So I learned mobile uploads are only so many characters long. Bummer! Anyways here you go!
According to Phil Rogers, Jim Hendry and Crane Kenney could be on there way out the door. Phil says the Ricketts family may fire both before the end of the season thus putting the blame on both for the past two awful seasons. Rumor has it that guys like Pat Gilick, Andrew Friedman, Allard Baird, Ben Cherington, or Ned Colletti could be replacements. i would also add Steve Stone and Greg Maddux to the short list. Tim Wilken would be less likely to leave if they hired Gillick because he worked with him in the past which is a huge selling point!
Thursday, June 09, 2011
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Improvements and Changes...
I am proud to present some much needed changes and improvements to Hot Stove Cubbies.
First off I am now going to be doing rumor and news updates via twitter as well as on here on HSC. Please feel free to follow me to get the latest news and rumors regarding your Cubs. Follow me @HotStoveCubbies by clicking on the follow me link located in the top right column of the page.
Another improvement that is beneficial for everyone is I am now able to do mobile updates via text message and it sends directly to the blog. One unfortunate thing that blogger does not address is the posting option on the mobile device. You will not be able to post comments to mobile updates from me on the blog until I am able to enable them by accessing the website which I will do. This will allow me to spend more time away from the computer screen and with my family but still not neglecting my devoted readers and posters. Not to mention this should make posting easier and more frequent so everyone wins!
Let me know how everything is working and if you are enjoying the changes by posting here or talking to me via twitter.
Thank you and Go Cubs!!!!!!!!!!!
First off I am now going to be doing rumor and news updates via twitter as well as on here on HSC. Please feel free to follow me to get the latest news and rumors regarding your Cubs. Follow me @HotStoveCubbies by clicking on the follow me link located in the top right column of the page.
Another improvement that is beneficial for everyone is I am now able to do mobile updates via text message and it sends directly to the blog. One unfortunate thing that blogger does not address is the posting option on the mobile device. You will not be able to post comments to mobile updates from me on the blog until I am able to enable them by accessing the website which I will do. This will allow me to spend more time away from the computer screen and with my family but still not neglecting my devoted readers and posters. Not to mention this should make posting easier and more frequent so everyone wins!
Let me know how everything is working and if you are enjoying the changes by posting here or talking to me via twitter.
Thank you and Go Cubs!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Here Is Your 2012 Chicago Cubs!!!!!!!
While I honestly do not believe the Cubs season is over (as hard as that is to believe), they do only have a .5% chance of making the playoffs according to baseball prospectus which leads me to my next posting for the future. I am going to attempt to walk through what I believe the Cubs goal will be going into the 2012 season. While the free agent signings and trades are purely speculative it is what I think the Cubs need to do to be successful. The Chicago Cubs will have anywhere between 70-90 million to spend next season alone on free agents and contract extensions depending on what Ricketts decides to give the Cubs to make them successful. The number I will be working with is 80 million because it is right in between both. So here is what I see-
Players to let go because their contracts expire after the season (should be noted that these players could be traded at the deadline as well)
Dempster- Encourage him to decline his player option and find more money elsewhere.
Ramirez- Do not exercises his option and I will tell you why later.
Pena- He was just looking for a one-year deal and the Cubs have their eyes set on a bigger bat for 1st.
Grabow- A lefty specialist being paid like a set-up closer will likely go at the deadline.
Johnson- Will leave at the deadline, not likely to be back with the Cubs next year because of the depth in the outfield.
Fukudome- Has been productive for the Cubs but not what they paid for. It will be his last year for the same reason Johnson will depart.
Smardzija- Not as effective if he decides to approve a trade he is gone otherwise the Cubs will just let him walk after the season.
Doug Davis- Enough said.
Rodrigo Lopez- Same
Koyie Hill- His time has come to an end
Players that you would want to trade but it won’t happen
Carlos Zambrano- Unless it is to the White Sox (or Yankees) I do not see him approving a trade but Z has proven to change his mind as much as he changes his underwear. Trading him would provide the Cubs with more money to spend on potential free agents but because of the money and declining K rate he will remain a Cub until the end of his contract.
Alfonso Soriano- Hitting is declining, power declining, health declining, bad fielder, aging, and owed 54 million over the next 3 season with a no-trade clause. He could still be dealt because we did see Vernon Wells and Alex Rios both traded and both were deemed unmovable.
Players that could be traded either at the deadline of before the 2012 season
Marlon Byrd- With the play of players like Campana and expected call up of Brett Jackson, Byrd could be on the move. Depending on how he does the rest of the season of course and how he bounces back from injury as well.
Blake DeWitt- The Cubs are already showcasing him and have several younger players chomping at the bit to get to Chicago so he is expendable. The Cubs will likely hold onto him unless someone overpays in prospects for him.
Jeff Baker- He can smash lefties and can play various positions, this is one guy that is either going to be traded at the deadline or play next season with the Cubs because of his current trade value. I really hope if the Cubs do move Baker it is for a similar bounty that they received for DeRosa.
Randy Wells- A strong second half could prove a valuable trading chip for the Cubs either at the deadline or during the offseason.
Geovany Soto- The Cubs will use him to acquire an impact bat on the team plus I think the Cubs will focus more on defense than offense behind the plate.
Player to resign for next season
Kerry Wood- Sign him to a larger deal this year because you have the money to do so. I see the Cubs signing him to a 2 year 12 million dollar deal then likely to retire after that and stay with the team in some capacity.
Player they will add via trade
David Wright- He is rumored to be shopped and more likely this offseason rather than before the deadline unless he heals quickly. While Wright is owed a good amount of money it is not bad for superstar potential. Wright is owed 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option for 2013 that includes a million dollar buyout but that is only pertained to the Mets. The Cubs would basically be using the money they would have used to retain Aram on Wright. The Cubs will also be trading for Wright at a perfect time. Coming off a down year and an injury they are not likely to overpay in prospects. I think if the Cubs sent Geovany Soto, Tyler Colvin, Randy Wells and maybe a prospect like Ryan Flaherty or Josh Vitters to the Mets they would send David Wright to the Cubs and maybe even along catching prospect Josh Thole. Either way if the Cubs replace an aging, injury prone, power outage third baseman like Aramis with a 28 year old defensive minded third baseman that can hit 20 homers and steal 20 bases I think they should. Not to mention having the option to lock him up long term as well.
Free agents they should sign
Prince Fielder- I know I am going to get ripped by the “Albert Pujols to Cubs” group but as I continue I may sway some of you. Prince Fielder is report looking for “Teixeira” money and teams are likely to offer more along the lines of “Ryan Howard” money. So I have the Cubs signing Fielder to a 6 year deal worth 165 million with mutual option for the 7th year. Now the important thing to know is Hendry liking to backload contracts which will help the 28 year old Fielder because it will allow the Cubs to spend less in 2012 so they can afford other impact free agents. Another thing that benefits from this potential 7 year deal is he will be 35 at the end of the deal which is starting the decline of baseball players unless you are Barry Bonds. I fully expect the Cubs to sign Fielder to a large contract but will only make 19 million in 2012.
CC Sabathia- The Yankees and all of baseball look for him to opt out of the 4 year 92 million left on his contract to get a nice payday. Much like the Cubs do with Fielder they will backload the contract and give him close to the money and years he is looking for. 5 year 135 million with a player option for the 6th year. The Cubs will entice Sabathia with the Wright trade, Fielder signing, the benefit of being back in the NL where he dominated, and the prospect of bring the first World Series to the Cubs in over 100 years. The Cubs will also backload Sabathia’s contract and he will start off the 2012 season making 24 million and increase each year.
CJ Wilson- CJ Wilson will be the best deal in baseball. He is only making 7 million this season and is likely to see more than double that. The Cubs would be more likely to target Wilson over Sabathia because of the price but if Ricketts follows my plan he can make a big splash and get more bang for his buck. Again the Cubs are likely to backload his contract and sway Wilson to the north-side very similar to what they did for Sabathia. I fully expect the Wilson to get money in between Ryan Dempster (4 year 52million) and John Lackey (5 year 82million). I expect him to sign with the Cubs for 5 years 80 million. He will make 15 million in 2012.
Yadier Molina- I was shocked to have learned that the Cardinals will likely decline Molina’s 7 million dollar club option and pay 750K for him to go elsewhere. The talk is that the Cardinals will not have enough money to exercise Carpenter, Wainwright, and Molina along with trying to re-sign Pujols and Berkman who they would like to sign to an extension before the season ends. Not to mention unique arbitration cases with Rasmus and Garcia which factor in the 18 million in arbitration they have to shell out to retain all their young players (figure from MLBTR). Of course being a business Yadier should understand why he let go while the Cubs will be there for him much like they were there for Edmonds. Just like a business I can see Molina going to a place where he can win and offer the most money which the Cubs will do. I can see Molina looking at the potential pitching staff of Sabathia, Garza, Wilson, Zambarano, and a starter to be named later and start drooling. I expect Molina to sign with the Cubs for 4 years 27 million with the first year being paid around 6 million.
Dealing the cash out
With the 4 new free agent signings and the re-signing of Kerry Wood the Cubs will have 70 million to contribute to free agents, the Cubs will also add 15 million to that by trading for David Wright, but they subtract about 6 million trading away Wells, Soto, Colvin, and Vitters/Flaherty. So in total the Cubs would have spent 79 million dollars alone in 2012 which is about on target amount to spend in 2012. With this plan the Cubs can add high profiled free-agents along with incorporating their youth something most successful team do. Is it not impressive how much 79 million can go?
25 man roster
Lineup
Brett Jackson RF
Darwin Barney 2b
David Wright 3rd
Prince Fielder 1st
Starlin Castro SS
Marlon Byrd CF
Alfonso Soriano LF
Yadier Molina C
Rotation
CC Sabathia
Matt Garza
CJ Wilson
Carlos Zambrano
Trey McNutt
Bench
Blake DeWitt IF/OF
Josh Thole or Wellington Castillo C
Tony Campana OF
Jeff Baker IF/OF
Bobby Scales IF/OF
Bullpen
Carlos Marmol Closer
Kerry Wood
Sean Marshall
Angel Guzman
James Russell
John Maine
Andrew Cashner
Other Notes
There are two areas the Cubs will likely fill internally and that is pen and bench. Although I could see players like Felipe Lopez, Wilson Betemit, or Omar Vizquel getting a small major league deal or minor league deal with an invitation to ST. I think another big hole is the Cubs are without a switch hitter that can play multiple positions which is why I have Bobby Scales making the team.
As you see I also have Thole competing with Castillo for the backup catcher position. Thole presents the Cubs with a better option offensively and batting left handed which also really helps balance out the bench. Although Castillo I think is better behind the plate than Thole; if I were the GM I give Thole the nod as backup catcher.
I also round out my bench by adding speed, versatility, and balance. I think the Cubs will end up not trading the affordable Blake DeWitt and Jeff Baker because they provide the Cubs with two things I mentioned versatility and balance while Campana and Scales provide some good speed off the bench.
As far as the bullpen it looks a lot similar to this year. The Cubs keep the backend much like this year but add a good arm off the DL in Guzman. The Cubs will continue to carry three lefties but put Cashner in the pen after he comes back off the DL.
The other thing in the rotation that I did not address above the Cubs will likely go with top prospect Trey McNutt as their 5th starter. Trey has been on a roll this season but is currently on the 7 day DL. With the top 4 spots in the rotation filled by #1 and #2 starters you can take a chance on the 5th spot in the rotation.
The Cubs lineup looks like a nice balance of speed and power; by adding Brett Jackson at the top of the lineup they now have an actual base stealing top of the lineup guy. They finally get there left-handed power threat in Prince Fielder and one of the best 3rd baseman in the league to hit in from of him in David Wright. The Cubs will still have Soriano starting in LF but I think as the years go by he will play less and less with guys like Campana seeing more playing time.
My dark horse candidate on making the team next season is Matt Szczur, especially if they can find Soriano a new home during the trade deadline.
Looking Ahead
Some things I know I will hear is by back loading the contracts of these new guys you are causing a dramatic increase in payroll and jeopardizing the future. If you think that you could not be more wrong. After the 2012 season you drop off Marlon Byrd and the 6.5 million he was owed in 2012 and maybe even Zambrano, after the 2013 season you are definitely rid of Zambrano and the 19 million he made in 2013, at the end of the 2014 campaign you can finally say that Soriano is not a Cubs and you drop his 18 million annually. So between 2012 offseason and the start of 2015 the Cubs will drop off 43 million in those players alone. So by back loading the contracts and dropping off the other contracts you are basically coming out even. Thus actually having more money down the road to sign players like Darwin Barney and Starlin Castro to long term deals.
Conclusion
The Cubs in the end are doing what good teams like the Red Sox, Rays, and now even the Yankees are doing; adding impact high profiled free agents to the young core you already have. Looking at this team going into 2012 there will be 14 guys from the 25 man-roster that are either home grown talent or guys who spent significant time in the Cubs system paying their dues. That means only 11 guys on the 25 man roster would be obtained via free agency, it has been a long, long, long time since we saw that on the north side. The Cubs are also finally making the right move by signing impact free agents that are under the age of 32. Not one of the players the Cubs will be signing will be over the age of 31 which lessens the likeliness of the “Soriano Effect.” Yes the Cubs are spending money, yes the Cubs are committing 79 million to just 6 players, but when you have a young core and you spend money wisely you are less likely to see backlash like what Hendry is experiencing now. To me this is the winning formula! By the Cubs doing this successful formula they will obtain what the Yankees and Red Sox have, high expectations and delivering the results fans and management want to see.
What is your take and thoughts???
Until Next Time….
Players to let go because their contracts expire after the season (should be noted that these players could be traded at the deadline as well)
Dempster- Encourage him to decline his player option and find more money elsewhere.
Ramirez- Do not exercises his option and I will tell you why later.
Pena- He was just looking for a one-year deal and the Cubs have their eyes set on a bigger bat for 1st.
Grabow- A lefty specialist being paid like a set-up closer will likely go at the deadline.
Johnson- Will leave at the deadline, not likely to be back with the Cubs next year because of the depth in the outfield.
Fukudome- Has been productive for the Cubs but not what they paid for. It will be his last year for the same reason Johnson will depart.
Smardzija- Not as effective if he decides to approve a trade he is gone otherwise the Cubs will just let him walk after the season.
Doug Davis- Enough said.
Rodrigo Lopez- Same
Koyie Hill- His time has come to an end
Players that you would want to trade but it won’t happen
Carlos Zambrano- Unless it is to the White Sox (or Yankees) I do not see him approving a trade but Z has proven to change his mind as much as he changes his underwear. Trading him would provide the Cubs with more money to spend on potential free agents but because of the money and declining K rate he will remain a Cub until the end of his contract.
Alfonso Soriano- Hitting is declining, power declining, health declining, bad fielder, aging, and owed 54 million over the next 3 season with a no-trade clause. He could still be dealt because we did see Vernon Wells and Alex Rios both traded and both were deemed unmovable.
Players that could be traded either at the deadline of before the 2012 season
Marlon Byrd- With the play of players like Campana and expected call up of Brett Jackson, Byrd could be on the move. Depending on how he does the rest of the season of course and how he bounces back from injury as well.
Blake DeWitt- The Cubs are already showcasing him and have several younger players chomping at the bit to get to Chicago so he is expendable. The Cubs will likely hold onto him unless someone overpays in prospects for him.
Jeff Baker- He can smash lefties and can play various positions, this is one guy that is either going to be traded at the deadline or play next season with the Cubs because of his current trade value. I really hope if the Cubs do move Baker it is for a similar bounty that they received for DeRosa.
Randy Wells- A strong second half could prove a valuable trading chip for the Cubs either at the deadline or during the offseason.
Geovany Soto- The Cubs will use him to acquire an impact bat on the team plus I think the Cubs will focus more on defense than offense behind the plate.
Player to resign for next season
Kerry Wood- Sign him to a larger deal this year because you have the money to do so. I see the Cubs signing him to a 2 year 12 million dollar deal then likely to retire after that and stay with the team in some capacity.
Player they will add via trade
David Wright- He is rumored to be shopped and more likely this offseason rather than before the deadline unless he heals quickly. While Wright is owed a good amount of money it is not bad for superstar potential. Wright is owed 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option for 2013 that includes a million dollar buyout but that is only pertained to the Mets. The Cubs would basically be using the money they would have used to retain Aram on Wright. The Cubs will also be trading for Wright at a perfect time. Coming off a down year and an injury they are not likely to overpay in prospects. I think if the Cubs sent Geovany Soto, Tyler Colvin, Randy Wells and maybe a prospect like Ryan Flaherty or Josh Vitters to the Mets they would send David Wright to the Cubs and maybe even along catching prospect Josh Thole. Either way if the Cubs replace an aging, injury prone, power outage third baseman like Aramis with a 28 year old defensive minded third baseman that can hit 20 homers and steal 20 bases I think they should. Not to mention having the option to lock him up long term as well.
Free agents they should sign
Prince Fielder- I know I am going to get ripped by the “Albert Pujols to Cubs” group but as I continue I may sway some of you. Prince Fielder is report looking for “Teixeira” money and teams are likely to offer more along the lines of “Ryan Howard” money. So I have the Cubs signing Fielder to a 6 year deal worth 165 million with mutual option for the 7th year. Now the important thing to know is Hendry liking to backload contracts which will help the 28 year old Fielder because it will allow the Cubs to spend less in 2012 so they can afford other impact free agents. Another thing that benefits from this potential 7 year deal is he will be 35 at the end of the deal which is starting the decline of baseball players unless you are Barry Bonds. I fully expect the Cubs to sign Fielder to a large contract but will only make 19 million in 2012.
CC Sabathia- The Yankees and all of baseball look for him to opt out of the 4 year 92 million left on his contract to get a nice payday. Much like the Cubs do with Fielder they will backload the contract and give him close to the money and years he is looking for. 5 year 135 million with a player option for the 6th year. The Cubs will entice Sabathia with the Wright trade, Fielder signing, the benefit of being back in the NL where he dominated, and the prospect of bring the first World Series to the Cubs in over 100 years. The Cubs will also backload Sabathia’s contract and he will start off the 2012 season making 24 million and increase each year.
CJ Wilson- CJ Wilson will be the best deal in baseball. He is only making 7 million this season and is likely to see more than double that. The Cubs would be more likely to target Wilson over Sabathia because of the price but if Ricketts follows my plan he can make a big splash and get more bang for his buck. Again the Cubs are likely to backload his contract and sway Wilson to the north-side very similar to what they did for Sabathia. I fully expect the Wilson to get money in between Ryan Dempster (4 year 52million) and John Lackey (5 year 82million). I expect him to sign with the Cubs for 5 years 80 million. He will make 15 million in 2012.
Yadier Molina- I was shocked to have learned that the Cardinals will likely decline Molina’s 7 million dollar club option and pay 750K for him to go elsewhere. The talk is that the Cardinals will not have enough money to exercise Carpenter, Wainwright, and Molina along with trying to re-sign Pujols and Berkman who they would like to sign to an extension before the season ends. Not to mention unique arbitration cases with Rasmus and Garcia which factor in the 18 million in arbitration they have to shell out to retain all their young players (figure from MLBTR). Of course being a business Yadier should understand why he let go while the Cubs will be there for him much like they were there for Edmonds. Just like a business I can see Molina going to a place where he can win and offer the most money which the Cubs will do. I can see Molina looking at the potential pitching staff of Sabathia, Garza, Wilson, Zambarano, and a starter to be named later and start drooling. I expect Molina to sign with the Cubs for 4 years 27 million with the first year being paid around 6 million.
Dealing the cash out
With the 4 new free agent signings and the re-signing of Kerry Wood the Cubs will have 70 million to contribute to free agents, the Cubs will also add 15 million to that by trading for David Wright, but they subtract about 6 million trading away Wells, Soto, Colvin, and Vitters/Flaherty. So in total the Cubs would have spent 79 million dollars alone in 2012 which is about on target amount to spend in 2012. With this plan the Cubs can add high profiled free-agents along with incorporating their youth something most successful team do. Is it not impressive how much 79 million can go?
25 man roster
Lineup
Brett Jackson RF
Darwin Barney 2b
David Wright 3rd
Prince Fielder 1st
Starlin Castro SS
Marlon Byrd CF
Alfonso Soriano LF
Yadier Molina C
Rotation
CC Sabathia
Matt Garza
CJ Wilson
Carlos Zambrano
Trey McNutt
Bench
Blake DeWitt IF/OF
Josh Thole or Wellington Castillo C
Tony Campana OF
Jeff Baker IF/OF
Bobby Scales IF/OF
Bullpen
Carlos Marmol Closer
Kerry Wood
Sean Marshall
Angel Guzman
James Russell
John Maine
Andrew Cashner
Other Notes
There are two areas the Cubs will likely fill internally and that is pen and bench. Although I could see players like Felipe Lopez, Wilson Betemit, or Omar Vizquel getting a small major league deal or minor league deal with an invitation to ST. I think another big hole is the Cubs are without a switch hitter that can play multiple positions which is why I have Bobby Scales making the team.
As you see I also have Thole competing with Castillo for the backup catcher position. Thole presents the Cubs with a better option offensively and batting left handed which also really helps balance out the bench. Although Castillo I think is better behind the plate than Thole; if I were the GM I give Thole the nod as backup catcher.
I also round out my bench by adding speed, versatility, and balance. I think the Cubs will end up not trading the affordable Blake DeWitt and Jeff Baker because they provide the Cubs with two things I mentioned versatility and balance while Campana and Scales provide some good speed off the bench.
As far as the bullpen it looks a lot similar to this year. The Cubs keep the backend much like this year but add a good arm off the DL in Guzman. The Cubs will continue to carry three lefties but put Cashner in the pen after he comes back off the DL.
The other thing in the rotation that I did not address above the Cubs will likely go with top prospect Trey McNutt as their 5th starter. Trey has been on a roll this season but is currently on the 7 day DL. With the top 4 spots in the rotation filled by #1 and #2 starters you can take a chance on the 5th spot in the rotation.
The Cubs lineup looks like a nice balance of speed and power; by adding Brett Jackson at the top of the lineup they now have an actual base stealing top of the lineup guy. They finally get there left-handed power threat in Prince Fielder and one of the best 3rd baseman in the league to hit in from of him in David Wright. The Cubs will still have Soriano starting in LF but I think as the years go by he will play less and less with guys like Campana seeing more playing time.
My dark horse candidate on making the team next season is Matt Szczur, especially if they can find Soriano a new home during the trade deadline.
Looking Ahead
Some things I know I will hear is by back loading the contracts of these new guys you are causing a dramatic increase in payroll and jeopardizing the future. If you think that you could not be more wrong. After the 2012 season you drop off Marlon Byrd and the 6.5 million he was owed in 2012 and maybe even Zambrano, after the 2013 season you are definitely rid of Zambrano and the 19 million he made in 2013, at the end of the 2014 campaign you can finally say that Soriano is not a Cubs and you drop his 18 million annually. So between 2012 offseason and the start of 2015 the Cubs will drop off 43 million in those players alone. So by back loading the contracts and dropping off the other contracts you are basically coming out even. Thus actually having more money down the road to sign players like Darwin Barney and Starlin Castro to long term deals.
Conclusion
The Cubs in the end are doing what good teams like the Red Sox, Rays, and now even the Yankees are doing; adding impact high profiled free agents to the young core you already have. Looking at this team going into 2012 there will be 14 guys from the 25 man-roster that are either home grown talent or guys who spent significant time in the Cubs system paying their dues. That means only 11 guys on the 25 man roster would be obtained via free agency, it has been a long, long, long time since we saw that on the north side. The Cubs are also finally making the right move by signing impact free agents that are under the age of 32. Not one of the players the Cubs will be signing will be over the age of 31 which lessens the likeliness of the “Soriano Effect.” Yes the Cubs are spending money, yes the Cubs are committing 79 million to just 6 players, but when you have a young core and you spend money wisely you are less likely to see backlash like what Hendry is experiencing now. To me this is the winning formula! By the Cubs doing this successful formula they will obtain what the Yankees and Red Sox have, high expectations and delivering the results fans and management want to see.
What is your take and thoughts???
Until Next Time….
Sunday, June 05, 2011
The Cubs are an AAA team!!!
First off let me say I do not blame Carlos Zambrano and his comments to reporters after the game. While many of you consider this throwing a teammate under the bus, I think Zambrano is showing leadership and making certain that some players are held accountable. Zambrano is putting out there what everyone thinks, the Cubs are "embarrasing" plain and simple.
I will say mistakes come from the top and trickle down. Everyone is held responsible for the results this team is getting. From Tom Ricketts to Tyler Colvin to Mike Quade to Jim Hendry.... Everyone is at fault!
Here are just some mistakes-
- Marmol should have never thrown a slider to Theriot, he cannot hit the high fastballs!
- Koyie Hill does not belong on a ML team, thanks Hendry for that signing.
- DeWitt in LF and Colvin in CF... come on!!! Kids like Snyder and Campana need to play and Brett Jackson needs called up!
- Quade what are you doing first off calling Lopez to face Pujols? I know he is 0-12 against him but that was like 4 years ago. If you bring in Lopez then just walk Pujols and take your chances with the next hitter.
As you see plenty of blame to go around and I hope the comments from Carlos get looked at in a different light than the media is portraying it because for once I am on Z's side.
Cubs=Simply Embarrassing!
I will say mistakes come from the top and trickle down. Everyone is held responsible for the results this team is getting. From Tom Ricketts to Tyler Colvin to Mike Quade to Jim Hendry.... Everyone is at fault!
Here are just some mistakes-
- Marmol should have never thrown a slider to Theriot, he cannot hit the high fastballs!
- Koyie Hill does not belong on a ML team, thanks Hendry for that signing.
- DeWitt in LF and Colvin in CF... come on!!! Kids like Snyder and Campana need to play and Brett Jackson needs called up!
- Quade what are you doing first off calling Lopez to face Pujols? I know he is 0-12 against him but that was like 4 years ago. If you bring in Lopez then just walk Pujols and take your chances with the next hitter.
As you see plenty of blame to go around and I hope the comments from Carlos get looked at in a different light than the media is portraying it because for once I am on Z's side.
Cubs=Simply Embarrassing!
Saturday, June 04, 2011
No Truth to Tyler Colvin at 3rd....
I first off want to state I am sorry I made a error on my part about the Tyler Colvin to 3rd base rumors. Looking back at my email regarding possibly Soto and him going to 3rd I miss read the email sent to me by a reliable source. It looks like the Cubs were entertaining the idea of Soto at 3rd for next season and using Colvin more at 1st if Pena is traded.
When posting the rumor I did not give it much thought to having Colvin at third because I had other bigger things on my mind, like my 2nd child coming into the world. I am sorry and embarrassed I would make a "rookie" mistake on my blog and I appreciate you all pointing out my fault. I really do appreciate everyone holding me accountable (even though some more ruthless than others) and helping me make this blog better. I want to thank everyone for reading my blog and posting here as well. I will continue to strive for excellence in making this site the premiere place for Cubs rumors and news.
Thank you to everyone and please check here early and often for the latest Cubs rumors and news. Changes could be coming soon!!!
God Bless!
When posting the rumor I did not give it much thought to having Colvin at third because I had other bigger things on my mind, like my 2nd child coming into the world. I am sorry and embarrassed I would make a "rookie" mistake on my blog and I appreciate you all pointing out my fault. I really do appreciate everyone holding me accountable (even though some more ruthless than others) and helping me make this blog better. I want to thank everyone for reading my blog and posting here as well. I will continue to strive for excellence in making this site the premiere place for Cubs rumors and news.
Thank you to everyone and please check here early and often for the latest Cubs rumors and news. Changes could be coming soon!!!
God Bless!
Thursday, June 02, 2011
Falling Cubs Increase Rumor Talk
Let’s check the latest rumors for the free falling Cubs-
- If the Diamondbacks hold strong and stay in the race in the West Kevin Towers is expected to upgrade certain positions such as 1st base and their starting pitching. Towers and Hendry have made deals in the past and are good friends which make this rumor especially good. The Diamondbacks have had internal discussions about many players but most notably Ryan Dempster and Carlos Pena of the Cubs. Both players are in the final year of their deals unless Dempster exercised his player option for next season which now looks less certain. The Snakes view Pena as an upgrade at first and Dempster would provide stability and depth in the rotation. Demp provides as an upgrade to struggling pitcher Joe Saunders. Pena is also very intriguing for the Dbacks because he would provide veteran leadership, stability at first base, and a power threat in the middle of their lineup.
- The Cleveland Indians have had internal discussions about bringing in an upgrade at third base in which the name Aramis Ramirez has come up. The Indians are said to have the financial flexibility and farm system to acquire an impact bat and a top of the rotation pitcher before the trade deadline if they are still in the race. The Rockies and Giants also have some level of interest in Aramis Ramirez according to sources. It should be noted that after 2010 Ramirez no longer has a no-trade clause so he can be traded to any team without consent.
- Fred Wilpon's recent comments about the stars of his team have sparked trade debate. Now being reported by MLBTR the Mets may consider trading David Wright rather than letting Jose Reyes go via free agency. David Wright is currently out with a fracture in his back which makes him less certain to be traded this season. It is possible the Mets may make him available this winter. If the Cubs decide to trade Aramis before he potentially becomes a free agent next season they will likely turn their attention to the Mets franchise third baseman. There was talk at the beginning of the season about the Cubs trading for David Wright and moving Aramis Ramirez to 1st but that was before the Carlos Pena deal. David Wright makes 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option with a 1 million dollar buyout for 2013. If the Cubs let Ramirez walk after this season you better believe they will make a run at Wright because the 3rd baseman market looks really weak for 2012.
- There is talk among fans that the Cubs should make a run at Jose Reyes and put Starlin Castro at 3rd. Honestly I hate that idea, I think Castro is a much better shortstop than Reyes and moving Castro for him is just ridiculous!
- The Cubs calling up Tyler Colvin to replace Soriano is just plain stupid. It was Brett Jackson’s time in my opinion but according to Cubs officials “he is not ready to make the jump because he is coming off injury” that is BS; if he is well enough to play in AA he is ready to get a shot at the big leagues. Bring the kid up!
Until Next Time…
- If the Diamondbacks hold strong and stay in the race in the West Kevin Towers is expected to upgrade certain positions such as 1st base and their starting pitching. Towers and Hendry have made deals in the past and are good friends which make this rumor especially good. The Diamondbacks have had internal discussions about many players but most notably Ryan Dempster and Carlos Pena of the Cubs. Both players are in the final year of their deals unless Dempster exercised his player option for next season which now looks less certain. The Snakes view Pena as an upgrade at first and Dempster would provide stability and depth in the rotation. Demp provides as an upgrade to struggling pitcher Joe Saunders. Pena is also very intriguing for the Dbacks because he would provide veteran leadership, stability at first base, and a power threat in the middle of their lineup.
- The Cleveland Indians have had internal discussions about bringing in an upgrade at third base in which the name Aramis Ramirez has come up. The Indians are said to have the financial flexibility and farm system to acquire an impact bat and a top of the rotation pitcher before the trade deadline if they are still in the race. The Rockies and Giants also have some level of interest in Aramis Ramirez according to sources. It should be noted that after 2010 Ramirez no longer has a no-trade clause so he can be traded to any team without consent.
- Fred Wilpon's recent comments about the stars of his team have sparked trade debate. Now being reported by MLBTR the Mets may consider trading David Wright rather than letting Jose Reyes go via free agency. David Wright is currently out with a fracture in his back which makes him less certain to be traded this season. It is possible the Mets may make him available this winter. If the Cubs decide to trade Aramis before he potentially becomes a free agent next season they will likely turn their attention to the Mets franchise third baseman. There was talk at the beginning of the season about the Cubs trading for David Wright and moving Aramis Ramirez to 1st but that was before the Carlos Pena deal. David Wright makes 15 million in 2012 and has a 16 million dollar club option with a 1 million dollar buyout for 2013. If the Cubs let Ramirez walk after this season you better believe they will make a run at Wright because the 3rd baseman market looks really weak for 2012.
- There is talk among fans that the Cubs should make a run at Jose Reyes and put Starlin Castro at 3rd. Honestly I hate that idea, I think Castro is a much better shortstop than Reyes and moving Castro for him is just ridiculous!
- The Cubs calling up Tyler Colvin to replace Soriano is just plain stupid. It was Brett Jackson’s time in my opinion but according to Cubs officials “he is not ready to make the jump because he is coming off injury” that is BS; if he is well enough to play in AA he is ready to get a shot at the big leagues. Bring the kid up!
Until Next Time…
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Cubs Going Down... Trading Off Players is Coming...
- The Cubs traded for Rodrigo Lopez and sent pitcher Ryan Butcher to Atlanta. The Cubs also designated Robert Coello for assignment to make room for Lopez on the 40 man roster.
- Lopez will get the start Monday in place of recently sent down Casey Coleman. Coleman was sent to AAA because Randy Wells was activated from the DL.
- Lopez is 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA with the Braves minor league club this season. One Cubs scout said Lopez is throwing better than he has in a long time with great movement on his sinker. He will provide the Cubs with veteran leadership and as an inning eater.
- Soto is expected to be activated off the DL Sunday and start behind the dish that day as well. Castillo is expected to be sent back to Iowa in a corresponding move.
- Trade talk is already starting the the struggling 22-28 Chicago Cubs. They are currently 8 games out of first and have 4 teams ahead of them including the Pirates. The Cubs are also 7.5 games out of the wild card with 9 teams ahead of them there. So lets run down the recent trade talk.
***The Red Sox are in need of a right-handed hitting bench bat that can play multiple positions. They have been linked to multi-purpose guy Jeff Baker. No word on what the Cubs could get for him.
***Although the Cubs look like they are in the position to sell they could add an impact player or two that can contribute the next couple of years and is inexpensive money wise. The Cubs have been linked to 4 players recently and talks could progress as we get closer to the deadline. Those four players are Jason Vargas, Francisco Liriano, Gio Gonzalez, and young stud lefty Zach Britton. All four are under team control for two plus years but would likely take a bundle to pry loose especially in Britton and Gonzalez case.
***There are rumors out there about the Yankees, Giants, and Cubs working out a three way trade they would sent Jorge Posada to the Giants (replacing the recently injured Buster Posey), the Yankees would receive Carlos Pena, and the Cubs would get a good prospect like Eric Surkamp or Brandon Crawford from the Giants.
***The Cubs are likely to listen to offers on all players even including Cub favorites like Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood. Players that will not be moved that are currently on the 25 man roster are Darwin Barney, Geovany Soto, Starlin Castro, and Carlos Marmol. Also prospects like McNutt and Brett Jackson will not be traded as well.
***The Cubs are really trying to make Blake DeWitt looking attractive on the trade market by using on a limited basis and putting him in various positions like LF, 3rd, and 2nd.
Look for the latest Cubs rumors and news here....
Until Next Time...
- Lopez will get the start Monday in place of recently sent down Casey Coleman. Coleman was sent to AAA because Randy Wells was activated from the DL.
- Lopez is 6-1 with a 2.59 ERA with the Braves minor league club this season. One Cubs scout said Lopez is throwing better than he has in a long time with great movement on his sinker. He will provide the Cubs with veteran leadership and as an inning eater.
- Soto is expected to be activated off the DL Sunday and start behind the dish that day as well. Castillo is expected to be sent back to Iowa in a corresponding move.
- Trade talk is already starting the the struggling 22-28 Chicago Cubs. They are currently 8 games out of first and have 4 teams ahead of them including the Pirates. The Cubs are also 7.5 games out of the wild card with 9 teams ahead of them there. So lets run down the recent trade talk.
***The Red Sox are in need of a right-handed hitting bench bat that can play multiple positions. They have been linked to multi-purpose guy Jeff Baker. No word on what the Cubs could get for him.
***Although the Cubs look like they are in the position to sell they could add an impact player or two that can contribute the next couple of years and is inexpensive money wise. The Cubs have been linked to 4 players recently and talks could progress as we get closer to the deadline. Those four players are Jason Vargas, Francisco Liriano, Gio Gonzalez, and young stud lefty Zach Britton. All four are under team control for two plus years but would likely take a bundle to pry loose especially in Britton and Gonzalez case.
***There are rumors out there about the Yankees, Giants, and Cubs working out a three way trade they would sent Jorge Posada to the Giants (replacing the recently injured Buster Posey), the Yankees would receive Carlos Pena, and the Cubs would get a good prospect like Eric Surkamp or Brandon Crawford from the Giants.
***The Cubs are likely to listen to offers on all players even including Cub favorites like Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood. Players that will not be moved that are currently on the 25 man roster are Darwin Barney, Geovany Soto, Starlin Castro, and Carlos Marmol. Also prospects like McNutt and Brett Jackson will not be traded as well.
***The Cubs are really trying to make Blake DeWitt looking attractive on the trade market by using on a limited basis and putting him in various positions like LF, 3rd, and 2nd.
Look for the latest Cubs rumors and news here....
Until Next Time...
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Cubs Updates
- Marlon Byrd was placed on the DL with multiple facial fractures after the horrific hit by pitch in Boston. He will likely be out for more than 15 days because he is not able to do any physical activities for the next 2-3 weeks.
- Matt Garza was placed on the 15 day DL and will likely be out until June with a elbow strain.
- Geovany Soto is coming close to returning for the Cubs. He is in extended Spring Training right now.
- Randy Wells is set to come off the DL and pitch on Saturday against the Pirates.
- Andrew Cashner will not pick up a baseball for at least 2 weeks and will have 6-8 weeks of rehab after that. If this does not work for him Cashner could be shelved for the rest of the season.
- Jeff Baker is day to day with a strained left groin.
- The Cubs called up former first round pick Luis Montanez from Iowa and placed Brian Schlitter on the 60 day DL.
- The Cubs had interest in Kevin Slowy of the Twins before his abdominal strain.
- Brett Jackson could get called up in June if any of the other outfielders struggle.
Until Next Time...
- Matt Garza was placed on the 15 day DL and will likely be out until June with a elbow strain.
- Geovany Soto is coming close to returning for the Cubs. He is in extended Spring Training right now.
- Randy Wells is set to come off the DL and pitch on Saturday against the Pirates.
- Andrew Cashner will not pick up a baseball for at least 2 weeks and will have 6-8 weeks of rehab after that. If this does not work for him Cashner could be shelved for the rest of the season.
- Jeff Baker is day to day with a strained left groin.
- The Cubs called up former first round pick Luis Montanez from Iowa and placed Brian Schlitter on the 60 day DL.
- The Cubs had interest in Kevin Slowy of the Twins before his abdominal strain.
- Brett Jackson could get called up in June if any of the other outfielders struggle.
Until Next Time...
Friday, May 20, 2011
Getting Caught Up and Off Guard!
Getting caught up-
- The Cubs sent Tyler Colvin and Marcus Mateo to AAA while bring up lefty reliever Scott Maine and speedy outfielder Tony Campana.
- In my last blog post I said the Cubs needed to add someone to spark this lineup and I thought the answer would be Brett Jackson, instead it looks like Campana has brought some energy to this mediocre team.
- The Cubs did have some interest in Kevin Millwood before he signed with the Red Sox.
- The Cubs sent Colvin down to AAA for three reasons 1. Struggling to hit for average and power 2. Did not get any playing time 3. Too many players in the minors provide more to the team than he does.
- Randy Wells is set to pitch in AAA Iowa on Sunday, if he pitches well and feels good the following days he would likely join the Cubs rotation on Friday the 27th or Saturday the 28th.
- Andrew Cashner suffered another set-back and will likely be out another 6-8 weeks.
- Doug Davis will likely anchor the staff for the rest of the season if Cashner continues to suffer set-backs.
Interesting thing hit my email box-
So as I am shifting through the large amounts of comments and email regarding the Cubs one thing peeked my interest that I would love to share with you. A guy named WrigleyVendor3 sent me an interesting thought on a trade and what better time to share it as the BoSox and Cubs get ready to face off. Here is what he said- With the Cubs woes and the Boston Red Sox looking for a long term solution at catcher, why don’t they make a trade? I purpose the Cubs get Kevin Youkilis, Lars Anderson, and Jacoby Ellsbury and the Red Sox get Aramis Ramirez, Geovany Soto, Marlon Byrd, and a PTBNL. Please let me know what you think.
Well WrigleyVendor3 here I go. First off I think the Cubs would need to give up more for a package centered on Youkilis and Ellsbury. Lars is a good target for the Cubs because he is young up and coming first baseman but is currently blocked by Adrian Gonzales. Plus still having Soto on the DL kills this trade. Having said that I think overall it is still possible if the Cubs add another player or two once Soto gets healthy again.
From the Cubs point of view I like the idea of the Cubs getting a guy with good power and average that can play 1st and 3rd base really well. Plus looking at Kevin’s stats and price tag he is relatively cheap. The Cubs would also get a legitimate leadoff hitter and would automatically make the Cubs better on the base paths. Looking ahead to next year and having Barney, Castro, Ellsbury, and Jackson in the everyday lineup would add speed and great defense! Not to mention if they would sign a guy like Fielder as well (if you acquire Youkilis contract you cannot sign Pujols to his mega contract). Just take a look at his lineup-
Ellsbury CF
Castro SS
Youkilis 3rd
Fielder 1st
Soriano LF
Jackson RF
Barney 2b
Castillo C
Pitcher
From the Cubs prospective this is a steal. They get rid of Marlon Byrd and his contract at the height of his trade value and Aramis Ramirez in basically the last year of his contract unless the BoSox exercise the team option. They do give up their former All-Star catchers and let’s face it, it is hard to trade a catcher like Soto because they are so few and far between.
From the Red Sox prospective I like aspects of this trade but not the end result. I love the idea of getting Geovany Soto for at least 4 more years because of arbitration. I also like the idea of freeing up 25 million over the next two years to possible get an impact bat for OF like Grady Sizemore through free agency. I also am looking down the road and with Youk being 32 years old, his numbers and health declining I may take a chance on this deal. Aramis Ramirez still provides some of the power and defense Youkilis does so losing him would not hurt as bad. I also give up a blocked prospect in Lars Anderson as well which does not hurt me as bad.
Now for the things I hate about this deal if I am a Sox fan. Youkilis has been a big part of my team and has moved all round the diamond to help this team win. I don’t feel like thanking him by shipping him off to another city. I have no clue if his replacement Aramis Ramirez would stay healthy or have his numbers translate to the AL and its pitching staff. I also hate the fact I have to trade Ellsbury in this deal. Guys of his caliber do not come around very often and the fact I trade him at such a young age also hurts. I think trading him straight up for Soto is asking to much despite the issues in regards to the disappointing season Jacoby had last year. The other thing I am worried about is replacing his production something I don’t believe Byrd provides. Overall the cons out weight the pros for the Red Sox so unless the Cubs add a guy like Brett Jackson, Jay Jackson, or a young caliber player like that I don’t do this deal.
Seeing it from both sides is sometimes tough to do and this is one of those cases. It would be hard to determine whether Soto, Byrd and Ramirez would matter more to the Red Sox than Ellsbury and Youkilis. It is also hard to determine if the Cubs would even be interested in a possible declining Youkilis with 2 years 25 million left on his deal when they could try to make a splash by landing Pujols. They could also be worried about Jacoby’s work ethic and attitude which baseball saw falter some last season. All these are reasons why it is hard to judge a trade like this. I love the deal for the Cubs and hate it for the Red Sox.
What do you guys think?
Until Next Time…..
- The Cubs sent Tyler Colvin and Marcus Mateo to AAA while bring up lefty reliever Scott Maine and speedy outfielder Tony Campana.
- In my last blog post I said the Cubs needed to add someone to spark this lineup and I thought the answer would be Brett Jackson, instead it looks like Campana has brought some energy to this mediocre team.
- The Cubs did have some interest in Kevin Millwood before he signed with the Red Sox.
- The Cubs sent Colvin down to AAA for three reasons 1. Struggling to hit for average and power 2. Did not get any playing time 3. Too many players in the minors provide more to the team than he does.
- Randy Wells is set to pitch in AAA Iowa on Sunday, if he pitches well and feels good the following days he would likely join the Cubs rotation on Friday the 27th or Saturday the 28th.
- Andrew Cashner suffered another set-back and will likely be out another 6-8 weeks.
- Doug Davis will likely anchor the staff for the rest of the season if Cashner continues to suffer set-backs.
Interesting thing hit my email box-
So as I am shifting through the large amounts of comments and email regarding the Cubs one thing peeked my interest that I would love to share with you. A guy named WrigleyVendor3 sent me an interesting thought on a trade and what better time to share it as the BoSox and Cubs get ready to face off. Here is what he said- With the Cubs woes and the Boston Red Sox looking for a long term solution at catcher, why don’t they make a trade? I purpose the Cubs get Kevin Youkilis, Lars Anderson, and Jacoby Ellsbury and the Red Sox get Aramis Ramirez, Geovany Soto, Marlon Byrd, and a PTBNL. Please let me know what you think.
Well WrigleyVendor3 here I go. First off I think the Cubs would need to give up more for a package centered on Youkilis and Ellsbury. Lars is a good target for the Cubs because he is young up and coming first baseman but is currently blocked by Adrian Gonzales. Plus still having Soto on the DL kills this trade. Having said that I think overall it is still possible if the Cubs add another player or two once Soto gets healthy again.
From the Cubs point of view I like the idea of the Cubs getting a guy with good power and average that can play 1st and 3rd base really well. Plus looking at Kevin’s stats and price tag he is relatively cheap. The Cubs would also get a legitimate leadoff hitter and would automatically make the Cubs better on the base paths. Looking ahead to next year and having Barney, Castro, Ellsbury, and Jackson in the everyday lineup would add speed and great defense! Not to mention if they would sign a guy like Fielder as well (if you acquire Youkilis contract you cannot sign Pujols to his mega contract). Just take a look at his lineup-
Ellsbury CF
Castro SS
Youkilis 3rd
Fielder 1st
Soriano LF
Jackson RF
Barney 2b
Castillo C
Pitcher
From the Cubs prospective this is a steal. They get rid of Marlon Byrd and his contract at the height of his trade value and Aramis Ramirez in basically the last year of his contract unless the BoSox exercise the team option. They do give up their former All-Star catchers and let’s face it, it is hard to trade a catcher like Soto because they are so few and far between.
From the Red Sox prospective I like aspects of this trade but not the end result. I love the idea of getting Geovany Soto for at least 4 more years because of arbitration. I also like the idea of freeing up 25 million over the next two years to possible get an impact bat for OF like Grady Sizemore through free agency. I also am looking down the road and with Youk being 32 years old, his numbers and health declining I may take a chance on this deal. Aramis Ramirez still provides some of the power and defense Youkilis does so losing him would not hurt as bad. I also give up a blocked prospect in Lars Anderson as well which does not hurt me as bad.
Now for the things I hate about this deal if I am a Sox fan. Youkilis has been a big part of my team and has moved all round the diamond to help this team win. I don’t feel like thanking him by shipping him off to another city. I have no clue if his replacement Aramis Ramirez would stay healthy or have his numbers translate to the AL and its pitching staff. I also hate the fact I have to trade Ellsbury in this deal. Guys of his caliber do not come around very often and the fact I trade him at such a young age also hurts. I think trading him straight up for Soto is asking to much despite the issues in regards to the disappointing season Jacoby had last year. The other thing I am worried about is replacing his production something I don’t believe Byrd provides. Overall the cons out weight the pros for the Red Sox so unless the Cubs add a guy like Brett Jackson, Jay Jackson, or a young caliber player like that I don’t do this deal.
Seeing it from both sides is sometimes tough to do and this is one of those cases. It would be hard to determine whether Soto, Byrd and Ramirez would matter more to the Red Sox than Ellsbury and Youkilis. It is also hard to determine if the Cubs would even be interested in a possible declining Youkilis with 2 years 25 million left on his deal when they could try to make a splash by landing Pujols. They could also be worried about Jacoby’s work ethic and attitude which baseball saw falter some last season. All these are reasons why it is hard to judge a trade like this. I love the deal for the Cubs and hate it for the Red Sox.
What do you guys think?
Until Next Time…..
BABY IS HERE!
IT’S A BOY! ON Monday May 16th at 12:09 PM Parker Jordan was born. He weighs in at 7 lbs 8 oz and is 21 inches long. We are truly happy that God blessed us with another child and hopefully another future Chicago Cubs player.
Watch for a “getting caught up blog update” soon!
Watch for a “getting caught up blog update” soon!
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