel something’s brewing with Lucroy, as teams such as Houston and Washington may be interested in adding a top catcher. Lucroy does have a limited no-trade clause, but as we’ve learned, no-trade provisions are negotiable. Adding Lucroy would allow the Astros to play Jason Castro some at first base."
Speaking of Fister, Cafardo says a "few teams" had concerns about the medicals and that "some teams" thought they would be able to sign him to a minor league deal.
What about Castro's ability at the plate makes you want to play him at first?
Lucroy would be a nice addition but the Brewers have been asking for a lot.
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What about Castro's ability at the plate makes you want to play him at first?
Also, I think the Astros gave away enough ABs at 1B without throwing Castro into the mix.
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I'm interested in Lucroy but the need is more offense at 1b, not less (Castro). Castro's value is behind the plate.
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I'm interested in Lucroy but the need is more offense at 1b, not less (Castro). Castro's value is behind the plate.
Exactly.
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He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/01/30/rebuilt-cubs-ready-for-next-step/u1TUZbHVO7SxuF2IglV9eP/story.html)?
"Jonathan Lucroy, C, Brewers — A few baseball folks feel something’s brewing with Lucroy, as teams such as Houston and Washington may be interested in adding a top catcher. Lucroy does have a limited no-trade clause, but as we’ve learned, no-trade provisions are negotiable. Adding Lucroy would allow the Astros to play Jason Castro some at first base."
Speaking of Fister, Cafardo says a "few teams" had concerns about the medicals and that "some teams" thought they would be able to sign him to a minor league deal.
One has to wonder who planted the idea in Cafardo's head that playing Castro at 1st base is something the Astros would consider.
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It did come out today that the Nationals are one of eight teams on Lucroy's no-trade list (though how relevant that is seems questionable given his previously stated desire to move on to a team that unlike the Brewers is not in rebuilding mode).
Link (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/)
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One has to wonder who planted the idea in Cafardo's head that playing Castro at 1st base is something the Astros would consider.
Other than the obvious and perhaps best answer (Cafardo simply was mis-informed there), I suppose there's always the thought that someone's still clinging to the hope that Castro's bat revives to 2013 levels and that getting him out from behind the plate helps achieve that by allowing him to focus more on his hitting. And with Lucroy behind the dish you haven't lost anything defensively in the process.
Actually the better answer here might be the reverse: on days when Castro is catching, putting Lucroy at 1B. He's spent time there already at the big-league level, including a handful of games last season.
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Byung-Ho Park was not the only Korean 1B on the free agent market this offseason. Dae-ho Lee has played in the NPB the last 4 years after playing 11 years in the KBO. He hit .282/.368/.524 for the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks last year. Anyhow, there's a report out of Korea in the last 24 hours that says two different MLB clubs are interested in him--supposedly an NL Central team and an AL West team. Nothing more concrete than that.
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I saw a comp of "like Carlos Lee, but with less power" on him. I'm not sure if that was meant as faint praise, but Lee in his prime would've still been a great hitter even with less power.
I can't help but think of Japhet Amador, though.
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I can't help but think of Japhet Amador, though.
Nah, not with that svelte body (http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2015/05/08/0200000000AEN20150508008700320.html?input=rss).
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Nah, not with that svelte body (http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/news/2015/05/08/0200000000AEN20150508008700320.html?input=rss).
Wow, his nickname should be Pillsbury.
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Byung-Ho Park was not the only Korean 1B on the free agent market this offseason. Dae-ho Lee has played in the NPB the last 4 years after playing 11 years in the KBO. He hit .282/.368/.524 for the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks last year. Anyhow, there's a report out of Korea in the last 24 hours that says two different MLB clubs are interested in him--supposedly an NL Central team and an AL West team. Nothing more concrete than that.
There was indeed an AL West team involved in negotiations with Lee--it was the Mariners who signed him today to a minor league contract with a ST invite.
Link (http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-set-to-sign-korean-first-baseman-dae-ho-lee/)
ETA:
Or perhaps there were multiple AL West teams initially involved. From a Tacoma News Tribune article (http://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/mariners-insider-blog/article58115518.html) about the Lee signing:
"Houston and St. Louis also showed interest in signing Lee."
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Cafardo's latest (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/02/06/nick-cafardo-here-are-red-sox-spring-training-storylines-and-grain-salt-with-each/0ZrHf7QIAuFg5oIZ55mitM/story.html):
Reliever Tyler Clippard: "The Diamondbacks have shown interest as they build a competitive team, and the Astros and Rays are among at least a half-dozen teams that have inquired."
Can't imagine another bullpen piece being added at this stage unless it's a lefty.
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Cafardo's latest (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2016/02/06/nick-cafardo-here-are-red-sox-spring-training-storylines-and-grain-salt-with-each/0ZrHf7QIAuFg5oIZ55mitM/story.html):
Reliever Tyler Clippard: "The Diamondbacks have shown interest as they build a competitive team, and the Astros and Rays are among at least a half-dozen teams that have inquired."
Can't imagine another bullpen piece being added at this stage unless it's a lefty.
Clippard has historically been better against lefty batters (.572 OPS) than righties (.647). In 2015, he was a LOT better vs. lefties (.468 vs. .745). One thing to maybe be concerned about is that his K rate fell from the 9-10.5 per 9 range to "only" 8.1 last year. He was still hard to hit though. Must be the glasses.
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Reliever Tyler Clippard: "The Diamondbacks have shown interest as they build a competitive team, and the Astros and Rays are among at least a half-dozen teams that have inquired."
Did in fact sign with Arizona today (2 yrs/$12.25MM).
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Did in fact sign with Arizona today (2 yrs/$12.25MM).
Arizona is building a good club.
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Arizona is building a good club.
I've thought for the last couple of years they should have been better than they were. They have a lot of talent. Now that they've added some pitching, they should be a pretty strong threat for that division, or someone needs to get fired.
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Brian McTaggart @brianmctaggart 18 minutes ago
Also, I get the impression the Astros will make another move. They said a few weeks ago they were done, but now willing to move. 1B perhaps?
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Brian McTaggart @brianmctaggart 18 minutes ago
Also, I get the impression the Astros will make another move. They said a few weeks ago they were done, but now willing to move. 1B perhaps?
Brian doesn't do a lot of speculation. Not sure what this means. Maybe he knows something is in the works?
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Brian doesn't do a lot of speculation. Not sure what this means. Maybe he knows something is in the works?
FWIW, here's his follow up tweet to a question whether the Astros might be looking for a catcher:
Brian McTaggart @brianmctaggart Feb 12
Possible. More AB on market though -- Alvarez, Mourneau. Maybe Freese at third, move Valbuena to 1B.
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FWIW, here's his follow up tweet to a question whether the Astros might be looking for a catcher:
Brian McTaggart @brianmctaggart Feb 12
Possible. More AB on market though -- Alvarez, Mourneau. Maybe Freese at third, move Valbuena to 1B.
MIL is tearing down...how about Lucroy one time?
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This seems too weird. I do not remember the lineup changing that much last year:
Hinch used 152 batting orders last year, which meant things changed nearly every day. (http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/164542422/astros-projected-lineup-for-2016)
I find it hard to believe that only 16 times they ran out a lineup that hadn't been done already.
Not a hot stove topic, but I didn't think it deserved it's own thread.
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Jayson Stark with his annual survey of baseball execs on best and worst moves (http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14786897/best-worst-mlb-offseason) of the offseason. In the category "Best free agents signed to 1-year deals", the Doug Fister signing received the most votes.
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ICYMI (http://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Astros-eyeing-lefty-reliever-Randy-Choate-6842398.php)--Astros have spoken to southpaw Randy Choate, who turns 41 in September.
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The numbers are in and the Astros have the best outfield arms in MLB. (http://m.mlb.com/news/article/164812320/statcast-shows-astros-have-best-throwing-arms)
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Anyone worried about this Gregerson closer stuff? If/when he loses out, is this going to become an issue?
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Anyone worried about this Gregerson closer stuff? If/when he loses out, is this going to become an issue?
I would think Gregerson has been around long enough to know that the Astros didn't give up what they gave up for an 8th inning setup man.
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Anyone worried about this Gregerson closer stuff? If/when he loses out, is this going to become an issue?
Not me. I will assume that Gregerson is a professional until he does something otherwise.
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Not me. I will assume that Gregerson is a professional until he does something otherwise.
Same feeling here. Drellich might want this to be a controversy, but there's nothing there right now.
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Giles has a 16 professional saves, him being the 8th inning guy to start the year out might not be a bad thing. Giles/Gregerson has the potential to be a really solid 8th/9th combo no matter the order they appear.
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Giles has a 16 professional saves, him being the 8th inning guy to start the year out might not be a bad thing. Giles/Gregerson has the potential to be a really solid 8th/9th combo no matter the order they appear.
I have faith that Hinch will make the right call here.
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Giles/Gregerson has the potential to be a really solid 8th/9th combo no matter the order they appear.
For the gamers out there, get a lead after 7 and gg.
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Hopefully Neshek's foot abortion fixes him. Between him, the dualing closers, Harris and Sipp the pen is looking fantastic.
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Hopefully Neshek's foot abortion fixes him. Between him, the dualing closers, Harris and Sipp the pen is looking fantastic.
And FIELDS!
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Speaking of heated stoves....
The best part of my late night bowel discomfort is seeing this site back up.
Carry on.
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Speaking of heated stoves....
The best part of my late night bowel discomfort is seeing this site back up.
Carry on.
*clicks bookmark, crosses fingers*
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In case you missed it from the other day, Ken Rosenthal tweeted that the Astros tried to acquire Jonathan Lucroy from the Brewers last month but were unable to come to terms.
Link (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/jonathan-lucroy)
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I would think Gregerson has been around long enough to know that the Astros didn't give up what they gave up for an 8th inning setup man.
The Royals changed the way everyone looks at bullpens, especially when they left Davis in the 8th inning role. He was clearly the most dominant guy in their pen long before Holland got hurt but they didn't want to mess with a good thing. The Astros' situation is different because Gregerson has not achieved what Holland had, and Giles has miles to go to equal Davis, but the issues are similar. When you consider that Gregerson had a good year and Giles is on record as being cool with a setup role, I think it's likely that the Astros' closer role is still a fluid situation.
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The Royals changed the way everyone looks at bullpens, especially when they left Davis in the 8th inning role. He was clearly the most dominant guy in their pen long before Holland got hurt but they didn't want to mess with a good thing. The Astros' situation is different because Gregerson has not achieved what Holland had, and Giles has miles to go to equal Davis, but the issues are similar. When you consider that Gregerson had a good year and Giles is on record as being cool with a setup role, I think it's likely that the Astros' closer role is still a fluid situation.
I agree with you. I am certain that Hinch wants more heat out there in the closer's role, but Gregerson was very effective last season and probably should be given the chance to retain the closer's role, but on a short leash.
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Giles has thrown about as many innings as Lidge did going into 2004. Lidge was the setup man for Dotel until after the all-star break.
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ahh the relief of having a mindless wonderful thing to occupy me again
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Giles has thrown about as many innings as Lidge did going into 2004. Lidge was the setup man for Dotel until after the all-star break.
It was Dotel's job, until it wasn't.
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well said. and makes you think about all the senerios
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In case you missed it from the other day, Ken Rosenthal tweeted that the Astros tried to acquire Jonathan Lucroy from the Brewers last month but were unable to come to terms.
Link (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/jonathan-lucroy)
Wonder if they are still talking.
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Wonder if they are still talking.
Or will talk again come the trade deadline.
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It was Dotel's job, until he got traded for Beltran.
FIFYalthoughthatsprobablywhatyoumeantanyway
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Neal Cotts inked to a minor league deal. Likely second southpaw in the pen.
http://www.rotoworld.com/player/mlb/3748/neal-cotts
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Giles has thrown about as many innings as Lidge did going into 2004. Lidge was the setup man for Dotel until after the all-star break.
KC's pen is great, but Lidge (7th), Dotel (8th), Wagner (9th) was great too.
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can you imagine combining the two teams..amazing
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KC's pen is great, but Lidge (7th), Dotel (8th), Wagner (9th) was great too.
Loved that trio. I don't see a huge problem with Giles being th 8th inning guy to start out. You have to get outs there too.
Having Giles start out as the 8th inning guy might do him well. I just don't see why some (not here) are getting so worried about who the closer is day 1.
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Loved that trio. I don't see a huge problem with Giles being th 8th inning guy to start out. You have to get outs there too.
Having Giles start out as the 8th inning guy might do him well. I just don't see why some (not here) are getting so worried about who the closer is day 1.
I agree and have no problem with Hinch matching up and sharing save opportunities. We need several guys who can get outs when we're in the lead late in the game.
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I agree and have no problem with Hinch matching up and sharing save opportunities. We need several guys who can get outs when we're in the lead late in the game.
Giles will be the closer, if not on Opening Day, then soon thereafter. The bigger unknown to me is how Neshek pitches. Who knows how he will throw since that alien was excised from his foot? Hell, he may throw overhand!
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Giles will be the closer, if not on Opening Day, then soon thereafter. The bigger unknown to me is how Neshek pitches. Who knows how he will throw since that alien was excised from his foot? Hell, he may throw overhand!
I agree that he's the eventual closer. However, and to tamp down expectations and pressure on still a young pitcher, I'd have no problem with him starting out as the eighth inning guy.
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I agree that he's the eventual closer. However, and to tamp down expectations and pressure on still a young pitcher, I'd have no problem with him starting out as the eighth inning guy.
The Astros needed a one-inning shut down guy...someone who can just get the next three hitters, whenever that may be in the game. If they'd had that guy last year, they beat the Royals and maybe win the pennant. They traded for Giles to be that guy. Whether it's in the 8th or the 9th, he needs to be that guy.
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The Astros needed a one-inning shut down guy...someone who can just get the next three hitters, whenever that may be in the game. If they'd had that guy last year, they beat the Royals and maybe win the pennant. They traded for Giles to be that guy. Whether it's in the 8th or the 9th, he needs to be that guy.
I agree with you. That's why I hate the whole closer concept. I prefer the old fireman concept, where you brought in your best reliever at the most critical point in the game, be it in the seventh, eighth or ninth inning. I'm not expecting guys to go out and throw saves of more than five outs like Mike Marshall and Sparky Lyle or Goose Gossage used to do, but get away from this slavish closer gets the ninth inning mentality.
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I agree with you. That's why I hate the whole closer concept. I prefer the old fireman concept, where you brought in your best reliever at the most critical point in the game, be it in the seventh, eighth or ninth inning. I'm not expecting guys to go out and throw saves of more than five outs like Mike Marshall and Sparky Lyle or Goose Gossage used to do, but get away from this slavish closer gets the ninth inning mentality.
I think this was obvious last year with the Astros ability to score runs late in the game. Even if you're down a couple runs in the 7th or 8th, you have to use your shut down guy to keep it right there and give yourself a chance. I think Hinch is a smart guy and he'll use his best guy when he's the most useful. Of course, it helps to have a guy like Will Harris was last year as well. Hopefully the pen is a strength again.
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In case you missed it from the other day, Ken Rosenthal tweeted that the Astros tried to acquire Jonathan Lucroy from the Brewers last month but were unable to come to terms.
FWIW, Bob Nightengale said yesterday that a 3-way involving the Braves was in the works when things fell apart last month.
Link (http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/bob-nightengale/2016/03/23/reds-jay-bruce-brewers-jonathan-lucroy-trade-rumors/82156896/)
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FWIW, Bob Nightengale said yesterday that a 3-way involving the Braves was in the works when things fell apart last month.
Link (http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/bob-nightengale/2016/03/23/reds-jay-bruce-brewers-jonathan-lucroy-trade-rumors/82156896/)
Interesting. First thought is "why a three-way"? MIL of course wants prospects for Lucroy and the Astros still have plenty of good ones. Only thing I can think of is maybe MIL is focused on pitchers. Astros don't have many high-end arms left in the system, but the Braves have been hoarding them lately. Maybe the Astros would send a Bregman or a Cameron to ATL, and ATL would send a blue-chip pitcher to MIL (as the centerpieces; it would cost multiple players to get Lucroy of course).
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Good read on the Giles trade from Stark.
Why Astros' acquisition of Ken Giles was shocking on many levels (http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/page/springtraining_kengiles/why-acquiring-ken-giles-was-stunning-move-houston-astros)
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Good read on the Giles trade from Stark.
+1
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my Phillies scout friend thinks the Astros still are pursuing Lucroy, but he may be behind in the chronology.
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my Phillies scout friend thinks the Astros still are pursuing Lucroy, but he may be behind in the chronology.
Are you able to share any of your impressions of what he thought of the Giles trade?
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Are you able to share any of your impressions of what he thought of the Giles trade?
we did not talk about it. I asked about Appel's problems, and he said, as I suspected, "makeup."
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we did not talk about it. I asked about Appel's problems, and he said, as I suspected, "makeup."
Avon calling.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Avon calling.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Maybe it's Maybelline.
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Avon calling.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
My friend is not a fan of Stanford players.
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My friend is not a fan of Stanford players.
What about Stanford managers? He have any thoughts on Hinch?
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What about Stanford managers? He have any thoughts on Hinch?
he told me last year Hinch and the bench coach were great hires. he toned down his caustic criticism of the management this year because of the obvious success on the field. I take what he says with a block of salt because he was close as family to Tal Smith and Ed Wade and because he loathes the analytics movement's causing scouts to lose their jobs.
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he told me last year Hinch and the bench coach were great hires. he toned down his caustic criticism of the management this year because of the obvious success on the field. I take what he says with a block of salt because he was close as family to Tal Smith and Ed Wade and because he loathes the analytics movement's causing scouts to lose their jobs.
Some of the genius of Luhnow is that he still appreciates the contributions of scouting. I don't know if the club has downsized the dept. though.
That would be interesting to know.
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Some of the genius of Luhnow is that he still appreciates the contributions of scouting. I don't know if the club has downsized the dept. though.
That would be interesting to know.
Almost all (if not all) of the scouts from the Wade era were let go in the first couple of Luhnow years. I'm not sure what standard practice is when a new regime takes over, but Luhnow and company did a total house-cleaning. No idea how many positions there are now compared to before.
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There were 11 pro scouts in 2012, and there are 11 pro scouts in 2016. The only one of the pro scouting staff who is still around from 2012 is Hank Allen. Josh Miller is still in the organization, but as a pitching coach. Paul Gale was an amateur scout back in 2012 but is part of the pro scouting staff now.
The amateur scouting staff has quite a few holdovers from the pre-Luhnow days, more than half. It has stayed roughly the same size. The international scouting staff has grown and seen some turnover.
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Astros 2016 scouting staff:
Link (http://i.imgur.com/Qc2mtQe.png)
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Thank you Mike.
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There were 11 pro scouts in 2012, and there are 11 pro scouts in 2016. The only one of the pro scouting staff who is still around from 2012 is Hank Allen. Josh Miller is still in the organization, but as a pitching coach. Paul Gale was an amateur scout back in 2012 but is part of the pro scouting staff now.
The amateur scouting staff has quite a few holdovers from the pre-Luhnow days, more than half. It has stayed roughly the same size. The international scouting staff has grown and seen some turnover.
Thanks for correcting, Mike.
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My friend's feelings are as simple as being loyal to long time friends. I understand his feelings and do not blame him for having them or try to talk him out of them. Those friends lost their jobs, perhaps through no fault of their own, but this happens in every workplace. I believe the Astros and Luhnow use a combination of analytics and traditional scouting, and I am a big fan of current management and its methods and approach.
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Rich Kubatko of MASN writes (http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/03/taking-another-look-at-the-camp-roster.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter):
"(The Orioles) talked to the Astros about Preston Tucker over the winter, but weren't willing to part with Kevin Gausman."
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Rich Kubatko of MASN writes (http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/03/taking-another-look-at-the-camp-roster.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter):
"(The Orioles) talked to the Astros about Preston Tucker over the winter, but weren't willing to part with Kevin Gausman."
Strange, given that they don't seem willing to START Gausman.
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Strange, given that they don't seem willing to START Gausman.
He's headed to the DL with shoulder tendinitis but at least according to this (http://www.masnsports.com/school-of-roch/2016/03/kevin-gausman-headed-to-dl-odrisamer-despaigne-optioned.html) Showalter still plans to use him in the starting rotation.
Or have you read otherwise?
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Duffy has made the team.
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White just got a 1000% raise
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Straily to the padres for "a catcher"
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Straily to the padres for "a catcher"
Eric kratz is the catcher
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Eric kratz is the catcher
Kratz was signed by the Padres as a minor league free agent back in December. 35 y/o with just 192 games in the big leagues.
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Kratz was signed by the Padres as a minor league free agent back in December. 35 y/o with just 192 games in the big leagues.
Eric kratz is the catcher
Slightly above-average CS%, 23 HR in about 550 career ABs. Seems decent, if unexciting.