Miggy and lefties (updated)
Miguel Tejada is expected to be re-introduced to the local media this afternoon after taking his physical. I'll provide an update later today once all of the details are official, but you'll probably want to keep your television tuned to MASN.
Update: The Orioles will hold a press conference at 3 p.m. They didn't specify the reason, but we'll assume it involves Tejada.
I'll head to the Warehouse to attend the press conference. Steve Melewski also will be there, so check out his blog as well.
This could be the last big announcement to come out of the Warehouse before spring training. I'm not sure that a left-hander reliever or two will cause quite the same stir.
Here's the list of remaining free-agents who fit that description, courtesy of mlbtraderumors:
John Bale (36)
Joe Beimel (32)
Alan Embree (40)
Mark Hendrickson (36)
Ron Mahay (39)
Will Ohman (31)
Horacio Ramirez (30)
Glendon Rusch (35)
Scott Schoeneweis (36)
Ron Villone (40)
Jamie Walker (38)
Schoeneweis and Villone are represented by agent Scott Boras. The Orioles had serious interest in Ohman last winter, but he signed late with the Dodgers and appeared in only 21 games because of a shoulder injury that ended his season in late May.
Walker hasn't officially retired, as far as I know, but his name hasn't appeared in one single rumor (unless I missed it).
We've gone over Hendrickson countless times. He's expected to re-sign with the Orioles, but the exact date is anybody's guess. I'd settle for a conservative estimate.
An Erik Bedard signing would get the media rushing back to Camden Yards, but the two sides didn't appear to be close last week. Bedard's in no hurry to choose a team, perhaps for health reasons. Again, it's anybody's guess.
Shameless plug alert: I'm minutes away from doing a phone segment on the Ed Norris Show on 105.7 The Fan. We'll be talking sports, not politics.
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Categories (click for archive)Roch Kubatko | Roch Kubatko Orioles |
Sounds like a day of Roch chillen with convicted felons. First Ole Ed, then Miggy.
Maybe tonight Roch will interview Plax from jail?
MasterChef,
Your only mistake was an attempt to interact with "he who must not be named". It's not worth it. The only way I see any of his tripe is when Roch comments on it or it's in someone else's post. Otherwise it is motes in the wind. Personally I'm glad you're passionate about your profession. Hang in there.
Miguel is a convicted felon now? Last I heard was he got probation for his congressional testimony... doesn't exactly make him a felon does it? Brummie, why don't you use your law degree you got from Aisle 4 in Wal Mart and enlighten us all, please?
Roch,
Can you provide some clips from his previous tenure here in your update. I am referring to the ones where he asked to be traded ...how many times?
As this off season progresses, we are still waiting for our number one starter and legit cleanup hitter which Andy said was the top priority. I am sure they are coming. He wouldn't lie to us.....would he?
What an embarrassment....this off season. We secured nothing to help us in the future. We secured a aging 1st baseman and a prohibited substance abuser.......Sounds like we are the landing strip for all of the ML cast offs.
"An Erik Bedard signing would get the media rushing back to Camden Yards, but the two sides didn't appear to be close last week."
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That should be an interesting press conference; filled with one-worded answers and smirks from Bedard.
That list is a little disappointing. Let's hope Hendrickson doesn't sign elsewhere, cause everyone else is pretty terrible.
I am shocked the O's are making a big deal out of this signing. As stated a known steriod user who demanded to be traded from the team only 2 years ago?
Is this sort of a Rah Rah Rah to sell tickets?
I would be embarrassed if I was the Orioles bringing Tejada back. Would have rather seen Bell brought up and nutured like they did Markakis.
ANother sad day in what is going to be a long and painful Orioles season
Ken Francis - I'm frequently a big supporter of your posts. I don't share your optimism for Miggy, though. Check out his home/road splits from the past two years: outside of Minute Maid Park, he was a poor hitter. Last year he did manage 23 doubles on the road, but only 4 HR and a paltry .313 OBP (.395 SLG). In 2008, it was 17 doubles, 5 HR, a .307 OBP and .394 SLG. That's a full season of data pegging him as a marginal hitter outside of the hitter's haven of the Juice Box. The OBP and SLG place him pretty much dead on what we got out of Wigginton last year. While it's true he doesn't strike out much, a .700 OPS belongs on the bench or batting 8th and providing sterling defense at SS. This, of course, is my opinion: maybe by selecting his road stats I'm being biased against what he'll do at this stage in his career in AL parks, and he'll put up solid enough numbers in Camden Yards that he will be our best option in a more important lineup spot.
Roch, I heard you on the Ed Norris show this morning, good stuff. I am glad the O's signed Miggy so now for the most part the starters are set for this year going into spring training unlike years past. I have to say I am much happier with what we have as of this January than what we had as of last January. I am not blind and I know we have a long way to go before we are ready for a run at the playoffs but this team is much better on paper now than it has been in a long time. Would you agree?????
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Yes, but it's tough to project when you have so many young players. They could take the next step or they could regress. It's not like predicting how Teixeira, A-Rod, Sabathia, Youkilis, Beckett, Lackey, etc. are going to perform. - Roch
Morning Roch, So Miggy today sometime. I am still very glad about that move. I think Hendrickson will sign at some point too. I read somewhere the O's were interested in 2 left handers. One I assume is Hendrickson...does that mean that the other lefty is starter Bedard for sure if healthy and signable? Do you think if they sign Hendrickson and things do not work out for Bedard for whatever reason they will still really try to sign a left handed relief pitcher from that list or trade for one or that is not at the top of their list? All the talk of another veteran starter is great but there are not many lefty starters out there to choose from for sure if that is what they seek. Have you heard any other starting pitchers names mentioned behind closed doors?
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I think it could be two lefty relievers. Funny that we don't hear any other starters named besides Bedard. - Roch
Roch,
I will not take the time to name names, but some are beyone being cute and clever they are crude and tiring. Miggy Committed a victimless crime unlike most football and basketball stars. I hope this someone can find another topic to show his age or IQ.
Who comes off the 40 man roster to make room for Miggy? Any guesses?
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Don't know, and I'd rather not guess and be wrong. Hate to cut a guy who ends up staying on the roster. I've done that before. There are the obvious candidates, guys who are at risk. - Roch
Ummm Willie, Miggy pleaded GUILTY. Usually when you plead guilty, you are convicted. Please let us know what tribal law system you practice.
Cheers,
The Brumster (LOL)
I actually like Alan Embree quite a bit. Didn't he too end his year on an injury last year? I feel like it was a line drive that did him in.
Hey O's fans...offseason was a success. Sure no big trade for Fiedler or Gonzo but I disnt see those guys go anywhere else eithier...those guys were not going to be traded now.
So we now have Atkins who a year ago we would have been saying "beautiful move"...worth the 1 year gamble. Then we get Miggy who for all of the DP and home/road split analysis I am reading still got 199 hits LY. Anyone would take that. Plug him right behind AJ and Nick and watch the RBI's. Then we bloster out SP with solid if unspectacular Milwood. Gee I can really see anything I do not like here. Line-up and rotation look much improved vs LY. I do not even want to stir up those names but you know who they are. Then what if we get Bedard...just another plus. Whats not to like.
I know we all want Mays, Mantle, and Maris but they just are not available.
Lets go O's!
Paul,
So Brummie isn't negative enough for you, that you have to try to outdo him ? You obviously enjoy playing the part of troll - another unhappy individual in life.Remember when Baltimore didn't have a pro football team ? Life wasn't so good then. Be happy that you have a pro baseball team where a highly respected team official is putting the parts together slowly but surely. A true fan supports his team in good times and bad. A jerk just complains all the time. If the shoe fits.....
a Real Os Fan
It's funny how Paul (in two posts) neglected to mention that AMcP traded for Kevin Millwood, a significant upgrade in experience for the front of our rotation. Having Millwood also makes Guthrie, or perhaps even one of the young arms, available for a trade for a bat.
Paul, et al, if you're going to criticize the management at least include the relevant facts - because I am sure you are not selectively omitting important info to make your rants more convincing - or justified. Now, how do I insert a Bedard-esque smirk right here?
Roch,
Have you heard any rumor's linking Bedard to anyone else? Other than he would be a good fit, I mean. As far as I can tell, he isn't talking to anyone.
As for other starters, which other starters would be willing to sign for one year? assuming Bedard will.
Baldy
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I can't speak for the other starters, though it figures that they'd be more willing to take one year as we get closer to spring training. I think Seattle still has interest in Bedard, depending on when he's ready to pitch. - Roch
Brummie you forgot to put LOL
"Funny that we don't hear any other starters named besides Bedard."
Further to that point, we don't hear any other teams mention his name. At least I haven't.
Orioles need a specialist here who would be effective against left handers. Mark Hendrickson doesn't fit that description. Orioles should be a little more liberal with Bedard as he is the real architect of the resurgence of this franchise.
Roch,
You may have covered this in a previous post, but is it possible that the failure of Bedard to sign with the Os or any other team is because none has made him an offer due to health concerns. In other words, maybe Bedard's "in no hurry to choose a team" because he has nothing to choose. Has he received any contract offers and declined them because they were unsatisfactory (e.g., minor league contracts with incentives)?
Thanks.
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Don't know about offers. Haven't seen any reported. - Roch
One of my resolutions is to listen/read more and post only when I feel like I am able to contribute something worth considering. I think we are all getting a little reactionary which dilutes the blogs. A good rule of thumb is to avoid commenting about commenters. Ideas are fair game. Anyway, my few ideas re: Miggy and the lineup are the following: 1) Miggy makes the O's a better team. 2) Miggy does not add the middle of the lineup power the Orioles should be seeking. That player may not exist. 3) Our lineup will suffer an identity crisis because of this move to bring in Miggy. 4) I beg fans not to judge Miggy as a cleanup hitter - that is not who he is just as it was ludicrous to call Guthrie a number 1 pitcher or Millwood for that matter. 5) The pitching staff needs another starter now. Standing pat will create the need to press with some of the younger arms. Tillman in AAA does not bother me. The excuse that he can no longer benefit from that level of play baffles me. Do you expect his control and game strategy to develp faster in the majors? 6) Wieters needs to get as manner ABs per game as possible short of fatigue while considering his inability to run (6-hole looks good). This is more important than alternating lefty-righties.
Lastly, this team will be better than last years. It would be hard not to be. I personally think they should have done more to trade for a middle of the order bat but that is a commodity that would potentially cut this team deep in pitching. Maybe that guy was not even available. I'd say without Bedard the offseason grades out at a "C-". It boils down to a bunch of one-year deals with 3 slightly above average major leaguers and a reclamation project. The O's were not movers or shakers despite being a team with amazing financial flexibilty and a decently stocked farm system and ML ready talent. Anyone remember the story of the "Three Billy Goats Gruff"?
Once upon a time there were three billy goats, who were to go up to the hillside to make themselves fat, and the name of all three was "Gruff."
On the way up was a bridge over a cascading stream they had to cross; and under the bridge lived a great ugly troll , with eyes as big as saucers, and a nose as long as a poker.
So first of all came the youngest Billy Goat Gruff to cross the bridge.
"Trip, trap, trip, trap! " went the bridge.
"Who's that tripping over my bridge?" roared the troll .
"Oh, it is only I, the tiniest Billy Goat Gruff , and I'm going up to the hillside to make myself fat," said the billy goat, with such a small voice.
"Now, I'm coming to gobble you up," said the troll.
"Oh, no! pray don't take me. I'm too little, that I am," said the billy goat. "Wait a bit till the second Billy Goat Gruff comes. He's much bigger."
"Well, be off with you," said the troll.
A little while after came the second Billy Goat Gruff to cross the bridge.
Trip, trap, trip, trap, trip, trap, went the bridge.
"Who's that tripping over my bridge?" roared the troll.
"Oh, it's the second Billy Goat Gruff , and I'm going up to the hillside to make myself fat," said the billy goat, who hadn't such a small voice.
"Now I'm coming to gobble you up," said the troll.
"Oh, no! Don't take me. Wait a little till the big Billy Goat Gruff comes. He's much bigger."
"Very well! Be off with you," said the troll.
But just then up came the big Billy Goat Gruff .
Trip, trap, trip, trap, trip, trap! went the bridge, for the billy goat was so heavy that the bridge creaked and groaned under him.
"Who's that tramping over my bridge?" roared the troll.
"It's I! The big Billy Goat Gruff ," said the billy goat, who had an ugly hoarse voice of his own.
"Now I 'm coming to gobble you up," roared the troll.
Well, come along! I've got two spears,
And I'll poke your eyeballs out at your ears;
I've got besides two curling-stones,
And I'll crush you to bits, body and bones.
That was what the big billy goat said. And then he flew at the troll, and poked his eyes out with his horns, and crushed him to bits, body and bones, and tossed him out into the cascade, and after that he went up to the hillside. There the billy goats got so fat they were scarcely able to walk home again. And if the fat hasn't fallen off them, why, they're still fat; and so,
Snip, snap, snout.
This tale's told out.
I guess we can hope that MacPhail is the big Billy Goat Gruff (rather than a cast member in the Emperor's New Clothes). Isn't it great when we can boil things down to fables?
Brummie_Oriole said:
Sounds like a day of Roch chillen with convicted felons. First Ole Ed, then Miggy.
Maybe tonight Roch will interview Plax from jail?
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Roch, please ban this idiot. There is nothing constructive coming from comments like the one above. Yes, I can scroll over them but he doesn't belong in this blog and it only seems to be getting worse.
Brummie_Oriole said:
Sounds like a day of Roch chillen with convicted felons. First Ole Ed, then Miggy.
Maybe tonight Roch will interview Plax from jail?
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No doubt a pleasant relief from consorting with a lying sack of shinola like you every day.
William R. said:
Miguel is a convicted felon now? Last I heard was he got probation for his congressional testimony... doesn't exactly make him a felon does it? Brummie, why don't you use your law degree you got from Aisle 4 in Wal Mart and enlighten us all, please?
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You cant chastise a liar with facts. Why do you think he refuses to engage? He does not accept facts that dont fit his skewed, twisted view of the world and he lies knowingly out of a cocksure conviction that his crusade transcends morality . . . which makes it even more humorous when he feigns moral indignation.
Charles said "...but this team is much better on paper now than it has been in a long time."
Agreed. We are also much more defined. That is, we already have a very large portion of the 25 man roster accounted for.
Starters: Roberts, Jones, Markakis, Tejada, Wieters, Reimold, Scott, Atkins, Isturiz
Bench: Wiggy, Pie, Moeller
Rotation: Millwood, Guthrie. Bergesen, Matusz, Tillman
Bullpen: Meredith, Mickolio, Uehara, JJ, Gonzales
That leaves only 3 spots up for grabs. One will go to either Andino or Turner with Davis as a dark horse.
Another will likely go to Hendrickson when they sign him.
That leaves 1 spot to be fought over by Albers, Sarfate, Berken and Hernandez.
Roch - does this look about how the roster will shape up? I just don't want to leave anyone out.
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That looks about right. - Roch
Mr. Roch Kubatko, I also enjoyed the Miggy signing and like the idea of bringing back Mark Hendrickson, since you stated two lefty pitchers who else do you think the other one could be. My big question is who on the 40 man roster are they going to give the boot to with the Tejada singing and future lefty pitcher? Do you think they will ax on of our surplus of 1st baseman, relief pitchers, or possibly a middle infielder?
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I have no idea. They have so many extra pitchers, it figures to be one of them, but that's not guaranteed. - Roch
Fan Fest was pretty cool. I can't imagine standing in one of those lines for an autograph though. And the beer line was... At least the line for booze at the boat show was shorter.
When I think of "big bat", Tejada is not the first name that comes to mind. But, there really wasn't squat out there this year, so good job Os.
Can't wait to read your reports from Florida, you lucky dog.
Is it too early to start guessing who will blow us away in spring training?
Why is everyone so down on this signing? It is a 1-year deal and he's a proven producer (despite the GIDPs). Everyone is bringing up the trade demands (did he ever specifically demand to be traded or just suggest it might be better for him to leave??) but does no one remember the excitement he brought to the dugout? Every time the camera would pan in there Miggy would have the guys laughing and staying loose. The bad Miggy came out when we were losing game after game and who doesn't get down when your team is losing? The trade demands were in the midst of a 6-year contract, during which we were going NOWHERE. This is a totally different situation and if he's a jerk he'll be gone in 1 year.
Roch,
Mr. MacPhail surprised us a bit with Miggy and the way the news was delivered. Do you the O's might pull another rabbit out of the hat? Specifically...a trade for starting pitching or a bargain basement free agent signing that doesn't necessarily fit in with "the plan".
Jim Carter
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I don't anticipate a trade for pitching. - Roch
I have to say that hopefully by adding Tejada and Millwood will give the O's a few more wins and keep this team watchable this summer. But in the long run they are only signed to 1 year deals and we will lose them either at the trade deadline or at the end of the year putting us back to square one again come Oct. I know they are just stop gaps but really how long will in take for Bell and Snyder to become legit hitters in the bigs when they get here. 2,3 or 4 years?
Roch,
I was thinking Bedard is a special case given the familiarity factor with the O's. If it weren't for that I was thinking the O's would go with what they have and look for another veteran next year. I'll be crushed if Guthrie doesn't bounce back. Do you know what his arbitration date is?
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If it's been set, I haven't heard. - Roch
I still say Bedard won't be ready to pitch until June. He probably won't be the same Bedard everyone remembers or wants here until mid July either. Slotting him as the team's #1 is a joke & the people doing it have obviously never had shoulder surgery.
All these lineups suggested here are irrelevant too, unless DT is posting one on here.
When are the Orioles going to re-introduce Raphael Palmero ?
Roch you forgot about Takahashi, the Japanese LH reliever that was a former teammate of Koji Uehara. He was a free agent the Orioles were interested in.
People are asking why bring back Miggy? The guy hit well over 300 last year with 46 doubles and helps bolster a pretty solid young lineup. He's also purported to be a fantastic teamate. Just ask Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis.
Miggys home run totals have declined for what I think are pretty obvious reasons. However, look across the board. Homeruns in general have been dropping since the steroid investigations. He still hits for average witha bit of pop, that may increase in a smaller park.
Keep in mind that Miggy is keeping the spot warm for a hot young prospect who still may need time to further develop. Bell has only been in the O's organization for half a year, and this provides more time to get him ready for the next step.
I had no problem with trading Miggy away two years ago, and I have no problem with bringing him back. We are bringing him back for completely different reasons than why he was traded In both cases, the decisions were solid and logical, and set the O's up to be more competitive now and in the future.
The Orioles should sign Jim Thome and trade Luke Scott for a couple of prospects.Luke Scott is too streaky and with Thome you know what you are getting out of him and he also have a high on base percentage.When Luke is not hitting he cant generate walks either.
Nice summation of the offseason JPA, although I think I would give MacPhail a B- if we don't sign Bedard. There was not an impact bat at 1st or 3rd that the O's could have bought and I agree that we should not mortgage the franchise by trading most of our pitching talent for a Adrian Gonzalez or Fielder.
I don't know why everyone gets so worked up over Hendrickson. Yes, he was better coming out of the pen than starting, but he is still very mediocre. I would love it if they signed Bedard to a 2 year deal with an option for a 3rd year. If the Orioles want to land him, they have to take a bit of a flyer on his health issues. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Roch, where do you see Sarfate mixing in for 2010? I think a lot of fans have kind of given up on him, but I thought he was pretty effective in 2008 until injuries slowed him down. I think he is going to be the surprise of 2010 -- unless some other team claims him.
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He'll have to earn a spot in the 'pen. He's out of options, which might work in his favor, but there's a lot of competition. - Roch
Some of these people on here...Brummie and Paul to name a few, do you have jobs ? Or is your job to constantly critize the moves AM makes!!
Just adding to the lineup fun:
1. Roberts - great leadoff man. Doubles machine.
2. Jones - batted great in the 2-hole last year.
3. Markarkis - professional hitter. Will benefit from solid cleanup man.
4. Reimold - when he's ready, he'll be the O's cleanup hitter for a decade.
5. Weiters - entrenched in 5th spot for years.
6. Manning - can't run, but still finds ways to score - can protect Weiters
7. Wayne - sure and steady.
8. Freeney - needs a fast start to keep his spot.
9. Dallas Clark - see #7.
... and please don't forget Bob Sanders, that dude can flat out fly.
Go Colts.
Go O's - this certainly should be an interesting season. Really looking forward to it. DT has his work cut out for him figuring out a lineup. Good problem to have.
Keep up the fine work Roch! Please forgive that lineup gaffe - lol.
Roch:
I think, no know, it would make every person who reads your blog to make an "editor's decision" to pass over any entries from Brummie. Just hit delete. He brings nothing to the "school" and definitely wouldn't be missed. If you could put a face to the name, I'm sure it's some idiot who has a morning show way down the dial that only has, maybe 100 listeners. You know the station, it's the one that only dogs can hear.
JO
P.S. Any rumors on the new on air personality?
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I've heard a few, but I'll let 105.7 make the announcement when it's time. Don't know if anything is official. - Roch
Roch,
Did you do any writing for the baseball annuals hitting the steets in the next few weeks?
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None that I'll admit to :-) Roch
I saw a 'Craig' sighting with at least one set of Dots! Has my buddy resurfaced now that Spring training is close to arrivingw? Or is it a coincidence?
Roch,
Can you seriously consider banning brummie_oriole? I am insulted by the fact that he has "oriole" in his user name. I have never read any comment from him that was helpful or insightful.
When I read your blog I usually feel good about the information that I read. Then I scroll down and read the comments (this loser has the first post 90% of the time) and I get aggrivated about the trash that he posts.
I would prefer to read your blog because the information is more detailed, but if I am going to have to read the same garbage comments from brummie_oriole for another season than I might have to switch to The Schmuck Stops Here.
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You'll find a few similar characters over there who spend all day bashing the front office and other readers. - Roch
B_O...if you have nothing nice to say...
Roch
Just saw a picture of Nick Markakis at FanFest. What's up with that beard, and when can we expect you to grow one?
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It's his winter look - and I had no idea that he spent the winter at the North Pole. - Roch
Roch
Hard to believe Jon garland is still out there. I guess the rumor is Mets and/or Nats, but I think he would look good in the black and orange. Under innings eater, Jon Garland is the poster child. Has pitched over 190 innings every year since 2002. Could be key with 3/4 of the staff as young as they are?...
Brummie
Tejada was convicted of a misdemeanor, not a felony....look it up before you speak.
hey roch,
it's been a while since i've commented but i've been mostly keeping up with your posts during the offseason. one thing i may have missed/just heard about concerns opening day tickets. i heard that you can't get tickets unless you get a season ticket plan or buy standing room only seats...have you heard of anything like this or why OD tickets have not gone on sale (at least through ticketmaster)? thanks and thanks for what you do
jimmy
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I haven't heard anything about Opening Day tickets. I'll ask around. - Roch
That doesn't sound good.
Any chance he failed his physical?
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Not at all. He just hasn't signed his contract yet, so under club policy, they won't confirm that Tejada will be there. That's the media's job. - Roch
Cant wait until 3pm so I can watch the press conference. I assume the O's will have to officially announce by 3pm who they are taking off the 40 man roster? I'll bet the player released will be Armando Gabino. I thought originally it might be Michael Aubrey but I think the O's want him to be at Norfolk in case of an injury.
Any thoughts on who gets designated for assignment?
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I've been asked numerous times, and I really don't know. There are a few obvious candidates. - Roch
Did someone actually suggest signing Thome? How far in the past are we living? The skills of a 39 year old hitter (and that's all he is) will fall off faster than an anvil dropped from a cliff. Thome went from 34 HR in 2008 to 23 in 2009. I would expect a similar drop off for 2010 - to maybe 10. Plus, he's slow as molassas in a Vermont winter. 28 and 15 doubles in each of the last two years. Expect about 10 in 2010...if he signs with anyone...along with a BA of about .220.
Tejada on the other hand, should be able to maintain his current level with minimal drop-off. Expect a .290 BA, 35 doubles, 12-15 HR. As for the DPs...he hit into so many because he hits the ball hard consistently. That gives fielders plenty of time to turn two. Depending on where DT bats him in the lineup and the O's running tactics (or is it strategy?), I could see a considerable drop in GIDPs.
Overall, I like the O's signing of Tejada. Good value for a relatively risk-free return for a limited term. If Bell develops in Norfolk, Tejeda's probably not around next year. If Bell doesn't (I'd guess that the majority of prospects never really pan out as anticipated), maybe Tejada's back for another year.
I'm totally drinking the Orange Kool-Aid for the Orioles 2010 Season,
I'm thinking an uplifting 85 win, 3rd place season is in the cards for them O's.
Rotation:
The rotation will go only as far as Matsuz, Bergy, and Tillman takes them, (although Tillman could use a lil more seasoning at AAA)
Are Guthrie and Millwood going to have sub 4 ERAs or ERA's over 5?
Lineup:
Has the potential to be one of the best in the league, whatever it lacks in power, it will make up for in runs scored, (Jones, Weiters and Reimold should become legit power hitters soon though)
Bullpen:
Frankly, this area of the O's is the one I'm most concerned with,
(* means they should make the team)
*Gonzalez-Showed he is an elite closer in the NL...can he be in the AL?
*Johnson-Is he going to be the dominant 2.23 ERA (2008 Edition) or the inconsistent 4+ ERA (2009 Edition)
*Mickilio-Is he healthy? Will he be the next Jeff Nelson or Ryan Kohlmeier?
*Uehara-Health Concern, if Johnson continues to struggle then Uehara could be the set-up guy by May
*Hendrickson-could be the most valuable guy in the bullpen, next to Gonzo
*Meredith-a pure righty-righty matchups guy, but definitely usable
*Sarfate-Had a great 2008 until he moved to the starting rotation, was hurt for most of 2009, although he had an 0.93 ERA in his last 10 appearances.
Albers-His career as an Oriole is likely over.
Berken-Will eat up some innings in Norfolk, rather than Baltimore.
Hernandez-If he gains control of his pitches in Norfolk, he could be a valuable member of the 2011 Oriole Bullpen.
Roch,
Is MASN.com covering/streamig Tejada's press conference today?
Obviously I dont get MASN on tv down here.
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I was told to advise readers to check the Web site at 3 p.m. - Roch
Paul,
Just thought I'd remind you that we got our number one starter in Millwood. MacPhail also said we needed a third and first baseman and a closer. We now have Atkins, Tejada, and Gonzalez. Exactly what MacPhail said he would bring this offseason.
That doesn't sound good.
Any chance he failed his physical?
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I thought I answered this already, unless it didn't go through. He didn't fail his physical. - Roch
Roch,
I don't have a problem with Brummie stating his opinion although he is usually way off base, but personal attacks and character assignations on players and people in your community shouldn't be posted. Just my opinion. Brook don't let him run you off this blog. It's the best one out there. Roch does Aubrey have any options left?
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Brummie has just as many personal attacks directed at him. I can't delete every comment. As long as they don't completely cross the line. I'd prefer everyone got along, but I'd also prefer not having my workload doubled and tripled by dealing with this stuff. As for Aubrey, I'm pretty sure he has options left. - Roch
Miggy kills the yankees everytime he plays them. once again miggy will probly be the best hitting oriole you can say nick but idts. And i think Jones will hit about 30hr this year and im so excited to see Nolan that guy was beast when he came up. SIGN BEDARD PLZZZZ
Miggy kills the yankees everytime he plays them. once again miggy will probly be the best hitting oriole you can say nick but idts. And i think Jones will hit about 30hr this year and im so excited to see Nolan that guy was beast when he came up. SIGN BEDARD PLZZZZ
Biemel is obviously the best option there. IF they go for yje best, he's had the most consistent career.
JPA, I could not agree with you more, but we should not hold our breath.
Roch, any chance you get a ride on the bus before it heads out of town? My prediction... as for future endeavors... roller derby probably before a sideline gig with CBS or Fox...
Corey said:
Any thoughts on who gets designated for assignment?
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I've been asked numerous times, and I really don't know. There are a few obvious candidates. - Roch
January 26, 2010 12:13 PM
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Anita
John Bale.... John Bale... now why does that name sound familiar? Why, could that be the same John Bale who passed through Baltimore in 2001, as a stepping stone between Jayson Werth and Gary Matthews? Could it possibly be the same guy? How come we don't hear a clamoring to return our long lost Johnny Bale to the Oriole fold like we do for those other southpaws Bedard and Hendrickson? Ah, how quickly some fade from our memories, particularly the ones who don't really amount to much while they are here.
Thanks for all you bring, you just don’t get any Oriole info in eastern NC. I hope Time Warner and MASN will stop fighting so I can watch some games this year, you can’t even watch the O’s on ESPN down here (blocked).
I’ll stop the whining since you can’t help but get excited about this year when you have an OF that can hit Pie, Jones, or Reimold in the two hole, that’s awesome. I think I’d put Atkins 4th but not for long because once Reimold finds that power swing he’ll be starting at clean up for a while. The rest of the line up will fall into place and we won’t be hurt anywhere that I can see. Besides Isturiz I don’t see anyone starting hitting under .275 and that’s saying something. I just hope we get the timely hitting.
Anthony, Don't forget JJ in the bullpen.
Orioles could be saying a fond farewell to Scott Moore.
Hey Roch,
I read somewhere recently that the MLBPA was looking into teams not using their revenue sharing money towards improving their rosters as it's intended. I think we both thought we were looking at Glaus or Crede for 1-2 million for a year. Do think there is any coincidence that since that leaked out the:
Marlins-extended Josh Johnson after saying they wouldn't this offseason
Orioles-signed Tejada for 6 million
A's-of all teams sign Sheets for 8 million
I like the front office and am far from a conspiracy theorist but the timing seems odd.
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I can't speak for the other teams, but I seriously doubt there's any connection with the Orioles. We're talking about a one-year, $6 million deal. They didn't exactly break the bank. - Roch
Hey Roch, I have a slightly different story on Bedard to share with you. Several weeks ago, KC's gneral manager was quoted as saying they were going after Bedard and planned to have an announcement on him within two weeks. Well, several weeks passed and KC's GM was back saying that really wasn't what he said. He actually said that Bedard was one of the people the team was reviewing. (Unsaid here are some deals that reduced the available cash the team had available and competely ignoring the first comments, which were printed in the Kansas City Star. I do not know where Bedard will end up, but Kansas City and Baltimore were viewed as his primary suitors for a long time.
As Paul Harvey used to say, here is the rest of the story. Within the past couple of weeks, several Yankee blogs have started a "take a chance on Bedard" drum beat. It is almost like somebody is holding his finger up to find out which way the wind is blowing. Oh what a tangled web......
I've got it. Miggy should be number 20... that way he can say he's twice the man he used to be. I don't know the history between the Orioles and Frank but it seems strained enough that they could pull this one off and no one would be surprised. Offended maybe, but not surprised.
It would also allow for a 20-10 promotion which is a reference to the year.
While it seems like marketing genius... it would have to be approved by Frank... and by Frank's approval I mean we need a signed letter by Frank authenticated by some reputable four name law firm and press conference with Frank handing Miggy the jersey and buttoning it on Miggy.
If he just tosses it across the table and storms out in disgust it doesn't count.
Folks,
Would you rather have Roch spend his time policing the posts or providing great content and answering your questions? I think Roch has made it clear what he prefers and I agree wholeheartedly. It's 2010, use the scrolling feature on your mouse. I have an Apple Magic Mouse that scrolls with the touch of a finger. Brrr--zing, no more post!
The blog is way more fun when we're commenting on meaningful posts.
Peace
Brummie, and others who may have referred to Tejada as a convicted felon:
A felony is an offense which is punishable by more than one year in prison. A misdemeanor is an offense which is punishable by a maximum of one year in prison. Tejada was charged with lying to congress, which carries a one year maximum on a prison sentence. Therefore, this was a misdemeanor, not a felony. There's a distinction for a reason, since felonies typically indicate much more severe crimes, so please try and be a bit more informed before you throw terms like that around, and attach them to different people's names.
Roch,
A's have agreed to a 1 year contract with Sheets. Reports are approx 9 million plus performance bonuses. If he had no interest in the O's, what do you think makes the A's attractive? Easier division? If his medical records are clean, would you rather have Sheets or Millwood since they are about the same in salary?
Thanks.
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I can't speak for Sheets regarding his decision. He made it clear at the winter meetings, as I've written, that he didn't want to pitch here. And a clean medical record doesn't ensure that he'll make it through the 2010 season. Millwood, if nothing else, is more durable. - Roch
Jim said....
A true fan supports his team in good times and bad. A jerk just complains all the time. If the shoe fits.....
On the flip side of that, if you lead a camel to water and he doesn't drink, well you know the rest. If the hoof fits.....
Paul
sheets, Good to hear from you on Miggy. While your comments temper my enthusiasm a bit, I do want to go over a few points you made that I think may be slightly off target.
I don't know where you get your infomation that Minute Maid Park is a "hitter's haven." According to the below linked "Park Factor" list from ESPN, it appears to be more neutral and overall slightly more pitcher friendly: For 2009 it ranked 24th of the 30 major league teams in runs produced, 11th in homers, 9th in hits, 27th in doubles (Miggy certainly didn't have home field advantage in this category; significant as he led the league in two-baggers), 18th in triples and 21st in walks. (Park factors are a bit misleading. OPACY is listed as the fifth best stadium at which to homer, but how much of that is the park and how much the fact that Oriole pitchers were an AL worst in yielding homers? Conversely, I guess it could be argued how much of the pitching woes were a result of playing half the games in Camden Yards?)
http://espn.go.com/mlb/stats/parkfactor
In any case, to say Tejada was a "poor hitter" away from Houston is, I think, overstating your case. True, his road homers are what did the most to knock his power numbers down, but he still hit .283 and half of his doubles away from home, which if not spectacular, still are in the respectable range.
As for his OBP, that's more a reflection of his lower road batting average, because he simply doesn't walk much wherever he's playing. His road SLG was also down, but part of that could be playing in the NL Central, where the Astros played nine games at Busch Stadium, one of pitcher-friendlest parks in baseball and the third-hardest place to hit a homer. (Other division venues, based on run factor: Great American Park - neutral to slightly pitcher-friendly; Miller Park, very pitcher-friendly; Wrigley Field, very hitter friendly).
So let's set aside the home/road comparison when it comes to OPS and focus on the overall number, which is the bottom line anyway (home games and road games count the same in the standings), and there Tejada finished .795. Not a huge number, but that's right amongst what Nick, B-Rob and Adam had, so that's not too bad, either.
But since road games are relevant, particularly within the division (where, after all, a team plays most of its road games, I guess it makes sense to look at the parks Tejada will be visiting in the AL East and how hitter-friendly they are: Fenway, very hitter-friendly; Yankee Stadium, somewhat pitcher-friendly despite all the homers; Tropicana Field, neutral to slightly pitcher-friendly; Rogers Centre, very pitcher-friendly. (Camden Yards is solidly hitter-friendly.)
You write: "This, of course, is my opinion: maybe by selecting his road stats I'm being biased against what he'll do at this stage in his career in AL parks, and he'll put up solid enough numbers in Camden Yards that he will be our best option in a more important lineup spot."
Well, we'll know soon enough whether the glass is half full or half empty for Miggy. Certainly the less-than-stellar road marks are a concern, however if he can match his overall numbers from a year ago I don't think any of us will be complaining.
As I've noted before, I think he's going to have a better season than last year for a several reasons: I think Miggy's 1) Going to feed off of and be revigorated by the youthful enthusiasm around him (he's already a high-energy guy, so this could be like adding jet fuel to a race car!); 2) If the O's get decent pitching they could make a serious run at a .500+ season, and winning's what drives him; 3) With just a one-year contract, he's going to be showcasing himself to teams for the pennant race or for next offseason; 5) Returning to Baltimore is big for him and he's going to want to please, and 6) Hitting in the lineup is going to be good for him.
Still, there are so many factors that go into this: Is he in good shape? Does he still have good bat speed? Can he make the adjustment to hitting AL pitching again, particularly AL East pitching? Will the time spent learning a new position interfer with his hitting? Is he still going to have problems hitting on the road? Etc.
I hope your pessimism doesn't prove to be well-founded. The first look at the "new" Miggy comes up in an hour. If you're away from a television, you still can watch the press conference live at www.orioles.com.
jimmy,
As best as I can tell, the only way to get Opening Day tickets right now is to buy a four pack of April/May games consisting of Opening Day, 1 "prime" game, and 2 "not prime" games.
To people requesting that Brummie_Oriole be banned:
Obviously, that's up to Roch, not the rest of us. But folks, count your blessings. While Brummie_Oriole is a relentlessly pathetic personality, he's in the vast minority here. Scrolling past his hourly nonsense is a fairly small price to pay for the gift of being able to read Roch's work and participate in this community. Don't get too worked up about it. At the end of the day, Brummie is still a sad, attention-starved character, you still have your own life, the Orioles are undeniably improving, and Roch Kubatko is blogging like a fiend just to ice your cake. Don't let the troll bring you down off the high road.
Word to JPA, fable freak.
Brummie_Oriole said:
Ummm Willie, Miggy pleaded GUILTY. Usually when you plead guilty, you are convicted. Please let us know what tribal law system you practice.
Cheers,
The Brumster (LOL)
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Is there no end to the topics of which you are ignorant yet still choose to pontificate upon? You have repeatedly called Miggy a felon, yet the crime to which he pled guilty was a misdemeanor. Per several dictionaries, one has to commit a felony to be a felon. He was never sworn in by the House investigators and the investigation was not into his actions. Yet as usual you have no problem engaging in character assassination out of ignorance and/or malice spewing lies, half truths and mischaracterizations.
Tejada is an upgrade over Mora there last yera but that's the end of the excitment. he's a double play machine and rally killer.But if theywere going to sign him,why sign Atkins? We have no clue if Atkins will produce enough for a 1st baseman.Right now I'd like to see Wiggy traded and Andino cut and replaced with Turner and Aubrey off the bench.
This has to be a because you asked somewhere...
"Any word on the rehab of..."
... Wilfredo Perez?
Roch said
Brummie has just as many personal attacks directed at him. I can't delete every comment. As long as they don't completely cross the line. I'd prefer everyone got along, but I'd also prefer not having my workload doubled and tripled by dealing with this stuff. As for Aubrey, I'm pretty sure he has options left. - Roch
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You set the tone by letting him conduct his crusade of character assassination. If it is ok for him to lie about and personally attack people, then he is open to the same lack of respect and courtesy. That said, any time you want me to cease, you only have to make your wishes known. Unlike Brummie, I wont waste my time testing you to see how far I can push you without getting banned.
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I set the tone? I had to ban one person (with multiple personalities) and reel in many others. I probably chased away a few more with my harsh responses. Then I'm accused of censorship. I can't win. But my only point here was to say that I try to keep a level playing field. He bashes, people bash him back. I don't enjoy it, but I figure if you're gonna dish it out, you have to take it. I'd much prefer that the fighting stopped, but I'd also prefer to wake up next to Salma Hayek, and that's not happening, either. - Roch
Roch, can you ask if Tejada's physical included drug testing?
Roch,
Watching you now on MASN...
Based on previous comments, I gotta ask.
You and Jim Hunter wearing pants or no pants?
Shorts?
Snazzy man, snazzy.
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I can't speak for Jim because I didn't look, but I was wearing pants. At least, most of the time. - Roch
Roch,
Since this is the "School of Roch," I feel we need to hold "classroom" sessions at some fine establishments (bar), and converse (discuss the orioles), while enjoying some food and drink at the fine school cafateria. Just a thought on bringing classmates together.
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I like that idea. - Roch
@ Brumster
He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor. Making false statements to Congressional investigators.
Hey Roch,
Great job at the press conference as always. You are a lot better live then you give yourself credit for. That Josh Bell question had to raise a few eyebrows. I know he wasn't expected to be ML-ready for most of the season anyway, but do you think Andy's response represents a lack of confidence in Bell or, at the very least, could serve to discourage Bell knowing a call-up no matter how he plays isn't likely?
Justin
PS: This is my first comment since FanFest. Just wanted to thank you for being so welcoming during our picture. It was truly an honor to meet you. I told my parents that was the highlight of my day...
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I really appreciate it, Justin. Thanks for saying so. I enjoyed meeting you, too. I think MacPhail just wanted to make it very clear that Tejada wouldn't become a part-time player. It wasn't so much a commentary on Bell. - Roch
Roch,
This is not directly related to the signing of Miggy but I see that the Cubs signed Nady today. He cost less than Miggy cost us buy about 2+ million. He doesn't play 3rd but he does play first and he is a good RH batter with pop. He also is someone who could be a nice fit for more than a year if it worked out. It will be interesting to see if he is fully recovered from injury. He has always impressed me.
Sheets signing with the As is no surprise. He gets to pitch in the ALs most pitcher friendly park and in a weaker hitting division. Just what he wants so he can put up good numbers for a big payday in free-agency next year. He obviously wanted nothing to do with the AL East.
-- I'm not really a fan of Tejada's; I think the downturn in his numbers here reflected that his earlier numbers probably weren't legitimate to begin with. He lost several steps at SS, so it's a good thing that he's playing 3B. Just got the sensation that he didn't want to be here that last year and sometimes played less than all-out. A repeat of that will mark this as a terrible signing. He's not filling the power need, either, which I thought was the whole point behind getting a corner infielder. Hopefully one year is all he gets here; I wouldn't trust a second year even if the first one was magnificent.
I'm very pleased with the work that AM has done for the Orioles franchise. So I'm happy and optimistic about the upcoming season. A Bedard signing would just be awesome. I was born in 87 so I really only remember those couple years in the mid to late 90s with, Ripken, Anderson, Alomar, Palmeiro, Surhoff and others. Since then I have not been this excited.
Growing up I had to rationalize players like Brook Fordyce and Chris Richards....forcing myself to pretend that they are good. It was unhealthy. I really don't think I have to do that anymore. The lineup will be good top to bottom.
KB
If we really want to win.
Move Miggi to SS and Izzy to the bench as backup SS/2B. Bell to 3B. Joseph as backup C. Lou M to bench as PH. David H and Jake A to BP. No holes, no weak links 1 to 25.
To be a playoff team we only have to split with NY and BOS then destroy the rest of the league. We need a "take no prisoners" attitude like we had when we went wire to wire - sweet.
As much as it pains me to respond to Bummie's comments, since he brought my name up, I feel it necessary. Ignore me if you want.
I appreciate ones on here who clarified that Tejada was convicted of a misdemeanor. I in now way practice law, be it: tribal law, Vance Law, etc etc.
I stick with what I know (in no particular order): Geology, Baseball Cards, Environmental Consulting... thats about it.
Now, that being said, I now understand what I thought all along, Tejada pled guilty to a misdemeanor. Thanks for clearing that up.
...the more you know.
Roch, do you think it would be possible for the Os to 'kick the tires' on Thome now that the White Sox have 'moved on?' I still think he would make sense, of course pending a move of Luke. Thanks man.
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As you say, they'd have to move Scott first. And they might not consider Thome, at this stage of his career, to be a big upgrade. - Roch