Lets take a bit to check out the NL Central players and see who has the best player by position.
Best Catcher-
Yadier Molina- Cardinals. Hands down the best catcher going into next year. He has a cannon of an arm, and that makes up for his bat. If you were talking offense, I would have to say either Paulino or Soto but Yadier wins the Catcher spot.
Best 1st baseman-
Albert Pujols- Cardinals. It hurts me to say it but everyone knows he is the best power hitting first baseman in the game. He is a future HOFer and a great player. But defensively Lee has him beat.
Best 2nd baseman-
Brandon Phillips- Reds. Hands down the best 2nd baseman. .288 avg, 30 homers, and 94 rbi is damn good. Not to mention his 32 SB and .990 fielding percentage.
Best SS-
Miguel Tejada- Astros. I know he was on the Mitchell report but stats wise he is the best shortstop. It is a close race between Gonzo, Hardy, and Wilson but I give the edge to Tejada.
Best 3b-
Aramis Ramirez-Cubs. No one even touches him. He should have won the gold glove last year. He has a killer bat. No one in the Central comes close to him.
Best LF-
Alfonso Soriano -Cubs. You can argue Carlos Lee is the best but I give the edge to Sori. He has a great arm and plays good defense for a guy only in this 2nd year in LF. His speed and power make the pitchers in the Central shake in there boots.
Best CF-
Tie. Every team in the Central has new guys playing in center next year except the Brewers and Reds. Both Hall and Freel had off years and the other guys patrolling CF don't have enough experience for me to gage who is the best. Should be great to see all the young guys next year!
Best RF-
Corey Hart- Brewers. He had a great year last year hitting .295 with 24 homers 81 rbi and 23 stolen bases. He is going to be in RF for the Brewers for many years to come and they should look forward to that! A very close 2nd is Hunter Pence. He had a great year also hitting .322 with 17 homers and 69 rbi. I give the edge to Hart because of his speed and defense in RF.
Best Starting Rotation-
Brewers/Cubs. I consider this a tie. The Cubs have the best three in the Cental( Z, Lilly, and Hill) but the Brewers have the most solid rotation( Sheets, Suppan, Yovani Gallardo, Villanueva, Bush, Parra, and Vargas). They have have some young guys mixed with veterans. If Sheets stays healthy they are tough. If he doesn't than give the Cubs a huge edge.
Best Bench-
Cubs. I think this is a no brainer. They have one of the best pinch hitters in the game in Ward. They have speed and defense with Cedeno, Font, and Fuld. A great defensive catcher in Blanco and good young outfielder in Murton. I would like to see a team that is better equip from top to bottom than the Cubs are. Especially if they acquire Roberts and move Derosa to a utility role.
Best Pen-
Cubs/Brewers. Both have strengths and weakness in the pen but both have really good setup men and closers. It is tough to chose between the two. Would you rather face Howry, Wood, and Marmol or Turnbow, Riske, and Gagne?? Both are tough! You could argue the Sros have a good pen but they don't. All they have is a good closer in my opinion.
Best Manager-
Sweet Lou-Cubs. Takes a team from worst to first! Enough said!
Now who is the best overall team in the Central?? I will give it to the Cubs! From top to bottom they are the most complete defensively and offensively. They have power in the corners, great top 3 rotation, solid bench, and deadly pen. They have power and speed along with a great manger who won the Central last year. I see the Cubs the team to beat next year followed by the Brewers, Astros, and Cards.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Roberts to Cubs True? False? True? False?
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 7:07pm: I am hearing from my emailer and other sources that a deal is getting close and could be finalized by the weekend at the latest. Jim has said Hill and Pie are off limits, so don't look for them to be in the deal. It is believed to be now Marshall, Gallagher, Colvin and Veal for Roberts. Seems like a lot for Roberts but if it means not giving up Pie or Hill I am OK with it.
WOW! What a day for Roberts rumors! Thanks to MLBTR-
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 6:06pm: WGN Radio's Dave Kaplan checked in on this situation on his blog. He has "great sources" saying the price for Roberts is much higher than was previously reported. The Orioles want Rich Hill, Felix Pie, or Tyler Colvin. Hill is known to be off-limits.
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 10:58am: Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune believes this deal "is almost certainly going to happen." He expects it to be for the same players Orioles Hangout mentioned. However, an Orioles official contacted Orioles Hangout to tell them their report was inaccurate.
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 9:22am: Roch Kubatko (via a team spokesman) and Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun talked to Andy MacPhail and report that nothing has changed since last night on the Roberts talks and no deal is done.
FROM 1-9-08 at 7:53am:
Orioles Hangout is reporting that the trade of Brian Roberts to the Cubs is final. They're saying it's for Sean Gallagher, Sean Marshall, and Ronny Cedeno. I'll update the post as info comes along.
There is no way the Cubs will give up those three for Roberts. The O's may want Pie, Hill, and Colvin but they wont get all three. I can see the Cubs giving up Pie and Colvin but not Hill. I would not even think they would give up Pie and Colvin but one or the other. I can see a deal that involves Cedeno, Colvin, and Gallagher or Veal for him but not the our two top CF prospects.
WOW! What a day for Roberts rumors! Thanks to MLBTR-
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 6:06pm: WGN Radio's Dave Kaplan checked in on this situation on his blog. He has "great sources" saying the price for Roberts is much higher than was previously reported. The Orioles want Rich Hill, Felix Pie, or Tyler Colvin. Hill is known to be off-limits.
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 10:58am: Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune believes this deal "is almost certainly going to happen." He expects it to be for the same players Orioles Hangout mentioned. However, an Orioles official contacted Orioles Hangout to tell them their report was inaccurate.
UPDATE, 1-9-08 at 9:22am: Roch Kubatko (via a team spokesman) and Dan Connolly of the Baltimore Sun talked to Andy MacPhail and report that nothing has changed since last night on the Roberts talks and no deal is done.
FROM 1-9-08 at 7:53am:
Orioles Hangout is reporting that the trade of Brian Roberts to the Cubs is final. They're saying it's for Sean Gallagher, Sean Marshall, and Ronny Cedeno. I'll update the post as info comes along.
There is no way the Cubs will give up those three for Roberts. The O's may want Pie, Hill, and Colvin but they wont get all three. I can see the Cubs giving up Pie and Colvin but not Hill. I would not even think they would give up Pie and Colvin but one or the other. I can see a deal that involves Cedeno, Colvin, and Gallagher or Veal for him but not the our two top CF prospects.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Cubs still like Roberts.
Here is some tidbits from MLBTR-
Ken Rosenthal is back with a bang, penning a new article about Erik Bedard and Brian Roberts trade possibilities. We already updated you on the Bedard situation over yonder.
Rosenthal says the Cubs are still the best fit for Roberts, also noting interest from the Mets and Indians. Last we heard, the Cubs' offer included Sean Gallagher and Matt Murton but not Rich Hill or Felix Pie. Ronny Cedeno, Sean Marshall, and Donnie Veal could also be in the mix.
Interesting to hear that the Tribe is quietly taking a look at both Roberts and Bedard, just as they were quietly players for Dan Haren.
Bedard could fill the void if C.C. Sabathia were to leave via free agency. What would a Roberts acquisition mean? Asdrubal Cabrera to short, Jhonny Peralta to third or traded?
Ken Rosenthal is back with a bang, penning a new article about Erik Bedard and Brian Roberts trade possibilities. We already updated you on the Bedard situation over yonder.
Rosenthal says the Cubs are still the best fit for Roberts, also noting interest from the Mets and Indians. Last we heard, the Cubs' offer included Sean Gallagher and Matt Murton but not Rich Hill or Felix Pie. Ronny Cedeno, Sean Marshall, and Donnie Veal could also be in the mix.
Interesting to hear that the Tribe is quietly taking a look at both Roberts and Bedard, just as they were quietly players for Dan Haren.
Bedard could fill the void if C.C. Sabathia were to leave via free agency. What would a Roberts acquisition mean? Asdrubal Cabrera to short, Jhonny Peralta to third or traded?
I really don't see what the hold up is on the deal for Roberts unless there insisting on Pie( which will never happen unless they include Bedard). A fair trade seems to be Marshall, Cedeno, and Veal for Roberts but I am not a GM.
If the Indians do get Roberts, I wonder if the Cubs would see if they can get Peralta from the Indians?? He would look good in a Cubs uniform.
Here is his stats-
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Pagan traded to Mets!
The Cubs have traded Angel Pagan to the Mets for two minor leaguers. Right hander Ryan Meyers and outfielder Corey Coles. Meyers , 22, combined to go 1-4 with 13 saves and a 2.79 ERA in 41 relief appearances between New York's Class A Savannah and Port St. Lucie affiliates in 2007. The six-foot-five, 204-pound Meyers struck out 55 batters and walked only 16 in 51.2 innings while limiting opponents to a .229 batting average. He was the closer for the majority of the year.
While Coles , 25, combined to bat .286 with 14 doubles, one home run and 31 RBI during three stops in the Mets minor league system last year, including his first tastes of Double-A and Triple-A. The left-handed batter and thrower spent most of the 2007 season with Double-A Binghamton and batted .296 with a .352 on-base percentage in 66 contests. Coles also played 23 games with Port St. Lucie and nine games with Triple-A New Orleans last year.
This likely means that Fuld will take over the 4th outfield spot or the Cubs are going to acquire an outfielder that can play all three spots. This does clear up a roster spot. Could Roberts be on his way???
While Coles , 25, combined to bat .286 with 14 doubles, one home run and 31 RBI during three stops in the Mets minor league system last year, including his first tastes of Double-A and Triple-A. The left-handed batter and thrower spent most of the 2007 season with Double-A Binghamton and batted .296 with a .352 on-base percentage in 66 contests. Coles also played 23 games with Port St. Lucie and nine games with Triple-A New Orleans last year.
This likely means that Fuld will take over the 4th outfield spot or the Cubs are going to acquire an outfielder that can play all three spots. This does clear up a roster spot. Could Roberts be on his way???
Levine on ESPN1000-
On ESPN 1000-
The Brian Roberts trade talks are really heating up again. The O's want Cedeno(who Baltimore covets) along with Gallagher, Marshall, or Veal. There is no mention on Epatt or Murton though they have been rumored in the deal. He can see a trade happening soon so the Cubs can move on to starting pitching.
Levine was asked if Cedeno is traded who will fill in as a back-up SS? He said the Cubs have showed interest in middle infielder Alex Cintron. Cintron hit .243 with 2 homers and 19 RBI and .281 OBP last season in 68 games. Seems like ok replacement for Cedeno. He is also a switch hitter which gives Lou some options. I much rather see them trade for Felipe Lopez or Christian Guzman who is available.
He also notes the Cubs have shown interest in Jon Leiber as the back of rotation type guy. Lieber has been fragile the past couple of years. Not pitching over 200 innings the past two years but he could be a good # 5. He did well with the Cubs form 99 to 2002 and went 20-6 in 01 for them. I wouldn't mind bring back Lieber. Adding him would provide depth in the rotation which I think we need. Here is what the rotation could look like-
Zambrano
Lilly
Marquis/ Dempster/ Lieber/ Hart
Hill
Marquis/ Dempster/ Lieber/ Hart
It would be nice to have a least 3 to 4 guys battling for the last two spots in the rotation. I would prefer to trade for a #2 or 3 pitcher like Blanton but that doesn't seem likely. If the Cubs consider bring back Lieber they need to consider looking at Livan.
The Brian Roberts trade talks are really heating up again. The O's want Cedeno(who Baltimore covets) along with Gallagher, Marshall, or Veal. There is no mention on Epatt or Murton though they have been rumored in the deal. He can see a trade happening soon so the Cubs can move on to starting pitching.
Levine was asked if Cedeno is traded who will fill in as a back-up SS? He said the Cubs have showed interest in middle infielder Alex Cintron. Cintron hit .243 with 2 homers and 19 RBI and .281 OBP last season in 68 games. Seems like ok replacement for Cedeno. He is also a switch hitter which gives Lou some options. I much rather see them trade for Felipe Lopez or Christian Guzman who is available.
He also notes the Cubs have shown interest in Jon Leiber as the back of rotation type guy. Lieber has been fragile the past couple of years. Not pitching over 200 innings the past two years but he could be a good # 5. He did well with the Cubs form 99 to 2002 and went 20-6 in 01 for them. I wouldn't mind bring back Lieber. Adding him would provide depth in the rotation which I think we need. Here is what the rotation could look like-
Zambrano
Lilly
Marquis/ Dempster/ Lieber/ Hart
Hill
Marquis/ Dempster/ Lieber/ Hart
It would be nice to have a least 3 to 4 guys battling for the last two spots in the rotation. I would prefer to trade for a #2 or 3 pitcher like Blanton but that doesn't seem likely. If the Cubs consider bring back Lieber they need to consider looking at Livan.
Cubs should trade for Ryan Spilborghs!
The Rockies have a good problem on there hands, they have too many young outfielders. They currently have Hawpe in RF, Taveras in CF, and Holliday in LF. Leaving Baker, Sullivan, Smith, Spilborghs, and a young guy in the minors named Joe Gaetti to fight over the 4th and 5th spot in the OF. The Rockies are currently looking for pitching and considering bring in a low tear pitcher or a rehab starter. This makes the Cubs a perfect trading partner for the Rockies. The Rockies could use one of there young studs to lure young or veteran pitching from the Cubs. The Cubs need a right or left handed hitting OF to platoon with Pie and give Fukudome and Soriano days off. They also need a guy that can play all three outfield positions, play good defense and hit well. Ryan Spilborghs is that guy.
Spilly has incredible numbers despite his terrible numbers in the playoffs. He hit .299 with 11 homers, 51 rbi, and 4 SB. He has a great OBP of .363 and also did well in the minors batting .323. He plays really good defense and has an above average arm.
The Rockies can get quality pitching for him. The Cubs earlier in the off season had talks of a Ohman for Spilborghs deal but nothing materialized. I think a deal like Epatt or Font with either Dempster or Marshall should get the deal going. I would even consider trading Gallagher for Spilborghs straight up( only if the O's don't want him in the Roberts trade).
Of course the Cubs could go with Angel Pagan, but he is no Ryan Spilborghs. This would also give them the freedom to trade Murton and Pagan to another team that needs outfield help.
This trade in my opinion would really help out both teams. Can you imagine a Spilborghs/Pie platoon next year?!?! That would be nasty!
Spilly has incredible numbers despite his terrible numbers in the playoffs. He hit .299 with 11 homers, 51 rbi, and 4 SB. He has a great OBP of .363 and also did well in the minors batting .323. He plays really good defense and has an above average arm.
The Rockies can get quality pitching for him. The Cubs earlier in the off season had talks of a Ohman for Spilborghs deal but nothing materialized. I think a deal like Epatt or Font with either Dempster or Marshall should get the deal going. I would even consider trading Gallagher for Spilborghs straight up( only if the O's don't want him in the Roberts trade).
Of course the Cubs could go with Angel Pagan, but he is no Ryan Spilborghs. This would also give them the freedom to trade Murton and Pagan to another team that needs outfield help.
This trade in my opinion would really help out both teams. Can you imagine a Spilborghs/Pie platoon next year?!?! That would be nasty!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Rotoworld.com thoughts on Soto!
Check this out-
Geovany Soto, C, Chicago CubsYou won't find a more debated prospect coming into 2008 due to his out-of-nowhere production last season. Coming into 2007, Soto had done nothing to prove himself as a top prospect in Chicago's system beyond being an above average defensive catcher, batting a paltry .262/.344/.371 over his full career. And there's still reason for concern coming into 2008 when you take into consideration his high hr/f rate and low fly ball and contact numbers upon call-up.
However, one simply cannot discount the numbers he put up last season as a fluke. Not only did he lead the minors in batting average by a catcher (.353) and slugging percentage (.652), he also won the Triple-A Pacific Coast League RBI crown (109) and was named MVP of the league. And he was arguably Chicago's best hitter after his call-up, so he was able to excel for an extended period of time.
One secret to this success might be the dramatic weight loss Soto achieved before 2007's start. By losing 30 pounds before the season, Soto was able to get around on pitches more efficiently with his compact swing, as well as helping his defense wholesale. While one has to take pause that he has not done this beyond one season, where and when he's doing it cannot be ignored.
Combine with that the fact that Soto is all but guaranteed the starting catcher gig this year, and you have yourself a potential breakout player. His defense will keep him up (he had a 31% caught-stealing rate last season, which will translate well in the big leagues), and considering how long they toiled with Jason Kendall, if his bat is only half as good as it was last year, he's going to stick. Most quality catchers will go in the middle rounds of a regular 12-team, with the top three going way too early, making Soto a wonderful speculative pick at the end of your draft, allowing you to maximize on positional players with high at bat impacts.
460 AB, .281 BA, 19 HR, 66 R, 74 RBI, 1 SB
If he can produce those numbers next year I would be thrilled! He is expected to hit 6th or 7th in the lineup and if he produces 19 homers and 74 rbi that would be something else! He is a good offensive catcher with great defensive skills. My prediction of his stats is this-
440 AB, .275 BA, 15 HR, 50 R, and 66 RBI, 2 SB
If he even puts up those numbers I would be happy!
Geovany Soto, C, Chicago CubsYou won't find a more debated prospect coming into 2008 due to his out-of-nowhere production last season. Coming into 2007, Soto had done nothing to prove himself as a top prospect in Chicago's system beyond being an above average defensive catcher, batting a paltry .262/.344/.371 over his full career. And there's still reason for concern coming into 2008 when you take into consideration his high hr/f rate and low fly ball and contact numbers upon call-up.
However, one simply cannot discount the numbers he put up last season as a fluke. Not only did he lead the minors in batting average by a catcher (.353) and slugging percentage (.652), he also won the Triple-A Pacific Coast League RBI crown (109) and was named MVP of the league. And he was arguably Chicago's best hitter after his call-up, so he was able to excel for an extended period of time.
One secret to this success might be the dramatic weight loss Soto achieved before 2007's start. By losing 30 pounds before the season, Soto was able to get around on pitches more efficiently with his compact swing, as well as helping his defense wholesale. While one has to take pause that he has not done this beyond one season, where and when he's doing it cannot be ignored.
Combine with that the fact that Soto is all but guaranteed the starting catcher gig this year, and you have yourself a potential breakout player. His defense will keep him up (he had a 31% caught-stealing rate last season, which will translate well in the big leagues), and considering how long they toiled with Jason Kendall, if his bat is only half as good as it was last year, he's going to stick. Most quality catchers will go in the middle rounds of a regular 12-team, with the top three going way too early, making Soto a wonderful speculative pick at the end of your draft, allowing you to maximize on positional players with high at bat impacts.
460 AB, .281 BA, 19 HR, 66 R, 74 RBI, 1 SB
If he can produce those numbers next year I would be thrilled! He is expected to hit 6th or 7th in the lineup and if he produces 19 homers and 74 rbi that would be something else! He is a good offensive catcher with great defensive skills. My prediction of his stats is this-
440 AB, .275 BA, 15 HR, 50 R, and 66 RBI, 2 SB
If he even puts up those numbers I would be happy!
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Rumors will start heating up fast!
The rumors are expected to start heating up now that the holiday season is drawing to a close. The most active market is expected to be free agent starting pitching as well as numerous teams looking to fill there voids via trade. Lets take a look at some of the Cubbie rumors, shall we-
-The Orioles have backed off on the idea of trading Brian Roberts, but talks between the Cubs and O's are still strong.
- Both Chicago teams are interested in acquiring Corey Patterson. If the Cubs got Patterson, look for him to compete for the starting CF job. Also if the Cubs get Cpatt, don't look at Figgins or Lofton being in Cubbie blue next year. I don't see the appeal of Cpatt except for the price.
- Livan Hernandez is in serious negotiations with an unknown team. Livan has been linked to the Rox, Cards, and Mets. I wouldn't be surprised if the Cubs sneak in there and get him.
- Cubs could take a look at Mike Cameron as a platoon partner with Felix Pie in CF next season. It would be a great defensive platoon and also give the Cubs decent offensive numbers. Cameron has good power, hitting 20+ in 6 of the 9 previous years. Has struggled with his average and consistency in OBP but can play all three outfield spots and would be a good option of a platoon/bench player for the Cubs. I honestly think they should just sign Lofton and be done with the outfield!
-The Orioles have backed off on the idea of trading Brian Roberts, but talks between the Cubs and O's are still strong.
- Both Chicago teams are interested in acquiring Corey Patterson. If the Cubs got Patterson, look for him to compete for the starting CF job. Also if the Cubs get Cpatt, don't look at Figgins or Lofton being in Cubbie blue next year. I don't see the appeal of Cpatt except for the price.
- Livan Hernandez is in serious negotiations with an unknown team. Livan has been linked to the Rox, Cards, and Mets. I wouldn't be surprised if the Cubs sneak in there and get him.
- Cubs could take a look at Mike Cameron as a platoon partner with Felix Pie in CF next season. It would be a great defensive platoon and also give the Cubs decent offensive numbers. Cameron has good power, hitting 20+ in 6 of the 9 previous years. Has struggled with his average and consistency in OBP but can play all three outfield spots and would be a good option of a platoon/bench player for the Cubs. I honestly think they should just sign Lofton and be done with the outfield!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Rumors are Slow. Lets see what the Cubs need.
With rumors going at a glacier pace during the holidays, I want to turn the attention to the Cubs needs for the rest of the off season. The Cubs have filled there glaring hole in RF with Fukudome and have strengthen there pen by resigning Eyre and Wood. They have also added hard throwing Jose Ascanio, Tim Lahey, and Tanner Watson. The Cubs could look to upgrade it more by acquiring Joe Nathan but that would likely cost Marmol (which the Cubs will not give up). I see the bullpen as being set how it is, many people think the Cubs need a long relief man or a situational lefty. They have two young guys in Neal Cotts and Carmen Pignatiello that could fill the situational lefty role along with Eyre. As far as long relief, Cotts could fill that role and so could Marquis, Marshall, or Dempster depending on who gets traded and who lands the 5th spot in the starting rotation.
I feel the Cubs need is another veteran starter to boast there rotation. Guys like Matt Clement, Bartolo Colon, Livan Hernandez, Jon Lieber, or Josh Towers. I like the idea of Livan, Clement, or Colon coming to the Cubs. Hernandez is less of a gamble because he will give you 200+ innings and has playoff experience. He would be a nice 5th starter for the Cubs. Colon has the biggest upside. He has been plagued with injuries but just 3 years ago he was a 21 game winner! I would like to see the Cubs take a gamble on him, if healthy he could be a good #2 or #3 starter. Matt Clement has been a favorite of mine. If you remember he pitched well with the Cubs but didn't get any run support. He has been on and off the DL for a while but now he maybe finally healthy. The Cubs would be taking a chance on him just like Colon but he doesn't have that big of an upside. He could fit nicely in the #4 or #5 spot if healthy and be less expensive than Colon or Livan. He might be the best fit! Regardless, I feel the Cubs need to sign another starter for me to feel better about the rotation going into Spring Training.
Another type of player the Cubs need to acquire is a speedy outfielder that can play all three outfield positions and possibly be ready to take over CF if Pie isn't ready. There are only two players I see as a perfect fit for the Cubs and they are Chone Figgins and Kenny Lofton. Figgins would fit the bill perfectly, in fact he would start in CF over Pie. The guy is a stud! High OBP, low SO, great average, lots of SBs, good defense, and could play all over the field. Definitely a player the Cubs and Lou would love. He would cost a lot and the Angels will not trade him unless the get a good 3rd baseman to replace him. So that doesn't sound likely. Another option is Lofton, if you check this blog you know I love Kenny Lofton. Lofton continues to be a great player regardless of age. He will hit homeruns, hit in the clutch, plays good D, high OBP, good amount of SB, and good average. He can also play all three outfield positions and play them well. Not to mention he is familiar with Wrigley, which is a plus. I see the signing of Lofton as a no brainer, hopefully the Cubs do too!
The only other player I see the Cubs looking at is a better 2nd baseman, so Derosa can fill the super utility role. Or signing another utility guy. I think after the first of the year Roberts will be the Cubs new 2nd baseman pushing Derosa to the super utility role. Roberts would fill the 2nd spot in the lineup hitting between Soriano and Lee. Lou has said time and time again, Sori is our leadoff guy. Roberts would pull the lineup together nicely. He will likely cost something like Murton, Gallagher, and one of these guys- Epatt, Colvin, or Cedeno. If the Cubs don't get Roberts, you might see them make a play for Orlando Hudson. He is just as good as Roberts and plays better defense than him. Tho Roberts has better wheels tho. If none of that works look for them to trade for a utility guy that is switch hitter. The guys that come to mind are Felipe Lopez and Cristian Guzman. Both could be valuable guys off the bench and are available via trad. Plus there a better fit than Cedeno and Font.
So the Cubs basically need a starting pitcher, a outfielder that can play all three positions and has speed, and either a utility infielder or a switch hitting 2nd baseman with speed. If the Cubs can get all that done before opening day, Jim deserves a medal!
I feel the Cubs need is another veteran starter to boast there rotation. Guys like Matt Clement, Bartolo Colon, Livan Hernandez, Jon Lieber, or Josh Towers. I like the idea of Livan, Clement, or Colon coming to the Cubs. Hernandez is less of a gamble because he will give you 200+ innings and has playoff experience. He would be a nice 5th starter for the Cubs. Colon has the biggest upside. He has been plagued with injuries but just 3 years ago he was a 21 game winner! I would like to see the Cubs take a gamble on him, if healthy he could be a good #2 or #3 starter. Matt Clement has been a favorite of mine. If you remember he pitched well with the Cubs but didn't get any run support. He has been on and off the DL for a while but now he maybe finally healthy. The Cubs would be taking a chance on him just like Colon but he doesn't have that big of an upside. He could fit nicely in the #4 or #5 spot if healthy and be less expensive than Colon or Livan. He might be the best fit! Regardless, I feel the Cubs need to sign another starter for me to feel better about the rotation going into Spring Training.
Another type of player the Cubs need to acquire is a speedy outfielder that can play all three outfield positions and possibly be ready to take over CF if Pie isn't ready. There are only two players I see as a perfect fit for the Cubs and they are Chone Figgins and Kenny Lofton. Figgins would fit the bill perfectly, in fact he would start in CF over Pie. The guy is a stud! High OBP, low SO, great average, lots of SBs, good defense, and could play all over the field. Definitely a player the Cubs and Lou would love. He would cost a lot and the Angels will not trade him unless the get a good 3rd baseman to replace him. So that doesn't sound likely. Another option is Lofton, if you check this blog you know I love Kenny Lofton. Lofton continues to be a great player regardless of age. He will hit homeruns, hit in the clutch, plays good D, high OBP, good amount of SB, and good average. He can also play all three outfield positions and play them well. Not to mention he is familiar with Wrigley, which is a plus. I see the signing of Lofton as a no brainer, hopefully the Cubs do too!
The only other player I see the Cubs looking at is a better 2nd baseman, so Derosa can fill the super utility role. Or signing another utility guy. I think after the first of the year Roberts will be the Cubs new 2nd baseman pushing Derosa to the super utility role. Roberts would fill the 2nd spot in the lineup hitting between Soriano and Lee. Lou has said time and time again, Sori is our leadoff guy. Roberts would pull the lineup together nicely. He will likely cost something like Murton, Gallagher, and one of these guys- Epatt, Colvin, or Cedeno. If the Cubs don't get Roberts, you might see them make a play for Orlando Hudson. He is just as good as Roberts and plays better defense than him. Tho Roberts has better wheels tho. If none of that works look for them to trade for a utility guy that is switch hitter. The guys that come to mind are Felipe Lopez and Cristian Guzman. Both could be valuable guys off the bench and are available via trad. Plus there a better fit than Cedeno and Font.
So the Cubs basically need a starting pitcher, a outfielder that can play all three positions and has speed, and either a utility infielder or a switch hitting 2nd baseman with speed. If the Cubs can get all that done before opening day, Jim deserves a medal!
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Could the Cubs sign Santana??
Now this is pure speculation on my part. With the rumors and talks between clubs being shut down until the new year I decided to look at the best pitcher available and see if the Cubs could land him.
Let me first say there is about a 1% chance the Cubs trade for him. He would cost a lot of good prospects and the Cubs probably don't have enough to get him. But here is what I came up with.
The Yankees and Red Sox have made strong offers to the Twins but they are wanting a lot more than they can offer. The Yankees are getting frustrated and have dropped out of the running at least twice. They don't see a deal taking shape at all and refuse to give up Ian Kennedy in a deal that would likely include Hughes, Cabrera, and many more good prospects. The Red Sox have offered up the best deal for Santana but the Twins still don't seem interested. I personally thing the Sox are just trying to block the deal from the Yankees and there doing a great job.
Its safe to say the the Twins really don't mind going into next season with Santana and maybe dealing him at the deadline. The problem with that is if they don't make a deal or Santana decides to not waive him no trade clause then they will likely lose him next year and only get draft picks for him. That's a risk I don't think the Twins want to take.
What if the Cubs jump in the mix??? It would be great if they could pull a deal like what the Tigers did with Florida. The Tigers were not even on the radar when the Miguel Cabrera talks were going on. They swept in a left the Angels, Dodgers, and many other teams in the dust. I think the Cubs have a small chance of doing that. While the Yankees and Sox fight over who is gonna give up the most without hurting the club the most, the Cubs come in and strike a deal with the Twins leaving the Yankees and Red Sox stunned. That would be a great off-season move by Hendry although not likely. Another thing besides maybe not having the prospects to make a deal is the 36 hour time window that is rumored that the team has to negotiate and long term deal with Santana. So even if you agree on the players the deal can be squashed by not signing him to a long tern deal. Not to mention he is looking at 7 years 140 million which means he would likely get 6 years 110-120 million. That is more than we signed Zambrano to and might disrupt the club a bit. Even though by signing him for 6 years would almost insure the Cubs making the playoffs every year for at least the next 4 years. Everyone knows the Cubs Organization biggest concern is to win a World Series so I don't see money or players stopping them from getting Santana.
So after all this speculation and ideas on how the Cubs could get Santana, do I think it will happen?? Very Unlikely! But do I think this sounds like something Jim would try to pull off?? Absolutely!
For those interested on what I would offer the Twins for Santana, here you go!
Twins get
Hill- A young lefty that would immediately be in the starting rotation next year as a potential #2 or #3 starter. In a couple of years he will be a legitimate #1.
Pie- The Twins need more young outfielders and a replacement in for Hunter in CF. Pie could fill that void nicely. He has dominated in AAA and has struggled batting in the Major Leagues. One thing is the Cubs have no complaints on this D, he would develop well with the Twins.
Gallagher- A young righty with good stuff! He could be easily slotted in the #5 spot in a rebuilding team. He is young and has tremendous upside. A guy that the Twins would fall in love with.
Sean Marshall- He proves he belongs in ML. He is a steady lefty who has good stuff but can be inconsistent at times. He is a good number 4 or 5 pitcher right now. With some experience under his belt he could be a good number 3. He would round out the Twins rotation well!
Epatt- Could be inserted as a 2b or OF. Hit well in AAA has some discipline problems and would need to develop more in AAA.
Veal- The Cubs best lefty prospect. Has stuff comparable to Willis yet he needs more time to develop in AAA.
Vitters- Vitters was the Cubs top pick in the the draft this year. He is slotted as a 3rd baseman but he can play other positions. The Twins have a constant whole a 3rd base and sign cheap mediocre players to fill the void until someone proves they can fill it. It think Vitters could be the Twins everyday 3rd baseman in the next 2 years and do the job nicely!
The only player I would not give up( besides our blue chippers like Z, Lee, Sori, Aram etc) would be Marmol! I think he is the next great closer!
Do you have a deal that you think would get Santana??
Drop me a comment!
Let me first say there is about a 1% chance the Cubs trade for him. He would cost a lot of good prospects and the Cubs probably don't have enough to get him. But here is what I came up with.
The Yankees and Red Sox have made strong offers to the Twins but they are wanting a lot more than they can offer. The Yankees are getting frustrated and have dropped out of the running at least twice. They don't see a deal taking shape at all and refuse to give up Ian Kennedy in a deal that would likely include Hughes, Cabrera, and many more good prospects. The Red Sox have offered up the best deal for Santana but the Twins still don't seem interested. I personally thing the Sox are just trying to block the deal from the Yankees and there doing a great job.
Its safe to say the the Twins really don't mind going into next season with Santana and maybe dealing him at the deadline. The problem with that is if they don't make a deal or Santana decides to not waive him no trade clause then they will likely lose him next year and only get draft picks for him. That's a risk I don't think the Twins want to take.
What if the Cubs jump in the mix??? It would be great if they could pull a deal like what the Tigers did with Florida. The Tigers were not even on the radar when the Miguel Cabrera talks were going on. They swept in a left the Angels, Dodgers, and many other teams in the dust. I think the Cubs have a small chance of doing that. While the Yankees and Sox fight over who is gonna give up the most without hurting the club the most, the Cubs come in and strike a deal with the Twins leaving the Yankees and Red Sox stunned. That would be a great off-season move by Hendry although not likely. Another thing besides maybe not having the prospects to make a deal is the 36 hour time window that is rumored that the team has to negotiate and long term deal with Santana. So even if you agree on the players the deal can be squashed by not signing him to a long tern deal. Not to mention he is looking at 7 years 140 million which means he would likely get 6 years 110-120 million. That is more than we signed Zambrano to and might disrupt the club a bit. Even though by signing him for 6 years would almost insure the Cubs making the playoffs every year for at least the next 4 years. Everyone knows the Cubs Organization biggest concern is to win a World Series so I don't see money or players stopping them from getting Santana.
So after all this speculation and ideas on how the Cubs could get Santana, do I think it will happen?? Very Unlikely! But do I think this sounds like something Jim would try to pull off?? Absolutely!
For those interested on what I would offer the Twins for Santana, here you go!
Twins get
Hill- A young lefty that would immediately be in the starting rotation next year as a potential #2 or #3 starter. In a couple of years he will be a legitimate #1.
Pie- The Twins need more young outfielders and a replacement in for Hunter in CF. Pie could fill that void nicely. He has dominated in AAA and has struggled batting in the Major Leagues. One thing is the Cubs have no complaints on this D, he would develop well with the Twins.
Gallagher- A young righty with good stuff! He could be easily slotted in the #5 spot in a rebuilding team. He is young and has tremendous upside. A guy that the Twins would fall in love with.
Sean Marshall- He proves he belongs in ML. He is a steady lefty who has good stuff but can be inconsistent at times. He is a good number 4 or 5 pitcher right now. With some experience under his belt he could be a good number 3. He would round out the Twins rotation well!
Epatt- Could be inserted as a 2b or OF. Hit well in AAA has some discipline problems and would need to develop more in AAA.
Veal- The Cubs best lefty prospect. Has stuff comparable to Willis yet he needs more time to develop in AAA.
Vitters- Vitters was the Cubs top pick in the the draft this year. He is slotted as a 3rd baseman but he can play other positions. The Twins have a constant whole a 3rd base and sign cheap mediocre players to fill the void until someone proves they can fill it. It think Vitters could be the Twins everyday 3rd baseman in the next 2 years and do the job nicely!
The only player I would not give up( besides our blue chippers like Z, Lee, Sori, Aram etc) would be Marmol! I think he is the next great closer!
Do you have a deal that you think would get Santana??
Drop me a comment!
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