Show Posts
This section allows you to view all posts made by this member. Note that you can only see posts made in areas you currently have access to.
This was the tie-breaker for me. He filled in at the most difficult position for a couple of months and played it well. I don't think he got enough credit for that.
That's baseball....
I thought you were just repeating bullshit you'd heard. But if you really thought that, then yeah, that's not one of your smarter conclusions.
If I had a nickel for every time someone thought I was an idiot, I'd have more than one nickel.
There is no logic whatsoever in sandbagging Game 5 at home, in hopes that you can win another two on the road. None whatsoever. Whomever floated that idea is an idiot.
Verducci on how Strasburg was tipping his pitches in the first two innings last night, but the Nationals caught and fixed it:
“Stephen, you’re doing it again.”
Menhart didn’t have to show video to Strasburg. The pitcher knew instantly what he was doing to telegraph his pitches. The pitching coach and his pitcher came up with a fix. Strasburg would reach into his glove for his grip, then briefly start flapping his glove at the waist before raising his hands at the set position.
The game flipped right there.
Yep, heard that from a buddy at the water cooler this morning. Too damn bad Altuve's sac fly didn't go out or for a double...or same with Yuli's shot to the wall. There were more runs to be had that first inning for sure.
“He told me it was—what is the right word here—just so re-assuring to him,” Menhart said. “It gave him such relief and confidence. He said, ‘I got takes on balls they were hitting before, and they were swinging and missing at balls they were spitting on in the first inning.’ It freed him up.”
Strasburg gave up two runs in the first inning and none thereafter. The Astros went 3-for-22 after Strasburg stopped tipping his pitches. They didn’t know what hit them.
This. Curt Flood and Andy Messersmith didn't take their courageous stands so that the union could control the player instead of the franchise he plays for.
The union sometimes struggles with that fact, like when they heaped scorn on Jeff Kent for taking less money to play in Houston.
He did. With better run support, he might have. Run support is what concerns me about tomorrow.
This makes me nervous. This lineup does much better when they’ve seen somebody a bit and had time to study them.
What happened last night happens literally every single pitch of every single baseball game ever played. The pitcher tries to fool the hitter, the hitter tries to recognize what pitch is being thrown and hit it. This is the foundation of the game itself. It's mindboggling that anyone who has ever seen a game even bats an eyelash. THIS IS THE GAME OF BASEBALL!!!!
Brian McCann announced after the Braves' loss last night that he was retiring. He had a good career, and was the right guy at the right time for the Astros. I will always remember him fondly.
“Feels great and he’s ready to go... I have no concern that he's going to be able to post tomorrow.”
No, it is not, but I want to win. Do you fucking think I don’t?
My name is not “dude,” but I am glad to hear it.
They manufactured their own problem by putting both Saturday games back-to-back on FS1. And when Yankees/Twins inevitably runs long, I'm sure they'll delay switching over to our game.
I agree. Don't move two guys around, just plug Diaz in at 3B. Not ideal, but it is what it is.
Had tickets for me and my dad for Game 5 in 2005...
Not sure what I did which should be postponed.
Just break in and go get some. I'm sure a couple of the TZ denizens will help you out.
https://www.chron.com/houston/article/Three-men-share-photos-taken-after-sneaking-into-6151420.php
We cannot hope to beat good teams playing hard with less than our best. Yuli and Correa out, our AAA slugger up in a very crucial AB, Hinh’s stubbornness on testing players, Miley’s woes, injuries to important bullpen pitchers.
The As are damn good and are tough outs no matter who we pitch. The last two games were winnable, but they played and pitched better in crunch time than we did.
https://mobile.twitter.com/AstrosTalk/status/864895777042087936
I expect we will someday.
Toro gets moved to Round Rock. Effectively replacing Rojas.
Aaron Sanchez and Biagini to Astros.
Who’s going to Blue Jays?
Homer, your friend apparently misled you.
For me to be incredulous, it depends on what the other contenders do.
Ken Rosenthal
@Ken_Rosenthal
·
3m
#Braves close to acquiring Shane Greene from the #Tigers, source tells The Athletic.
It is starting to feel more and more that the Astros are not going to land a starter.
According to Heyman the Dbacks asked the Yankees for Clint Frazier plus 3 prospects for Robbie Ray. Who is the Astros equivalent for Frazier?
Well I'll say this: the unified trade deadline is a big win far as I'm concerned. I was never this interested before.
NY Post says Syndergard off the market
Wow! Really hoping for this.
It was a hard ground ball off his right knee. Painful but I doubt it is serious.
Also it's being tweeted that the Stems have asked in return for Thor:
Twins - Buxton
Sox - Benintendi
So they're probably asking for Altuve.
Total bs to regard him as untouchable. Doesn’t Reddick have another year. Are we going to trade him and give Tucker his position? We gave Tucker LF, and he did not hit.
I cannot believe Luhnow wants Tucker (in AAA!) more than Syndergard. Maybe his position will soften before Wednesday. Maybe he is trying to make the Mets blink. Seems to me they are in the superior position, but what do I know?
I could accept we had no chance because they wanted a MLB-ready pitcher. But if Tucker winds up blocking this deal because he is untouchable, someone is crazy-me or the Brain Trust.
Oh, come on. McCann would not have scored but the other position players would. Two out, runner at second leaving on contact. The play was not close. Diaz would have scored.
If a Synderdard deal fails because Luhnow insists on keeping Fisher just in case, I will scream.
i can't see Luhnow giving up both Tucker and Fisher. He's got to keep one for outfield depth in case of injury. I'd do a Tucker/Bukauskus plus Brandon Bielak for him.
Correa is a plus defender at SS. Straw starting everyday at SS to me is not an option. Filling in as a spot start while Correa has been out has helped. From what I've seen, Straw seems to have adequate range, decent glove, but not yet comfortable with throws to 1st.
He still may be. The team has until the trade deadline to get something done that includes Kemp.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
As of right now the Nationals are in the postseason so I don't think they'll be dealing their ace.
Does moving Martin to the 60-day have any service time implications?
From The Athletic about Matthew Boyd, and how the Astros could be the ideal fit for him:
Miley also looking like he might get a fat contract. What are the chances of re-upping him?
There is an article on MLB network about Altuve being re-activated. In the article the subject of the video that was posted on here with Altuve legging out the triple was discussed. It was addressed by Jose and AJ and it appeared each was kind of surprised at the way Altuve was running in the video. I guess the medical staff would not have cleared him if he wasn’t 100% healthy, but I will not feel completely comfortable until I see him hitting like the old Jose.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Brantley has never played first in the majors. But assuming he could, if you had to snag an outfielder and put him at first, he'd be the more logical option than Reddick.
Does anyone know if Brantley saw any time at first in the spring?
There is no argument for keeping White.
Alvarez two hits tonight, Tucker 1-4, Fisher up to .328.
Yes, he has tough decisions to make and they will have to be made pretty soon. When Altuve is ready to come back he will have to make his first move. If they want to stay with 13 pitchers then White or Kemp has to go to make room. The alternative would be to postpone that decision and send Devo or Valdez down to make room for Altuve. I suspect that is what will happen. Either Devo or Valdez will go to AAA.
Eventually, a decision will have to be made where White and Kemp are concerned. I suspect Luhnow puts that off as long as absolutely possible.....probably until the trade deadline. Personally, I’ve seen all of White I want to see. I love Kemp but it probably makes the most sense to move him. He will have more value and the talent we have in AAA that is most ready play is at his position, the outfield.
There will also have to be a decision made when Joe Smith is ready to return. If I heard Luhnow correctly on today’s pregame show, Joe will be ready to return sometime in June. Jeff talked as if they were eager to get him back in the bullpen and said that when he is ready a difficult decision will have to be made. If Devo survives the reactivating of Altuve, I’m betting he’s out in June when Smith is ready.....unless Devo turns it around in a hurry.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Durable, yes. Inconsistent, yes. Decent year, with last 20 starts being very good, yes. Very good year overall, no. We’ll see if he ever signs, but I think he is on the downhill slide and should have accepted the QO.
His sliders started in the zone, stayed in the zone, and got punished.
The solo HR hit well up the batter's eye in dead center.
When he walked the bases loaded all 4 balls were fastballs that were way inside.
find a place with consistency and not all over the place
Cannot keep them all.
I’m with you. I’d much rather see Straw and I think his performance when he was up last year was good enough to get the call. They are working him as an infielder lately however so they may not want to interrupt that program.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
How did this work out with Tucker last year? They need to know if Alvarez can hit in the bigs. White has been in the org for years. They know who he is.
What's the argument for not DFAing White?
How can he be so dang fragile!
Thanks Sphinx. That made me laugh.
Daniella really needs to go easier on him.
Sure, if Crane decides that he doesn't mind paying the luxury tax of course they can afford it.
7. Mound moved back two feet in second half of season
In the past couple of days the Astros signed a righty out of the Dominican. Given his age, it's highly doubtful the bonus amount was significant...
Update #8:
Miguel Palma, c, Venezuela--$300K B/T: R/R 5' 10" /170 Age: 16
Tomas Ramirez, of, Dominican Republic--$250K B/T: R/R 6' 1" /172 Age: 16
Johangel Ramirez, rhp, Venezuela--$275K B/T: R/R 6' 2" /193 Age: 16
Yohander Martinez, ss, Venezuela--$300K B/T: R/R 5' 10" /175 Age: 16
Cristian Gonzalez, ss, Dominican Republic--$300K B/T: R/R 6' 3" /180 Age: 16
Reimy Beltre, rhp, Dominican Republic -- $135K B/T: R/R 6' 3" /170 Age: 17
Omar Diaz, of, Dominican Republic--$85K B/T: L/L 6' 1" /180 Age: 16
Danny Subero, rhp, Venezuela--$200K B/T: R/R 6' 4" /194 Age: 16
Ayendy Ortiz, ss, Dominican Republic--$240K B/T: S/R 6' 1" /170 Age: 16
Carlos Calderon, rhp, Dominican Republic--$80K B/T: R/R 6' 0" /175 Age: 16
Daniel Pacheco, rhp, Venezuela B/T: R/R 5' 10" /160 Age: 16
Frank Perez, of, Cuba--$275K B/T: R/R 6' 2" /180 Age: 16
Jairo Jose, of, Dominican Republic--$75K B/T: R/R 6' 0" /160 Age: 16
Jesus Liranzo, of, Dominican Republic--$300K B/T: R/R 6' 1" /185 Age: 16
Ricardo Balogh, ss, Dominican Republic -- $300K B/T: S/R 6' 3" /175 Age: 16
Andres Monzon, cf, Venezuela B/T: R/R 5' 11" /152 Age: 16
Antonio Placencia, rhp, Dominican Republic B/T: R/R 6' 0" /170 Age: 19
Freddy Guilamo, c, Dominican Republic B/T: R/R 5'11" /160 Age: 17
Miguel Padilla, rhp, Venezuela -- $50K B/T: R/R 6'2" /180 Age: 16
Marcos Eusebio, rhp, Dominican Republic B/T: R/R 6'1" /180 Age: 18
Total of 20 players signed to date with reported and/or inferred bonuses on 15 of those. Given the likelihood of a minimal bonus for Eusebio, we're gonna assume for now the Astros' international pool money remains unchanged:
Pool at beg. of year.................................................................$4,983,500
Less: Amt sent to LAA in Maldonado deal............................. (250,000)
Less: Amt sent to MIA for 2 minor leaguers......................... (500,000)
Amount available.....................................................................$4,233,500
Less: Total bonus already paid out to 15 players.................(3,165,000)
Less: Assumed bonus paid to 5 unreported players............ (95,900)
Amt available for future signings and/or trade......................$ 972,600
The difference between George and Hicks is that George has been relatively healthy the last 3 years. Hicks has never played in 140 games, Springer has played 140 in the last 2 years and 162 in 2016. George would never accept the Hicks deal.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
By the way, with Aaron Hicks and Arenado signing extensions, things would look favorable for JV and Cole extensions.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Really? $10.5M per? He was in integral part of very good teams but, in your estimation, is he really worth 6.5% of the payroll, especially with the extensions they are working on with Verlander and Cole? To me, the Diaz signing looks better and better, even if he only performs at 70-80% of the capacity of Gonzalez.
According to MLB.com, the Dodgers have leapt back into the field. (https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2019/02/bryce-harper-rumors-dodgers-meeting.html)
Harper is such a hype machine. I guess I won't be shocked if he ends up netting more than Machado, but it seems indisputable that pound for pound Machado has outclassed him in virtually every respect (except perhaps in "class", which might be a close call). He's still reaping the benefits of the SI cover at age 15.
Marwin to Minnesota. 2 years, $21 million.
I just think it’s interesting that he has incentives for starts and relief appearances.
I guess they’re hoping Miley gives them the best of both worlds.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Collin McHugh will be a free agent after this season-would love to have him stay. Good pitcher and example for the youngsters coming up.
No doubt!
That inbed video of Chris Sales slider is redonkulous!
Another thing I find interesting about this trade is that Davis isn't out of options. Had they kept him he'd be in AAA again, providing depth. Luhnow must have felt that a) the odds of the Astros really needing him were quite low (I think he'd be right about that) and b) this was a higher than expected end offer for Davis.
I have no idea who any of the prospects are yet I am perfectly comfortable assuming that the Astros fleeced these fools.
Reports say Lugo not involved. Speculating, maybe just Davis for a low-level minor leaguer?
Fuck
Ray, if you believe reports is not available but I bet Luhnow has at least touched base.
The Astros and Blue Jays have made quite a few deals and I bet Stroman has been brought up plenty even before this offseason. The problem is that the Jays may not want to trade him this offseason because of the bad year he has. His stock is as low as it's ever been. If I were them I'd wait til the deadline and hope he has a good first half.
I'm not sure the Tigers have any reason to move Fulmer yet, he has plenty of team control left that they may think they can compete again before he's gone.
Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
Exactly. No one was biting on his pitches in the dirt.
As for who the Astros might get for the rotation. I heard a discussion on the MLB Network that the Astros were less interested in free agent pitchers and more interested in making trades. So I'm not so concerned that the better mediocre free agent starting pitchers are starting to get taken. I agree that Stroman, Fullmer, and Ray are probably the three main targets. I thought that Jon Gray was also a potential target, but with the Rockies signing Murphy, I think it's less likely that the Rockies are going to trade a starter.
The speculative offer from the Dodgers centered around Verdugo is what has been speculated in a trade with the Marlins for Realmuto. So given they would provide the same package for either Kluber or Realmuto, it means the Dodgers will offer this only to get one player, not two.
Interestingly enough, I also read that the Dodgers are looking to move either Rich Hill or Alex Wood (both lefty pitchers). I'm not sure trading for Wood for low level prospects and a package of Tony Kemp or Stassi would work. But definitely the struggles Wood had in 2018 make him a project, but maybe a project Strom would like to have.
Reds... as a playoff contender?
Who else would pay for Kluber or Bauer besides a team that views itself as a playoff contender?
If I'm convinced he can be a useful member of the bullpen I'd switch Solomon for Armenteros. James/Armenteros/Marisnick/Stassi for Realmuto/Conley.
Tucker/James is more than I gave up for Verlander. No deal.
So now that we know that the Miami Marlins are in conversation with the Houston Astros again and that they (the Marlins) know you can't center a deal around "Run" Forrest "Run" Whitley, what if they (the Marlins) said to the Astros they wanted the following:
Kyle Tucker (OF), J.B. Bukauskas (RHP), Max Stassi (C), and Tony Kemp (LF)
Would you (not asking would the Astros, I'm asking would *you*) do this trade? I have not heard anything about asking price but suffice it to say since the Marlins have asked for good to really good major league talent from previous suitors (Bellinger, Acuna, Conforto, et. al.), methinks you're going to have to mix prospects with young talent for them. Are they asking too much in my trade scenario?
Updating based on on an article I just saw from Cuban baseball reporter Francys Romero who noted the bonus for Rogelio Armenteros from back in 2014 https://www.cibercuba.com/noticias/2018-10-23-u194102-e194102-s27068-pelotero-quien-hace-al-bono-no-bono-al-pelotero...
RHP Rogelio Armenteros ($40K bonus)--rule 5 eligible 24 year old with 206 Ks vs 67 BBs in 176 AAA innings
RHP Michel Martinez (bonus not dislosed)--released
RHP Yoanys Quiala ($794K bonus)--24 year old with a sky-high WHIP of 1.51 in 108 AA innings who has approximately 13 games remaining in an 80-game PED suspension
OF Alejandro Garcia ($750K bonus)--released
RHP Carlos Sierra (bonus not disclosed)--23 year old who missed a month due to injury who posted 40 Ks vs 21 BBs in 43 combined IP this year between CC and BC.
OF/1B Norberto Castellanos (Astros-$75K bonus)--released
OF/1B Yordan Alvarez ($2MM bonus + equivalent tax)*--Top 100 prospect who missed a month with a right wrist injury, hitting .259/.349/.452 for Fresno after going .325/.389/.615 earlier in the year for Corpus
INF Anibal Sierra ($1.5MM bonus + equivalent tax)--24 year old who has a career .219/.302/.330 line after 3 years in the minors
LHP Cionel Perez ($2MM bonus + equivalent tax)--22 year old who made his major league debut on July 11
RHP Jesus Balaguer (bonus not disclosed)--released
RHP Elian Rodriguez ($1.9MM bonus + equivalent tax)--21 year old who hasn't been able to find the plate in his first 2 pro seasons with 56 BBs, 16 HBPs and 24 WPs in 48 innings split between GCL and the DSL
INF/OF Rolando Espinosa ($175K bonus)--17 year old with a .170/.245/.234 slash line this year in 59 games in the DSL
C Lorenzo Quintana ($200K bonus)--29 year old in his first year of pro ball in the US who hit .254/.316/.484 for Corpus including .289/.345/.586 in the 2nd half
LHP Julio Robaina ($220K bonus)--17 year old who skipped DSL and whiffed 27 in 25 IP this year in the GCL with a 1.56 WHIP.
RHP Franny Cobos ($125K bonus)--17 year old who was pretty slick this year in the DSL with just 29 hits allowed in 45 IP and 39/7 K to BB.
OF Frank Perez ($275K bonus)--recent J2 signee as a 16-year old and thus not eligible to play until 2019
*paid by Dodgers
The window is now. But Luhnow also has to try to have a competitive team on the field every year. Thinking about this then I would not be surprised if he did not add a starting pitcher, or at least one who would take on a lot of innings. Getting the young arms major league time would set them up to be the rotation after Verlander and Cole are gone. In other words I wouldn't put anything past Luhnow.
Next, we trade for Bauer or Kluber.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I could not watch the sports news last night about his signing. They, of course, featured clips of his pitching as an Astros. I cannot remember when a player leaving the Astros affected me as much as Morton’s leaving does.
It's $206MM and it'd be virtually impossible for the Astros to sign Harper at close to $30MM per AND sign a starting pitcher of any consequence whatsoever and stay under the threshold.
Proceed? What do you mean?
A Brantley deal would proceed a Tucker deal I suspect.
It was just reported on MLB network radio that the Yankees portion of this three team deal would have them getting Syndergaard with the Mets getting Realmuto. If that happens, then I don’t really know what to think about our team and what moves we could make to keep pace with Boston and New York.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Maldonado for one. If he’s ranked as low of a defender as mentioned in the post above then pretty much any other free agent catcher was a better option since it appears they may not want to spend the money for Grandal.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
It would go against everything Luhnow has done to sign Grandal. He’s never given up his draft picks to sign a free agent.
I find it hard to believe we would pay Grandal the kind of money they say he’s asking for.
I have always felt that Realmuto was a pipe dream. I have felt all off season that we would spend our money or trade our assets for a starting pitcher and a bat. Today may be somewhat of a hint that thinking could be correct. I just think if you were going to go cheap on a catcher that there could’ve been better defensive options.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Bat first is kind. He’s got some pop but he can’t hit .240. He’ll be 35 during next season. I’m looking forward to the explanation from Luhnow.
I am ready for something to happen.
JP Morosi identifies some free agents who could sign prior to Thanksgiving, including Michael Brantley who he tries to match up with the Astros as a lefty hitter.
BTW, Kemp in Left, Marwin at 2nd and Altuve DHing.
Lots of things went wrong last night. Marwin had some bad luck in LF...the ball he almost caught where he crashed into the wall, the 3-run double that rolled along the top of the padding...but also a lot of bad execution. Gurriel and White, the 4 and 5 guys struggled with runners on base...the unearned run on Cole's throwing error on the comebacker...the walk/wild pich/passed ball/passed ball unearned run...Rondon not being able to close the door in the 8th...all just poor baseball playing.
Maldonado has a rough night. It happens. Gotta put it behind and move on. He's still a good defender and they will need him as the series goes on.
Agree about Kemp. May consider him in LF and let Marwin DH, depending on if there are any lingering effects from the latter's crash last night.
If James cannot pitch up 11-2, he is a wasted roster spot. On the flip side, he pitched very well in relief at Fenway.
And Astros.com says it's 1:05 on Friday.
Anywhere in the building is a good place to be.
REALLY disappointed we didn’t get a bat.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Doesn’t bode well for Correa.
I'm not scared.
first time for altuve to be out like this. scary times
How about Pirate lefty Felipe Vazquez?
Luhnow's traded guys mid-breakout before (Phillips and Nottingham in '15 leap to mind). Arguably the best way of getting peak value out of your trade pieces.
Apparently the Astros are also giving them $250K in international bonus pool money.
After years of watching Jeff build this team, it would be hard for me to throw him under a bus for any reason. He knows WAY more than I do and his track record speaks for itself. If no deal is made I will trust that Jeff felt it wasn’t best for the team.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Yeah, I don't get the Britton love. Two years ago, sure, give up a lot. Now, not so much.
If the starting pitching was getting hammered, I'd be worried. The bats will come around, and sooner than later.
So, this morning as I was driving into work I remembered seeing Lucas Harrell pitch a great game (which the Astros lost) at Petco Field in 2012. It just made me realize how far this team has come since then. Harrell, Anuery Rodriguez, Happ.
OMG, we weather a drought and a hurricane to get to the Promise land!
What is the point of this tirade?
Great news! $30M/year is a lot of cake. Is anyone else in MLB making that now?
I’m elated this deal got done.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Labor war's a-comin'.
The Rockies and CarGo have an agreement "in principle" on a one-year deal and "are working through final contract language," a source confirmed to MLB.com's Jon Paul Morosi on Friday. More details coming.
Yuli sent back to Houston to get his hand checked out. Turns out it was worse than originally reported. Hinch does not know the cause of the injury.
The paying customers will be pissed. That is the JV team.
He won't be in a game until June then, at the earliest. Nearly kills the idea of a call-up this year.
and that K
LF is a hole which needs addressing. Marwin will go back to super-utility.
"Hey Jon Heyman! We beg to differ."
Sincerely,
Brett Phillips
Domingo Santana
Josh Hader
Franklin Perez
Jake Rogers
Daz Cameron
Albert Abreu
Jorge Guzman
Jacob Nottingham
Daniel Mengden
Teoscar Hernandez
Mark Appel
Vincent Velasquez
Harold Arauz
Thomas Eshelman
Mike Foltynewicz
Rio Ruiz
Nick Tropeano
Rangers have said they are not interested.
I agree with HH: I’d take him at a reasonable price in a heartbeat.
Now, while I think Darvish would be a nice add to the rotation, I’m not sure I understand this unless this is just Jeff performing his due diligence. If you are going to spend this kind of money on a pitcher why wouldn’t you just go ahead and resign Keuchel? Do they feel Darvish is a better pitcher?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'd take him. He's a better pitcher than he showed in the Series.
Rondon is a two-year deal. Are we going to sign or trade for a LHP? Are we still in on TORPs? December may be interesting.
If he hits the game/series winner, it will be right at the top of every story written about this series.
* Sigh *
I swear HPU called it a strike because Altuve took off towards 1st.
Net isn't a big distraction at all. You can still see the plate fine, and you have a good view of the big board in RF.
Wearing out CF.
Turn on something.
And I don’t think a reliever has stranded a base runner in Boston.
Neither Martes nor Fiers are on the roster. There is no logical long man for the Astros today. McHugh isn’t on the roster either, I’m sure McCullers isn’t available... probably just piece it together with Musgrove, Harris etc. Maybe Verlander, depending.
Fox dipshits talking about the Yankees, of course, even though they don’t play for about 5 hours. In prime time, natch.
Can’t say I’m too bothered that the last game in Boston is tough for them to attend / be drunk for. Hope we can keep them quiet and subdued today.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Luhnow said they definitely were being cautious. He said the goal was to win games in October, not in August, and they want everyone at 100% come stretch time.
"...and a third, unidentified high-end type whose addition would have surprised the industry."
Roberto Osuna?
I would be surprised if Santana makes it through waivers because there's not that much of a financial obligation left.
Verlander, on the other hand, has a huge contract. I'd be surprised if someone claimed Verlander. Frankly, given where the Tigers are right now, if someone did claim Verlander, I could see them letting him go.
Bagwell interviewed by buster Olney. A great listen. link
Quite the fall for Reed.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
If we get Gray and Britton without losing "untouchables," I'll rejoice.
That's insane. If that's true, it sounds like the Padres want to keep him, but want to be able to say "we tried to get better".
You are crazy or are not paying attention. This is the time to "win now," not to fret about "star potential."
Based on all of Luhnow's recent quotes, I think this is where he's at on trading Tucker, Fisher, or Martes: If he thinks a deal significantly improves this team's chances in a post-season series, he'll pull the trigger, even for a rental. That's a fine line to walk. But when a team is this good, you HAVE to give them every edge possible going into October.
Jim (Little Rock): Daz Cameron tools aside is it to early to label him a bust?
Kyle Glaser: Nope. He’s a bust. Third professional season hitting .202 in LoA. Full bust status. That’s how toolsy HS OFs are. The boom is great, the bust is too. Every draft class has them. Cameron isn’t the first to bust and won’t be the last, either.
In the Nearly a Major Change in History Department: In the mid-nineties, the Astros reached a post-deadline waiver deal with the Pirates to trade minor league starter Billy Wagner for Jay Bell and Jeff King. One of the other NL West teams blocked the trade by claiming both veterans.
Jankowski (not on the 40-man) gets called up to take Tolliver's place on the 25-man. I'm betting the off-setting move on the 40-man is Aplin being waived.
Everybody calm down!!! From Rosenthal's article: "No trade is expected soon – trade discussions generally do not accelerate until after the amateur draft in June and sellers likely will maintain high asking prices until late July."
Besides, who here believes that what a front office says about the pace of trade talks necessarily reflects what's actually going on?
The problem is that they are both signed to very team friendly contracts through 2020 for Quintana and 2021 for Archer. Unless the team does not believe it will contend during those years what reason do they have to deal for anything less than ace level talent and lots of it?
Does Jerry Dipoto get paid on a commission basis?
"...since becoming GM on Sept. 28, 2015, has traded 54 players in 35 separate deals."
Holland signed with the White Sox this off-season. Ross appears to still be available although I read in the Dallas paper there was indications the Rangers were talking to him about a deal. I think the idea of trading for Archer or Quintana is to improve the topside of the rotation. Holland certainly won't do that and Ross' availability is uncertain due to injury concerns.
The availability of a starting pitcher as good as Sale for multiple seasons of club control is extremely rare. It will have many franchises reconsidering their usual idea of untouchable prospects.
After watching an infant nearly get obliterated by a screamer at the Dell Diamond (if not for a kid one row up with a glove who caught the ball three inches from the baby's head) I am never going to sit with my kids outside the net. Behind the net, outfield, or upper deck for us.
FYI, team will be without Giles this weekend.
Jake Kaplan Verified account @jakemkaplan 10h10 hours ago
Ken Giles, expected to go on paternity leave this weekend, not traveling with the Astros to Toronto.
Hope Gurriel can hit.
AJ was on 790 this morning. Said there are some players that the next few weeks are critical, he said there are players that have some reality checks coming soon. He is talking about Gomez/Rasmus. He specifically mentioned them and the impending arrival of Gurriel.
Gurriel is going to play wherever makes the most sense, they have been clear on that. If he is a better option at 3rd/1st than Bregman/Valbuena he will play there, if not.... I have never seen him play before, so I can't comment on his defense. AJ said Gurriel like anyone else will have to earn his spot.
As for Beltran, I wouldn't give up any of the top 5-8 prospects for a 40 year old 3 month rental, but if they were interested in the Moran/JD Davis types I think it would be worth it.
Who are you talking about?
Gammons just tweeted that Moran joins the Astros today.
Jason Castro posts on this board? That's pretty cool.
That being, said, I hope there is a fix, because the thought that they traded a lot of prospects for what I've seen so far is nauseating.
Robert Ford @raford3 1 hour ago
Impressed with Feldman's sharpness. Loved the way Wojciechowski utilized his fastball in & up.
Weird. I thought he had a 3-year deal with the O's?
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.
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.
Rasmus didn't fit in Toronto, either. Seems to be much happier here.
I'm surprised nothing apparently happened with the Padres.
So, nada for us?
Who would've thought going into this season that the Astros would stand a decent chance at getting either Craig Kimbrel or Aroldis Chapman at the trade deadline?
Here's the latest rumor mill recap http://www.astroscounty.com/p/73115-running-post.html
The OP was put there before the trade and I will stand by it now. I all too vividly recall that the way we got to 55 win seasons was by emptying the talent in the farm system and then being forced to overpay aged veterans. I hate the geometry of the trade. It steals playing time from Preston Tucker who has already proven to be a remarkably adaptable bat. If Mrasnick stays, it moves him to LF, where his ability to go get it is largely wasted. If Jake goes today to SD it messes with the chemistry in the clubhouse and once again removes a significant support piece from Springer's team. It didn't address the teams fundamental flaw ... 1b. And the logjam now for playing time at 1B and more importantly at DH just gets worse. Gattis, in my view, needs to be in the batting order every night. But then, what of Preston Tucker? Who can argue with Jeff's success. He has turned the ship around. But that doesn't mean that I have to agree with every deal he makes. I had grown very comfortable with the rebuild of the team through the farm system. To me Brett Phillips was the last big piece to come up and make an impact for the team for years. I hate seeing an Elite talent go ... particularly when I would bet $100 to $1 that Gomez will not be here in 2018 when Phillips is potentially reaching his major league prime. History. Lessons. All of that said, I will continue to enjoy the unexpected ride of 2015. My wife may divorce me for never turning off a game, but its truly worth every dirty look I get to stay up late and watch Castro go yard.
Depending on Gomez's defense in center, Marisnick could also lose playing time if his bat doesn't improve. Point is Hinch has plenty of options.
Someone needs to make me feel better about this.
What do Ross or Cashner bring that would be an upgrade over McHugh, Feldman, or McCullers?
Kimbrel's a closer. If the Astros pick him up, no matter how they might try to spin it, that would have to be a vote of no confidence in Gregerson as the closer. Considering how successful he's been this season I'd hate dicking with the team chemistry like that.
The Tigers are calling people telling them they are "rebooting." I think Cespedes might be a good OF field fit. Price on the market, too.
Gave up Manaea for him. A's did pretty well there.
I really hope they come up short on Hamels. Real bad feeling as to where he'll be in 2 years versus his salary. Especially given the rumored level of prospects the Phillies are asking
We are stationed in front of the Cooperstown General Store for the parace.
GreatBagwell'sBeard +2 dudes
Homer ?
WakePhil
Reuben +1 dad
Jaklewein +1 awesome lady
What time is everyone planning to get to the Clark? I spoke to someone at the HoF who said you can go stake your spot on the lawn basically when the sun comes up. She said if we get there around 9 we'd still be able to get very good spots, so that's kinda what we're aiming for (will allow us to break up our drive with about 5-6 hours' sleep).
Anyone else going?
That's quite awesome. My wife had a similarly encouraging stance, although seeing as she's 6 months pregnant, I'm not forcing her to go and endure the 10-hour car ride.
By the way, tickets for the Monday roundtable thing are sold out, I discovered the other day to my dismay.
I always liked Bruntlett, though he wasn't the player Spiers, Blum or Viz was. What to do with Marwin when Lowrie comes back? He has certainly improved this year.
My man-crush on Spiers is undimmed by the years. What a fucking badass.
You are a lucky guy. Hang on to her.
Between MLB and AA high end SP young and under control: McCullers, Velasquez, Appel, Musgrove, Hader, Feliz. That doesn't even include the years of control left over Keuchel, McHugh, and Oberholtzer. OF in that category: Springer, Tucker, Marisnick, Santana, Kemp, Phillips. My view is the SP is much deeper than the OF prospects.
I agree on the lack of match. Too I can't imagine Luhnow is looking for another young and inexperienced arm to put in the rotation.
Why would you give up a player in an area of weakness to get a player in an area of strength?
Justin Upton is exactly the wrong kind of move to make here. I hope this is just people spouting off random pairs of names.
I won't be surprised if they make a trade and give up some prospects, but I will be surprised if the player they get isn't under contract/club control for a while. For example, what would you be willing to give up if you could shake Chris Sale loose?
This is such bullshit. We need that kid in order to contend. Oberholtzer is nothing more than a placeholder. VV can be something special. I get that. Oberholtzer-not so much.
I highly doubt they would've used the #37 pick on him unless they were absolutely certain they had the money for it. Barring some crazy Aiken-esque scenario of course.
The only drama, to me, is whether they somehow have enough to sign the 11th rd kid, or even better, Sands or Baker. Those last two are looking pretty unlikely right now.
He also missed a season with TJ shortly after he was drafted.
That's what I was thinking too. He implied language in the contract with the Astros would need to be added where it wouldn't be needed with the Giants.
The way D goes after the Astros, it wouldn't be suprising if he ends up being completely ineffective and sent to pasture like JDJO
I sure hope they got more than a so-so platoon 3Bman and a setup man for Fowler. I'm hoping they've identified something McHugh-esque about Straily; otherwise, I don't get it. Fowler is a very good player.
Ken Rosenthal @Ken_Rosenthal 5m ago
Sources: #Astros in serious discussions with free-agent RHP Ryan Vogelsong.
For those who might have missed it, the finalized Scherzer deal with the Nats went for 7 years and $210MM. The large amount of deferred money in the deal knocks it down from a nominal $30MM AAV to something closer to $26MM per.
Interesting that no one is suggesting the Braves are "tanking it" but they certainly are sellers and are going to win fewer games.
Not that I care about Braves fans, but many don't like it.
Gattis does come cheap (at least from a dollars standpoint)--under club control for another 4 seasons.
Underneath his plaque in Cooperstown, Bidge should have one of those push-button speakers. And each time someone pushes the button, Biggio pronounces his name correctly.
My favorite Biggio hit was the homer off Billy Wagner in Philly. I only have one link that still works, and it's pretty shitty quality. But still, what a great homer.
Biggio now at 84.8%. Would it be too petty and/or greedy to want to see him finish higher than Smoltz (currently at 85.?
ESPN says that they're working on a deal to re-sign Josh Johnson, although he's still recovering from elbow surgery. Here's what MLBTR says about their pitching:
Well, they could, but I see 3B as either where Lowrie goes when Correa arrives, or where Moran plays when he's ready. One or both of those are likely to happen by early 2016. And Kang's deal would surely be multi-year.
In other words, other clubs probably need him more badly than the Astros do at this point.
I agree, unless they want him as an OF. Is he fast?
I don't understand Houston not pursuing him (assuming that is the case).
And, IIRC, he was the preferred FA target the year the Astros eventually signed Lee.
This isn't really true. There were franchises in the last 100 years that were as bad for a lot longer periods, and without the stated purpose of the Astros. Just look at the A's from 1933 to 1953. If you don't believe the team can do what it set out to do, fine. I disagree. If you think the team isn't doing what it said it would do, I think you're being cranky because you enjoy it. I don't really care how many people go to the games. I care that the team improved by 20 games last season. i care if the team will break .500 next season. I'm betting it will, and I'm glad Crane's upping the budget to make that happen.
He reminds me more of Shane Reynolds than WaMi.
It's a bit disingenuous for Law to say that he was pitching on "short rest". He'd pitched the previous Saturday, so he had 5 days off in between, instead of the normal 6. I seriously doubt that would matter at all.
And, like Happy is saying, # of pitches alone isn't so important as whether the pitcher is laboring, having a lot of high-stress innings, that kind of thing. Rodon labored early but retired 11 of the final 12 batters he faced or something like that.
I was pleasantly surprised how often the shift worked perfectly for Houston in the Rangers series. I think it's here to stay, at least until hitters adjust.
I hope they didn't ship Lyles because they thought they were deep in pitching. I always assumed that the trade was straightforward: they needed an outfielder for this year (and next) and Lyles was the price they had to pay.
unless it was to package him in a later trade.
As good as they've been in draft and devolopment of pitching, they have had their share of injuries to young pitchers.
So how do we explain all the wind today then?
What happened to the Braves farm system? Not long ago they had tons of pitchers in AAA waiting for a spot...
Moylan gets the side to fly out to pick up the save, and the Astros give the Jays the ol' backdoor job. Astros 4 Jays 3.
MLB is showing the Astros-Tigers replay of today's game tomorrow morning (Thurs) at 9 am.
I believe tomorrow's noon start is on MLB.
Rodon's 2nd outing not so great against bad competition too. His is the report with video.
http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/game-report-carlos-rodon-improves-but-not-as-much-as-hed-like/
What's there to sell at this point? Castro? Feldman? Everyone else is either too young, too worthless, or actually locked up for a while (Fowler, Montero, Qualls).
Is there someway to put a countdown clock for the date of the first spring training game?
2 seats from the Dome
Yes, he got Cy Young votes in seven seasons. He placed 3rd, 3rd, 7th, 5th, 9th, 4th and 5th. In no season did the BBWAA voters consider him to be the best or even the second-best pitcher in the American League. How does that define the word ace?
I take it as a good sign that they have more confidence in the bully to let him go.
Two weeks of a rookie in a year you won't contend vs. a full year of a player in his prime right in the middle of your contention window (knock on wood). How do you not make that trade? I understand the urge to win as much as you can as fast as you can, but realistically, bringing him up out of ST is a perfect example of trying not to win.
It's all moot if he spends that length of time in the minors at some point anyway. I'm just not willing to bet a year of club control on the chance that he wouldn't stay up.
CF Fowler
2b Altuve
C Castro
3b Dominguez
DH Carter
LF Krauss
1b singleton/wallace
ss Villar
RF Hoes
Morse signing with the Giants, so another target off the board.
Because Anthony Bass is so awesome?
Drellich tweeted:
Astros ideal situation is first-base stopgap. But that’s not going to eliminate interest in James Loney or Corey Hart. They’re playing field
Who? From what I could tell you were going to pay through the nose for anyone decent and have to lose the first pick of the second round (in a draft that is deeper than last two years)
1 year older, at most a 4% park effect increase, mostly to RH hitters...ennh. Top 10-15 1B guy for 2014.
In terms of points per AB, 1B runs 30 deep for his production.
Ha, poor Stoffel
He's been up for such a (relatively) long time. I wonder if it makes sense to drop him to AAA for the rest of the year so he can work on that very thing out of the limelight.
He can use some AAA seasoning first. I think you're right.
I recall hearing or maybe reading something about this recently. Something about rules being different in MiLB vs MLB. I think the conversation was related more to a pitcher taking too much time, but I can't remember the specifics. Does anyone know if both a pitcher and hitter can be penalized for "delay of game" in both MLB and MiLB?
Can we at least be historically accurate as we describe the franchise hopefully improving? The two propositions, that the minors were bone dry and that we are starting to see the fruits of Luhnow's labors (using examples almost exclusively obtained before Luhnow), cannot both be true.
Also, we all hope these are good deals, but let's just be honest in that we won't know for a long period of time.
ETA. I hope JimR is right about Carter, as they sorely need bats. But I am clearly one that just doesn't see it with him.
Hoes must have something going for him other than stats ... he is hitless in two major league seasons.
From a quick perusal of his Baseball-Reference page, he's a 21 yr old righty who's averaging almost a K an inning in High A ball.
I recall a story of a player switching teams between games of a doubleheader.
(Kids, a doubleheader was this thing where they used to play two games in one day.)
Again odd since Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports was credited with the Braves rumor according to MLBTR
The other possibility, though unlikely, is that he's being pulled because it's so close to the deadline rather than there being a deal in place. With all the activity Luhnow must be engaged in it makes sense to me to not have Norris pitch until after the deadline.
...which is about a million less than the Astros paid for Ariel Ovando.
Rasmus pops out and through 7 it's still 1-1.
I think someone should do the math.
Well at least Encarnacion is on my fantasy team.
No, just tying to work an iPad. Awful things to actually work.
I am finishing a martini though. If I have one more I might be.
One more K for Dickey, nothing else. Jays up.
Bottom of the first, Reyes left on 3rd after a lead off double. Apparently a nice 6-3 by Villar to end the inning.
You sure about #3? I've never heard that Wade was ordered to trade Bourn, by the deadline, period.
If that's the shit you're getting back, YOU DON'T TRADE HIM.
The last time we made a trade with the Braves it didn't work out that well. Tread cautiously.
I had just assumed they would slot Beachy in.
Sickels just posted his mid-season review of the Braves' top 20. I think you'd be looking at something like Wood and La Stella.
I would greatly appreciate the input from the far more astute fans around here what the Braves have to offer for Bud. Seems like they might not have the luxury of fucking around in light of last night's injury...
I totally understand and can empathize with your position. However, I judge him by his progress thus far. He started with nothing. The minor leagues were awful; the big league club was sucking wind. In less than two years, he's rebuilt the farm system and received some players that should be big league ready by next season. I, for one, expect progress next season, and I will hold him accountable if the club doesn't progress.
I think that, to the folks who matter, he is still being accorded significant leeway. However, if the club doesn't show some signs of an upward trend, he could easily fall out of favor.
I notice that Tanner Bushue is putting together a healthy and hopeful season as well ... 2-1 with a 2.02 ERA and a 0.64 WHIP!! He also has 23 K and only 3 BB in 26 2/3 IP. And he is still only 22. It would be nice to see him earn back his prospect status.
is there still a potential eyewitness on the board who could comment on how he looks? Reuben??
He has the bad luck to keep getting unlucky numbers.
Just ribbing you, man. Btw, I still appreciate the ticket for the playoff game in 05. Enjoyed watching the blowout of the Braves and Tim Hudson with you. Mucho gracias.
You made your two children at OCS? Have you ever watched a game in Toronto?
ETA: I also thought it was easy to get to other parks, Phillies, Nationals, Indians (before they went west).
planes land in AZ every day
And the idea that the facilities there are significantly worse than they are at any other spring training facility is dubious at best.
Good, Kissimmee was an awful location.
or Jayson Werth?
I hope so. That will accelerate the rebuilding process.
No shit. WTF kind of Astros outing would this be?
The best thing he has going for him is he's not a rental and not too expensive.
Fucking Carter strikes out looking, never swung the whole AB.
Man, Footer really torched him. I miss her being on the beat.
Well then, fuck Bud Norris and the Chron.
Astros are holding a press conference at 3 to announce the Appel signing. I presume the presser will be shown live at Astros.com, but haven't seen confirmation.
The problem with Norris is the plan. The plan is to start being competitve in 2015. And Bud is 28 and will be 30 for the start of the 2015 season. If you believe Norris is peaking and will be in decline in 2015 then trading him now (for the right offer) makes sense. If you believe Bud is still improving and will be peaking in 2015 then trading him is a bad move.
And by right offer I mean getting some can't miss prospect or 2 that should provide greater value in 2015 and beyond then Bud will be in 2015 and beyond.
I'm pretty sure Profar is untouchable. A more realistic yet still highly unprobable deal would be Norris for Jackie Bradley Jr.
Nice. I only saw one AB in the game against Louisville, but he battled a tough lefty and still made solid contact. It was impressive. Now that I think of it, he must not be switch hitter and just bat left while throwing right.
He seems like a good kid.
Damn. Wanted to find out what his favorite milkshake is from Cookout.
What can he tell us about fellow Astro draftee Brian Holberton?
What does he feel is his best pitch?
What pitch does he feel has the most room for improvement?
What past/present MLB pitcher does he model his game after (if any)?
Did he know the Astros were going to take him? Had they spoken a lot?
Wow, really thought we would have taken Cavan Biggio by now. That would have seemingly been a value pick there. Do they really want him on another team?
2 is way, way, way in front of 1 or 3.
That's a shockingly brief time in AA though, no? For someone I presume is more than filler.
Trying to avoid the Carlos Hernandez injury?
And then the A's.
Bud went 6 scoreless.
Neither here nor there, but there are 12 of us from Portland headed up to the Mariner home opener in Seattle on 4/8 against the Astros. Surprisingly, there are 3 Astros fans to 4 Mariners fans (as well as 3 Diamondback fans, a Cub fan, and another I'm nor sure who his team is). Like I said, neither here nor there...
Michael Bourn is the only transaction I have any regrets about - and that's because we should have gotten better for him.
The Good Guys face Justin Verlander tonight.
Trading Lowrie and even Wilton I understood......I think with Harrell and Norris it's a bit different situation.
My probably-not-worth-typing internet-GM opinion:
I think Harrell is going to have an even better year than last. I would be sad to see him go. He's a great competitor, has filthy movement on his sinker, is still fairly young, and cheap. Why trade him now?
Norris, to me, ought to be used as closer to try to salvage some real value. I think he might excel there. Again, why trade him now?
Spikes n Stars Fantasy Baseball League? Is there one?
How many are playing? Can I participate?
last time i went, the practices were closed and you had to be on a list to get inside.
Astros to host Rangers in MLB's exclusive season opener.
The Houston Astros historic debut in the American League vs. the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park will be showcased before a national television audience on Sunday, March 31 on ESPN’s exclusive Sunday night telecast. http://www.facebook.com/Astros
Not sure I understand the thinking here. Lopez is a very good at his job, cheap, and under club control for quite a while, I believe. That's the sort of player the Astros should be acquiring, not sending away. Shouldn't it matter if the club gets good value in return, or is the team reduced to being entertaining only insofar as it keeps introducing us to new players?
Crazy talk, IMO. We now aspire to be Pirates fans?
But can he tell us when Mack will "resign"?
I was surprised to see Correa over Singleton in the "Best Power Hitter" category. I know that power will be a good part of Correa's game, but I haven't seen him with a higher present/future power rating than Singleton. Better power relative to position, yes. I wonder if this is raw power or what shows up in games, current power, future power, etc. Considering Singleton hit 21 homeruns as a 20-year old in AA and is still learning to tap into his power, I see that as a pretty big compliment to Correa.
Didn't the Astros have another guy that fit this description in the organization a couple of years ago?
My pipe dream hope for him ending up in an Astros uni is that his dad insists he go to college, signing bonuses be damned. It's not like he'll be hurting for money for the next three-four years anyway.
...other than it being something to talk about?
Would being on the DL keep a minor leaguer from being named, though? Schafer was on the DL at the time of the Bourn trade.
I go to the chronicle to read about this and see an article entitled "In Luhnow we trust." Anyways, it's Chip Bailey and he is a typical Chron lightweight, and due to the title and author, I expect nothing but the prevailing "what a great trade" blather spouted many moons before anyone can rightly proclaim that.
He didn't focus on that too much, but he did write something which is kind of in the background of this trade and kind of bothers me. He said that Happ was not part of the "plan." I also assume Wandy is not and it got me wondering "what the fuck is the plan?"
Is it to trade established arms, so we can run out questionable arms for the foreseeable future? Is it to become the lowest payroll in MLB just for the hell of it, to embrace the small market mentality, or to pay off Crane's debt? When is it time to build, rather than just tear down?
I don't remember being pissed about it, but I do recall being very concerned that we'd overspent for a player like Lee for too long a period of time and that it would come back to bite us, which happened.
I believe http://blog.chron.com/jeromesolomon/2012/05/astros-are-looking-like-contenders-now-but-dont-get-too-excited-fans/
You never know. Goldstein was commenting on a previous "good" outing where Appel had a bunch of Ks, but thought he just looked pretty good, but not close to "wow" good. This is the first pick in the draft; he should "wow" people.
It appears that you may be able to buy your very own piece of Dome memorabilia. (H/T Astros County: LINK)
I promise you, Top Gear will be much more entertaining.
Having not watched him nor knowing anything about his health last season, his splits for 2011 are not good. He started hot, like he was in 2010... the last 5 months were a downward spiral into a utility role type role.
I sort of worry about that philosophy. Polished, role players are great when you can stick them on a roster with Pujols. When you can't, no one knows who the fuck they are, and they aren't valuable at all. Drafting is about getting superstars; role players can be obtained elsewhere.
My brain reads Lithgow.
There is also a reveal in here regarding his thinking about Spring Training sites and it ain't Arizona.
Thank you all that keep this site running.
You guys aren't realizing that this is the perfect chance to christen him with a nickname.
It's not like McLane can just call up the Phils and Braves and be like, "My bad. I still want to play like a champion today" anyway. The course is set for the next several years.
Which NL contenders need a starter right now?
His recent minor league stats do not exactly inspire confidence. Also, wasn't he popped for PEDs a few years back?
Do you know much about the pitchers?
Stark via MLBTR: None of the three pitchers are top 50 prospects, but they did rank ninth, 26th, and 27th respectively for the Braves on Baseball America's preseason rankings.
Fuck. That's my initial impression.
If they traded Carlos, who would play first against lefties?
And now Rosenthal says that Wade's trying to deal Bourn, Wandy, and Myers is getting in the way of making the Pence deal.
https://mobile.twitter.com/#!/Joelsherman1/status/96969998739841026
Sherman says Astros prefer Braves prospects (duh) but braves won't give up Minor.
I agree, he seems like a perfect fit for Atlanta in that he manufactures runs. Are they still trotting out McLouth? If so, they definitely could use Bourn.
I don't think Bourn would fetch any of the Braves best pitching prospects.
I read Cosart, Brown, plus a player. If it's Brwon, Cosart, and Singleton, you fax that sonofabitch to the league offices RIGHT NOW.
According to McTaggart:
This is the first I've heard about Worley.
Would be much better if we just had to wait to read in the paper 8/1.
Even more fun is that the Giants and Phillies are in the middle of a 3 game set. If Beltran can be there for the game tomorrow (maybe tonight?) the Phillies can get a brief look at how much better the Giants are with him. They play again after the deadline. Might help push the Phillies to make a deal for hitting?
Looks like Beltran to the Giants. With him off the market and Rasmus going to the Jays, I wonder how much the interest in Pence will increase?
Unfortunately, the Frisco announcer wasn't great about announcing the opposing pitcher changes & I missed this...
I heard that on the radio this morning. No, it wasn't a sports talk show. And saw it here. Anyone heard anything else?
It may be a joke
Going to see Belisle pitch against FTC today.
I wondered the same thing and I snooped around a little bit, just enough to see that yes, it has happened and isn't unheard of. I remember there was a big name catcher who did it, but damned if I can remember who right now.
should have gone to Surprise, AZ with the Rangers when they had the opportunity. stupid to stay in Florida.
He did go to Stanford.
Berkman was on for a couple of hours with John and Lance this morning. I didn't catch nearly all of it, but I did catch:
- with the exception of free swingers (like Derek Bell), he feels "protection" in the lineup is a myth (i.e., Matt Holiday gets pitched the same whether he bats in front of Pooholes or behind him.)
Return doesn't seem like much. Pretty standard salary dump by the looks of it.
Wandy is probably due about 6-7 million. Kepp probably about 2 million. Supposedly, the Astros are at or slightly over their wanted 2011 payroll. One might assume taking on Webb would require more than just trading Kepp (unless it was just for cash).
Basically bring him in on a Brett Myer plan. 5 mil this year with a 3 million buyout on a mutual option 10 mil second year or something like that.
Trade Wandy for a couple of prospects.