The newest pitcher - pending a physical
I found an industry source who has confirmed that the Orioles reached agreement on a multi-year contract with Japanese pitcher Koji Uehara, backing what The Sun's Dan Connolly reported.
Feel free to go back to the video that I posted last night and break down that delivery again. You're going to be seeing a lot more of it.
I heard yesterday that the Orioles were close to finalizing a deal with Uehara, 33, but it was off the record and I couldn't get a second source to confirm, so I dropped a video hint. Kudos to Connolly (who bears a striking resemblance to former Orioles pitcher Travis Driskill) for nailing it down.
The Orioles don't comment on these matters until the player passes a physical, as we've learned in the past. Xavier Hernandez ruined it for all of us.
Club officials now will turn their attention to finding a catcher and perhaps a first baseman, rather than continuing to pursue starting pitchers.
They'll keep an eye on the pitching market and perhaps jump back in if they can find a relative bargain, but that probably takes them out of the running for Kenshin Kawakami. I wouldn't count on him joining Uehara here.
The Orioles identified the pitchers they liked earlier this winter and met with their representatives last month in Las Vegas. The pitcher who came back to them first, at their terms, would be signed. It turned out to be Uehara.
Braden Looper wants too much money. Kawakami is holding out for a better offer. Uehara brings a little more appeal because the Orioles like his versatility. They believe he can be an effective reliever if he's not needed in the rotation, or is too overmatched for it at this level.
John Stockstill, the Orioles' director of international scouting, has seen Uehara pitch in person about six times and really likes him. But the true test always comes on U.S. soil.
Uehara won two games in the 2006 World Baseball Classic and has found a tremendous amount of success in international competition, which leaves team officials encouraged.
The Orioles needed to stabilize the rotation with a few veterans who could eat up innings, but they also wanted to make sure they weren't blocking prospects such as Chris Tillman, Jake Arrieta, David Hernandez, Brad Bergesen and Brian Matusz if any of them are ready for the majors at some point during the upcoming season. And they want to give Garrett Olson, Radhames Liz and Hayden Penn a fair shot. Guys like Mark Hendrickson and Uehara can move to the bullpen, if they're not already there.
Meanwhile, the Orioles remain interested in catchers Gregg Zaun and Ivan Rodriguez, and that's likely to be the next position filled.
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Categories (click for archive)Roch Kubatko | Roch Kubatko Orioles |
Roch, he looks very effective on the video clips, albeit highlights v. times he got bombed.
Believe he'll effectively eat innings as a starter and be in a position to give the O's quite a few quality starts.
Still would like to see Looper in our camp.
Skeptics are probably already saying: The O's got one of the two Japanese guys they were after...however, the other one was the better one.
Good news all around and on the right track with Zaun and Irod
Roch good info....interesting to know your inside on more starters...they do have lots to choose from even if you put Guthrie, Hendrickson and Uehara in..and Olson and Liz should be better..Penn gets a shot...plus the rest...Patton...Albers maybe...Bass..Waters...Burres...Baez...maybe even Hennessey...and the youngsters you list getting a look...can't imagine I Rod coming to the O's....with Weiters zoooming in..Zaun or someone sounds more logical...1B...still think Sexton is worth a shot..cheap...guess we wil find out...good signing of Uehara though..throws strikes...gotta love that..go O's..keep it coming Roch...
I think this is a good signing, looking forward to seeing him in an O's uniform.
You mentioned Kawakami and Looper may be out, but any word on Redding? I know I saw something recently that the Rockies were interested. Great stuff as always, thanks!
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Right now, they're not going hard after any pitchers. Doesn't mean they won't come back to the three guys you mentioned, but for now, the focus has shifted. - Roch
I like the signing... Zaun would be nice. Not crazy about Pudge. Unless the thought is his bat is good enough to DH for a few years. Or move him to 2nd. I kid, I kid...
Well, there goes my dream of seeing 2 Japanese pitchers in our rotation. Although, one Japanese starter is a good start, and Uehara's delivery does look good, he has a little twist, so that's a good deceptive motion.
If I had my choice as catcher, I'd go with Gregg Zaun because he's a switch-hitter, has ties to the Orioles, and knows the game very well. I'd want Pudge too but I'm just afraid he's not gonna be productive. Sorry to say, but Pudge is not the same Pudge he once was.
For the first baseman, I'd look for Dunn, IF he is not asking for too much money. I'm perfectly fine with Aubrey Huff, but I'd like somebody else. I know I don't want Kevin Millar back in uniform, BUT Millar is excellent in a cheerleader kind of role or a baseball operations role too. I want him involved somehow, but just not on the field.
Let's see what moves Andy MacPHAIL makes in the next 35 days.
Not a bad signing at all.Not a fist pumper, but not bad. Bet IRod is next.
I'd rather take a chance on a guy who could be a surprise, rather than someone who we know will suck (Looper, Garland, Byrd, Hendrickson whoever)... good signing, even if all it accomplishes is the Orioles getting their foot in the Asian door.
Uehara an Oriole? Interesting. I'm not sure it's a good move, but interesting. Time will tell.
His follow-throughs for many of the deliveries on the video clip were D-Cab/Liz ugly, though in a different way. It almost looks like he could get an assist at first by kicking the ball over there.
As for his pitching, he didn't really impress me all that much with his fastball, but I must admit the split-finger was pretty nice. How his stuff translates in the AL, especially in East is going to be a real test.
Can he can weather the storm facing the lineups of division foes? I can't wait to find out.
Actually I'd think Kawakami would be a good fit now with the Orioles, because it's easier for a Japanese player in his first season over here to make the transition if he had one of his countrymen as a teammate/roommate. At least, I think I'd like that comfort if I was playing in a foreign country.
What Ichiro's been able to do is pretty remarkable, considering he still doesn't speak any English and I don't think he had any Japanese teammates when he first came to Seattle. But that's not the ideal situation to be in and I would think having Uehara ought to make it easier for the O's to get Kawakami, not more difficult.
The Sun's Dan Connolly is reporting that while scouts project Uehara as a mid-to-back-of-rotation starter in the majors, the O's will slot him right behind Guthrie unless they can sign or trade for another starter.
Hey Roch,
You mentioned that the O's might be looking into first basemen soon.
Are you hearing anything new on that front?
Are the O's still looking at Hinske and Sexson?
Do you think they might be interested in Wigginton or Dunn now that the market seems to have come down a bit?
Also, is there any interest in Willie Bloomquist for a utility role?
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You ask good questions, Chris, and lots of 'em. Wish I had some good answers for you. As far as I know, they haven't eliminated Hinske and Sexson from consideration, but it's not like there's a ton of information flowing from the warehouse. And I don't know about the other guys. Haven't heard Wigginton or Boomquist mentioned. - Roch
I know it has been stated before, but 1B is not a position we should be desperate for. I think (along with you Roch, I believe) that Oscar Salazar deserves a fair shot there and with every day play, I think he could really thrive. If not him, then Huff. If Huff was there and did a decent job, wouldn't that up his trade value around mid-season assuming he continues to put up the numbers he did last year?
Rosenthal reports that: "Pavano has reached preliminary agreement on a one-year, $1.5 million agreement with the Indians.
The deal also includes $5.3 million in incentive bonuses based on the number of games Pavano starts and his innings pitched"
This is what Orioles should have done. In July - if he stays healthy and pitches effectively - he could have been traded for a nice prospect.
Hey Roch
I've watched a few of the Uehara vids on youtube and what's really impressive to me is that all of his pitches have movement, none of them seem flat or straight.
I think I'd pass on IRod, because Wieters is due up sometime this year and I've heard and read that Ivan tends to throw tantrums when he's not getting all the time behind the plate. So I can't see him coming here if he's probably gonna end up being a backup. Or maybe he signs here with the understanding that if a contender is looking for catching when the deadline rolls around that he'd be traded. (Matt could very well be in the majors by then) I just don't see him as being a backup.
Plus I don't like the guy because of his cheapshots he's taken at our players and others when he slides into second.
I'm not so sure about your Connoly look-alike, but I laugh every time I see Placido Palonco. Or is that Zreb?
Roch,
What do they mean they are OUT of the market for more starting pitching. Has McFAIL totally lost his mind? Who is the other starting pitchers. Oh let me guess....by committee. Didn't all of last year with the brutal showing prove that some of these kids need more developmental time?
This has to be the most disturbing blog of the off season.
LET ME GUESS WE SPENT TOO MUCH THIS WINTER
THANKS A MIL OLE PETER and MCFAIL
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Nobody said they're out of the market. - Roch
Can we also say what everyone is thinking about I-Rod? His stats have dropped off precipitously since MLB instituted steroid regs.
This is a pitcher that pitched so bad at times last year that he was demoted to the "japanese" minors?
I dont know whether to laugh or cry right now? What happened to atleast trying to acquire a few "bodies" to fill the rotation.
Dont tell me they are going to packeage this guy with hendrickson and guthrie and call it a rotation. This year is going to be an all out slaughter at Camden Yards. I can see Boog will not have to go to the slaughter house any this summer...he will be viewing it first hand.
Can you imagine what the O's players from the past must now think of this organization.......WHAT HAPPENED?
EASY ANSWER ......THE OWNER
Everything quality you hope the owner of your hometown sports team DOESNT HAVE!
McFAIL you are an embarassment to this team to try and pull the wool over the fans eyes with this off season!
BRING BACK NESTOR
Great in getting us the "hint" last night, but if I see a video clip of Barry Bonds soon I am going to be worried.
Roch - Do you know if this Japanese pitcher speaks any English or does Greg Zahn or Matt Wieters know any Japanese? If Uehara doesn't speak any English how does the catcher or pitching coach communicate with the guy?
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Thanks for the idea. I'm gonna post video of Bonds and Roger Clemens, just to see your reaction. As for the communication issue, we all wonder the same thing. It's not like anybody in the Orioles organization speaks Japanese. Then again, Matt Wieters is so talented, he's probably fluent in it. - Roch
I, for one, think the Orioles should still be focused on pitchers. Yes, we need a catcher and yes, we probably need another first baseman (although Salazar backing up Huff might be the answer), but think of all the guys we went through last season.
You can never have too much pitching. If Jeremy Guthrie went down with an injury in April, the rotation as it currently stands would crumble like a house of cards.
first off jack is is not appropriate to use with plurals, that would be are. Example:
Who is our starting pitchers? Wrong. Who are our starting pitchers = win.
The McFail stuff is seriously getting old as well. He hasn't even been here 2 years and he's totally reinvigorated our minor league teams. Perhaps you should go sit in the corner until pitchers and catchers report.
all right so lets see whos involved in this smorgasborg of orioles rotation candidates.
-guthrie has his ace spot nailed down.
-uehera is a pretty safe bet for the rotation...we just dont know where
-hendrickson seems to be a fringe candidate but if the orioles dont make anymore moves, hes probably a back-of-the-rotation guy
-liz, olsen, burres and penn are the perennial underachievers
-bass and waters are interesting possibilities who did fairly well at the end of '08
-patton and albers are both coming off injuries...patton seems more likely to start off in AAA though
-baez and johnson are probably sticking to the bullpen but its not out of the realm of possibilities for one of them to get a shot at starting
-even hennessey may get some looks in spring training
that puts 14 pitchers in the mix for 5 rotation spots. spring training should have some interesting competitions. im am somewhat against throwing up projected rotations because theres so many variables and so many pitchers involved. besides guthrie and uehara, the final 3 spots are just going to go to whoever does best in spring training and who can ever predict that?
Roch,
You mentioned that now their focus has shifted from starting pitching. Is this your personal opinion or is this what you have been told. Do you think this is a smart idea considering our rotation?
In all honesty, do you see a worse starting rotation in the AL right now if your hunch that they are now refocusing is right?
Again, I dont know whether to laugh or cry right now?
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I know for a fact that their focus has shifted. As for it being a smart move, guess it depends how you look at it. People are stressing about them not signing another catcher or bringing in another hitter, but when they look more in that direction, people stress over them not working harder to get another pitcher. As I wrote, they're keeping an eye on the pitching market. Not ignoring it. But catcher and first base are higher priorities now. And they're waiting to see if any of the other pitchers drop in price. - Roch
Good acquisition. Gee, it's good to see Ol' Jack, A.S.S. (Ass't Sec., of Sarcasm) is alive and well, and in a hurry as always to condemn that which he obviously knows NOTHING about. Glad he noticed the sentence concerning Uehara's trip to the minors. I suppose he totally missed the videos of this guy throwing STRIKES with MOVEMENT on them. Hit the road, Jack, and I'm sure you know the next line. Great move, Andy, but we need more pitching. Don't stop there.
Go O's!
Hey Roch,
Jack is Wack. Whats up with Wack? (See How I Typed Wack there instead of Jack!) Clever, No?
Roch - I know you have mentioned Garko and God forbid Richie Sexson, but which other first basemen has the team talked to?
Have they had any discussion with Adam Dunn(DH,1B, OF)?
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Didn't I address Dunn in your last post? Or is this a different Ray? I don't think there's a lot of interest there, but I hope to get a better sense of it soon. Wish I could give you a complete list of first basemen who have drawn their interest, but I just can't do it. They showed some interest in Hank Blalock earlier this winter, but that might have cooled. - Roch
But to the doubters....
Ole Jack will be correct on McFAILS plan and this years starting pitching. Come July we will be an embarrassment to the AL.
If I am wrong, I will admit it. But if I am right....I expect all of you to do the same.
As Millar would say....July 31 will be COWBOY UP TIME!
I want to see about five of you "so called baseball experts" with your tails between your legs. But figuring you wont admit your abysmal projection of the starting rotation....you will go and hide!
This is what McFAIL and Ole PETER prey on....fan loyal to even a loser. If you stick your toe in a burning house and it gets burnt...only an idiot walks in!
Remember, this guy was sent down to the JAPANESE minors last year...aka the Carolina League.
Jack, if uehara is really as bad as you believe he is, why would keith law rank him as the 22nd best free agent? ahead of ben sheets, junichi tawaza, andy pettitte and randy wolf?
if you think macphail is doing so horribly, let me ask you 2 things:
what would you have done differently?
what do you think the FO should do now?
Projected rotation:
Guthrie
Uehera (would still like to see Garland)
Olsen?
Penn?
Liz? (Maybe hendrickson)
Sorry Roch, I still think there's some work to do, this rotation won't get it done. What do you think?
Roch,
I like the signing personally, but do you think the Orioles may enter into negotiations with Andy Pettite now that he has rejected the Yankees offer? I know he is slightly more pricey than other pitchers on the market, but for a year or two, he might not be a bad investment.
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I seriously doubt it. And I have even greater doubts that he'd want to pitch on a rebuilding team at this stage of his career. - Roch
I honestly did not believe we'd get either Japanese pitcher, but am excited that we did. I refused to press "play" on your video last night because I was not going to get excited watching/thinking about a player who very well might not come to Baltimore.
But I'm going back now to watch it!! Overall, this was a decent move. Why did Wack say Uehara went to the Japanese minor leagues? Is that true? What's the story behind that?
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I'm going to address it tomorrow morning, but there's talk that he was being punished for making his interest in coming to the U.S. so public. - Roch
Roch,
Are the O's really looking for another utility guy? I know he has been around, but Chris Gomez is available. I think they could do worse, he is versatile and always seemed like a good guy.
Baldelli is very interesting. I think he would be worth a look.
A somewhat disappointing off season so far. If MacPhail wants the fans to truly believe in "The Plan", they need to lock up Markakis now. The O's have the money. If they are going to build from within, prove it.
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I'm not sure that another utility player is a high priority, though Gomez can play shortstop, which would make him quite useful. Donnie Murphy has a chance to make the team, plus Ryan Freel can move around the infield and outfield. - Roch
Roch, back during the winter meetings, there was talk of a Japanese Free agent catcher. Would make sense with the Japanese Pitcher. Have you heard anything more about him?
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Only heard that the Orioles were the only team that was interested. Not sure if that was true, but I remember reading it somewhere. Would make more sense now, except would they have to keep him once Wieters comes up? What about Zaun or Rodriguez? Not like they're going to keep three catchers. - Roch
Roch, I did send my post on Dunn twice. First one must have somehow gotten deleted.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Someone named Ray sent a post that included question about Dunn at end. Was slightly different than the next one. I responded. No biggie. I know there's a lot of interest in the guy among fans. - Roch
How do we pronounce Uehara?
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I think it's U-E-Har-Ah, but someone please correct me if I'm wrong. - Roch
Um Jack...you just slammed AM for not signing this guy sooner in a previous blog and now you are slamming him for signing him? What gives? A little consistency please? AM came into a 10 year nightmare and is doing quite well in my opinion. The team was much more competitive than anyone expected for a good portion of the year last year. Things took a nosedive when Cabrera lost his control, some of the other pitchers got hurt and we had to depend on AAA guys who'd never pitched a full season in the majors. 11 years of losing seasons don't go away over night. AM has a very good track record with many teams making the playoffs and even the WS that he put together. Chill out and look at the good that man's done:
-Bedard was traded for our new CF, #2 pitcher, Closer/setup man and two others I think...what did Bedard do last year? Do you think this was a bad trade? If you do than you are dumb.
Tejada was traded for Luke Scott (who is streaky but played hard and very well at times) and some pitchers who may or may not turn out to be productive. Check out Miggy's stats compared to Scott's:
Miggy
.283 13 66
Scott
.257 23 65
Interesting eh...he's also 4 years younger than Miggy. Quit you're whining and be patient. They are on the right track. AM is patient because he's not going to make a fool move like trading a good pitching prospect for Kris Benson...ugh, that still sucks!
Roch, as I see it, the Orioles need two more starting pitchers and a couple more long relievers who can serve as a starter when injuries come about, which they will. Your best guesses on who lands here? Can I get a Paul Byrd? Can I get a Daniel Cabrera? Oh, wait, nevermind...
Here's an interesting catching possibility now that we have signed Uehera. Kenji Johima. Mariners are apparently willing to eat significant salary in return for a prospect. He had a lousy year last season after two very solid years. Despite that, his numbers were very similar to Zaun and Rodriguez and he's seven years younger. He did throw out 33% of would be stealers compared to 25% by Zaun.
I could live with IRod except his numbers dropped off dramatically last year after being traded to the Yankees in a limited role. If Wieters has a breakout spring training, IRod should become the backup immediately. Could he live with that? Would he lose interest? Zaun would be the perfect fit for that role. Johima could catch Uehera every fifth day, eliminating the language barrier problem and making Uehera's adjustment here far easier. Would he be happy with that role? It's likely what he's going to be doing with the Mariner's this year.
so far i am very pleased with everything Macphail has done so far with his time at the club, he got way more than i thought he would for ramon hernandez, plus the bedard trade was a virtual steal and the best part of it is still in the minors. i think these two signings make perfect sense for this club because Uehara and Hendrickson can both move to the bull pen. the most exciting thing about the o's is the potential in guys like chris tillman, and arieta, and Matusz, and Adam Jones. it would have been a big mistake to sign a guy like AJ burnett, and then have him block a place in the rotation for a guy like tillman. I'm guessing that most of the guys in the AA rotation last year will be at AAA this year, meaning that if they do well they will be competing for spots in august. those are the guys we want, not ben sheets or carl pavano.
keep up the good work Macphail,
Roch,
Can you see the O's signing Baldelli and putting him over at 1B? I see him as a John Olerud type of player...
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I don't see it, but I'm not basing that on anything I've been told. - Roch
Iftyg - You bring up a very good question. If McFAIL is so bad, what would I do if I was GM
A) First off...COMMUNICATE the vision and "plan" to the Oriole fans. We are not in a rebuilding phase when you sign someone like Hendrickson. This guy is simply taking up valuable space that a quality "rookie" should be taking up if we are in a "rebuilding" phase. Hmmm like Berken, Bergeson ....or any of the AA bowie staff for that matter. DONT SPEAK WITH A FORK TONGUE
B) Tell Pete first and foremost. Stay the @@@@ out of baseball affairs unless you want another GM. If you trust me, then let me roll with it without having to get approval to use the mens room. Give me a budget and let me roll with it.
C) Come out and say what the budget is for this year. What do we have slated to spend? Dont lie to the fans and say we are going to "do whatever we have to" upgrade our starting pitching. And then throw Hendrickson and now this Japanese over the hill pitcher at us.
D) COMMUNICATE the PLAN!
E) Explain to the fans why we are small market team? And we cant spend market value to get quality FA in here. I agree, winning teams are made up of a MIX of QUALITY FA signings and home grown talent. WE have NO ONE in the mix coming up besides Weiters who is home grown...PERIOD!
F) Why didnt McFAIL ever talk to the media about the failure to sign Tex...because he didnt negotiate in good faith. You dont make an offer and not follow up on it. Those last few days, he should have put his "wiggle room" best offer on the table, come to the fans and say so and let the cards fall where they will. To this day we still have NO IDEA what the O's offered Tex besides the rumor mill. Ask Roch the MASN reporter. Did McFAIL ever look him in the eye and tell him this is what we offered and this is where we would have went with the best offer....NO BECAUSE HE HAD NO INTENTIONS of going all out. He offered a proposal he knew would not be accepted just to make it look like he tried. That is why he never followed up. Whether Tex wanted to come her is an entirely different blog in itself.
G) Go after Lowe...a proven innings eater and quality starter but would cost probably 14 mil in todays standards for 4 years. Why are we hearing about other teams grabbing these "bargain" pitchers who are somewhat capable and still on the market for 4-5 and we are going after the has been from another country. Ewwww that is right, we want to make a statement about getting our foot in the door in japan! Feed that BS to someone who doesnt know better. YOU and PETE are CHEAP! that is why!
H) Do you want me to keep going?
Sorry for the typos....have to pick up my son from work!
Good night everyone
THANKS OLE PETER and the great communicator McFAIL
Roch can you answer F with the truth so we can put it to rest. The part where I threw it on your shoulders!
I think signing Uehera instead of Kawakami is the better move. Uehera got two years, Kawakami is seeking three. As you stated Uehera allows the O's some flexibility. If the young guys develop as hoped he can easily be moved to the pen in 2010 where he has experience.
Hmm, let's see. On the video Koji strikes out Bonds and Giambi. Know how he can be an instant hit at Camden Yards? Striking out A-Rod and Teixeira back to back when New York comes to town should do it!
WANTED, PART TIME PITCHING COACH. MUST BE ABLE TO SPEAK FLUENT JAPANESE ! PLEASE CONTACT THE BALTIMORE ORIOLES, ASK FOR ANDY !
Roch,
Since you ran with just a rumor about the Floyd/Roberts trade talks, why did we only get a hint (with a video) about the possibility of the japanese pitcher signing last night? Why did we only get a video with no mention of the O's in DEEP possible final talks to secure the guy? If you ran the video as you mentioned, you had quite a good idea something serious was going down? Why no mention of your inside gut reporting?
I hate to say it but it looks like you were not allowed to run with this hunch, rumor, brainstorm or whatever you want to call it?
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It just tells me that you don't know what "off the record" means. The Roberts-Floyd thing was based on the fact that Williams loves Roberts and inquired about him, and the Orioles brought up Floyd. Nothing false there. And I could use it. The Uehara stuff wasn't on the record or given to me for "background purposes." And I wasn't going to burn the person who passed it along. That's how you stay in this business. Or at least stay respected. - Roch
Roch- I saw the interview clip tonight of Texiera saying he was NEVER an O's fan. He does not know where the media got that from. When he came ot games as a kid, he always wore a Yankee jersey. Which just proves he a HOMO! Not to offend anyone, I have nothing against anyone, except BANDWAGON HOMO'S!!! How easy is it to jump on the backs of a team that will always at a minimum buy the playoffs.
I hate him even more now that I know the truth.
Thats like being born in the USA and rooting for the Taliban. HOW FRUITY CAN SOMEONE BE?
Roch,
What are the chances that the Floyd trade comes through and do you see Guthrie as the #1 or Floyd?
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I don't see it happening now. Didn't necessarily see it happening before. Just know the two sides talked about it. - Roch
Roch,
I do know what off the record means....lol. My line of work you have to.
Now to the Roberts/Floyd issue you brought up. You just brought this up 2 days ago as it must have RECENTLY been fed to you by an "informant" Why does the owner of the White Sox report he hasnt talked to the O's since November but this iformation is just coming to light fromt he O's? Hmmm sounds like the O's are just feeding you info to you knowing you will run with it (as you should) to make it look like they are trying or else to scare Roberts to thinking he might go to a team he dont want to?
Since a DONE DEAL signing is factual and a rumor of a possible trade is just that a rumor. Do you ever think you are being used by this FO to foster hope in the fans to sell tickets. Why would they make a rumor NOT for " BACKGROUND PURPOSES" but make a true signing for "backgroung purposes" only.....THINK ABOUT THAT ROCH
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What's your line of work, Jack? And I'm not going to respond to another question about the Orioles "feeding me information." I've done it enough and you're not paying attention. Think about that. - Roch
Does this mean we can rescind Hendrickson's contract?
Nah, I didn't think so.
I would have liked Uehara first, so that Hendrickson might not have seemed so necessary, but I guess the Orioles just had to make sure somebody didn't rush in and steal Hendrickson. What a shame that would have been.
Penn is going to get the short end of the stick here -- bank on it.
Jack, i have to disagree with you about a lot of things you said there...
first of all, i dont think macphail deserves a bad rap just because he holds his cards close to his chest. thats just how he operates.
second, the orioles would have to grossly overpay for lowe who wants to play for a contender. hes getting old and an overpayed 4-year contract just wouldnt be worth it.
third, bergesen and for that matter anyone who was in the AA rotation last year is not ready for the big leagues. they need time in AAA before they play with the big boys. a few years ago, the o's called hayden penn up too early and look what happened with him. the purpose of the hendrickson signing is a stopgap solution until the guys like bergesen, tillman, matusz and everyone else is ready.
fourth, who cares that macphail didnt talk about teixeira getting away? its obvious that tex never, EVER, wanted to play here so why dwell on it? its ok that hes moving on. the reason the FO never upped their offer for tex is that boras never even called them back!
finally, the plan is obvious. stockpile pitching and rebuild through the draft and trades. no one is saying hendrickson is the answer.
Roch,
Does this mean that Boog will be changing his menu to add Sushi? Or a complete redo as Boog's Sushi Bar (nice ring).
As it relates to an earlier post, I am a "Fiber One" Cereal man myself, but once you go over forty it is all about making adjustments :)
(side note for Jack - why don't you take up knitting - but be careful with the needles)
Go O's
Roch,
I have to agree with Jack sadly on this one.
Are you a blogger or a reporter for MASN?
Do you blog only SOME facts along with ALL rumors or is there things you hear that you have to hold from us...your supporters?
Again it begs the question, since the Orioles Front Office knows you are a blogger, do they come to you and say you cant blog this topic until it is finalized?
He does have a point there.
GO RAVENS!
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Really, Kerry? I haven't answered this question enough? The front office doesn't control what I write. They have no idea what I'm writing, though some of my questions might give them a hint at times. Why don't you ask anyone from MLB.com if the teams they cover control what they write. Same answer: No. I write a blog for MASN. I was a reporter at The Sun. I'm not sure if a "reporter" title exists for a Web site. The Sun never wanted me breaking stories on my blog. I was told that any news had to be written for the Web site first in story form, and then I could comment on it in the blog, as if it might otherwise get lost or somehow be reduced in importance. That rule went right out the window as soon as I took the buyout, for obvious reasons. The Sun didn't want anyone following me to MASN, so they came up with another blog that's supposed to be heavy on Orioles, and they want the beat guys to feed it whatever news they get. But it was much different before. Anyway, I have yet to be told that I can't write something simply because the Orioles don't want it to get out. MASN doesn't necessarily expect me to break news like a beat reporter at a major daily, and I didn't join them to work like a beat reporter. That's not what I enjoy doing. But I've had some good "gets," as we call 'em in the business, and I guess MASN is even luckier to have me than they realized (which I'll bring up at contract time). And this, officially, is the last time that I'm addressing the topic. If people still can't comprehend it or don't want to believe it, too freakin' bad. Oh yeah, and GO RAVENS! - Roch
Roch- i have read on 2 different sites now that signing Uehara helps us if we also want Kawakami because of the coming to the new country and they could live together and translate for each other. Makes sense to me, have you heard anything?
Maybe, if we get enough japanese players, we can move the team to Okinawa and out of the AL East.
Seriously though, the one we want is NEXT year. I hope this helps if we make a run at Yu Darvish. Not having that posting fee will help our chances. I don't see Angelosss paying just to talk to a player, do you?
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I'm too busy wondering if your name is really Roch. - Roch
Jack, it seems like most of your complaints are about communication. i dont really see that as a reason to get your panties all up in a bunch.
Iftyg
I like the dialog.
McFAIL doesnt deserve all of the bad rap...you are correct. But he does speak with a fork tongue. Dont tell me you are going to go out and improve the starting rotation and then throw Hedrickson and the Japanese guy at us and say....ok I am done with the starting pitching.
b) How do we know Lowe wouldnt take a 4/14 mil deal unless we tried. It would look good for the fans, the players on the team and by the way...we would win a few more. I disagree with you about his age...he is a innings eaters like Moyer.
C) How come McFAIL didnt have a problem thowing Liz, Olson,Waters, Bass and on and on out there this year and all of a sudden he dont want to rush starters next year? Learning on the job is better then hendrickson or Traschel. Plus I dont buy all that "rushing" bs either. I think it may be a little bit more of the O's FO over stating the talents of Liz, Olson and Penn to much to start with.
Did the Tampa "RUSH" Price too fast? If you got talent, it will show.
d) How do you know that Boras never called the O's back to counter. Again, you are only going off rumors. Why hasnt McFAIL come out and said this is what happened to put things to rest. Again his own words " if we walk away without netting Tex, this offseason is a failure" Be open with the fans instead of so secretive! You would think the warehouse is the CIA office.
I dont buy the plan. Why not go after some of these quality players thru FA instead of grabbing Ituzu as our FUTURE. This guy stinks with the bat. and in the meantime there are still 2 much better SS on the FA market...Oh that is right...he came cheaper. Wanna bet they grab Sexson as the answer to 1b...because he is cheaper. Stockpile pitching???? What players that have arm problems that will probably never be anything with the O's? Or time bombs? Dont we have enough of them already? In the Bedard and Tejada trade, besides Tillman, what pitcher did we net who will be a top notch (#3 or better) pitching prospect
Good dialog...have a great night!
Roch,
what happened to my post that I sent for review a half an hour ago with the facts about reporting rumors and facts? The one that questioned the responsibilities of a blogger versus reporter?
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What happened is I took a much-needed break from answering questions and approving comments so I could write an entry that I'll post in the morning. Yes, I'm still working past 10 p.m. - Roch
Roch,
Any indication from the O's if Roberts wants to stay or go? When do you think things will progress in that area?
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I honestly would be very surprised if he signed an extension. But I'm not placing any bets. - Roch
Iftgy33 - I too disagree with almost everything Jack had to say, except that I believe Bergesen is ready. I still believe he should have been called up end of July 2008.
You're also right about what the plan is, with an occasional free agent here or there.
Jack - Andy MacPhail held a press conference in the fall of 2007 and explained the "Plan". For those of us who were paying attention and were Orioles fans at the time we were clear about what the Plan was after that day. Unlike some people, Mr. MacPhail does not feel compelled to repeat himself, and nor should he!
i wouldn't be surprised if jack actually did wear panties. Dude, you are so far off base with your posts, i really don't even want to expend the energy dissecting your nonsense. If there were an ignore function on this blog you'd be the first on it. You are arguably one of the worst interwebz trolls i've ever seen.
Roch,
I love hearing all of this I-Rod talk, he's a quality right hand hitter almost .300BA lifetime, very reasonable OBP,can DH or play first,he has the hard base running and plate blocking skills the O's haven't had in a catcher in decades. If we're not contending when Weiters comes up he becomes at the very least a valuable trading commodity.
Please keep up the chatter for Zaun and a couple of starters. I still like Odalis Perez(Wash. lefty )and Jason Jennings(Tex. Righty), both pitchers know how to keep the ball low, pitch fast and have done well in hitter friendly ball parks.
Kudos on your journalistic integrity on the Uehera deal, you gave us a nice tease and heads up without reporting something that hadn't yet happened. Thats how I like my news up to the minute and accurate.
Thanks, Leon
Solid signing. Hats off to the O's for getting one of their targeted pitchers from Japan. I'm just surprised it was followed up by: now we are good on pitching. Really? Hendrickson and Japanese middle reliever added to one of baseball's worst staffs-- Kranitz must be overjoyed. The Jojima idea was pretty clever- but he's probably too good and young for the plan. Anyway,beggars can't be choosy. Good work O's.
Hey Nestor, I mean Jack, your post are really, yawn,zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Jack, (and I hate to keep wasting all of this valuable electronic on the likes of you)
Why would Andy McPhail want to talk to you?
Lowe is never coming here...let me repeat, never.
AM traded Bedard and got Adam Jones, which looks like a great deal straight up at this point. He also got OTHERS. It was such a good trade it got everyone from Seattle fired!
AM traded Miggy, and got good return. Did you nor like Luke? Did you pay attention to hoe effective Albers was before he went down (big turning point in the season, check the record).
AM's not good enough to slam for no reason, now you go after Roch, the ahnd that feeds you? For some insane idea that he should let YOU know what's going on?
I'm not sure your motives, but you're really a hurting pup.
BTW, not to slam you too bad, I kind of agree that in July the O's may not look good.
BUT THAT'S NOT THE PLAN...PAY ATTENTION!
Wow Jack, I've never seen such creativity with the way you changed Mr. MacPhail's name around. I mean McFail, haha, that hillarious man, I mean why not, he's been so awful. Getting Adam Jones, Chris Tillman and George Sherrill for Bedard was such a terrible deal. And getting rid of Tejada for Patton, Albers, Scott, and Safarte was disgraceful. How could they trade away a guy that great clubhouse guy in his last year here for so many useless pieces? And the team chemistry was so terrible last year without him. And signing Wieters and Matusz, how could he? He has done such a terrible job. I mean, our minor league system has really taken a hit since he's got here, just look at what Bowie did last year. Unfathomable! Disgusting! And signing a Japanese pitcher, what is he thinking, why are we wasting our time there. I mean we haven't ever entered that market in the past and I mean only scrubs have come out of there. Ichiro...Dice K, what a waste of time, what terrible players. It makes no sense to get our feet wet in the market, there will never be any good players coming out of there. Good God man. Give it up with blaming everything on the owner and the front office. Has it been perfect, no, but its much improved and if you can't see that your are blind, are just really, really unintelligent.
Man, fans like you give this team a bad name. Grow up buddy. Unless you really are the 10 year old you come across as, and if thats the case I'm very sorry for this post because then I realize you just don't know any better.
Is Jack really Schmuck just giving Roch a hard time? :)
While reading Jack's posts, one of my favorite moments from The Big Lebowski came to mind:
"Am I wrong?" - Walter
"No, you're not wrong Walter, you're just an @$$ hole!" - The Dude
ANDY, TRADE ROBERTS NOW!!! While you can still get some decent prospects in return. It doesn't have to be a starting pitcher. We have plenty of holes to fill. WAITING TILL THE TRADE DEADLINE TO SEE WHAT'S UP GET'S YOU A BAG OF BALLS !!!
I'm excited to see how the young pitching progresses throughout the year, and hopefully they will show their talent late in the year when (if) called upon. I think the Uehara signing could be solid, but obviously its too early to tell. Nice to hear he throws a lot of strikes, because control is the foundation for a good pitcher.
Also, I would like to have I-Rod on board as a tutor if the price is right and mindset as well, plus he could DH and play a mild 1B as well?
Jack's posts are repetitive and becoming boring. If this organization isn't doing it for you, move on. There is NO QUESTION that Macphail has restored the youthful talent in the minors and prepared a bright future/trade bait. I'm tired of hearing about Derek Lowe. Why pay the money he will command, for a few extra, meaningless wins in a rebuilding year. That makes no sense. The o's will spend the money necessary when the foundation is finally in place, hopefully including a Markakis extension. I love Roberts, but if a great trade can be had than thats what must be done.
Roch, I really enjoy your informative and humorous posts.
Alan...it would be very funny, and it is, if only it wasn't possibly true. Maybe it's ALL the Sun reporters taking turns as 'Jack' getting back at Roch for leaving them behind. That would be a great practical joke.
Except, I did read a 'Jack' blog on Schmuck, spewing the same stuff (read, not blogged Roch, I'm loyal).
This all reminds me of a Flo and Eddie song, about a circus family:
Adolph, Rudolph...and their brother Jack.
Green Day should ahve been out w/ a new CD by now.
JPA - Little more on Johima. Because of their massive rebuilding, having Jeff Clement and another solid rookie catcher the Mariners are looking to move Johima. Apparently, they would be willing to eat major salary and get a prospect in return. He is 32 and had a pretty brutal season in 2008. Seven homeruns, 39 rbi, .227 ba, and ob% of .277. Big question is how would he accept being Wieter's caddy? Then again, he only has one year remaining on his contract.
Maybe TVPDX(don't you live in Seattle) could give us some insight.
Good signing. Even though it will be his first year in the Majors, his track record and experience against Japanese pros will help. He was former Rookie of the Year and Japanese Cy Young winner. I can see him eating up innings and being a big help to the rotation.
Roch.....what about Livan Hernandez? Is there any interest from the O's. I would think he would be a nice vet to go after. He eats up a lot of innings and pretty durable for a pitcher.
Would Mora be a choice for first? In the past, he has been a versatile player. If so, how about the O's picking up Crede? Any chance for this scenario?
Roch, do us all a favor and ban the moron. You know who I'm talking about.
Roch, I have a theory. You write the Jack replies just to have an idiot as your foil. Keep up the good work.
Roch - sorry if i'm behind the times - what's the Xavier Hernandez reference?
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It goes back to the year that the Orioles reached agreement with Hernandez on a deal and announced it. Then he failed his physical, the Orioles tried to void the contract and he filed a grievance. Now the Orioles don't announce anything until they've received the results of the physical. - Roch
Hey Roch, Is there anything new with Zaun or any other backstop that the O's might be looking at???
Thanks
Hey Jack,
This one goes out to you.
"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity."
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
Also, "Everyone is entitled to be stupid, but some abuse the privilege."-Unknown
Give those quotes some thought.
Roch,
The pick-up is probably better long-term in opening the Asia/Pacific scouting for the O's than the production we can expect. I do believe his unique delivery may provide positive results much like NOMO.
However, the O's need to sign Shelly Duncan 1B now that the Yanks waived him from their 40 Man. He has been listed as one of the best long ball hitters in the minors and definitely worth taking a flyer on and is within even the O's price range!
The O's need to be more aggressive (that's code for spending a little money) with two of the better free agent pitchers, and use contracts like those being offered Pavano. Sheets would be very good in that regard and Oliver Perez for that matter, because right now, you still only have Guthrie and a bunch of question marks!
Roch,
I know this is not your usual blog, but I ask you to publish this at the risk that every weirdo will expect the same. I have recently realized that it is my mission to convince Brian Roberts to sign a long-term deal, and you are my only medium.
An Open Letter to Brian Roberts
Dear Brian,
I have a confession to make. I have a huge man-crush on you. Now, don’t freak out. I still prefer women (by far), and I’m not a stalker (far too lazy for that work). But I recently realized that I want you to remain an Oriole for a long time.
Last year I was caught up in the excitement of rebuilding. We unloaded two very good players who were not good for the clubhouse, and received many prospects and major leaguers who were. I was ecstatic, but naïve. I equated the removal of certain unnamed players with your possible move for other prospects. When it didn’t happen I was not disappointed, but I was not happy. Then the 2008 season reminded me of why Baltimore loves BRob (in a totally platonic, heterosexual way).
In 2008, the Orioles saw a resurgence in their offense that had been long overdue. You, Nick, Melvin, Aubrey, and Adam formed the core of a line up that produced runs even at the worst of times. Sure, the pitchers gave up 12 runs when you scored 10, but it was exciting baseball. It was more exciting than any that I’ve seen since the mid 1990s. But at the top, the catalyst was always Brian Roberts. As the season progressed, I realized more and more that our (as if I’m one of you guys) success was integrally linked to our lead-off man. It was then that I thanked the gods (well, Andy is not a god by any stretch, but he is a good GM) that you had not been traded.
It was about this time that a good buddy of mine swooped in to purchase an Adam Jones tee shirt. I said, “Hey, dude, that’s [expletive deleted] up! What if I wanted to make Jones my guy?” He said, “You can have the next choice.” So, I took him up on that.
For the rest of the season we discussed my choice. “Well, I don’t want to take […] because he’s too trendy. And everyone has Nick and Brian. I want someone different.” Throughout the season I thought, but came to no conclusion. Then I heard rumors of “Baltimore” appearing on the front of the road jersey. I REALLY wanted a road jersey with “Baltimore” on the front. By this time names like Weiters and Teixeira began to surface, but I was still unsure.
Then one night at the Green Turtle in Germantown (shameless plug for a bar to which I have no affiliation) my buddy and I were again debating the Orioles and their offseason (as we have done since high school in the 1980s). He suggested that the Roberts-Floyd trade would be great straight up. I said, “No WAY! If they let him go, we need to get a strong 2B prospect in addition to Floyd.” He disagreed, and we spun off to the discussion that made me realize that I totally have a man-crush (in the straightest sense). Now I know that I want my “Baltimore” jersey to say “Roberts” on the back. The only problem I have is, I want to buy the jersey of a player who is with us for a few years. Brian, I would like to make that (totally heterosexual) commitment to you. But I can only do it if I know that the name on the back of my jersey will be batting leadoff for the next few years. If you can commit to me (and the 1000s of chicks who wear the Roberts tee shirts…more for them than me), then I can commit to you. What do you say?
Chris from Gaithersburg
D with the post of the night! Jack, let the kids take their time. We used to do that and it was called "The Oriole Way!" Ever heard of it? It was only the way standard that everyone tried to copy and is being employed by teams like Minnesota, Oakland and other teams that do A LOT without major funds. The O's have more funds but are showing smart restraint by not signing the D. Lowes of the world because by the time the kids are ready he won't be the same pitcher. And another thing, no one said AM is done finding pitching. He still could make a trade. Also, maybe the reason AM isn't saying anything about the Tex negotiations is because he wants to keep a good relationship with the best, most high profile agent in baseball. Did you think of that? Slamming him by saying he never called back doesn't help you down the line. AND you don't think that rushing is for real? Look at Rocky Coppinger, Ben McDonald, Cabrera and the list goes on. It happens and frequently. I personally don't want to see Tillman, Matusz, Arrietta and the like until next season (unless they throwing lights out this season). Patience Daniel son, patience.
Baldelli is not a practical pickup due to his serious health issue. Unless something health wise has changed recently, he simply cannot workout and practice due to the disease.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/17/sports/baseball/17baseball.html
To Jack and anyone else that this applies to -
Our new pitcher's name is Uehara. It's not hard to remember and has less letters than "the Japanese player." If you are going to call Hendrickson by his name, please respect our latest player by calling him by his name, Uehara. We already gave you a pass on the "jap" comment, but that was a few days ago. Your excuse was that you did not know how to spell Kawakami's name. Call me crazy, but I'm pretty sure that all you had to do was scroll to the top and check the spelling in Roch's blog. He'll do the heavy lifting for you.
Roch, I continue to enjoy your blog and I admire your patience.
I just saw that Peter Gammons picked the Spankees to win the ALEast. What a schocker! Don't go out on any limsbs there Peter! I hate the Spankees! I am wishing them to the corn field! And Mark's wife with them!
Here's a simple solution: IGNORE JACK
Ignore him and hopefully he'll go away.
Stop giving this guy attention.
He's obviously getting off on it.
Alan... that's a funny theory... Jack is Peter Schmuck... lol.
Jack keeps harping about the lack of communication in the Oriole organization. How ironic when his obvious lack of communication skills are driving everyone here nuts.
Jack... I dont mean to be condescending (which means to talk down to someone) but you deserve a fastball in the ribs. You yammer on and on like a bad recurring dream and I get the feeling you think the Oriole front office reads your posts. Go chase a political conspiracy, or better yet, why not look into that force field around Area 51.
Rock-san, Kon-nichi-wa!
I'm Japanese Orioles fan. I always enjoy reading your blog. I'm glad to hear that U-e-ha-ra will be an oriole.
I introduce Uehara's blog to you.
http://www.koji-uehara.net/
Go O's !
I would love I know two things about jack.
1. What doe he do for a living? He says that in his line of work he is familar with keeping things off the record. Hmmm... Perhaps a used car salesmen? It would explain why he is able to post to this blog every ten minutes, ya know.. With the way the automotive industry is.
2. Do you really have a kid? Now this is the important one. I find it hard to beleive that you are a parent, mostly because you would have to be able to find someone to mate with. Anyway, if this is so.. I feel bad for your son/daughter. The dribble that their poor ears must hear from you day in a day out. Run away jack jr, save yourself jack-et. Those poor children.
Roch:
I've never posted to you before, but loved your blog at the Sun and enjoy this one, too. I live in Yokohama and am a die-hard O's fan (raised in Bowie). Let me tell you and all your readers, Uehara is a great signing. This guy was a true phenom when he broke in here in Japan, and is a real champion, gutsy, a quality pitcher and good guy. Think of him as the Japanese Orel Hershiser. I'm stoked the O's got him, now the Japanese TV stations will be showing more O's games over here. Ignore Jack.
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Thanks for posting! Keep 'em coming. - Roch
Roch,
Any chance in finding out if Uehara plans on pitching in the World Baseball Classic in March or is settling down with his new American team top priority?
I don't like this a whole lot. The way the market is shaping up that $5 mil per season could have gone a ways towards getting someone that could reasonably be expected to give you more innings.
It looks like this guy hasn't broke 90 on the radar gun or innings pitched in the last two years. He obviously has to locate precisely to be effective. Hopefully his shoulder holds up.
Roch- In the words of the IMMORTAL Tupac, "Keep ya Head Up". Homey.
You can feed me "Jack's" info if you want and I'll pull a 187. I think we get the whole process. They are not gonna spend big money or a multi year deal (more than 2 year) on anyone. Macphail views it as a waste of money I am sure. That is his philosophy. Whether or not it is fair to the fans is a different argument, but to keep attacking you on all of these rumors and signings is ridiculus.
I am saddened to see that we have heard nothing about extending Nick, when this seems like it is "The Plan", and has nothing to do with anything else. That to me is scary because I think they should treat that kid like royalty. I hope they don't burn the bridge.
Just keep dropping on us what you get or hear or think is smart or whatever. Those who don't like it can go over to the ORIOLES HANGOUT where they tell you what you want to hear from their "INSIDERS". LOL.
Keep up the good work. Maybe one day we will be talking about playoffs and the likes.
Though concerned with making this team more competetive now, I am a supporter of any of MacPhails decisions to build (not rebuild) the farm system and the infrastruture of the oranization.
My confusion though does continue with the signing yesterday of Uehara. Not that we signed him but the amount the contract can amount to. Up to $16 mil for 2 years. Many of the free agents out there are costing less than this. For a TAD more we could get some seriously better talent. I do not understnd the methodolgy used to decide who we will be signing. Certainly Redding will not cost this much. So offer what is necessary. Garland or Perez would be a great additon to anchor with Guthrie.Yes they cost more but the talent is there.Uehara according to several writeup states he is not a great addtion to Alteams withHRsproobably coming in large numbers. more suited to NL. Garland is a ground ball pitcher. He is more suited to small park of O's.
It is not necessary to bring many of the youth to the majors this year. Gives them a year more to develop. If we need to buy the time with 2 -3 year contracts it seems part of the investment.This does not seem to rocket science either. If the youth develop early than at the mid year trade deadline we have peices the contenders want.
I know I do not have all the info. But can someone show me how we are deciding which players to sign and what we will spend. It is a conundrum I cannot answer to.
With all the conversations heating up on Roberts, it at least in appearance, is decided he is to be traded. Such a shame. I am a beleiver in talent and character. More of my confusion on decesions and direction.
So, we have one starting pitcher (Guthrie) and now one who may be able to start, but if he sucks, can come out of the bullpen. Lineups in the rest of the East must be shaking in their boots. Has the bar really been set this low? Are we going to win 55 games this year?