Your thoughts on Delgado?
I began my morning with a quick check of mlbtraderumors, and decided to cut-and-paste their Top 50 Free Agents list. Should make for some good discussion, especially with
Carlos Delgado, at No. 43, going to the Orioles.
Keep in mind that these are just predictions, and nobody has inside information about Delgado.
He would make sense in one sense. The Orioles need a first baseman and a power bat (and he would probably benefit from the rest provided when serving as the designated hitter). He's not getting an expensive long-term deal anywhere. We're talking one year, heavy in incentives. Plug him in and hope that Brandon Snyder (or someone else from the inventory) eventually pushes him aside.
Of course, I'd much rather have the Delgado who stiff-armed the Orioles back in 2005 before signing with the Marlins. And manager Dave Trembley would rather have a right-handed bat in the cleanup slot. But Andy MacPhail, president of baseball operations, sounded a little more flexible about the left-right thing when we spoke toward the end of the season.
Delgado hit 38 homers in 2008. He appeared in only 26 games in 2009. He'll be 38 in June.
Anyone interested?
Here's the entire list, and the comments attached. Most of you won't like where John Lackey's projected to land:
1. Matt Holliday - Mets. The Mets could grab headlines by signing Holliday to a six or seven-year deal for more than $100MM.
2. John Lackey - Yankees. Last winter's strategy of signing the best two starters and the best hitter available contributed to the Yankees' World Series title. With rotation question marks after C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett, it makes sense that the Yanks will pursue the best available starter in Lackey.
3. Jason Bay - Red Sox. It's been rumored the Red Sox are willing to offer four years and $60MM to Bay. That seems to be a fair opening bid, given his defensive struggles.
4. Chone Figgins - Angels. The Angels have internal options at third base, but he'd be hard to let go after a career-high .395 OBP and excellent defense at the hot corner.
5. Randy Wolf - Mets. The Mets regrettably chose Oliver Perez over Wolf a year ago. As the best available starter aside from Lackey, Wolf is primed to get a three-year deal worth more than $30MM.
6. Andy Pettitte - Yankees. With all the good vibes surrounding Pettitte's work this year, it's hard to see him anywhere else. The Yankees might have to guarantee more than $5.5MM this time though.
7. Jose Valverde - Phillies. One way to shore up a shaky bullpen: sign the best closer available. Few teams are seeking closers, and even fewer have money, so the Phillies should be able to get a relative bargain.
8. Marco Scutaro - Red Sox. It's difficult to place Scutaro, because not many teams with shortstop vacacies will be willing to pay the three years and $18MM+ he'll likely demand. The Sox would be getting the best available shortstop here, but they could instead choose Jed Lowrie and/or Alex Gonzalez.
9. Adrian Beltre - Twins. The Twins made a large upgrade at shortstop by acquiring J.J. Hardy. Beltre would give them fantastic left-side infield defense and another possible 20 home run bat. The Twins had interest in trading for Beltre a year ago, though the Scott Boras client added them to his no-trade clause.
10. Rich Harden - Red Sox. A one-year deal with a $7MM base salary would be difficult for Harden to resist. His injuries are maddening, but he leads free agent starters with a 10.9 K/9.
11. Mike Cameron - Padres. The Padres are tight on cash, but bringing back Cameron to play center field makes sense on a one-year deal worth $7MM or so.
12. Johnny Damon - Yankees. Most believe the Yankees will re-sign one of Damon and Hideki Matsui. Despite Matsui's World Series MVP award, Damon probably fits better given his ability to play the field more regularly.
13. Orlando Hudson - Nationals. The Nats coveted Hudson last year. Adding him now would help with their stated goal of improving up the middle.
14. Miguel Tejada - Athletics. A one-year deal to bring Tejada back would give the A's security on the left side of the infield, where they have Cliff Pennington at shortstop and Brett Wallace not quite ready at third base.
15. Joel Pineiro - Cardinals. He'd be a big loss for the Cardinals, who have rotation openings after Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, and Kyle Lohse. Pineiro walked just 27 in 214 innings posted a 60.5% groundball rate due to a newfound sinker.
16. Nick Johnson - Giants. A jolt of OBP at first base would do the Giants good. They were involved in talks for Johnson around the trade deadline.
17. Aroldis Chapman - Red Sox. They've been heavily involved with Chapman from the start, and may consider him a long-term investment worth more than $20MM.
18. Marlon Byrd - Rangers. Byrd is one of the better center fielders available, but not too many clubs are in the hunt at the position. The Cubs could be in the mix here after they trade Milton Bradley.
19. Vladimir Guerrero - White Sox. The White Sox would generate attention by signing Vlad as a DH and occasional right fielder. Landing Guerrero would also be a solid baseball move on a reasonable one-year deal.
20. Felipe Lopez - Dodgers. They seem ready to part ways with Orlando Hudson, and Lopez might be a bit cheaper. Lopez's 2009 season ranked fourth among all free agents in WAR.
21. Adam LaRoche - Braves. Did LaRoche's scorching stint with the Braves last year price him out of their range? The Mets, Orioles, A's, Mariners, Giants, D'Backs, and Rangers might also be in the market for a first baseman.
22. Rafael Soriano - Angels. Will the failure of Brian Fuentes prompt the Angels to add another late-inning arm? After missing most of '08, Soriano bounced back with 102 strikeouts in 75.6 innings this year.
23. Jon Garland, Dodgers. Bringing back Garland would be a safe move, though the Dodgers already declined his $10MM option. Garland required a $7.25MM guarantee a year ago, and he had a better season, so this is an iffy prediction. The Twins, Nationals, Mets, and Brewers may be among the other teams seeking an innings-eater.
24. Carl Pavano - Nationals. Back to his original organization? Pavano surprisingly managed 33 starts in '09, and his 4.16 xFIP reveals his 5.10 ERA was misleading.
25. Brad Penny - Mets. Penny is just one of many different arms the Mets might consider as they attempt to bolster their rotation depth. No other free agent starter throws harder, so Penny's upside is still tantalizing.
26. Erik Bedard - Dodgers. If the Dodgers don't want to pony up the cash or prospects for a true ace, they could buy a Bedard lottery ticket instead.
27. Hideki Matsui - Mariners. Matsui joining the Mariners in a DH/left field role will become more likely if Ken Griffey Jr. retires.
28. Bengie Molina - Nationals. Molina is difficult to place, especially if he demands more than $5MM. With Jesus Flores coming off shoulder surgery, the Nats will probably add a veteran on a one-year deal. The Mets also may sign a catcher.
29. Mike Gonzalez - Braves. Gonzalez should be cheaper than Soriano, and the Braves need some kind of relief signing or acquisition. With available closers plentiful, the Braves could wait around until March in hopes of a bargain.
30. Jason Marquis - Diamondbacks. The D'Backs are known to crave a mid-tier veteran starter, and Marquis is one of many options. Many have speculated Marquis would like to play for the Mets, and they are a reasonable match as well.
31. Placido Polanco - Diamondbacks. Second base is another area of need for Arizona. As with the Marquis situation above, Polanco is one of several palatable free agent choices.
32. Tim Wakefield - Red Sox. Wakefield had back surgery in October, but the Red Sox will probably still view him as a bargain at $4MM.
33. Ben Sheets - Rangers. The Brewers and Rangers seem to be the most likely landing spots for Sheets, who had flexor tendon surgery in February and missed the '09 season. That injury caused a two-year deal with the Rangers to fall apart.
34. Doug Davis - Brewers. Davis was claimed off waivers by the Brewers in August, but they couldn't work out a deal with the D'Backs. At the time, Davis liked the idea of returning to Milwaukee. He'll probably have to back off his three-year demand to make it happen.
35. Jarrod Washburn - Brewers. Perhaps the Brewers won't sign these two mid-tier lefties, but they do figure to acquire a pair of starters somehow. Washburn could make it easier on the Brewers by providing a hometown discount. Otherwise, trading Mat Gamel could net an arm.
36. Russell Branyan - Mariners. Interest in a new contract is mutual. There are enough mitigating factors to make another one-year deal likely.
37. Billy Wagner - Cubs. The Cubs don't have much payroll space, and they may prefer to go with Carlos Marmol as their closer. Then again, they wouldn't do so a year ago when Marmol was coming off a good season. The Cubs could offer Wagner a chance to close, as could the Orioles, Rays, Tigers, Angels, and Braves. Even Wagner's old teams, the Phillies and Astros, have back-end bullpen concerns.
38. Juan Uribe - Mariners. Uribe was quietly very valuable in 2009, playing all around the infield for the Giants. Uribe's shortstop-third base flexibility could fit for Seattle.
39. John Smoltz - Tigers. Smoltz of course came up with the Tigers, and they considered him a year ago. They could sign him and keep an open mind as to his role.
40. Jermaine Dye - Rangers. The Rangers signing both Byrd and Dye might be a stretch, though Dye should be used strictly at DH. Given his second half decline he should be affordable.
41. Mark DeRosa - Phillies. I debated flipping the DeRosa-Beltre predictions, as both the Phillies and Twins have a need at third base. DeRosa, a former Penn quarterback, has been linked to the Phils for years.
42. Coco Crisp - Royals. The Royals already declined his $8MM option. But Crisp likes Kansas City and the Royals still need a center fielder, so an incentive-based deal could happen.
43. Carlos Delgado - Orioles. In Delgado, the Orioles could add a possible 30-home run bat with little risk. And Delgado could benefit from some time at DH.
44. Orlando Cabrera - Blue Jays. O-Cab might find a small market for his services this winter, even without a draft pick cost attached.
45. Gregg Zaun - Rays. Zaun can void his $2MM club option if the Rays exercise it, but he might be swayed by the chance to start.
46. Jim Thome - Athletics. The A's should have their pick of affordable free agent DHs. Thome's not done; he hit .249/.366/.481 this year.
47. Fernando Rodney - Tigers. I have no idea where Rodney will sign. No one will want to pay a premium for his 37 saves. He might be best-served returning to Detroit on a one-year deal worth $6MM or so.
48. Xavier Nady - Diamondbacks. The D'Backs will probably tender a contract to Conor Jackson, but Nady could still be helpful at first base and left field. He's a Scott Boras client, but he missed most of the season due to Tommy John surgery.
49. Kiko Calero - Rays. Calero's a health risk, so he might be cheap despite a 1.95 ERA and 10.4 K/9 in 60 innings this year. He's the type of reliever the Rays figure to add.
50. Rafael Betancourt - Rockies. I think the Rockies will work out a two-year deal to retain Betancourt as their setup man. It could include incentives for closing, should Huston Street depart after '10 or struggle before then.
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Categories (click for archive)Roch Kubatko | Roch Kubatko Orioles |
Delgado is definitely worth a flyer. 38 HRs just season before last, he may STILL have a 30+ year in him if he gets to DH every once in a while.
Harden is who I really hope they sign. At 28, he still seems to me to be a Chris Carpenter type who could win a Cy Young if he stays healthy.
And, at 7 or 8 million a year, could be a HUGE buy low guy.
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I agree on Harden. It's just such a huge "if" when you're talking about his health. But he could end up being quite a bargain. - Roch
I wouldn't be against it. He's sitting at 473 career HRs, so he could hit his 500th in 2010. Or... he could be another Sammy Sosa.
I'd much rather have Reimold playing first or even bring back Huff than 37 year old Delgado. Besides being past his prime he is also injury prone.
I think Delgado is way, way, way too old - 38 and left handed - I think Scott would put up similar numbers at 1b.
I prefer Nick Johnson who I know can at least get on base, and steadies 1b until snder gets a chance.
Harden is good, although I prefer Lackey. I like him too.
With the loss of Sherill I wouldn't mind looking for one of the above experienced closers who won't cost an arm and leg like Bradford, Walker and Baez did. I think JJ's implosion late last year raises some huge question marks in late inning pen.
We need a better hitting back up option than Andino at SS as well if Izturis goes down again. If Turner could play SS I'd take the risk, but he doesn't seem able to.
The big question AM has to answer is will Snyder and Bell be on the major league roster OD and is he willing to gamble they're both going to be starters. Or is he going to pay FA's to come in for half a year like Zaun essentially did for Wieters?
I'd prefer he just bite the bullet and start with Bell and Snyder and sign somebody like DeRosa who could fill in anywhere someone can't cut it. Otherwise I'd go with Johnson and Wiggington and solidify the pitching.
But definitely agaisnt Delgado either way.
Delgado and Harden would be great ideas if we could keep anybody healthy. Is there any chance they would survive the mass exodus to the DL that seems to occur around here in mid/late August every year?
Maybe it's time to consider a free agent training staff instead?
Delgado is worth a shot. Harden isn't. Even when healthy he is a 5 or 6 inning pitcher. Harden requires a good deep bullpen. How about Wagner as a 1-2 year closer. He needs, what 7 saves for 400. He can be close to home, get to 400 saves, and retire.
I saw Delgado play with the Mets. He was lazy there not sure playing for a sub .500 team will make him play any harder.
Adam LaRoche has played for bad teams and played well. I would rather hear his name than Delgado.
Eh. I agree with the scary potential for a Sosalike performance from Delgado. Not to mention the old saw, "But will he want to come here..." That said, it would at least be a proven big bat, unlike Beltre, Figgins, Blalock... I'd much rather see a "big bat" acquired to play 3rd, with Wiggy/Aubrey splitting time at 1st, and Scott at DH/1st/LF backup. If you get a Glaus, he could play both 3rd/1st. I also like the idea of inquiring about Cantu; the Marlins have 13 arbitration eligible players and may have to move him. He's young and has hit 100 RBIs; so what's so wrong with that.
Roch,
If it is for a year, and the man takes up DH space most of the time, then I like signing Carlos Delgado. The AL is where he belongs at this stage in his career and the O's could use someone to either bounce around 1B and DH or someone at least in a competitive mix.
I also wish the O's could think about Mike Gonzalez, who is a decent lefty out of the 'pen and the O's don't have one of those (I'm not sold on Castillo); and maybe they could think about an Adrian Beltre or Mark DeRosa for a year or so to keep 3B warm.
Just my 2 cents.
Delgado would probably be the last guy on that list I'd bring in. If you're going to tender a one year deal, make it Miguel Tejada and put him at 3rd base. Let Wigginton and Aubrey split 1st base. I would also beg any one of those starters to come be our ace!
I disagree about Lackey though. In the end he'll take a little less to saty w/ the Angels.
I think anyone can like Delgado's bat. Despite a reputation for injury, he hasn't played in fewer than 128 games prior to last year.
I like him, but only as a DH. He's on the wrong side of 35. And in baseball--that's ancient.
And how would Delgado be any different than the cheap band aid-retread philosophy we get spoon fed each year? And how does that help us keep up with the Joneses unless the Joneses are the Pirates, Royals and Nationals in our case.
No, no, and no on DelGado...stiff armed the O's and wasnt he the same guy that stiff armed the National Anthem...way, way too old...injury waiting to happen...lets think young...
I like LaRoche on this list.
DeRosa would be real nice too...solid player.
Pavano would be a good steal. Has bad karma but proved healthy and reliable for the Twins and did a nice job.
Harden is unbelievable but he will be out of baseball soon I predict...
Sad to see this list!
With the glaring holes we have, they are not projecting any top FA to come our way until number 43.
Another case of us not putting out to secure top quality. Why do we always settle for second tier FA or "heavy incentive" type rehab projects.
I am guess the industry does not have faith in the Orioles to spend for the upper tier FA.
Whats New?
If I was in the front office. I would try for Erik Bedard and Miguel Tejada. Yes thats what i said. Here is my reasoning. erik Bedard had his best years in baltimore, a jolt of home cooking will be good for him and give us a bargain back on our old ace!! I also believe he will re assume that role!! Miguel Tejada is ready for 3rd base in age and can back up shortstop........ Still hits great and keep hot corner warm for one of our kids without blocking anyone!!
My lineup
Brian Roberts 2b
Adam Jones CF
Nick Markakis RF
Luke Scott DH
Matt Wieters C
Nolan Reimold LF
Miguel Tejada 3b
Michale Aubrey 1b
Cesar Izturis ss
My Backups
Ty Wiggenton 2b, dh, 1b, 3b
Felix Pie Cf, LF, RF, DH
Robert Andino SS, 2b
Steve Torrealba C
My starters
Erik Bedard SP
Brad Bergesen SP
Jeremy Guthrie SP
Brian Matusz SP
Chris Tillman SP
My bullpen
David Hernandez RP
Jason Berken RP
Chris Ray RP
Matt Albers RP
Jim Johnson Setup
Koji Uehara Closer
This would be SO typical of the OLD (pre-MacPhail) Orioles. Spend money on a guy like Delgado who's no doubt a "roid-guy", way past his prime, and probably a lot older than he says he is (though Tejada is in this same category but wouldn't mind him at 3rd base for a cheap price) 1.) I don't think Delgado would fit in here, long been known as a bad teammate. 2.) Roch, why would Delgado take a low-ball, one-year, incentive based deal to come to the Orioles??? There are plenty of other teams dumb enough to spend way more than he's worth. I just hope the Orioles don't revert back to their old ways of bringing in turds like Delgado. And I know they won't. This is a terrible idea and MacPhail is way smarter than whoever put these ridiculous free-agent projections together.
Delgado and/or Harden w/incentive deals for a year would be a fantastic idea and HUGE improvement.
I'm on board if MAC can pull one or both of these guys.
I was hoping this off season would be different from the recent few. The front office has went on record to state what our needs are and with securing the individuals for those needs. I hope they are more active performing this task then what this list is leading us to believe.
They will lose quite a few fans this off season if they think they can pull another "status quo" or bring in the "Eaton" type to secure the front of the rotation starter they said we need.
Roch - with the Phillies declining Pedro Feliz's option...what do you think of the Orioles pulling a Wiggington and giving him a 2 year deal to put someone at 3rd base and let Josh Bell progress in the minors 1st?
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He's a good glove, but is he the power bat that Trembley wants? - Roch
Just wondering . . . what is the etiquette for posting an article? You cite the location and then post the entire message, which takes away much of the incentive of anyone reading you to go over to MLB Trade Rumors. Is the name drop considered more valuable than linking and getting money by ad clicks?
Running a site myself, this seems like a gray area. Do you talk to that website and ask if it is ok not to link?
From my experience (which pales to yours), I would have copy and pasted what was directly relevant to the Orioles (the Delgado mention) and link for the rest.
Val
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I drop the mlbtraderumors name in my blog multiple times a week, so I think they're benefitting from it. And I rarely cut and paste, but did so in this one instance because other names also might interest readers here. And there's plenty more at that site beyond this one list, so no reason for readers to avoid it simply because of my morning entry. - Roch
Would rather have Huff back than Delgado. Huff did not make Top 50 or even honorable mention, which I find puzzling. I have been hoping to be landing site for JJ Hardy for past 2 years and am disappointed in the trade to Twins. Harden would be good signing but can't imagine him landing with Orioles.
Reading the comments I am amazed at how baseball fans, seemingly with some knowledge of the game, think anyone can play 1B. Reimold can play first! Scott can play first! Hey guys, the Orioles need pitching. Let's try Justin Turner and Michael Aubrey in the rotation. I've seen them throw a baseball. They can do it.
If Delgado were right-handed,could still catch and were ten years younger, go for him. Guerrero's the one-year bet for this club.
Great blog entry Roch. I love seeing these things this time of the year.
From earlier... NO on Delgado, for several reasons. Old, coming off injury, lefty hitter, bad attitude ... need any more reasons? There are a few more... I'd rather see Huff back to be honest & he would probably have better #s.
2 things hit me as I read that list.... one & the biggest was how much of a drop off there was after #4. Figgins..then Wolf? That was elevator shaft type of drop off.... two, this...
Jose Valverde - Phillies. One way to shore up a shaky bullpen: sign the best closer available. Few teams are seeking closers, and even fewer have money, so the Phillies should be able to get a relative bargain.
The O's should go after him! He should be target #1. This pts made about closer need & $$ to spend should play into the O's hands here! They NEED a veteran closer. I have said it many times, it will have a huge affect on the rest of that bullpen. It's not just a closer they would be getting, they would be improving the whole bullpen player by player with that signing.
Target #2 Harden , IF he would do a 1 or 2 yr deal with incentives. he isn't old & was one of the top SPs coming along not too long ago. The Vet this rotation needs.
Trade Milton Bradley??? Who will take him?
Target #3 if #1 can't be signed... R. Soriano to close. He might be worth more than a 1 or 2 year deal though, if healthy. Target #4, Wagner IF 1 & 2 don't get done.
Frankly, I just don't think the FO will sign a big hitting 1B. They won't cough up the $$, they overrate Snyder, top FAs there won't want to come to Baltimore, etc.
Get a closer to settle down that bullpen, hopefully get a vet starter to take the pressure off the young guys, & watch them get a stopgap, middle of the road 3B or 1B with Wigginton at the other spot not signed to fill.
Harden is another local BC boy, from Victoria. He has had arm issues practically every year.
He throws big time heat, but it seems to me teams were laying off a lot of stuff last year and although he gets lots of K's, his pitch count runs up rather quickly.
I'm no stickler, but I do think this is outside the norm of interent linking protocol.
That list, with the comments, is original editorial content from an MLB Trade Rumors writer. Pageviews are money in the internet business, and you are making it too easy for your readers to bypass the original site by providing them with all of the content.
The appropriate way to cite this is to provide a clickable link and quote a short excerpt, or provide a brief summary of the content. Your citation should leave the reader wanting more and encourage them to check out the source site.
I know MLB Trade Rumors would do the same to you.
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A link has been provided. Can we stick to the topic of the entry, please. - Roch
Pass on Delgado. We need to stop the cycle of being the pre-retirement place for players. Reminds me of a scene in Major League where the old catcher is getting out of his car at Spring Training and one of the coaches tells the other coach I wish we had him 7 years ago.
We got holes! Where to go first?
Pitching - you can't have enough arms. We do need atleast one starter. Somebody that would be a leader by example for the kids. Show them how eat innings, conditioning, and how to win. Relief pitching, alot of promise, but not much delivery. Should be get a closer and move JJ back to setup? Long relief seems to be guys who can't make iot as a starter.
Delgado would be ok. He has had a lot of injuries and may be a young 38. I do not believe you can give Delgado and Scott enough at bats (assuming they Are healthy). Scott is really not an option with a glove. His second half swoon is worrisome.
I really don't get the Reimold at first talk/debate. This is not your county softball league,the kid has never played first. No one is moving him to first so forget it.
The post by Mike Nealis is right on target..Mike may disagree witht he addition of Dennis Surfates and Carlos Delgado.
Roch, I read the list prior to viewing your blog, and wondered if you had read it, well -you are on your game (I've been here too long, now I sould like everyone else).
I love how the 6 richest teams are the only ones who can afford the actual free agents while the rest of the league is left to sign the scraps and take chances on aging players with recent injury history. ugghhh...baseball is dead to me.
Okay...sorry about that. Just visiting the venting machine myself for a bit. I'm just so sick that the yankees were able to buy the world series with such ease and MLB has no intention, or power for that matter, to do anything about the extreme lack of competitive balance.
Sure the Rays were able to change their fortunes with some good drafting and they've had two winning seasons but there's talk that they already have to begin trading off some talent because they can't afford it. I love baseball and the O's are headed in the right direction but does it matter? I don't want to go through all of this rebuilding for three or four winning seasons and then another decade plus of losing. MLB has become a joke...unfortunately I can't stop watching because I love Baltimore and I love the O's. Makes me wanna cry and I'm a grown man.
I'd go for Delgado because he won't block anybody at 1B to start the season and can move to DH if needed. I would also try to bring in a guy like Marquis to eat some innings and take a flyer on Bedard or Harden to see if you can catch something special. I'm a big believer in the young arms but there is no reason to pile on the innings and pressure. This would also allow MacPhail to deal Guthrie and Scott. We have a glaring hole at SS in the minors.
I can't see Trembley getting that power bat at 3rd until Bell comes up and even then it may take a year or two. The power bat behind the plate (hoping some of those long singles turn in HRs this year) will make up for the lack of power in other positions.
side note. I think people get too caught up in opening day rosters. For a rebuilding team like the O's, I think it's more important to focus on who will be on the team at the All-Star break and on the last day. take this past year as an example, half the team turned over during the season.
Roch,
I'd like to propose a blog to topic for the near future.
And unfortunately it's a negative one based on two big "ifs." So if the two big "ifs" happen...I think it'd be a legit topic.
Big "if" #1:
1.) If the "middle of the lineup" hitter we acquire is either Delgado or Beltre.
Big "if" #2:
2.) If the Red Sox acquire Adrian Gonzalez for a package that we could've easily matched without "depleting" our farm system. For the record, 1 top pitching prospect is not "depleting" our farm system. We definitely have more than one.
Instead of starting to debate who we should sign...maybe we could have a fantasy who should "own" the Orioles post. It's not the same old hate Angelos talk. It's actually just open discussion about who could do a better job.
My vote is a Majority Owner - Mark Cuban...Minority Owner - Cal Ripken group.
Obviously all fantasy...but I know Cuban will spend the money. He tried to get the Cubs and I believe Pirates so we know he's hungry.
And that'll bring free agents/international players. And I know Cal Ripken will instill respect by other players. And that'll also help sign free agents/international players.
It's a worthy discussion even if it's a completely b.s one.
My thoughts are to forego most of the Free Agent stuff that's out there and try to pull off some of the mid-market trades that have been happening since the end of the season. All of the Top Free Agents will be looking to attach themselves to a contender, so they would probably not even consider an offer by the Orioles, even if it was a better deal. That would leave all of the "B Rated" free agents left and I don't think most of them are worth a look. At least if you pull off a trade, the traded player can't say "no" in coming to Baltimore.
Delgado?????? Del-God NO!!!! If I'm a GM I don't want some old over-inflated ego guy that already spurned Baltimore and someone that is too good to stand for the national anthem creating a bad influence on my young clubhouse. If the O's are determined to be stuck in their never-ending rut by signing guys past their prime, then go after Thome.
I would take Huff back over Delgado. I'd rather see Blalock than Delgado as well. Heck I'd rather see M. Aubrey then Delgado or N. Johnson.
It's obvious that the O's will never be able to match spending on free agents or attracting free agents like the BoSox and the evil empire. So they have to be somewhat creative. Taking a chance on Harden at just north of half the price of Lackey is the kind of high upside risks the O's need to take. Sheets is another good gamble to consider as is Justin Duchscherer. The other option is going after someone like Matt Cain or Josh Johnson in a trade. Dan Uggla is a great trade candidate that could fill the 3B void.
Why am I so fearful of an off-season spending spree by the Orioles that nets Andruw Jones or Vlad, Jon Garland and Pedro Feliz????? That would suck.
From the above list, just say no to:
Garland, Delgado, Branyan, Marquis and Vlad
Players that are reasonable to consider:
Beltre, LaRoche, Wagner, J. Dye, F. Rodney, B. Myers
Players that should be targeted:
Harden/or Bedard/or Sheets/at worst case Duchscherer, Kiko, J. Dye, Putz
Isn't Delgado the guy who wouldn't stand for the National Anthem? I personally don't think he would be a good influence on a young team, especially since he isn't going to put them over the top, not at his age.
Delgado would not be a bad sign, but he wouldn't be a good one either. I think it fills a name more than it fills a need. I really can't see him having a productive year to the point to making the signing worth the Orioles money and trouble, but as a last resort, maybe.
Also, to a couple of people who posted earlier in this thread, this list is speculation on the part of whoever put it together. Let's not read this as an indication that the Orioles goal is to sign Carlos Delgado and only Carlos Delgado.
The top 3 will all be Yankees.
Anyone who thinks the Yankees will not let an aging Damon and Matsui go, in order to be replaced with two young studs Bay and Holliday is living in a dream world. I hate the fact they can do this to this sport, but until there are parameters in place to stop it, the Yanks will take all 3. They need a 3rd starter in Lackey and Bay and Holliday will take the salaries of Matsui and Damon without even going over this years costs.
That is how I see it, which makes any discussion on a 38 year old 1b who missed the entire 09 season a "who cares at this point?" discussion.
Sorry for my pesimissm.
Thank you Roch for providing that list!
Here's what I would do for the 2010 season with the information that I currently have. Some of it is non-specific (generalized):
1. Do not sign or trade for any players of poor moral character (like Brett Myers). Some players are poor communicators (Bedard) but aren't necessarily of poor moral character.
2. Do not sign or trade for any players with a recent history of major physical injuries or breakdowns (unless you get them at bargain basement prices, and it's understood that they will not be first string players).
3. The one significant trade I would make is for a right-handed big bopper (#4 or #5 in the lineup) with alot of power, who ideally also has some charisma or leadership qualities (someone the troops can rally around). I would risk one young future O's star for this person (like a Matusz or Tillman), but not more than one. We really need this bat in the lineup.
4. Very controversial, but bring back Bedard. Hopefully will be a starter, with a small chance of being a closer. I know that the media doesn't care for him, so (and I don't know the answer to this) during a game when he pitches, perhaps try to interview the other Orioles, and limit Bedard to a 30 second sound-byte. Just report the facts when it comes to his performance during the Bedard games, and primarily interview the offensive heroes of the game.
5. The third base options do not appear any better than Melvin Mora. If Melvin will sign for one year at significantly less money, knowing that by the second-half of the season he will play less (because of Bell), then resign him. He can still play, and is good defensively. If Melvin is definitely not an option, then go elsewhere (but not Wiggington).
6. We need a top, elite or at worse, very good (B+) closer. Do what it takes to get this person.
Thanks for the great posts as always!
Joe
Just say no to Delgado. He will be here to collect a paycheck only. The available FA's this year are terrible. What the O's need to do is resign Hendrickson, sign a mid to low tier veteran starter (I am growing on Brett Myers) & sign a closer. From there let the youngins come up & fill the other spots. Snyder is ready for a shot at 1B & Bell is on the way. Lets not block their path & use up resources. We are not contending next year, we need to hold tight & feel our own youngins out a little more.
I could see Delgado joining this club on a one year deal. It would be best if we got a player that can play third though.
My vote:
Tank one more year in 2010! Take the draft pick. Save the money and spend it next year on quality and not quanity. Stick to the original plan and no stop gaps. Full speed ahead with rebuilding.
I saw Delgados name on the FA's list a couple weeks ago, and I posted a comment then that he might be a good option for the O's. But the more I think about it, the less I like the idea. I would rather they take a chance on Glaus, Beltre or Tejada, I think I would be ok with Scott/Aubrey/Wiggington at 1st, but we can't go into the season with Wiggington as our starting 3rd baseman.
I certainly hope the Orioles are a little more active than this list suggests we will be. If not 2010 is going to be another long season. Did you notice what the article said about the Mets signing Holliday, they could "grab some headlines". That is exactly what the Orioles need to do, "grab some headlines". We need to change the perception around baseball that the O's are a cheap, losing organization, and they need to start doing it this year. If we don't, then next year it will even be that much harder for us to attract the FA we need. I'm not saying we need to sign Holliday, but we need to make a splash, at least a little ripple, say Bedard/Harden, Glaus/Beltre, and Valverde. Sign a couple guys that can help us, but also get some positive attention for a change. Good smart solid signing that help open some eyes. If we were to sign Delgado, it would just be more of the same. Everyone would just think, there go the Orioles signing another over the hill, stop gap, bargian player. It would do more harm than good.
One other name that kind of jumped out at me on this list was Jerrod Washburn, I've never been a hugh fan of his, but he has pitched well the last few seasons. Just a thought.
One free agent I would love to see here by the way is Bedard.
I LOVE the fact that he hates the media. Who in their right mind would not HATE the media. They chased Eddie out of town because he was shy, and frankly the media is a disaster in this day and age, present company excluded Roch, you're great. 24 hour coverage of Lindsay Lohan doing drugs, and Kate Hudson 50 times shown during the World Series, yeah, great people the media folks... Bring back Bedard to represent.
As long as Bedard shows up healthy and stays a
complete pr!ck on the mound every 5th day, bring him in with a gamble of a deal. Josh Beckett doesn't seem overly friendly to say the least, and you don't here much about his media relationship, and that is because he is healthy and on a winner, so if Bedard can do those two things, you won't hear a peep.
Roch.
Why hasn't anyone been talking about Jim Thome. If you are going to sign an aging DH / 1st base type, I would look at Thome. He is a consistent 30-40 HR player and would come pretty cheap for a one year deal.
He hit 25 HR in 300 AB's last year before he got traded to the Dodgers. He got virtually no playing time in LA, he probably would have hit 35HRs.
I would pass on Delgado.
Call Jim Thome.
@West Coast O's Fan,
Washburn benefited from pitching half his games in Seattle and Detroit (two huge stadiums). His style does not fit well in the smaller dimensions of Camden Yards, nor in the increased number of games he'd have to play in Fenway and Yankee Stadium.
Roch
Are you suprised that it took till an entry into the 40;s until the O's were mentioned? Id like to see Beltre here as a stop gap @ third for 2-3 yrs. Also would like to see Wolf and Bedard. I think Delgado could jack 40 hrs here if healthy.
Ps
I dont see lackey going to NYY..he wants Sabathia dollars and I think they are actually trying to pare payroll, but if the SAWX go crazy all bets off.
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Yes, I thought their name would pop up a little earlier. - Roch
What are the plans with Scott Moore?
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If he isn't taken in the Rule 5 draft (assuming he isn't added to the 40-man), he'll likely get a spring invite and compete for a spot on the team. Maybe he's the solution at third base if the Orioles can't find a big home run bat. - Roch
If Bell is closer to MLB ready, I'd definitely take a chance on Delgado as a stopgap at 1st. He & Scott could share time at DH as well.
If Snyder is closer, then I think we try to shore up third for the short term and live with Aubrey at first for now until Snyder is ready or Aubrey develops into a keeper.
Roch - who is closer to major league ready, Bell or Snyder?
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You'd have to think Snyder because he's played at Triple-A. - Roch
Not to change the topic, but even if nobody cares about Victor Zambrano anymore, it's terrible that his ex-MLB status, no matter how marginal, makes his family a mark for kidnappers in Venezuela. I hope Mora, with more financial clout than Zambrano or Yorvit Torrealba, hasn't left anyone he cares about behind or unguarded. Didn't Mora witness the death of his father when he was barely starting childhood (though I don't know why his dad was marked back then)?
The first thing that jumped out at me in viewing the list was that the top 8 and 9 of the top 10 were projected going to large market teams. The disparity keeps widening. How long before a majority of the teams are basically excluded from have a real opportunity to compete for a championship? Bud Selig is the most inept commissioner of all the major sports leagues. He reminds me of the proverbial piano player in the whore house...playing to himself on the first floor while blindly ignoring what is taking place on the second floor. While all sports commissioners essentially do the bidding of their masters, i.e. the owners, Selig is the absolute worst. He ignores the many problems facing the game including the most important...competitive balance in favor of mostly PR gestures. How long does his contract run?
Baseball owners are on record as not wanting anyone in that job who might be objective with regard to decision making that is in the best interests of the game. [See Fay Vincent.] They want a lacky (no offense John) who will only do their bidding.
Roch, I think Delgado's a tempting choice, but I don't know if the Orioles want to take that risk. The 38 jacks in 2008 is exactly the kind of big bat production the O's are looking for, that's for sure.
On the other side of the ledger are the negatives. Delgado's a player who'll be 38, who is coming of a year in which an injury kept him to just over 100 at bats and will be switching leagues.
He's a left-handed power hitter, where ideally the club would want a right-handed or switch hitter to protect Nick in the lineup. Delgado has hit lefties pretty well, but he's still not the best fit in that respect.
His defense at first won't make anyone confuse him with Mark Teixeira (or even Kevin Millar). Although some fans might say who cares as long as we get the run production, having a bad fielding first baseman isn't really the way the O's should be thinking--not with young pitchers who need to be good defense to reinforce their efforts.
He could, of course, be made the DH, but then who plays first and what happens to Luke Scott? In my mind this is a deal that could go bust as easily as boom for the O's.
Vlad Guerrero, who's three years younger and a right-handed power bat, makes just as much sense. True, Delgado technically could play first (don't know how much his hip surgery impairs his already shaky defense) and no one wants Vlad in the outfield very much, so it's more a question of who do you want as DH. Delgado is just a power hitter, but Guerrero is much more. He has a career batting average of .321, which is 41 points higher than Delgado's, plus he's a much more disciplined hitter, which is hard to believe since he's also the quintessential free swinger and bad ball hitter.
Like so many power hitters, Delgado strikes out a lot, averaging between 125-130 a season. Contrast that with Guerrero, who has never struck out 100 times in his career (his worst was 95 Ks in his first full season, but other than that he's never even reached the 90 mark). Vlad just makes more sense for the Orioles if they're in the market for an aging slugger.
I agree with everyone who says sign DeRosa. He's a very solid player who in 12 major league seasons has played everywhere but pitcher and catcher. He's not the big power bat, but was still good for 23 HR. I like the idea of a super-utility player who's also be good enough to be penciled in as the starting Opening Day third baseman.
I don't think Harden would be a particularly good acquisition; not bad, but the Orioles could do better. Firstly, he's only 27 and isn't exactly the veteran anchor the team needs to mentor the youngsters. Now if he can be gotten along with a vet, then I say go for it, but by himself not so sure.
The other issue with Harden--the issue with him--is he isn't durable. As a hurler who's been used exclusively as a starter, he's only made 127 starts in seven seasons. By way of comparison, even Erik Bedard, who we know has been very injury prone, has had 141 starts in seven seasons.
DK said:
I'm no stickler, but I do think this is outside the norm of interent linking protocol.
That list, with the comments, is original editorial content from an MLB Trade Rumors writer. Pageviews are money in the internet business, and you are making it too easy for your readers to bypass the original site by providing them with all of the content.
The appropriate way to cite this is to provide a clickable link and quote a short excerpt, or provide a brief summary of the content. Your citation should leave the reader wanting more and encourage them to check out the source site.
I know MLB Trade Rumors would do the same to you.
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A link has been provided. Can we stick to the topic of the entry, please. - Roch
November 9, 2009 10:46 AM
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Roch, you keep right on cutting & pasting those types of entries/lists. That was informative, relevant to this group/crowd, etc. Frankly, if you had just put a link here, I probably wouldn't have gone to it. Lack of site trust etc.
There are better ways to spend money for this team and he is not the type of person we want here. He would cause disruption to the team chemistry. You may as well make the trolls bat boys and let them sit with the team during games. It would be about the same.
I agree with ScottP from DE and West Coast O's Fan that signing Delgado does more harm than good much like our good friend Adam Eaton. I don't think Michael Aubrey stands a chance at putting up reasonable 1B numbers but I would much rather see him or Huff than Delgado. I agree with Brian that the Orioles and many bloggers are overvaluing Brandon Snyder right now.
Adam LaRoche seems to fit the bill far better. LaRoche, a veteran starter with the ability to win 15 games, and Gonzalez/Valverde actually improve the team in areas of need. That would not break the bank. Pray that we get power from Markakis, Jones, Wieters, Reimold, 3B, and 1B that wasn't consistent last season.
There are certainly ways to use free agency as it is intended to be used for the Orioles. As you can see though, the rich will get richer with the present system- plus, more folks will get snatched up after arbitration is declined...
The Orioles are not terrible and could be exciting. There are many ways to improve without mortgaging the future.
Delgado refused to stand for "God Bless America"--an absurd song on its face--as a protest against the American wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He's the rare athlete who actually speaks his mind from time to time in an intelligent way.
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0709-02.htm
Roch, You deleted the best part. DK, hmmmm what might that stand for...
@ Ken Francis - Did you really say Vlad was a disciplined hitter????
The guy will swing at ANYTHING. How in the world is that disciplined??????
I had totally forgot about Delgado until I saw that list last night. He is an intriguing option to me. I think if he takes the DH/backup 1B role, you could see him hit 30+ HR. I think his numbers would be a little better than Luke's, so if you can sign him for slightly more than what Luke will make, I'd definitely do it.
I think trading Luke (but not totally giving him away) this off-season should be a second tier priority. His streaks are just so frustrating and he's got 2 years under club control. That means he could walk after 2011 and I don't see where he (or any DH) couldn't be replaced by someone on the FA market any given year. He's not a 1B. You can want him to be one all you want, but he's a LF/DH guy. We've already got an up an coming one of those guys in Reimold, who is RH and has a better eye (and is more patient) at the plate. He's not gonna get LF starts in Baltimore with Pie here, so that reduces his value for the O's. Are the Braves still interested in him? I believe they've got good minor league pitching depth and might be willing to part with a mid-level prospect or two for him.
If you sign Delgado and move Reimold in the line-up, you could have something like this next year to start the season.
1. Roberts 2B
2. Markakis RF
3. Reimold LF
4. Delgado DH
5. Wieters C
6. Jones CF
7. Aubrey or Snyder 1B
8. Wigginton 3B (until Bell)
9. Izturis SS
This is a pretty decent line up that can get things done. If you want to give Aubrey or Snyder a day off, you can start Pie in LF, give Reimold the DH ABs and put Delgado at 1B. When Bell comes up, it might be wise to start him out #8 and then move him up to #7 when Snyder is on 1B if you really wanna keep out of a righty righty situation. If we're getting power from Wieters (and some from Jones), I don't see where we absolutely NEED a power guy at 1B, since we're getting that production from typically non-power positions.
Rather have Nick Johnson or Adam Laroche over Delgado any day.
i much prefer dye to delgado, younger and a righty to put behind markakis.
Nelson Hawkins, we really should keep politics out of baseball blogs, but "God Bless America" is not an absurd song. It has nothing to do with war, just being patriotic. Delgado seems to be anti American but he loves working here and cashing those paychecks. Freedom at its best!
Good God, no. Not Delgado. And for crying out loud, whoever mentioned "Why isn't anyone talking about Thome? He got no playing time in LA!" needs to go hang out with those that are clamoring for everyone on the team to change positions just to fill the empty spots. (PS Thome's D leaves a lot to be desired when you've got James Loney who can actually...move. I'm NOT taking an oft-injured 1B to throw a lot of money at, sorry, you'll have to convince me he's healthy.) Michael Aubrey hit a triple once. He stood on third base. That must mean he's qualified to play there, no?
I'd be willing to take a flyer on Pavano or Pineiro; both'd eat some innings and strike a few batters out. I'd take LaRoche, too, 1-2yr deal because when we have someone ready to come up from NOR, he'll be good to trade to a contender for some more prospects. When a mediocre hitter is traded at the deadline, someone is usually overvaluing them. Which would work out in the O's favor.
There's my long post for the day. Sorry.
Roch,
Great posts and although I have rarely ever posted I must admit that I love this blog and seeing how many passoniate O's Fans we have!
I know that Dave T. may want that power bat and unless we do it thru a trade, I think that most of the other options out there are for the most part a waste of money and bubble gum on a leaky pipe. I truly see that what Dave wants is just not out there. So then what do you do? I think a change in philosphy and get the best player available. For Baltimore I truly believe it's Figgans. He can be given a contract for 3 yrs with a option year. Why he would be perfect for the #2 spot given his ability to see pitches and gives Roberts a better chance to steal and put more pressure on the pitchers and defense. If Bell progresses the way we would all hope Figgans can move to short next year or be a super utility man! Remember that a long term contract for him in no way hurts our future or blocks anyone due to the fact that no matter what we only have Itzturis and Wiggington signed thru next year. This signing makes sense for now and the future. Thats what our philosphy should be!
I personally think that Reimold, Jones, Markakis and Weiters will provide plenty of power in the future.
If Figgans resigns with the Angels, I have not heard many bloggers on Mark Derosa another guy thats power numbers are on the rise and can play multiple positions. If the Cardinals don't resign him I would much rather sacrafice a few home runs for a guy that is versatile. One dimensional players have hurt us so much in the past.
Pitching is where it is and I truly liked how the O's of Old used to bring up the future studs into the bullpen to get their feet wet until they were more comfortable to start. That is somewhere I'd like us to get back to and sign or get at least two starters this offseason. Atlanta is lookin for a power bat and a Scott for Vasquez should be explored. No matter what but for all the years watchin Bedard I would love to have him back in the fold. He was such a tough luck pitcher with the O's, (run support) what I recall. But he has the stuff when healthy to match up other Aces and bloggers those players are hard to come by. He is worth the risk of a salary that is perfomance based that with the proper incentitives could make him the money he would desire!
Lastly a closer. Great options out there just get one! JJ was great but obviously not comfortable in that role.
We need to continue to look at what will makes us better, not only for a couple months of the season but the entire year. Flyers on Delgado and others like him basically are demoralizing for the current players not to mention the fans, because they know that a certain someone is like an office temp! Please no more!
We are close a few of the right pieces will be able to let us compete. Then those last pieces to put us over the edge...love this qoute " Build it and they will come" Fans and free agents!
Nelson Hawkins said:
Delgado refused to stand for "God Bless America"--an absurd song on its face--as a protest against the American wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He's the rare athlete who actually speaks his mind from time to time in an intelligent way.
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0709-02.htm
November 9, 2009 1:53 PM
U R kidding right? After what recently happened & during this week you go there?
1) Thanks for posting the list, Roch. At work I cannot access MLBTR, even though I can access MASN.com. Something about the filters and what is classified as a blog.
2) Absolutely not on Delgado. Lefthanded DHs need not apply.
3) I'm still pushing for Dye. Righthanded DH/4th OF.
4) Bring in more relievers. Remember how well that worked in 2007? Baez, Walker, Bradford, and Williamson were supposed to overhaul the bullpen.
5) Someone mentioned that the O's are overvaluing Snyder. Huh? You can overvalue someone who at age 22 put up an OPS over 1000? Wow, the cynical bug has been spreading.
6) If Snyder and/or Bell aren't ready, then Wigginton and/or Aubrey should be the stopgaps, not some FA signing. Save the money for Dye and for pitching.
I met Carlos Delgado early in the 2007 season in New York. I mentioned to him that he was supposed to have been with the Orioles and that they were off to a good start that year (please note- it was very early in the season). He said something like, "just wait, they'll be way out of it by August, like usual."
Delgado would be a waste. There's no reason to believe that he'd be any better than Luke Scott. Orioles should concentrate on
a) getting a closer, either Wagner or Valverde, and
b) getting an innings eating starter, either Penny, Lackey or Pettite
A power hitting 1st baseman is a nice to have, but not as crucial as the above.
Please remember there is a 1b man out there on a team with financial difficulties that our GM has a history of dealing with that we should be able to get with a reasonable package of one young arm, one young catcher/LF, and a young "some time" starting 1b man. And we have two of each!! Derrek Lee should be our 1b man and DH at the start of the year and play one of the two positions for the next four years on a daily basis.
Go after FA,s like Delgado,or Beltre for power at 3B, or Figgins if we're finally going to start running as a team built like ours should.
Try to sign both Beddard, and Myers and even though both have questionable histories, who are we to stand in judgment, half of the steroid users and head cases in the news the last two decades had their problems here.
Look at Putz and bring back Sarfate and Hill. If not one of these FA signings pans out long term what have we lost? NOTHING!!, but a little bit of money and we still have them for trades latter in the season.
I still like Gavin Floyd and Asdrbal Cabrera but understand the cost/value ratio may not be there for them, later maybe if we're the contending team at the trading deadline. But please pull the trigger on the Derrek Lee trade as soon as possible and I guarantee we will have less trouble and less cost involved in signing those other FA's I've mentioned.
GET ON THE D. LEE BANDWAGON
Roch -
I say stay away from Delgado. While there is a chance for him hit 30+ HRs next year is it what takes us to the playoffs next year? No...we aren't going to the playoffs next year. Stick to the plan and we aren't at a point to buy the big bat.
We have rented bats or arms to help us succeed in the past only to lead to disappointment. If Snyder is putting up those numbers in the minors then he deserves the opportunity to earn the starting job next year in this organization.
Rent Mora one more year at third or sign a FA there for a year until Bell is ready. Or go out on a limb and give it to Bell out of the spring.
We don't need re-treads or club house cancers trying to hang on to the glory for one more year wearing our uniform. This club is in a youth movement and we need to stay focused on that front. If we are winning at the trade deadline then buy or trade for that additional bat to get us to the playoffs.
steve in phx said:
@ Ken Francis - Did you really say Vlad was a disciplined hitter????
The guy will swing at ANYTHING. How in the world is that disciplined??????
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Yeah, I really said it, Steve, and I stand by it, because he is a disciplined hitter. True, he swings at a lot of bad pitches, but he's selective about which bad ones he goes after.
That sounds like a contradiction, I know, but it really isn't. As I noted above, the man's a lifetime .321 power hitter who doesn't strike out an inordinate number of times (his average has been less than 80 Ks a year for his nine full seasons, excellent for a someone with his power).
An undisciplined hitter might get lucky and put up those kind of numbers for a season or two, but couldn't do it over the long haul. Vlad's made a career of it!
The only thing that could be used as proof that he isn't disciplined are his base on balls total, which aren't to write home about. Yes, he could stand to walk a bit more, but honestly even there his numbers are at least respectable.
All of which points to Vlad being more than just a hacker. He will not swing at "anything," but only at pitches he thinks he can handle (and handle them he often does); the fact that he's been a successful major league hitter on a consistent basis for so long proves that he is disciplined.
I wouldn't mind seeing him hitting behind Markakis and I doubt that Nick would, either.
Roch,
Absolutely not on Delgado! As some have mentioned, I wouldn't mind seeing us go after Adam LaRoche.
I also think going after Valverde as a closer makes a lot of sense.
As for 3rd base, I'd be OK with DeRosa as well. Solid vet, and glove.
As for a veteran arm? How about Joel Pineiro. His sinker in OPACY would work quite nicely.