2015 MLB Thread (Part 2)

[ysubigred]

The NL Central is...Cards win division, Pirates and Cubs WC

The Cards are hard to beat, but Pirates fans are hopeful that the Buc'O's are saving their best division performances of the year for the end of the season. xhighfivex

[eiu1999]

The Cards are hard to beat, but Pirates fans are hopeful that the Buc'O's are saving their best division performances of the year for the end of the season. xhighfivex

I feel good with Arrieta pitching in the one game playoff against the Pirates.

[ysubigred]

I feel good with Arrieta pitching in the one game playoff against the Pirates.

Well lets hope it's the one game playoff with the Cardinals xdrunkyx

[ysubigred]

Just for ****Z and GIGGLES I looked up the in division schedule,,, 38 out of the 60 losses the Pirates have are in the division xbangxxdizzyx

[caribbeanhen]

not a big fan of one game playoffs

[bulldog10jw]

not a big fan of one game playoffs

Agree. Should be 2 out of 3. But they also need to shorten the season a couple of weeks so there is no chance of November games.

[tribe_pride]

not a big fan of one game playoffs

Would you rather eliminate the 2nd WC team?

If you do a 2 out of 3, you can lose all top pitchers from WC for the Divisional round (or at least ability to pitch twice). The way it is now, you can get a number of good pitchers to continue but it still is a penalty for not winning your division.

[PaladinFan]

I thought at first I wouldn't like it, but it has grown on me. I like win at all costs baseball.

I say that as a guy who had to endure this nonsense. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-6ujbLknUc

If that isn't the worst blown call in the history of professional sports, it'll do til it comes.

[tribe_pride]

Except for the famous George Brett pine tar incident, has a protested game (professional) ever been granted and started over from a pot

[caribbeanhen]

Would you rather eliminate the 2nd WC team?

If you do a 2 out of 3, you can lose all top pitchers from WC for the Divisional round (or at least ability to pitch twice). The way it is now, you can get a number of good pitchers to continue but it still is a penalty for not winning your division.

I'm scourned by Bucky, three run pop up on beautiful fall day in Fenway ....Oct 4th 1978

[PaladinFan]

ESPN radio this morning (the way early hour) noted that the NL Central's top 3 teams have the top three records in baseball.

Unfortunately, only one of those teams will be left after the divisional round. Seems like an unintended quirk in the system, but only 1 of the top three teams in baseball will even get a chance to play in the NLCS, much less the world series.

[tribe_pride]

ESPN radio this morning (the way early hour) noted that the NL Central's top 3 teams have the top three records in baseball.

Unfortunately, only one of those teams will be left after the divisional round. Seems like an unintended quirk in the system, but only 1 of the top three teams in baseball will even get a chance to play in the NLCS, much less the world series.

In the end, it works out. The playoffs are meant to send a team in the NL to play a team in the AL in the World Series. Have to beat out everyone in your league to get there anyway.

[bulldog10jw]

I'm scourned by Bucky, three run pop up on beautiful fall day in Fenway ....Oct 4th 1978

Maybe you mean scarred?

[ysubigred]

ESPN radio this morning (the way early hour) noted that the NL Central's top 3 teams have the top three records in baseball.

Unfortunately, only one of those teams will be left after the divisional round. Seems like an unintended quirk in the system, but only 1 of the top three teams in baseball will even get a chance to play in the NLCS, much less the world series.

I'll go out on a limb here and say this is an unusual year for 3 teams in the same division to have the best records in baseball. That being said,,, I brought up the point "IF" the Pirates had a way to win in the division they'd more than likely win it all. 38 out of their 60 loses came at the hands of the 4 other teams in the central xcoolx

[bonarae]

Meanwhile... will MLB finally clear Pete Rose for Cooperstown?

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/13737640/pete-rose-meets-mlb-decision-reinstatement-end-year

[ngineer]

Wild game tonight in DC as Phillies hit FOUR home runs including an inside-the-park grand slam by Altherr who then followed up with another 'traditional' homer. First guy to hit an inside-the-parker and an over-the-fence homer in the same game since 1957. Rookie pitcher Eichert goes 8 and strikes out 10...including Harper three times. Hope for the future.

[caribbeanhen]

Maybe you mean scarred?

scourned back then and still scarred... that was one incredible summer as the Sox had a 14.5 game lead over the hated Yankees in July only to see it wilt away, the Yanks actually went up by 3.5 games in September and where up 1 on the last day of the season, spent that day at "Great Adventure exit 7a New Jersey" praying for a Yankee loss and a Redsox win to force the playoff, got back in the car after a long day and tuned up the radio and the elation when the news came that the Yanks did lose to the pathetic Indians, one game playoff tomorrow..... Mom picked me up from school early to get home to see that game Red sox were cruising up 2-0 in the 7th when Bucky popped one over the Monster.....

[bulldog10jw]

scourned back then and still scarred... that was one incredible summer as the Sox had a 14.5 game lead over the hated Yankees in July only to see it wilt away, the Yanks actually went up by 3.5 games in September and where up 1 on the last day of the season, spent that day at "Great Adventure exit 7a New Jersey" praying for a Yankee loss and a Redsox win to force the playoff, got back in the car after a long day and tuned up the radio and the elation when the news came that the Yanks did lose to the pathetic Indians, one game playoff tomorrow..... Mom picked me up from school early to get home to see that game Red sox were cruising up 2-0 in the 7th when Bucky popped one over the Monster.....

And with the tying run on 3rd in the 9th, Yaz popped to third.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the Cubs are off to the playoffs because the Giants lost at Oakland. Mets and Blue Jays can clinch their playoff spots if they win today.

[caribbeanhen]

And with the tying run on 3rd in the 9th, Yaz popped to third.

indeed he did as predicted by my father, I can still see Sweet Lou staggering after a liner with the sun in his eyes and make the catch....

[bulldog10jw]

indeed he did as predicted by my father, I can still see Sweet Lou staggering after a liner with the sun in his eyes and make the catch....

As bad as the Dent HR was, if the Sox had kept the Yankees to just those three runs, they still would have won. It was the Jackson HR making it 5-2 that killed them.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Cubs were shutout today 4-0. But the Mets... the Amazin' Mets... have clinched the 1st NL division title this year, their first since 2006!

[bulldog10jw]

But the Mets... the Amazin' Mets... have clinched the 1st NL division title this year, their first since 2006!

xhypedxxhypedxxhypedxxhypedxxhypedxxhypedx

[PaladinFan]

Congrats to the Mets. Always enjoyed our rivalry with them.

In better news, the Washington Nationals, the darlings, will not make the post season.

[ngineer]

Yes, my Philthies nailed their coffin today with an 8 run rally started against Papelbon. Paps also got into a shoving match with Harper in the dugout for Harper not running out a pop out. Fun stuff.

[bonarae]

Cubs snapped their losing streak and the Pirates' 8 game winning streak by Arrieta 1-hitting the Pirates, 4-0.

[PaladinFan]

Yes, my Philthies nailed their coffin today with an 8 run rally started against Papelbon. Paps also got into a shoving match with Harper in the dugout for Harper not running out a pop out. Fun stuff.

That altercation was insane. This season for the Nationals has to be one of the biggest train wrecks in recent baseball history.

[ysubigred]

Pirates take 2 of 3 from the Cubs. Now a sweep of the Cards and this will be really interesting xhighfivex

[bulldog10jw]

That altercation was insane. This season for the Nationals has to be one of the biggest train wrecks in recent baseball history.

Does Matt Williams still have a job?

[MR. CHICKEN]

Yes, my Philthies nailed their coffin today with an 8 run rally started against Papelbon. Paps also got into a shoving match with Harper in the dugout for Harper not running out a pop out. Fun stuff.

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21393&stc=1....BAD BLOOD CARRY-OVERAH....FROM LAST WEDNESDAY......WHEN PAPELBOMB....PLUNKED BALTIMORE'S MACHADO....AN' WAS EJECTED FROM DAT GAME.....MLB SUSPENDED PAPS FO' 3 GAMES.....PAPS APPEALED ALLOWIN' HIM TA KEEP PLAYIN'.......BUT.....HARPER CALLED DUH PLUNKIN' "TIRED".....AN' WONDERED OUT LOUD.....IF'IN HE WOOD BE BEANED IN RETALIATION...BAH DUH O'S.....SO WHEN HARPER DIDN'T PUT MUCH EFFORT ON DUH POP-UP......JONATHAN....LET HIM KNOW ABOUT IT..........AWK!

DUH LOOK ON GNATS PLAYERS PUSSES...WAS PRICELESS...AS PHIGHTIN'S.....STROKED DUH RAWHIDE....ALL OVERAH DUH PARK..IN 9th......THANKY IGGLES FO' DUMPIN' DUH JETS...AN' LETTIN' ME SEE DAT INNIN'........BRAWK!

[BisonBacker]

This last week of the season for the Twins is going to be interesting. All games are becoming must wins. Running out of time to make up games. 1.5 games back with 7 to go. Anyone would have told me the Twins would be playing meaningful ball in September I'd of looked at them funny. Go Twins!!!!

[clenz]

This last week of the season for the Twins is going to be interesting. All games are becoming must wins. Running out of time to make up games. 1.5 games back with 7 to go. Anyone would have told me the Twins would be playing meaningful ball in September I'd of looked at them funny. Go Twins!!!!
Yup.

5-2 last week and 3 against the Indians starting today

Can really only afford 1 more loss this year.

That 1-6 start REALLY hurts right now.

Can't make the playoffs the first week, but you can miss it the first week.

[BisonBacker]

Yup.

5-2 last week and 3 against the Indians starting today

Can really only afford 1 more loss this year.

That 1-6 start REALLY hurts right now.

Can't make the playoffs the first week, but you can miss it the first week.
Actually they play a 4 game series with the Indians and Cleveland has some good pitching.

- - - Updated - - -

Then the final 3 against KC which will be tough!

[PaladinFan]

Does Matt Williams still have a job?

They've picked up his 2016 option, but if he's in that dugout next season I will be absolutely stunned.

From what I can ascertain, his tactical baseball management is terrible. What is also becoming clear is that his personnel management is just as bad. You really need to be one or the other (preferably both). You can make bone head moves and still have a job because the players like you (see: Gonzalez, Fredi).

[ngineer]

Does Matt Williams still have a job?

Doubtful. Fan base is probably apoplectic after all the preseason hype. One thing if they contended down the stretch, but they are barely over .500. There will need to be a sacrifice.

[ngineer]

Actually they play a 4 game series with the Indians and Cleveland has some good pitching.

- - - Updated - - -

Then the final 3 against KC which will be tough!

Plus, the Indians are still in the hunt, too.

[AshevilleApp2]

This last week of the season for the Twins is going to be interesting. All games are becoming must wins. Running out of time to make up games. 1.5 games back with 7 to go. Anyone would have told me the Twins would be playing meaningful ball in September I'd of looked at them funny. Go Twins!!!!

I'd love to see the Twins get in, but Houston is hanging tough as well. Good luck!

[AshevilleApp2]

Yup.

That 1-6 start REALLY hurts right now.

Can't make the playoffs the first week, but you can miss it the first week.

Absolutely. I got into a debate here or on CS with one of the Phillies fans about meaningful games in April vs. September, a couple of years back. They all count.

[PaladinFan]

Absolutely. I got into a debate here or on CS with one of the Phillies fans about meaningful games in April vs. September, a couple of years back. They all count.

You bet they do.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

The Cubs and the Royals tugged it out and were scoreless until the 11th inning, when Denorfia blasted a solo walk-off home run.

I think the postseason will all be settled by October 4. (That's the worst case)

[ysubigred]

I'm a huge Pirates fan "BUT" how in the **** did they win 95 games xsmhxxbangx Seems like their hitting is little league at best in big games xshakingmadx

[PaladinFan]

Braves beat Nationals. In typical National's fashion they finally get a rally going against Atlanta in the 9th with two men on and Matt Williams has Ian Desmond bunt. He bunts right into a double play.

[BisonBacker]

The AL Wild Card race is getting really interesting. If Minnesota can sweep the double header today which they need to that last series Minnesota plays and the last series the Angels play are going to be fun to watch.

[ysubigred]

Go Pirates beat the Cubs x406x

[BisonBacker]

Well my Twins sure have made it interesting but I think last nights loss in the 2nd game of the doubleheader is going to dash their hopes of post season play. All in all still a much better season than anyone gave them a chance for at the begging of the year.

[bonarae]

Go Pirates beat the Cubs x406x

I'd rather say otherwise. The Chicago sports scene recently was hit hard by the rape allegations against two of its brightest players carrying the torches of their respective teams. Hope the Cubs make a case for distraction from these issues... (and also along with the second player's allegation came the fracture on his orbital bone)

[eiu1999]

Cubs winning today 3-0 in Cinncy. 4th inning.

[eiu1999]

Cubs win 5-3.

[bonarae]

Wishlist for the Rules Changes of MLB:

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2560654-changes-mlb-needs-to-make-to-help-innovate-the-game

[Laker]

Have to hand it to Moli. The Twins have stayed in the race contrary to what I or anyone else expected. Torii is getting old but he shows what an enthuastic leader can do.

[clenz]

There's still a chance.

Only 1 back with a weekend series against KC, who is struggling right now

[AshevilleApp2]

What happens in the event of a three way tie for the second Wild Card? (Twins and Angels are currently a game back of the Astros.)

[eiu1999]

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/59527184/playoff-tiebreaker-rules
What happens in the event of a three way tie for the second Wild Card? (Twins and Angels are currently a game back of the Astros.)

[BisonFan02]

What happens in the event of a three way tie for the second Wild Card? (Twins and Angels are currently a game back of the Astros.)

A two man sack race will be held on consecutive Sundays until a champion can be crowned.... :D

[tribe_pride]

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/59527184/playoff-tiebreaker-rules

They really thought of everything.

[ngineer]

Rookie pitcher Eickoff appears to be real deal pitching 8 shut out innings over Mets Thursday night. Struck out ten.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the Twins are gone from the postseason with a L.

However, the Pirates should lose tomorrow and the Cubs will win tomorrow so that Wrigley will host a postseason game for the first time since 2008 and I'm really hoping for a Cubs postseason win since 2003.

Ricketts and company have done the best they could to get rid of the curses; the team is taking this task one step at a time.

[bulldog10jw]

The Mets are rolling into the playoffs. 5 straight losses and the bats look like they did in June more than Aug and Sept.

On the other hand, the front line pitching looks good, and it better be for them to have a chance against Kershaw and Greinke.

[caribbeanhen]

well the AGS Fantasy baseball season is in the books, 6 participants including 2 Delaware fans, anyone surprised the two Hen fans end up freakin tied for first. haha. East coast knows baseball!

[eiu1999]

Too bad the Cubs and Pirates get only one game to entertain us, would be a better 5 game series.

[JayJ79]

Too bad the Cubs and Pirates get only one game to entertain us, would be a better 5 game series.

Mets should play one game @ Los Angeles with the winner playing a best-of-five against St. Louis, while the Cubs and Pirates play their own best-of-five. Considering the third place team in the Central is 5 games above anyone else in the East or West.

[eiu1999]

Mets should play one game @ Los Angeles with the winner playing a best-of-five against St. Louis, while the Cubs and Pirates play their own best-of-five. Considering the third place team in the Central is 5 games above anyone else in the East or West.
Agreed

[bulldog10jw]

Mets should play one game @ Los Angeles with the winner playing a best-of-five against St. Louis, while the Cubs and Pirates play their own best-of-five. Considering the third place team in the Central is 5 games above anyone else in the East or West.

Disagree

[ngineer]

Well, my Phillies avoided 100 losses by pulling out a win over Miami yesterday! Now I can't wait for my invoice for my season tickets for next year. There had better not be a price increase. Over and out for this thread. "It's been real...." Will open a Collegiate Wrestling thread in coming weeks (;-)

[ysubigred]

Mets should play one game @ Los Angeles with the winner playing a best-of-five against St. Louis, while the Cubs and Pirates play their own best-of-five. Considering the third place team in the Central is 5 games above anyone else in the East or West.

Plus 1 ^^

[Laker]

Go Astros!

I'd pull for anyone in MLB against the Yankees- except the Dodgers.

[bulldog10jw]

Go Astros!

I'd pull for anyone in MLB against the Yankees- except the Dodgers.

I even pull for the Dodgers against the Yankees

[bonarae]

I'd rather see the Blue Jays and the Cubs in the World Series. Against the Yankees also.

[clenz]

A.B.C.....or Y

[ysubigred]

Down goes the Yankees!!! Down goes the Yankees!! xdrunkyx

[clenz]

That means all that's left is A.B.C.

[ysubigred]

That means all that's left is A.B.C.

No "P" :( I believe "IF" they get by the C then the C it's theirs for the taking xthumbsupx

[tribe_pride]

So you are saying no P, M, D, R. If M or D pitching is like it was at parts of the season (and M decides to hit like post trade deadline), either could be strong.

[PaladinFan]

Raise a glass. The Yankees' season is done.

Screw them and Jim daggum Leyritz.

[bonarae]

Cubs just shutout the Pirates, 4-0. xhurrayx

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

The Pirate fans have to be sick. They have literally nothing to show for the franchises turnaround the last 3 years. They can't even score a run....:(

[ngineer]

The Pirate fans have to be sick. They have literally nothing to show for the franchises turnaround the last 3 years. They can't even score a run....:(

That's a shame. irates must they be. Teased all season, they finally get in the bedroom and get short sheeted.

[ysubigred]

That's a shame. irates must they be. Teased all season, they finally get in the bedroom and get short sheeted.

I'm still wondering how they won 98 games. They look little league at best especially the last 3 weeks of the season. I'm not sick Pirates fans are used to disappointment xdrunkyx

Down goes the Pirates!!! Down goes the Pirates!! :(

[AshevilleApp2]

I'm still wondering how they won 98 games. They look little league at best especially the last 3 weeks of the season. I'm not sick Pirates fans are used to disappointment xdrunkyx

Down goes the Pirates!!! Down goes the Pirates!! :(

Momentum is huge. I won't be surprised if the Astros knock off the Royals.

[ysubigred]

Momentum is huge. I won't be surprised if the Astros knock off the Royals.


I hope your right. I don't have a dog in the fight now, but have a soft spot in my heart for the Astros xnodx

[AshevilleApp2]

I hope your right. I don't have a dog in the fight now, but have a soft spot in my heart for the Astros xnodx

My dog died around the All Star break! I'm staying neutral on that series, at least in my family. My brother has one son living in Kansas and two living in Houston.

[Laker]

There was a casualty of war during last night's game:

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/eye-on-baseball/25330992/pirates-player-turns-cagefighter-against-defenseless-water-cooler-in-dugout

[ysubigred]

There was a casualty of war during last night's game:

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/eye-on-baseball/25330992/pirates-player-turns-cagefighter-against-defenseless-water-cooler-in-dugout


https://v.cdn.vine.co/r/videos/C4B0D2AF4E1263769358308655104_407777dd677.1.1.1709 379794445700649.mp4?versionId=3S9uasDa29Nij4Z38RMW Qabkl8_ffaT0

[eiu1999]

There was a casualty of war during last night's game:

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/eye-on-baseball/25330992/pirates-player-turns-cagefighter-against-defenseless-water-cooler-in-dugout

At least the Pirates hit something hard last night.

[eiu1999]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21427&stc=1

[Laker]

Strangers win 5-3 over the J's. Lots of spilled maple syrup in Toronto tonight.

[grizband]

I hope your right. I don't have a dog in the fight now, but have a soft spot in my heart for the Astros xnodx
I feel the same about the Royals. Would have been cheering for them in the world series last year, if they hadn't been playing my Giants.

[Laker]

Astros top the Royals 5-2. All wins so far have been by the road teams.

[bonarae]

All wins so far have been by the road teams.

Hopefully, that trend may be continued by the NL teams later today.

[bulldog10jw]

Jacob deGrom out-pitches Clayton Kershaw. Mets beat the Dodgers 3-1

deGrom - 7 innings 0 runs 5 hits 13 k's

[bonarae]

Cubs and Cards split the series' St. Louis leg (barring a game 5.)

Looks like Captain Ranger will be in for the ALCS. Toronto lost a lot to injury and they were simply dominated by the Rangers.

[JayJ79]

they really need to make it illegal for baserunners to dropkick fielders.

[tribe_pride]

Agreed. Suspended 2 games I read.

[Laker]

Agreed. Suspended 2 games I read.

Yep.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs2015/story/_/id/13866872/chase-utley-suspended-2-games-slide-broke-ruben-tejada-leg

[bonarae]

Toronto is staying alive thanks to its offense clicking... and Pillar's defensive strength was at its best.

[JayJ79]

I think they should crack down on the hard slides with intent to knock out the fielder in general, but something that blatant when the runner doesn't even come close to touching the base is absolutely ridiculous. 2 games is too light.

[bonarae]

Utley should've been suspended the rest of the series and possibly the NLCS. xtwocentsx

[eiu1999]

Utley did a pretty nasty thing.

Cubs/Cards should be a good one today.

[PantherRob82]

Utley should've been suspended the rest of the series and possibly the NLCS. xtwocentsx

Utley is playing tonight because his challenge won't be heard today.

[eiu1999]

Utley is playing tonight because his challenge won't be heard today.

That stinks.

[JayJ79]

Mets players should go out of their way to plow into him whenever possible.
after all "it's just part of the game"

[bulldog10jw]

The Mets need to be smart about this. They don't want to have Harvey go head hunting and get tossed out of the game. Revenge is winning. They can get even later in the series or even next year.

Then again, if either team is up 6 or 7 runs late in the game, then it's open season.

[clenz]

MLB is pulling for a tight game so they can avoid that kind of thing

[Laker]

Revenge is a dish best served cold. Don't go head hunting- just win the game. Unless you get way behind.................

[tribe_pride]

Hate to jinx the Mets but it may be time to put Utley in the game in a few innings in a pinch hit role.

Cespedes just hit a bomb

[bonarae]

I don't want the Dodgers facing the Cubs in a possible NLCS scenario. They took the head-to-head with us this year; I think they have their own curse to boot too (27 years and running).

However, we swept the Mets in 7 games, but that was before Cespedes came. They also have had their share of curses since the year 2000 (and possibly 1986).

[tribe_pride]

I don't want the Dodgers facing the Cubs in a possible NLCS scenario. They took the head-to-head with us this year; I think they have their own curse to boot too (27 years and running).

However, we swept the Mets in 7 games, but that was before Cespedes came. They also have had their share of curses since the year 2000 (and possibly 1986).

What curses? You are just making up things about teams who haven't won a WS in years. It's not always a curse - it can be just bad teams or choking teams. There is a joking bobblehead curse but that is on individual players who have had bobbleheads about them not team curses like they talk about for the Cubs and Red Sox.

As you said, it's tough to compare the early season Mets to the 2nd half team. They were 40-40 when the last Cubs series ended, went 9-8 over their next 17 (and were batting under .230 as a team at this point), then finished up 41-24 in their last 65 which included losing 5 of their last 6 once they won the division and didn't really care.

[clenz]

There's no goat curse.

It had already been 37 years, and 2 world wars, since their 1908 title when that goat thing happened.

[eiu1999]

There are no curses. xsmhx

[eiu1999]

Reasons for Cubs failures......

Horrible ownership-Cheap, dollars over talent, playing on fan emotions (The Wrigley's, Tribune Co)
Fans- Lots of idiot lovable loser mentality and just plain drunk beer garden atmosphere/attitude (Everyone and their brother)
Clueless GMs- led to manager and drafting miscues forever (Herman Franks, Jim Frey, Larry Himes, Ed Lynch, Andy MacPhail, Jim Hendry)

[caribbeanhen]

The Mets are a scary team they built it right build on pitching in a big ballpark would not be surprised to see them in the World Series also they remind me of the 1991 Atlanta Braves a bit
2 months later still scary but let's go Cubbies!

[eiu1999]

2 months later still scary but let's go Cubbies!

4 hours till first pitch.

[tribe_pride]

Utley's appeal to be heard next Monday. Seriously, what more can be presented that already hasn't been shown? Why so long?

[eiu1999]

Bottom 2: 4-2 Cubs.......

[dbackjon]

Reasons for Cubs failures......

Horrible ownership-Cheap, dollars over talent, playing on fan emotions (The Wrigley's, Tribune Co)
Fans- Lots of idiot lovable loser mentality and just plain drunk beer garden atmosphere/attitude (Everyone and their brother)
Clueless GMs- led to manager and drafting miscues forever (Herman Franks, Jim Frey, Larry Himes, Ed Lynch, Andy MacPhail, Jim Hendry)


Exactly. One reason my childhood fandom in the Cubs faded - the ownership knew they didn't need to put a winner on the field to pack the stands, and the fans really didn't care if the Cubs won, just as long as the beer flowed.

[bonarae]

The Cubs have overcome the Wrigley "bad luck". They finally clinched a series at Wrigley with a 6-4 win over the Cards. Now awaiting the Mets-Dodgers winner...

[eiu1999]

Wrigley was nuts, can't wait to the next round.

[eiu1999]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21490&stc=1

[bonarae]

Wow. Just wow in the ALDS. We will see the Royals vs. Blue Jays, a repeat of the 1985 ALCS. Did you see the 3 E's in the same INNING of the Rangers-Royals game?

[eiu1999]

Really disliking the Blue Jays right now.

[MR. CHICKEN]

Really disliking the Blue Jays right now.

.....AN' DEY'RE FANS.......THROWIN' STUFF ON FIELD......JES' SHOWED HOW UNEDUCATED 'BOUT BASEBALL RULES CANADIANS ARE.........FIRE BRAWK!

[eiu1999]

.....AN' DEY'RE FANS.......THROWIN' STUFF ON FIELD......JES' SHOWED HOW UNEDUCATED 'BOUT BASEBALL RULES CANADIANS ARE.........FIRE BRAWK!

Maybe you can speak bird talk to them and straighten them out.

[tribe_pride]

Who would have thought Daniel Murphy would be the Mets star of the series. 7 of 21 with 3 HRs and 5 runs in the series. DeGrom going 2-0 against Grienke and Kershaw giving up only 2 runs in 13 innings and Familia sitting down all 16 batters he faced in 4 games to get 2 saves (including 2 inning save today) were also very impressive.

Mets with home field advantage against the Cubs

Game 1 - Harvey vs. Lester
Game 2 - ??? vs. Arrieta - I would guess Syndergaard goes on Sunday since he only pitched an inning today and last pitched on Saturday

Assume Mets will then do deGrom on Tuesday, then Matz on Wednesday and then start all over again in games 5, 6, and 7 if necessary with Harvey, Syndergaard and deGrom. Colon did well in relief against L.A.

[PaladinFan]

Who would have thought Daniel Murphy would be the Mets star of the series. 7 of 21 with 3 HRs and 5 runs in the series. DeGrom going 2-0 against Grienke and Kershaw giving up only 2 runs in 13 innings and Familia sitting down all 16 batters he faced in 4 games to get 2 saves (including 2 inning save today) were also very impressive.

Mets with home field advantage against the Cubs

Game 1 - Harvey vs. Lester
Game 2 - ??? vs. Arrieta - I would guess Syndergaard goes on Sunday since he only pitched an inning today and last pitched on Saturday

Assume Mets will then do deGrom on Tuesday, then Matz on Wednesday and then start all over again in games 5, 6, and 7 if necessary with Harvey, Syndergaard and deGrom. Colon did well in relief against L.A.

Game last night brought back suddering memories of the Braves playoff series in LA a few years ago where Juan Uribe hit the game winning homerun with Craig Kimbrel warmed up and ready in the bullpen.

Collins did not make the same error Gonzalez did. You run your best pitcher out there. If they beat your best guy, then so be it.

One tactical error I did think Collins made was not double switching. Not ideal to have your closer hitting with two on in the bottom of the 8th. Seems like that was a bit of an oversight.

[tribe_pride]

Game last night brought back suddering memories of the Braves playoff series in LA a few years ago where Juan Uribe hit the game winning homerun with Craig Kimbrel warmed up and ready in the bullpen.

Collins did not make the same error Gonzalez did. You run your best pitcher out there. If they beat your best guy, then so be it.

One tactical error I did think Collins made was not double switching. Not ideal to have your closer hitting with two on in the bottom of the 8th. Seems like that was a bit of an oversight.

Not sure I agree on that one mistake though it was probably Familia's first ever at-bat. Who would you double switch for? the #5 batter was coming up in the top of the 9th so that means you would take out Cespedes (#4 batter, nope), Murphy (#3 batter, nope), Wright (#2 batter, maybe for defensive reasons) , or Granderson (#1, probably not either). Can't blame him for that.

[caribbeanhen]

Murphy looked really comfortable at the plate right before that HR I know what Bob Gibson would of done

[bonarae]

Duda is out of the Mets' lineup after a poor performance in the NLDS. Cuddyer replaced him.

[PaladinFan]

Not sure I agree on that one mistake though it was probably Familia's first ever at-bat. Who would you double switch for? the #5 batter was coming up in the top of the 9th so that means you would take out Cespedes (#4 batter, nope), Murphy (#3 batter, nope), Wright (#2 batter, maybe for defensive reasons) , or Granderson (#1, probably not either). Can't blame him for that.

You don't want to pull a good player, but I certainly think that the insurance runs in the top of the 9th inning are more valuable than, say, one more inning of David Wright at 3rd base.

[tribe_pride]

Game 1 down. Harvey was sharp last night and Murphy was playoff Murphy.

Incredible pitching matchup tonight with Arrieta facing Syndergaard in the cold weather which should further favor the pitchers.

Almost a must win game for the Cubs. Mets should be favored in Game 3 at Wrigley with deGrom on the mound.

[tribe_pride]

Game 2 down and Mets are up 2-0 in the series. Murphy with another homer off a star pitcher, Granderson with 2 runs scored, 2 stolen bases and a catch on the outfield wall in the 2nd inning, and Thor was incredible only giving up 1 run in the 6th after the team was up 4-0. Familia with another save with help from Niese (.1), Reed (1.0 innings) and Clippard (1.0 innings).

Going to Chicago -
Game 3 - Mets ace deGrom vs. Hendricks (3.95 regular season ERA and 3 runs in 4.2 innings in Game 2 versus Cardinals)
Game 4 - Matz (gave up only 12 runs in 7 games and 40.2 innings this year) vs. Hammel (3.74 regular season ERA and 2 runs in 3 innings versus Cardinals in Game 4)

If go to Games 5-7, you have to assume starters will be the same Games 1-3

[bonarae]

I'm afraid the Cubs' season is over at this point. xbawlingx

[caribbeanhen]

I wouldn't stick a fork in the Cubs just yet, the series will at least go back to NYC

[bulldog10jw]

I wouldn't stick a fork in the Cubs just yet, the series will at least go back to NYC

I agree. Game 3 is huge.

[MR. CHICKEN]

......CURSES....CUB FANS.....:p.....FIRE BRAWK!

[eiu1999]

I agree. Game 3 is huge.

The Cubs are toast, going back to NY or not.

[PaladinFan]

I think this is always true in the post season, but good pitching beats good hitting. Mets have more good pitching and the one guy playing out of his mind right now.

Seems like every now and then there is one guy that just hoists a team on his back in the post season and carries them. Seeing that again this year. Saw it with Bumgarner last season.

[tribe_pride]

Potential swelling in Harvey's arm but that would be Game 5, if necessary, and Mets claim he is ready to pitch on Thursday. Assume Colon or Niese would pitch if he couldn't. I was actually surprised Colon did not become one of the post season starters as he finished the season strong but the Mets went with the 95+ MPH arms for all 4 starters in the playoffs and so far it has worked.

[clenz]

I seem to have a lot fewer Cubs fans as friends once again.


Good.

**** em

[eiu1999]

I seem to have a lot fewer Cubs fans as friends once again.


Good.

**** em


Well, I didn't like you either.

[bonarae]

Hmm, the Cubs are on the verge of being swept... at Wrigley. I'm afraid the 2004 Red Sox won't see any more teams copying them during our lifetimes. Pitching has been our Achilles' heel and sometimes batting and defense join forces with it.

Oh well... there's always next year. xsmhx

[eiu1999]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21512&stc=1

[tribe_pride]

Oh you are definitely right. The umps are why the series is 3-0. Cubs pitchers should try not throwing the ball into the ground 3 or 4 pitches in a row with guys on 3rd base. The catcher can only block so many in a row. And don't give Murphy anything to hit. xrolleyesx

[eiu1999]

Oh you are definitely right. The umps are why the series is 3-0. Cubs pitchers should try not throwing the ball into the ground 3 or 4 pitches in a row with guys on 3rd base. The catcher can only block so many in a row. And don't give Murphy anything to hit. xrolleyesx

Not blaming the umps for the overall performance, but the strike zones have been different for both teams. Still not the overall reason why the Cubs are down.

[tribe_pride]

And then there were 3. World Series starts next Tuesday with Mets @ ??? (Royals or Blue Jays). Duda led the team in the first inning as he was horrible before today but got a HR and 2 Doubles to have 5 RBIs. Murphy with 6th straight game with a HR in the playoffs. Time off will let Mets set their starters order with deGrom, Syndergaard, Harvey, then Matz and let Cespedes heal hopefully.

Blue Jays/Royals going Friday and Saturday if necessary.

[bulldog10jw]

And then there were 3. World Series starts next Tuesday with Mets @ ??? (Royals or Blue Jays). Duda led the team in the first inning as he was horrible before today but got a HR and 2 Doubles to have 5 RBIs. Murphy with 6th straight game with a HR in the playoffs. Time off will let Mets set their starters order with deGrom, Syndergaard, Harvey, then Matz and let Cespedes heal hopefully.

Blue Jays/Royals going Friday and Saturday if necessary.

Hard to believe the Cubs didn't put up more of a fight. As depressing as it can be to be a Mets fan sometimes, at least I have some championships to look back on (5 pennants now). Who is alive that remembers the Cubs in '45

[eiu1999]

Well, go Jays or Royals.

[caribbeanhen]

Hard to believe the Cubs didn't put up more of a fight. As depressing as it can be to be a Mets fan sometimes, at least I have some championships to look back on (5 pennants now). Who is alive that remembers the Cubs in '45

I would like to hear from him if he's out there, earliest baseball memories I've seen on here are from the 50's

[tribe_pride]

On a non-playoff note (but because of the playoff results), Mattingly no longer manager of the Dodgers

http://espn.go.com/losangeles/mlb/story/_/id/13945508/don-mattingly-losangeles-dodgers-parting-ways

[bulldog10jw]

I would like to hear from him if he's out there, earliest baseball memories I've seen on here are from the 50's

My first baseball memory is the 1957 World Series, but I really didn't pay much attention until 1959.

[caribbeanhen]

My first baseball memory is the 1957 World Series, but I really didn't pay much attention until 1959.

1957 Braves vs Yankees
Aaron
Eddie Matthews

Sphan and Sain snd pray for rain

rematch in 58

Wasnt born yet but my father is a big Braves fan

[eiu1999]

Hard to believe the Cubs didn't put up more of a fight. As depressing as it can be to be a Mets fan sometimes, at least I have some championships to look back on (5 pennants now). Who is alive that remembers the Cubs in '45

That youngest person who would remember would be in their 70s?

[bulldog10jw]

1957 Braves vs Yankees
Aaron
Eddie Matthews

Sphan and Sain snd pray for rain

rematch in 58

Wasnt born yet but my father is a big Braves fan

I think Sain may have been gone by '57 & '58

It was Spahn and Lew Burdette in '57 and '58 (and '59, too. Many forget that the Braves and Dodgers tied for first in the NL in '59 with the Dodgers winning the playoff)

[ngineer]

I am an NL guy, but I cannot and will not cheer for the Mutts. Kansas City has suffered long enough, so I hope for a 'royal' Series...And Murphy should be given a drug test! That was an unreal performance in the playoffs so far.

[clenz]

I am an NL guy, but I cannot and will not cheer for the Mutts. Kansas City has suffered long enough, so I hope for a 'royal' Series...And Murphy should be given a drug test! That was an unreal performance in the playoffs so far.
The Royals have suffered a whole 1 year longer than the Mets....and were in the world series just last season

Seems like a shaky reasoning, at best.

[bulldog10jw]

The Royals have suffered a whole 1 year longer than the Mets....and were in the world series just last season

Seems like a shaky reasoning, at best.

I think it is more a "hate the Mets" thing as opposed to a "Royals have suffered" thing.

[tribe_pride]

A Philly guy is not going to support a NY thing even if it really is the Yanks that really are the "bad guys" in the NY area.

[PaladinFan]

I am an NL guy, but I cannot and will not cheer for the Mutts. Kansas City has suffered long enough, so I hope for a 'royal' Series...And Murphy should be given a drug test! That was an unreal performance in the playoffs so far.

I'm with you.

I always enjoyed the NYM/ATL rivalry, especially back when guys like Pedro Martinez and John Smoltz were still on the mound. Always fun to hear Chipper Jones get booed every single at bat simply because he crushed Mets pitching for 15 years.

I've gotten to the point, though, where I cannot stand the Nationals. I'm just happy to see them sitting home.

[tribe_pride]

I'm with you.

I always enjoyed the NYM/ATL rivalry, especially back when guys like Pedro Martinez and John Smoltz were still on the mound. Always fun to hear Chipper Jones get booed every single at bat simply because he crushed Mets pitching for 15 years.

I've gotten to the point, though, where I cannot stand the Nationals. I'm just happy to see them sitting home.

The "Larry" chants and the boos were always respect for Jones and everyone knew it. He was an easy guy to respect as opposed to a certain John Rocker

[ngineer]

I think it is more a "hate the Mets" thing as opposed to a "Royals have suffered" thing.

While it is true that some of the first words my children learned to say was "I hate the Mets!", overall, KC has suffered longer with being bad and mediocre. Mutts have had more of a roller coaster existence in the past 30 years. While KC got to the series last year, but I don't think they have won since mid 1980's. Also, here in eastern PA, there is a good number of Mutts fans. With NYC 70 miles east and Philly 60 miles south there is a great mixing of Phillie, Yankee and Mutts.

[bonarae]

Hmmm... KC vs. the Mets now.

I think KC will end their WS drought at 30 this year, in 5 or 6 games.

[AshevilleApp2]

Who managed to stay up for all of last nights game? Great start to the series though.

[Laker]

Who managed to stay up for all of last nights game? Great start to the series though.

I was up but my cats fell asleep. 5 1/4 hours is almost like a Red Sox-Yankee nine inning game.

And now I'm watching Jerry Kill's resignation press conference. Health reasons.

[eiu1999]

Who managed to stay up for all of last nights game? Great start to the series though.

I tried but couldn't make it.

[bulldog10jw]

Who managed to stay up for all of last nights game? Great start to the series though.

Not me. Bad loss for the Mets. You have to win when you hand the ball to your closer with a lead.

[AshevilleApp2]

Not me. Bad loss for the Mets. You have to win when you hand the ball to your closer with a lead.

As a fan of the Tigers, I completely understand this. xnodx

[UNI Pike]

Kansas City is swathed in blue these days. The atmosphere is a bit more subdued compared to last year, which was completely over the top crazy.

From my NSA monitored nexus 5

[eiu1999]

Go KC......

[PaladinFan]

What is the story on the block of Mets fans dressed in orange in Kaufmann Stadium?

Not uncommon for visiting fans to be on the road, of course, but I've never seen a group blocked together so obvious. Like something you would expect to see in a college football game.

[bulldog10jw]

What is the story on the block of Mets fans dressed in orange in Kaufmann Stadium?

Not uncommon for visiting fans to be on the road, of course, but I've never seen a group blocked together so obvious. Like something you would expect to see in a college football game.

I've been amazed at how many Mets fans, over the last two months have followed the team to Washington, Cincinnati, Los Angeles, and Chicago and not just showed up at the games, but somehow got great seats.

[bulldog10jw]

Mets bullpen gives up another lead in tonight's loss. Shaky defense didn't help. Not looking good.

[bonarae]

Mets collapse again for the second time in as many games.

Season's finally over. KC Royals World Champions for the first time in 30 years. xbowx xnodx

[AshevilleApp2]

Congrats to KC. Now lets get on with free agency!

[Laker]

People are still complaining about how the Royals won the World Series in 1985. Now they are complaining about how the Mets lost it.

KC was focused all year after coming so close last year. Congrats to them.

[eiu1999]

The best team this season won.

[Laker]

Come on Jayhawk fans- you tear down the goalposts because the Royals win the World Series?


http://lostlettermen.com/kansas-students-rip-down-goal-posts-because-of-the-royals/

[bulldog10jw]

People are still complaining about how the Royals won the World Series in 1985. Now they are complaining about how the Mets lost it.



Well, when you take a lead into the 8th (once) and 9th (three times) and lose 3 out of 4 of those games, people tend to focus on that.

The Mets had great starting pitching. The Royals were better in every other part of the game.

[eiu1999]

Someone fire up the old hot stove........

[Laker]

Dusty Baker is going to be the new manager for the Nationals. Evidently the deal with Bud Black fell through.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/nationals-hire-dusty-baker-as-manager/ar-BBmMBCR?ocid=ansmsnsports11

[Laker]

Here is a funny one- the Giants order 25 pizzas for the Royals and tell them to "enjoy the ride!"


http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2585653-san-francisco-giants-order-25-pizzas-for-kansas-city-royals?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=programming-national

[eiu1999]

http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/the-hot-stove-is-lit-mariners-and-rays-complete-six-team-trade/

Seattle/Tampa trade

[clenz]

Twins making a push for a big bat?

What world is this

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14089788/minnesota-twins-win-bidding-rights-korean-slugger-byung-ho-park
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/min/minnesota-twins) have won the bidding for negotiating rights to slugger Byung Ho Park, a 29-year-old first baseman who hit a total of 105 home runs over the past two seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization.
The Twins won those rights with a bid of $12.85 million, sources confirmed to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick. That's the second-largest bid ever paid to negotiate with an Asian position player, behind the $13 million the Seattle Mariners (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/sea/seattle-mariners) paid forIchiro Suzuki (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/4570/ichiro-suzuki).


Per KBO rules, the Twins have a 30-day exclusive negotiating period to sign Park to a contract. In the interim, Park will remain under control of the Nexen Heroes. If for some reason a deal isn't reached, the Twins would get their bid money back.
Park had a .343 batting average with 53 homers, 146 RBIs and 10 stolen bases last season and is a former teammate of Pittsburgh Pirates (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates) infielder Jung Ho Kang (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/33689/jung-ho-kang). The 6-foot-1, 194-pounder has a career .951 on-base-plus-slugging percentage in nine professional seasons in the KBO.
A two-time MVP of the KBO, Park has recorded 50 homers in consecutive seasons and has posted 100 or more RBIs in four straight seasons, averaging nearly 85 walks over that period.
Major League Baseball announced Monday the notice from Park's team in the KBO, the Nexen Heroes, that Minnesota's bid was the highest. The posting fee was not disclosed by either MLB or the Twins, who said they wouldn't comment on the process "out of respect" for Park and the Heroes.
With the Twins pushing for current designated hitter Miguel Sano (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/31260/miguel-sano) to play left field, the club could use Park at DH and first base on days that Joe Mauer (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/5378/joe-mauer) needs off.















Twins need a catcher - maybe move Joe back to catcher?

- - - Updated - - -

Twins making a push for a big bat?

What world is this

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14089788/minnesota-twins-win-bidding-rights-korean-slugger-byung-ho-park
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/min/minnesota-twins) have won the bidding for negotiating rights to slugger Byung Ho Park, a 29-year-old first baseman who hit a total of 105 home runs over the past two seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization.
The Twins won those rights with a bid of $12.85 million, sources confirmed to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick. That's the second-largest bid ever paid to negotiate with an Asian position player, behind the $13 million the Seattle Mariners (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/sea/seattle-mariners) paid forIchiro Suzuki (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/4570/ichiro-suzuki).
Per KBO rules, the Twins have a 30-day exclusive negotiating period to sign Park to a contract. In the interim, Park will remain under control of the Nexen Heroes. If for some reason a deal isn't reached, the Twins would get their bid money back.
Park had a .343 batting average with 53 homers, 146 RBIs and 10 stolen bases last season and is a former teammate of Pittsburgh Pirates (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates) infielder Jung Ho Kang (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/33689/jung-ho-kang). The 6-foot-1, 194-pounder has a career .951 on-base-plus-slugging percentage in nine professional seasons in the KBO.
A two-time MVP of the KBO, Park has recorded 50 homers in consecutive seasons and has posted 100 or more RBIs in four straight seasons, averaging nearly 85 walks over that period.
Major League Baseball announced Monday the notice from Park's team in the KBO, the Nexen Heroes, that Minnesota's bid was the highest. The posting fee was not disclosed by either MLB or the Twins, who said they wouldn't comment on the process "out of respect" for Park and the Heroes.
With the Twins pushing for current designated hitter Miguel Sano (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/31260/miguel-sano) to play left field, the club could use Park at DH and first base on days that Joe Mauer (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/5378/joe-mauer) needs off.















Twins need a catcher - maybe move Joe back to catcher?

[eiu1999]

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/ct-sullivan-baseball-gm-meetings-spt-1109-20151108-column.html

Cubs looking to add two-three starting pitchers from the likes of Greinke, Price, Zimmerman, Carrasco, Samardziga

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers need two starting pitchers, a bullpen and a left fielder. No problem, right?

[AshevilleApp2]

Twins making a push for a big bat?

What world is this

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14089788/minnesota-twins-win-bidding-rights-korean-slugger-byung-ho-park
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/min/minnesota-twins) have won the bidding for negotiating rights to slugger Byung Ho Park, a 29-year-old first baseman who hit a total of 105 home runs over the past two seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization.
The Twins won those rights with a bid of $12.85 million, sources confirmed to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick. That's the second-largest bid ever paid to negotiate with an Asian position player, behind the $13 million the Seattle Mariners (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/sea/seattle-mariners) paid forIchiro Suzuki (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/4570/ichiro-suzuki).


Per KBO rules, the Twins have a 30-day exclusive negotiating period to sign Park to a contract. In the interim, Park will remain under control of the Nexen Heroes. If for some reason a deal isn't reached, the Twins would get their bid money back.
Park had a .343 batting average with 53 homers, 146 RBIs and 10 stolen bases last season and is a former teammate of Pittsburgh Pirates (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates) infielder Jung Ho Kang (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/33689/jung-ho-kang). The 6-foot-1, 194-pounder has a career .951 on-base-plus-slugging percentage in nine professional seasons in the KBO.
A two-time MVP of the KBO, Park has recorded 50 homers in consecutive seasons and has posted 100 or more RBIs in four straight seasons, averaging nearly 85 walks over that period.
Major League Baseball announced Monday the notice from Park's team in the KBO, the Nexen Heroes, that Minnesota's bid was the highest. The posting fee was not disclosed by either MLB or the Twins, who said they wouldn't comment on the process "out of respect" for Park and the Heroes.
With the Twins pushing for current designated hitter Miguel Sano (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/31260/miguel-sano) to play left field, the club could use Park at DH and first base on days that Joe Mauer (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/5378/joe-mauer) needs off.















Twins need a catcher - maybe move Joe back to catcher?

- - - Updated - - -

Twins making a push for a big bat?

What world is this

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14089788/minnesota-twins-win-bidding-rights-korean-slugger-byung-ho-park
MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/min/minnesota-twins) have won the bidding for negotiating rights to slugger Byung Ho Park, a 29-year-old first baseman who hit a total of 105 home runs over the past two seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization.
The Twins won those rights with a bid of $12.85 million, sources confirmed to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick. That's the second-largest bid ever paid to negotiate with an Asian position player, behind the $13 million the Seattle Mariners (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/sea/seattle-mariners) paid forIchiro Suzuki (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/4570/ichiro-suzuki).
Per KBO rules, the Twins have a 30-day exclusive negotiating period to sign Park to a contract. In the interim, Park will remain under control of the Nexen Heroes. If for some reason a deal isn't reached, the Twins would get their bid money back.
Park had a .343 batting average with 53 homers, 146 RBIs and 10 stolen bases last season and is a former teammate of Pittsburgh Pirates (http://espn.go.com/mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates) infielder Jung Ho Kang (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/33689/jung-ho-kang). The 6-foot-1, 194-pounder has a career .951 on-base-plus-slugging percentage in nine professional seasons in the KBO.
A two-time MVP of the KBO, Park has recorded 50 homers in consecutive seasons and has posted 100 or more RBIs in four straight seasons, averaging nearly 85 walks over that period.
Major League Baseball announced Monday the notice from Park's team in the KBO, the Nexen Heroes, that Minnesota's bid was the highest. The posting fee was not disclosed by either MLB or the Twins, who said they wouldn't comment on the process "out of respect" for Park and the Heroes.
With the Twins pushing for current designated hitter Miguel Sano (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/31260/miguel-sano) to play left field, the club could use Park at DH and first base on days that Joe Mauer (http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/_/id/5378/joe-mauer) needs off.















Twins need a catcher - maybe move Joe back to catcher?

Alex Avila is available. xnodx Good defensive catcher, who handles the pitching staff well. Limited offensively and prone to injuries though.

[PaladinFan]

Former Braves pitcher Tommy Hanson died last night after slipping into a coma in Atlanta. http://www.ajc.com/news/sports/baseball/former-braves-pitcher-tommy-hanson-dead-at-29/npKLD/

Sad news. Remember rushing home a number of years ago to catch my first glimpse of him pitching for the Braves in spring training. Came out of nowhere to be the Braves best pitching prospect.

RIP Big Red.

[AshevilleApp2]

Former Braves pitcher Tommy Hanson died last night after slipping into a coma in Atlanta. http://www.ajc.com/news/sports/baseball/former-braves-pitcher-tommy-hanson-dead-at-29/npKLD/

Sad news. Remember rushing home a number of years ago to catch my first glimpse of him pitching for the Braves in spring training. Came out of nowhere to be the Braves best pitching prospect.

RIP Big Red.

That's just too quick. Start feeling sick on Sunday, lapse into a coma and die on Monday. And only 29 years old. Hard to get your brain around. RIP.

[BisonBacker]

Last time the Twins payed a bunch of cash just for rights to a foreign player that backfired on them. 12 million just for the rights to negotiate with this dude? A huge waste of money IMHO.:(

- - - Updated - - -


Former Braves pitcher Tommy Hanson died last night after slipping into a coma in Atlanta. http://www.ajc.com/news/sports/baseball/former-braves-pitcher-tommy-hanson-dead-at-29/npKLD/

Sad news. Remember rushing home a number of years ago to catch my first glimpse of him pitching for the Braves in spring training. Came out of nowhere to be the Braves best pitching prospect.

RIP Big Red.

I saw that also. Very sad indeed. 29 is way to young.

[clenz]

Last time the Twins payed a bunch of cash just for rights to a foreign player that backfired on them. 12 million just for the rights to negotiate with this dude? A huge waste of money IMHO.:(

- - - Updated - - -



I saw that also. Very sad indeed. 29 is way to young.

Or they could continue to spend nothing and we could bitch they weren't doing anything and the bitch about the lack of peer again next year

[PaladinFan]

Wow. Brandon Crawford wins the gold glove at shortstop over Andrelton Simmons.

I lost faith in the gold glove awards a while ago, but that's a hard one to grasp.

[PaladinFan]

Lot of scuttlebut today on the Braves' listening on star shortstop Andrelton Simmons. Some reports indicated that the Mets inquired and the Braves asked for Harvey or deGrom, which sort of indicates what kind of haul it would take to pry him out of Atlanta.

Let's hope he stays. I guess everyone has a price, but he's one of the few talents that makes the Braves watchable right now.

[AshevilleApp2]

Lot of scuttlebut today on the Braves' listening on star shortstop Andrelton Simmons. Some reports indicated that the Mets inquired and the Braves asked for Harvey or deGrom, which sort of indicates what kind of haul it would take to pry him out of Atlanta.

Let's hope he stays. I guess everyone has a price, but he's one of the few talents that makes the Braves watchable right now.

What kind of pitching talent is likely coming up in the next couple of years for Atlanta? If that looks competitive, it seems crazy to unload him. An everyday shortstop of that caliber trumps an every fifth day starter. Of course, if you have another shortstop of major league talent in the farm system, that could influence the situation as well.

[PaladinFan]

What kind of pitching talent is likely coming up in the next couple of years for Atlanta? If that looks competitive, it seems crazy to unload him. An everyday shortstop of that caliber trumps an every fifth day starter. Of course, if you have another shortstop of major league talent in the farm system, that could influence the situation as well.

Well, they did it anyway. Simmons to Los Angeles Angels for Erick Aybar, LHP Sean Newcomb, and RHP Chris Ellis.

Everything I read considers this a pretty fair deal. Aybar will essentially give the Braves a bit better bat than Simmons was and create a bridge to top prospect Ozzie Albies. No one can touch Simmons defensively (maybe ever).

Newcomb is apparently a top flight pitcher. Top 20 MLB prospect, power frame, mid 90s fastball and will likely be the Braves #1 pitching prospect (in a group of pretty darn good pitching prospects).

The Braves will sell this as all part of the process. As a fan, the Braves traded away one of the few remaining players that was a "must see" talent. I personally loved watching Simmons play SS. He is as good as anyone I've ever seen at the position. Fundamentals are flawless.

Over the long term, the Braves gain financial flexibility going forward and continue to stock pile young pitching. They have the #3 pick this season in the draft, and look like they will have another top pick in 2017. At some point, Atlanta is going to have to add some bats. Over the long term, it is a good move for the Braves, but it makes 2016 more or less unwatchable.

[AshevilleApp2]

Well, they did it anyway. Simmons to Los Angeles Angels for Erick Aybar, LHP Sean Newcomb, and RHP Chris Ellis.

Everything I read considers this a pretty fair deal. Aybar will essentially give the Braves a bit better bat than Simmons was and create a bridge to top prospect Ozzie Albies. No one can touch Simmons defensively (maybe ever).

Newcomb is apparently a top flight pitcher. Top 20 MLB prospect, power frame, mid 90s fastball and will likely be the Braves #1 pitching prospect (in a group of pretty darn good pitching prospects).

The Braves will sell this as all part of the process. As a fan, the Braves traded away one of the few remaining players that was a "must see" talent. I personally loved watching Simmons play SS. He is as good as anyone I've ever seen at the position. Fundamentals are flawless.

Over the long term, the Braves gain financial flexibility going forward and continue to stock pile young pitching. They have the #3 pick this season in the draft, and look like they will have another top pick in 2017. At some point, Atlanta is going to have to add some bats. Over the long term, it is a good move for the Braves, but it makes 2016 more or less unwatchable.

Seems like a good trade to me. If it is likely to take a couple of years to be back in contention, this brings in more talent to build on. Or use for trades. I'm guessing that you'll still be watching next year. xnodx

[eiu1999]

Well, they did it anyway. Simmons to Los Angeles Angels for Erick Aybar, LHP Sean Newcomb, and RHP Chris Ellis.

Everything I read considers this a pretty fair deal. Aybar will essentially give the Braves a bit better bat than Simmons was and create a bridge to top prospect Ozzie Albies. No one can touch Simmons defensively (maybe ever).

Newcomb is apparently a top flight pitcher. Top 20 MLB prospect, power frame, mid 90s fastball and will likely be the Braves #1 pitching prospect (in a group of pretty darn good pitching prospects).

The Braves will sell this as all part of the process. As a fan, the Braves traded away one of the few remaining players that was a "must see" talent. I personally loved watching Simmons play SS. He is as good as anyone I've ever seen at the position. Fundamentals are flawless.

Over the long term, the Braves gain financial flexibility going forward and continue to stock pile young pitching. They have the #3 pick this season in the draft, and look like they will have another top pick in 2017. At some point, Atlanta is going to have to add some bats. Over the long term, it is a good move for the Braves, but it makes 2016 more or less unwatchable.

Cubs did the opposite, stocking up on bats in the draft. Then stealing Addison Russell from the A's.

[PaladinFan]

Cubs did the opposite, stocking up on bats in the draft. Then stealing Addison Russell from the A's.

Right. Sort of a similar structure to what the Cubs are doing/have done.

Bats are more valuable right now on the open market. However, with Atlanta's stockpile of pitchers, they should be able to make a play for one or two.

Interestingly, the Braves and Cubs have long been rumored to get together on a bats/arms swap.

[eiu1999]

Right. Sort of a similar structure to what the Cubs are doing/have done.

Bats are more valuable right now on the open market. However, with Atlanta's stockpile of pitchers, they should be able to make a play for one or two.

Interestingly, the Braves and Cubs have long been rumored to get together on a bats/arms swap.

Baez, Castro and Soler are available. Cubs want established pitching, a center fielder and catcher.

[PaladinFan]

Baez, Castro and Soler are available. Cubs want established pitching, a center fielder and catcher.

I have heard the names Julio Teheran and Jorge Soler. Braves also have Carmeron Maybin, who is undoubtedly expendable as the Braves have a soon to be MLB ready CF in Mallex Smith.

Trutfully, I have no idea what Atlanta is doing. Could be anyone for anything. I'd like to think they won't trade Freddie Freeman, but I'm not even convinced of that.

[eiu1999]

I have heard the names Julio Teheran and Jorge Soler. Braves also have Carmeron Maybin, who is undoubtedly expendable as the Braves have a soon to be MLB ready CF in Mallex Smith.

Trutfully, I have no idea what Atlanta is doing. Could be anyone for anything. I'd like to think they won't trade Freddie Freeman, but I'm not even convinced of that.

Soler cannot honestly play in cold weather, he's very trade-able. Cubs have plenty of corner OF options.

[PaladinFan]

What kind of pitching talent is likely coming up in the next couple of years for Atlanta? If that looks competitive, it seems crazy to unload him. An everyday shortstop of that caliber trumps an every fifth day starter. Of course, if you have another shortstop of major league talent in the farm system, that could influence the situation as well.

Never really answered this question.

Right now, there are 21 pitchers on the Braves top 30 prospects list. That's not counting Teheran, Miller, Wisler, Perez, and Foltynewicz, who spent a of time in the starting rotation in 2015.

Generally, this Newsom kid from Anaheim is billed as a front line starter. Ellis, also from the trade, is considered a mid rotation arm. Both could see Atlanta in 2016 or 2017.

At the lower levels, there are two guys to watch out for. Lucas Sims (oddly, a player Atlanta did not trade for) just tore up the Arizona Fall League and will likely be in AA. Also, Kolby Allard was Atlanta's #1 pick in 2015, who apparently dropped to the middle of the round due to concerns with injury. He's considered a top talent, and should start the year in A.

What you are seeing is the Braves front office try to plug talent and depth at every level of the minors. I imagine you can see a handful of these pitchers matriculate to Atlanta every season. Of course, none of them hit, so i do not anticipate they will all remain.

[AshevilleApp2]

Never really answered this question.

Right now, there are 21 pitchers on the Braves top 30 prospects list. That's not counting Teheran, Miller, Wisler, Perez, and Foltynewicz, who spent a of time in the starting rotation in 2015.

Generally, this Newsom kid from Anaheim is billed as a front line starter. Ellis, also from the trade, is considered a mid rotation arm. Both could see Atlanta in 2016 or 2017.

At the lower levels, there are two guys to watch out for. Lucas Sims (oddly, a player Atlanta did not trade for) just tore up the Arizona Fall League and will likely be in AA. Also, Kolby Allard was Atlanta's #1 pick in 2015, who apparently dropped to the middle of the round due to concerns with injury. He's considered a top talent, and should start the year in A.

What you are seeing is the Braves front office try to plug talent and depth at every level of the minors. I imagine you can see a handful of these pitchers matriculate to Atlanta every season. Of course, none of them hit, so i do not anticipate they will all remain.

That's impressive. Might be able to move some of the arms for good batters as they get closer to contention.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers make their first move of the off-season, trading for closer Francisco Rodriguez from the Brewers, and giving up 2B prospect Javier Betancourt. Seems like a good deal on the surface. K-Rod has been effective the last couple of years and fills a huge need; assuming he performs of course. They also have the option of keeping him for 2017, or potentially moving him at the trade deadline next season if the wheels fall off again. Betancourt is a good prospect, but one area where Detroit has some depth in the farm system is at middle infield.

[PaladinFan]

Braves trade Cameron Maybin to Detroit for LHP Ian Krol, a LHP minor leaguer, and $6.5million.

Not an earth shattering trade. Braves needed to shed an outfielder and Maybin had rebuilt some trade value with a bounce back season. Atlanta's top positional prospect is CF.

Two relievers coming back have potential. Both are left handed. One is a wait and see minor leaguer. Krol is an interesting player. Still young, but has good velocity with some control issues. Braves have almost a voodoo like ability to rehab pitchers.

[AshevilleApp2]

Braves trade Cameron Maybin to Detroit for LHP Ian Krol, a LHP minor leaguer, and $6.5million.

Not an earth shattering trade. Braves needed to shed an outfielder and Maybin had rebuilt some trade value with a bounce back season. Atlanta's top positional prospect is CF.

Two relievers coming back have potential. Both are left handed. One is a wait and see minor leaguer. Krol is an interesting player. Still young, but has good velocity with some control issues. Braves have almost a voodoo like ability to rehab pitchers.

Good move by the Braves and hopefully for the Tigers as well. I hate to see Krol go. He hasn't reached his potential yet, but it showed at times. I hope he does well in Atlanta. Not sure if the Tigers will try Maybin in LF, or try and shift Gose over.

And Maybin is the Grand Marshall at the local Holiday Parade today. I know a Braves fan who planned on bringing her kids out to meet him and get autographs. She won't be happy about this. xlolx

[PaladinFan]

Good move by the Braves and hopefully for the Tigers as well. I hate to see Krol go. He hasn't reached his potential yet, but it showed at times. I hope he does well in Atlanta. Not sure if the Tigers will try Maybin in LF, or try and shift Gose over.

And Maybin is the Grand Marshall at the local Holiday Parade today. I know a Braves fan who planned on bringing her kids out to meet him and get autographs. She won't be happy about this. xlolx

Maybin grew up a Braves fan, so I am sure it is bitter sweet for him. I do get the impression most baseball players understand that this is a business.

Looks like the salary relief may be the biggest benefit to the Braves. If the pitchers pan out, great.

[AshevilleApp2]

Maybin grew up a Braves fan, so I am sure it is bitter sweet for him. I do get the impression most baseball players understand that this is a business.

Looks like the salary relief may be the biggest benefit to the Braves. If the pitchers pan out, great.

And according to the Detroit press, the Braves are kicking in $2.5 million next year for Maybin's salary, so the Tigers don't have to absorb the whole $8 million he's owed. Hopefully both teams benefit. And I strolled down to the parade a couple of hours ago. Maybin was wearing a Braves shirt. Denial maybe? xlolx

[caribbeanhen]

who is the GM for the Braves these days? Monte Hall...... wow, just wow

[PaladinFan]

who is the GM for the Braves these days? Monte Hall...... wow, just wow

It has been a trying time. When John Coppolella was hired, most Braves fans were pretty excited. He's young and has that quirky metrics spin to him. He also brought in a lot of the old Braves scouts, beefed up international scouting, and poached away some good lieutenants from other organizations. That is is more or less the formula that made the Braves a really successful franchise for for 20 years.

What has been tough is that Coppollella has taken a team that was a playoff team and dismantled it. Virtually everything is for sale. The fans, I think, are watching one fan favorite leave after another. After Simmons was traded, there's not a huge reason to pay money for a ticket in 2016. The team was going to probably be bad, but at least Simmons had the potential to do something amazing every night.

I understand, though, that it is all part of the process. There are several other teams (Cubs and Astros most notably) who have recently done something similar and are back in the post season. The Braves, though, were better than those two franchises when they started the rebuild. Truthfully, I think that the front office would do a lot in terms of good will with the fan base if they could finally flip some of the zillion pitchers they have now stockpiled and turn them into a bat.

[AshevilleApp2]

Reports indicate that the Tigers signed Jordan Zimmerman to a 5 year $110 million dollar deal. Cautiously optimistic here. It seems like insane money, but look where the market is right now.

[PaladinFan]

Reports indicate that the Tigers signed Jordan Zimmerman to a 5 year $110 million dollar deal. Cautiously optimistic here. It seems like insane money, but look where the market is right now.

As one tweeter noted, the Tigers are combating getting older and more expensive by getting older and more expensive. Very Phillies.

[AshevilleApp2]

As one tweeter noted, the Tigers are combating getting older and more expensive by getting older and more expensive. Very Phillies.

Some truth to that. But if they want to compete now, and they claim that they to, they need to sign the players that may allow it. And they certainly can't go after a Price or Greinke. They have some good prospects that are a couple of years away. But Ilitch is in win now mode. We'll see how it plays out.

And they do have several relatively young starters. Catcher-25 years old; 3rd baseman-23; SS-25; CF-25; LF-25; RF-28; Maybin (Not sure where he will play)-28. Of course Cabrera at 1st (32) and Kinsler at 2nd (33) are getting on the older side of their careers. And Victor Martinez (37) is really getting old. The 4 projected starting pictures right now are 32, 31, 29 and 27. Not sure who #5 will be. Some good young prospects that should be ready in a couple of years as well.

The biggest issue is that a lot of money is tied up in relatively few players contracts. Cabrera, Verlander, V-Mart, Kinsler, Sanchez and Zimmerman.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Price agreed to terms on a 7 year $217M deal with the Red Sox. Will he become another Jon Lester in the process? xchinscratchx

[clenz]

Red Sox can get out of that deal after 3

I have a feeling they aren't too worried.

[eiu1999]

A few reports have Atlanta interested in Soler, would cost at least Shelby Miller.

[PaladinFan]

Red Sox can get out of that deal after 3

I have a feeling they aren't too worried.

If I understand the reports correctly, Price can opt out, not the Red Sox.

[PaladinFan]

A few reports have Atlanta interested in Soler, would cost at least Shelby Miller.

Atlanta is in an interesting spot. With several pitchers landing high dollar contracts, the Braves have a commodity in Miller that is highly valuable on the open market - good pitcher with three cost controlled years. Miller is not (at this stage) Price or Grienke, but he is only 24 and will only make about $5million this season (compared to Price's $30).

Of course, such a player is also valuable to the Braves, who can build their rotation around Miller. By all accounts, Atlanta is asking a very steep price for Miller, including players like Soler, AJ Pollock (Arizona), Joc Pederson (LAD), Luis Severino (NYY). Looks like Atlanta, to deal him, is most interested in a young MLB bat with a lot of upside.

Braves are dealing from a strong position. Cost of Free Agent pitching is skyrocketing, and at least 20 teams have inquired on Miller. Don't have to be an economist to see the laws of supply and demand at work. Braves have a potential top of the rotation pitcher for a fraction of the cost of a free agent and 6 or 7 years younger. If they deal him (and that's a big "IF"), they'll ask for a king's ransom. Someone may just pay it.

Now that Price went to Boston and Grienke likely to land in SF or LAD, that probably only strengthens the position. A club like the Cubs who was largely rumored to make a big play for the top free agents is now left without. Of course, the Cubs and Braves were long rumored to be logical trade partners given Atlanta's young arms and Chicago's young bats.

[eiu1999]

Cubs sign John Lackey, 2 years.

[AshevilleApp2]

Reports have the Tigers signing Mike Pelfrey for 2 years. Sigh. xconfusedx

Well, I guess somebody needs to be the fifth starter.

[Laker]

Zack Greinke signs with Diamondbacks.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14292618/zack-greinke-agrees-arizona-diamondbacks?ex_cid=sportscenterFB

[AshevilleApp2]

Zack Greinke signs with Diamondbacks.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/14292618/zack-greinke-agrees-arizona-diamondbacks?ex_cid=sportscenterFB

Six year, 206 million. xrotatehx

[PaladinFan]

I think the Diamondbacks pretty well shocked everyone in baseball. I did not read a single report connecting them to Grienke. In fact, the LA Times suggested that the Dodgers did not even know the Diamondbacks were in the running until this weekend.

Oddly, the move helps Atlanta. You now have three major franchises (Cubs, Giants, Dodgers) who were favorites to land a big free agent pitcher, and they all missed out on Price, Grienke, and Zimmerman. Johnny Cueto is still out there. Braves probably still hold the best potentially available starting pitcher in Shelby Miller.

[AshevilleApp2]

Reports have Jeff Samardzija going to the Giants. $90 million over 5 years.

[PaladinFan]

Reports have Jeff Samardzija going to the Giants. $90 million over 5 years.

Nice get for the Giants. Samardzija isn't Grienke or Price, but he's a quality starter going to a pitcher-friendly park.

[AshevilleApp2]

And the Tigers sign reliever Mark Lowe for two years. With that bullpen, this should be good news.

[eiu1999]

Winter meetings...Cubs and Rays talks for pitching involve Baez.

[eiu1999]

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/12/07/aroldis-chapman-trade-dodgers-reds/76917970/

Dodgers get Chapman from Reds

[PaladinFan]

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2015/12/07/aroldis-chapman-trade-dodgers-reds/76917970/

Dodgers get Chapman from Reds

Maybe not. Chapman getting investigated for domestic abuse. Deal on the side for the moment.

[MR. CHICKEN]

Maybe not. Chapman getting investigated for domestic abuse. Deal on the side for the moment.

.....NEWS JOURNAL SAYS.....PHILLIES SHOPPIN' KEN GILES....FO' FARM LABOR.......TOOK OVERAH CLOSER ROLE....WHEN PAPELBOMB.......WAS DROPPED ON GNATS.......100 MPH CHEESE....&....KILLER SLIDER.......BROCK!

...WHIFF CHAPMAN IN POSSIBLE HOLDIN' PATTERN........GILES COOD B/COME......MEGA-DESIRABLE...........OCK!


http://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/mlb/phillies/2015/12/07/klentak-says-teams-continuing-show-interest-giles/76924306/

[eiu1999]

Maybe not. Chapman getting investigated for domestic abuse. Deal on the side for the moment.

Yeah, the Chapman thing getting uglier. Fired 7 shots in his garage and 12 police cars at his home. Yet not arrested for hitting her.

Then there' Dusty Baker's response....he doesn't believe 'reports'.....he always has hated the media but dismisses the police reports...he honestly needs to be fired, if Washington wants him to speak as an employee of their team, they look very bad.

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2015/12/08/dusty-baker-on-the-aroldis-chapman-allegations-i-dont-believe-reports/

[PaladinFan]

Reports are that Braves sign C Tyler Flowers to a two year deal (with option for third).

Flowers is a local boy and was a former Braves farmhand dealt to Chicago a number of years ago. Does signal that with AJ Pierzysnki signed next season, that this probably spells the end for once hearalded prospect Christian Betancourt. Bethancourt was named the starter last season coming out of spring training, and never lived up to billing. I imagine the Braves will try to deal him to a team needing catching depth as a "change of scenery" type.

[PaladinFan]

Holy frijoles.

Braves trade Shelby Miller (and a minor league reliever) to Arizona for OF Ender Inciarte, RHP Aaron Blair and SS Dansby Swanson.

In one trade, the Braves get a starting OF with elite defense and 5 years of control, a top 100 pitching prospect, and the #1 pick in the 2015 draft and nearly major league ready shortstop.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Zobrist is now a Cub, signed to a new 4-year contract. And we say goodbye to Starlin Castro, as he is off to the Bronx for Adam Warren and a player to be named later.

[TTUEagles]

Holy frijoles.

Braves trade Shelby Miller (and a minor league reliever) to Arizona for OF Ender Inciarte, RHP Aaron Blair and SS Dansby Swanson.

In one trade, the Braves get a starting OF with elite defense and 5 years of control, a top 100 pitching prospect, and the #1 pick in the 2015 draft and nearly major league ready shortstop.
Technically, I was there! Was walking around Opryland tonight and saw a ton of media personalities - I guess the executives were holed up in a suite somewhere hashing this thing out. Dansby Swanson (Vanderbilt) may be something special....

[PaladinFan]

Technically, I was there! Was walking around Opryland tonight and saw a ton of media personalities - I guess the executives were holed up in a suite somewhere hashing this thing out. Dansby Swanson (Vanderbilt) may be something special....

Very good player. Rarely (not in nearly 15 years, I think) has a #1 overall pick been traded as a minor leaguer.

Blair also has a potential to break the MLB rotation this year. Inciarte will be a starting OF this season. One could argue that Inciarte's bat is more valuable to the Braves by himself than Miller.

D'backs get a really good pitcher. They are in win now mode.

[eiu1999]

Listened to an interview with Cubs GM Jed Hoyer regarding Cubs interest in Shelby Miller, Braves asked for Kris Bryant...xlolx

[PaladinFan]

Listened to an interview with Cubs GM Jed Hoyer regarding Cubs interest in Shelby Miller, Braves asked for Kris Bryant...xlolx

The Braves never backed down on their asking price, and frankly hit the jackpot. The tactic is a pretty tried and true means of negotiating. You ask for something almost impossibly big, and then back off to seem "reasonable." They did this with numerous teams.

Bryant wasn't the only such player. They wanted AJ Pollock from Arizona. They asked Los Angeles for Seager and Pederson. It was pretty clear to everyone that if you wanted Shelby Miller, you were going to have to surrender a long term MLB ready cornerstone asset plus top prospects. Atlanta did not have to move him, and I think everyone knew that.

[tribe_pride]

Mets just redid their middle infield. Traded SP Jonathon Niese to the Pirates for 2B Neil Walker and then signed SS Asdrubal Cabrera to a 2 year $18.5 Million deal

[MR. CHICKEN]

.....PHILLIES...REPORTEDLY.....IN TRADE WHIFF 'STROS.......KEN GILES...FO' VINCENT VELASQUEZ...&.....3 OTHERAHS.............BROCK!

http://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/mlb/phillies/2015/12/09/phillies-reportedly-nearing-trade-send-giles-houston/77055478/

[PaladinFan]

.....PHILLIES...REPORTEDLY.....IN TRADE WHIFF 'STROS.......KEN GILES...FO' VINCENT VELASQUEZ...&.....3 OTHERAHS.............BROCK!

http://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/mlb/phillies/2015/12/09/phillies-reportedly-nearing-trade-send-giles-houston/77055478/

I think the Phillies trade with the Astros as often as the Braves deal with the D'backs.

[eiu1999]

Can't find link but Heyward deciding between Cubs and Cards.

[PaladinFan]

Can't find link but Heyward deciding between Cubs and Cards.

Just interested to see what the final tally is.

[PaladinFan]

Braves deal longtime catching prospect Christian Bethancourt to San Diego.

Inglorious end to a guy that was expected to be Atlanta's catcher for the next 10 years. Never seen the Braves sour on a prospect so quickly, but there was concerns that Bethancourt simply didn't have the mental makeup to be a major league catcher. Maybe a change of scenery helps.

[eiu1999]

Heyward a Cub.

[PaladinFan]

Heyward a Cub.

It was a double win. Heyward goes to Chicago while rejecting the Cards and Nationals. Reports were that the Nats offered him $200m (more than the Cubs).

Chicago now has a bit of a backlog in the outfield.

[AshevilleApp2]

Well, the Tigers wanted two starting pitchers, back end of the bullpen help, and an outfielder heading into the off season. Seems like they have it, for better or worse.

SP
Jordan Zimmerman
Mike Pelfrey

RP
Francisco Rodriguez
Mark Lowe
Justin Wilson

OF
Cameron Maybin

They also signed Jarod Saltalmacchia, to compete for the backup catcher position.

Things could blow up, but I think this hasn't been a bad haul. In the trades they made, they didn't give up much of their top young talent. And the signings were usually 2 year deals, Zimmerman being the exception of course.

Still looking for a bench player who can play both outfield and infield. But besides that, or Mike Ilitch saying sign me X player at any cost, they seem to be set heading into next season.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Pete Rose's ban still not lifted. Does this automatically mean that he won't be in Cooperstown until long after he's dead? xchinscratchx

Who are other players that deserve to be in Cooperstown but are not there for any reason?

[citdog]

Meanwhile...

Pete Rose's ban still not lifted. Does this automatically mean that he won't be in Cooperstown until long after he's dead? xchinscratchx

Who are other players that deserve to be in Cooperstown but are not there for any reason?

Joe Jackson

[AshevilleApp2]

Wow. Giants sign Johnny Cueto to a 6 year $130 million dollar deal.

[PaladinFan]

Joe Jackson

Second.

- - - Updated - - -


Wow. Giants sign Johnny Cueto to a 6 year $130 million dollar deal.

Always interesting to see the reactions of division rivals when teams start to make a move for the post season. Becomes an arms race.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Todd Frazier is off to the South Side of Chicago... in a trade that also involved the Dodgers.

[ngineer]

Phillies ended up trading 2 for 5 in return. Lose one of the top young relievers in the game in Giles, but he's wasted on a team that won't contend for a couple more years. Lots of "nice" prospects in return, but it's usually a crapshoot.