Let the Stove be Heated

[doyce7]

What are you talking about?

I think he's saying we should have kept Conger for the congerbot dance

[Mr. Happy]

I think he's saying we should have kept Conger for the congerbot dance

The problem here is that the he is a she.

[doyce7]

The problem here is that the he is a she.

Oops my bad

[WVastro]

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.

[MusicMan]

You used hopefully twice in one sentence. Some sort of penalty will ensue.

Hopefully, some sort of penalty.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dark Star]

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.

[JimR]

The problem here is that the he is a she.

only a small part of the problem

[moriartp]

Cueto to the Giants for 6 years, $130 million with an opt-out after year two.

[Fredia]

major cha ching..worth it?

[jbm]

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.

[juliogotay]

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.

[Bench]

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. 

[jbm]

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?   

[AtascAstro]

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.

[Bench]

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. 

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[juliogotay]

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.

[doyce7]

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

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[pots]

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)

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[juliogotay]

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.

[Fredia]

point well made. and it was just fun watching the bunch last season

[JimR]

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.

[HudsonHawk]

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?

[juliogotay]

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.

[moriartp]

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.

[HudsonHawk]

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.

[pots]

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. 

[jbm]

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.

[mrpink]

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.

[jbm]

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. 

[Ty in Tampa]

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.

[jbm]

I'm clueless.  It was a good line; I should have realized it had a history.

[HudsonHawk]

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. 

[mrpink]

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.

[Navin R Johnson]

What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?

[Bench]

What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?

$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October. 

[Reuben]

$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October.

An appropriately front-loaded deal.

[Outlawscotty]

$12M for April - July, $1M for August - October.

Who's in charge of the POTwhatever?

[juliogotay]

Who's in charge of the POTwhatever?

POTS I believe.

[Nate Colbert]

What kinda numbers are being rumored for Kazmir?

According to this, apparently has received 3-yr offers at $12-13MM per but wants a 4th year.

[Navin R Johnson]

Mark Berman ‏@MarkBermanFox26 1m1 minute ago

#Astros announce they've claimed RHP Danny Reynolds from the #Dodgers

[Reuben]

Mark Berman ‏@MarkBermanFox26 1m1 minute ago

#Astros announce they've claimed RHP Danny Reynolds from the #Dodgers

The MLBTR write-up 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.

[pots]

This article from April 2015 talks about his transition to reliever

Still leaves them 2 spots on the 40 man. 

[das]

The MLBTR write-up 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.

[Uncle Charlie]

The MLBTR write-up 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....

[Fredia]

astros seem to do will with rounding up the strays and turning them into studs

[Reuben]

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.

[Uncle Charlie]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

Aroldis to the Yankees for prospects (various reports).

Supposedly does NOT include any of their "top tier" guys including Aaron Judge.

[Uncle Charlie]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[moriartp]

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.

[HudsonHawk]

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?

[moriartp]

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.

[juliogotay]

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/

[das]

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.

[BlownRanger]

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.

[moriartp]

Dodgers get Kazmir. 3 years, $48 million. Opt-out after year one.

[das]

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.

[Reuben]

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?

[Nate Colbert]

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).

[Fredia]

seems to be many cases of take the  money and run or in this case throw

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[Reuben]

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.

[Fredia]

what was the dojers pay roll last year vs the astros

[Reuben]

Extremely High vs. Not Very High

[pots]

First big hitter off the board Alex Gordon signd for 4 year 72 million.  About 1 year and 30 million less than guessed.

[BlownRanger]

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.

[Reuben]

Staying with the Royals.

Good for him, good for baseball. Love to see guys stay with their original team, especially local kids like Gordon.

[juliogotay]

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.

[Mike S.]

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.

[Reuben]

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.

[juliogotay]

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".

[Nate Colbert]

6 weeks until pitchers/catchers report (Feb 18)!

[Fredia]

light at the end of the rainbow

[Nate Colbert]

Drellich: "preliminary dialogue" with Justin Upton and Ian Desmond but no evidence Astros currently in pursuit.

Apparently "nothing brewing" on the Gallardo front either.

[JimR]

I was going to ask yesterday but forgot if there is any talk of a pitcher or pitchers after Kazmir bolted.

[Reuben]

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.

[jaklewein]

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. 

[VirtualBob]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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

[Nate Colbert]

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

[moriartp]

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.

[toddthebod]

Tim Lincecum of Cliff Lee.  The Astros will end up with one of them.

Or they will trade Carlos Gomez for a starter.

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[Mike S.]

A bit more on that:

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14563718/mlb-hot-stove-daily-wednesday-trade-free-agency-buzz

[Navin R Johnson]

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.

[austro]

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.

[astrosfan76]

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.   

[moriartp]

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.

[drew corleone]

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.

[jbm]

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.

[WVastro]

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".

[JimR]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[austro]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[JimR]

If we sign Cespedes, then trade Gomez?

Cespedes, Rasmus, Springer, Marisnick, Tucker?

[drew corleone]

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.

[Waldo]

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.

[pots]

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,” 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?

[JimR]

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.

[Navin R Johnson]

Seems like getting Tucker reps at 1st would make him more valuable, unless they have already tried and he is just awful at 1st.

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[WVastro]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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 of who's still available on the starting pitcher market.

[Nate Colbert]

Ken Rosenthal is in speculation mode 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.

[JimR]

MLBTR does a roundup of who's still available on the starting pitcher market.

ugh.

[jwhudson]

It is not a very inspiring list. 

[Reuben]

Ken Rosenthal is in speculation mode 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.

[JimR]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

No January discount for Justin Upton--$22MM AAV in 6 year deal with Tigers.

[astrosfan76]

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.

[Uncle Charlie]

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.

[astrosfan76]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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?

[Nate Colbert]

Jonathan Lucroy thinks trade would be best for him and Brewers.

[Navin R Johnson]

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.

[moriartp]

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.

[Fredia]

stranger signings have turned out well

[toddthebod]

Just the signing we were hoping for. 

[pots]

Damn Yankees.  Chapman's girlfriend story changes...

[JimR]

ain't it strange how this happens

[VirtualBob]

ain't it strange how this happens

Victim to Opportunist in 10 (million) easy steps.

[Nate Colbert]

Free-agent right-hander Yovani Gallardo is negotiating with the Rockies, Orioles and Astros, one of his representatives said Friday.

[astrosfan76]

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

[MusicMan]

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

[Nate Colbert]

Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe in today's Sunday notes column:

"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."

[Navin R Johnson]

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. 

[Reuben]

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.

[JimR]

I sure hope Nick is full of shit, but I worry that this might be the way things are under current ownership.

Unwarranted cheapshot

[VirtualBob]

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!!

[Mr. Happy]

Unwarranted cheapshot

He should know better. I'm with Reuben-let's get our young talent locked up. That has to be their strategy.

[Navin R Johnson]

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. 

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[roadrunner]

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. 

[Jacksonian]

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.

[toddthebod]

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.

[pots]

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

[juliogotay]

I am curious as to how you know what the Astros brass thinks of Devenski?

[pots]

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.

[mrpink]

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.

[pots]

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).  If he makes it to the show, it will be Smith Barney style.

[Jacksonian]

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.

[astrosfan76]

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.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

What are the chances Correa moves to third?

[Jose Cruz III]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[Bench]

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. 

[Fredia]

i never knew that work and how it fits me perfectly. thanks

[juliogotay]

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). 

[jbm]

I sure hope Bregman is a better prospect than Moran

[Nate Colbert]

Remember Moran was under consideration with the #1 pick one year ( I think the Correa pick).

2013 (Appel) rather than 2012 (Correa).

[Lefty]

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.

[juliogotay]

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

[austro]

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.

[jbm]

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. 

[Navin R Johnson]

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.

[astrosfan76]

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.

[juliogotay]

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.

[Jacksonian]

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?

[HudsonHawk]

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.

[Reuben]

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.

[doyce7]

Astros and Doug fister have agreed to terms on a 1 year deal

[Bench]

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. 

[ValpoCory]

Doug Fister's playoff stats -- 4-2, 2.60 ERA in 55.1 IP, 40 K's, 16 BBs

[moriartp]

Fister Fills Gaping Hole in Astros Rotation

[ValpoCory]

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

[Reuben]

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.

[moriartp]

Fister anal ysis based on his numbers isn't terribly meaningful, it's really all about health with him.

[Jacksonian]

McCullers, McHugh, Feldman, Fiers, Fister.  The MF'ers.

[Greg M]

Great acquisition at this point.  In Lunhow I trust.

[VirtualBob]

McCullers, McHugh, Feldman, Fiers, Fister.  The MF'ers.

Sounds like a band name ... Killer & the McF'ers.

[Jacksonian]

Sounds like a band name ... Killer & the McF'ers.

Keuchel and the MF'ers.  I dare McBrag to use that.

[JimR]

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.

[Fredia]

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

[Navin R Johnson]

I love this. I would nominate it if there were any reason to do that sort of thing.

Ha, nominated.

[Fredia]

POTWA to be resurrected ?

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[pots]

Nice, that pretty much fixes the starter depth concern. 

[The Spleen]

Fister? Damned near killed her...

[Navin R Johnson]

Looking forward to Fister dominating Pujols this season.

[JimR]

are we done or is Luhnow still looking for a bat?

[Bench]

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. 

[Nate Colbert]

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:

"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."

[Nate Colbert]

He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column?

"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.

[pots]

He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column?

"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. 

[Waldo]

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.

[David in Jackson]

I'm interested in Lucroy but the need is more offense at 1b, not less (Castro).  Castro's value is behind the plate.

[juliogotay]

I'm interested in Lucroy but the need is more offense at 1b, not less (Castro).  Castro's value is behind the plate.

Exactly.

[BlownRanger]

He had the Astros in on Fister last week, so what's Nick Cafardo got to say in this week's column?

"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.

[Nate Colbert]

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

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[Reuben]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

I can't help but think of Japhet Amador, though.

Nah, not with that svelte body.

[Reuben]

Nah, not with that svelte body.

Wow, his nickname should be Pillsbury.

[Nate Colbert]

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

ETA:

Or perhaps there were multiple AL West teams initially involved. From a Tacoma News Tribune article about the Lee signing:

"Houston and St. Louis also showed interest in signing Lee."

[Nate Colbert]

Cafardo's latest:

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.

[Reuben]

Cafardo's latest:

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.

[Nate Colbert]

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).

[juliogotay]

Did in fact sign with Arizona today (2 yrs/$12.25MM).

Arizona is building a good club.

[HudsonHawk]

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. 

[Nate Colbert]

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?

[doyce7]

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?

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[jaklewein]

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?

[pots]

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. 

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.

[Nate Colbert]

Jayson Stark with his annual survey of baseball execs on best and worst moves of the offseason. In the category "Best free agents signed to 1-year deals", the Doug Fister signing received the most votes.

[Nate Colbert]

ICYMI--Astros have spoken to southpaw Randy Choate, who turns 41 in September.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

The numbers are in and the Astros have the best outfield arms in MLB.

[Navin R Johnson]

Anyone worried about this Gregerson closer stuff?   If/when he loses out, is this going to become an issue?

[Jose Cruz III]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[moriartp]

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.

[Navin R Johnson]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[pots]

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.

[pots]

Hopefully Neshek's foot abortion fixes him.  Between him,  the dualing closers, Harris and Sipp the pen is looking fantastic. 

[austro]

Hopefully Neshek's foot abortion fixes him.  Between him,  the dualing closers, Harris and Sipp the pen is looking fantastic. 

And FIELDS!

[WVastro]

Speaking of heated stoves....

The best part of my late night bowel discomfort is seeing this site back up.

Carry on.

[Ty in Tampa]

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*

[Nate Colbert]

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

[BlownRanger]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[Navin R Johnson]

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. 

[Fredia]

ahh the relief of having a mindless wonderful thing to occupy me again   

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

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.

[Fredia]

well said.  and makes you think about all the senerios

[JimR]

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

Wonder if they are still talking.

[Nate Colbert]

Wonder if they are still talking.

Or will talk again come the trade deadline.

[Reuben]

It was Dotel's job, until he got traded for Beltran.

FIFYalthoughthatsprobablywhatyoumeantanyway

[Knoxbanedoodle]

Neal Cotts inked to a minor league deal. Likely second southpaw in the pen.

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/mlb/3748/neal-cotts

[JimR]

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.

[Fredia]

can you imagine combining the two teams..amazing

[Navin R Johnson]

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.

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[Texifornia]

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!

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[HudsonHawk]

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. 

[Mr. Happy]

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.

[HudsonHawk]

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. 

[Nate Colbert]

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

[Reuben]

FWIW, Bob Nightengale said yesterday that a 3-way involving the Braves was in the works when things fell apart last month.

Link

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).

[AtascAstro]

Good read on the Giles trade from Stark.

Why Astros' acquisition of Ken Giles was shocking on many levels

[Nate Colbert]

Good read on the Giles trade from Stark.

+1

[JimR]

my Phillies scout friend thinks the Astros still are pursuing Lucroy, but he may be behind in the chronology.

[Reuben]

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?

[JimR]

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."

[MusicMan]

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

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Avon calling.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Maybe it's Maybelline.

[JimR]

Avon calling.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

My friend is not a fan of Stanford players.

[HudsonHawk]

My friend is not a fan of Stanford players.

What about Stanford managers?  He have any thoughts  on Hinch?

[JimR]

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.

[juliogotay]

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. 

[moriartp]

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.

[mikefast]

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.

[mikefast]

Astros 2016 scouting staff:

Link

[Jacksonian]

Thank you Mike.

[moriartp]

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.

[JimR]

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.

[Nate Colbert]

Rich Kubatko of MASN writes:

"(The Orioles) talked to the Astros about Preston Tucker over the winter, but weren't willing to part with Kevin Gausman."

[MusicMan]

Rich Kubatko of MASN writes:

"(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.

[Nate Colbert]

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 Showalter still plans to use him in the starting rotation.

Or have you read otherwise?

[Navin R Johnson]

Duffy has made the team.

[pots]

White just got a 1000% raise

[doyce7]

Straily to the padres for "a catcher"

[doyce7]

Straily to the padres for "a catcher"

Eric kratz is the catcher

[Nate Colbert]

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.

[Reuben]

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.