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Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot Nov 05 2013 10:30 AM

Thirteen FAs received the $14.1mil "qualifying offer" from their teams meaning that an outside team signing them would forfeit a draft pick. Jacoby Ellsbury Mike Napoli Stephen Drew Robinson Cano Curtis Granderson Hiroki Kuroda Carlos Beltran Shin-Soo Choo Nelson Cruz Ubaldo Jimenez Brian McCann Kendrys Morales Ervin Santana A player accepting one of these offers would, in effect, be agreeing to a one-year contract for that amount. They could also accept and continue to negotiate toward a multi-year deal but would lose the ability to talk to other teams. The Mets' 1st round pick (10th overall) is exempt from being lost if they were to sign one of the above,. They would forfeit their 2nd round pick instead - probably around pick #50 Other than that, no real news so far. Jeter re-upped with the Yanx. Giambi signed a minor league deal to stay with Cleveland.

Benjamin Grimm Nov 05 2013 10:47 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I suspect that Beltran will accept the offer from St. Louis.

Edgy MD Nov 05 2013 10:49 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I suspect the Yankees are drawing up a two-year-plus-an-option deal for him as we speak (or type).

Frayed Knot Nov 05 2013 10:57 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Benjamin Grimm wrote: I suspect that Beltran will accept the offer from St. Louis. Unless he thinks this is his last best chance to get a multi-year deal - even if 'multi' means no more than two. Only Ortiz and I think one other player in this same situation last season (there were about nine players offered the cut-off number last year) remained with their own team and both did so via a negotiated settlement. No players has accepted the one-year offer so far, although last season was the first time this particular system was in effect.

Frayed Knot Nov 12 2013 09:11 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Last night was the deadline for players accepting the "qualifying offer" (see above) from their teams and, although nothing is official yet, for the second year out of two, apparently none of the players have chosen to do so. So all on the above list are free to negotiate with any team but it will cost the signing team a 1st, or in some cases 2nd, round draft pick.

Mets Guy in Michigan Nov 12 2013 09:33 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Marlon Byrd headed back to the Phillies, Rosenthal reports.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 12 2013 09:46 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

wow. how much $$?

Mets Guy in Michigan Nov 12 2013 09:49 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: wow. how much $$? Two years, $16 million.

seawolf17 Nov 12 2013 09:51 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

lolphillies

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 12 2013 09:51 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That's some scratch! Could be the Phillies best outfielder now...

duan Nov 12 2013 10:39 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Not sure where I'd have stood if the mets had signed him at that rate. I won't like him being on the Phillies though, because despite being a *insert expletive used about Alex Rodriguez* Cheat he was a likeable one. Before last year he did have some decent years in the past, but he's been all over the charts from season to season.

Edgy MD Nov 12 2013 10:49 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Seems reasonable... for the right team in the right position. Whether that's the Phillies is hard for me to answer. Beats Delmon Young, surely.

Benjamin Grimm Nov 12 2013 10:59 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Good for Marlon; hopefully not good for Phillies. This seems like an early (in the offseason) signing, doesn't it?

Zvon Nov 12 2013 02:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Gah. I want Byrd to do well but on the Phillies? You've alienated me Marlon. Have an awful year.

Zvon Nov 12 2013 02:43 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Actually, when you think about it, he did do good. 16 mill. 2 yrs? That's pretty damn good in his position. He worked hard for that contract. Now relax and have a shitty year Mr Byrd. At least against the Mets.

Ashie62 Nov 12 2013 03:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Good for Marlon...He had quite a run with Pittsburgh after the trade...he earned the 16 million he has signed for.....

Edgy MD Nov 12 2013 05:21 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Benjamin Grimm wrote: Good for Marlon; hopefully not good for Phillies. This seems like an early (in the offseason) signing, doesn't it? Maybe, but he's the sort of guy who gets gobbled up during the GM meetings. Not a Type A, but no minor-league/camp-invite guy either. Two years, decent but not pre-emptive money. The sort of guy that happens while they feel out the market.

Edgy MD Nov 12 2013 08:59 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Meanwhile, Dick Young is alive and well.

MFS62 Nov 12 2013 09:25 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

metsguyinmichigan wrote: Marlon Byrd headed back to the Phillies, Rosenthal reports. Shame. And he seemed like such a nice young man... Later

metirish Nov 13 2013 12:51 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Heyman Hal and Cash meet with agents for Beltran, Choo, Elsbury, Drew and McCann surely they sign 3 out of that 5?, at least.

metirish Nov 18 2013 08:51 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Martion had an interesting article the other day.....a few things,, 1) the Mets are looking for nicer players, avoid the surly ones...and the players need to buy in the Mets offensive philosophy...interesting jabs here at Byrd....sound slike someone in management feeding needless info to Martino. In selecting new players, NY Mets need fewer sourpusses, and want more people to buy in to offensive philosophy BY ANDY MARTINO The Mets are trying to spend more money than in recent winters, acquire more power, and ultimately win more games. But the team has identified other goals, too, which need to remain high priorities: Avoid divisive personalities, and increase player buy-in to its offensive philosophy. In Sandy Alderson’s previous three offseasons, the GM was shackled by budget constraints, and forced to choose from an undesirable pile of free agents. In many cases, he did not choose well, signing guys who brought a sour vibe into the clubhouse, in some cases creating more trouble than was justified by their limited contributions. It began with catcher Ronny Paulino and reliever D.J. Carrasco in 2011; the former was uninterested in following game plans, and the latter drove the coaching staff crazy with frequent whining about his usage. Subsequent years brought Jon Rauch’s unrelenting surliness and Frank Francisco’s unwillingness to pitch, along with attempts to dissuade youngsters from doing so. Shaun Marcum was, well, not charming, and while Marlon Byrd arrived with a questionable reputation, he was generally a pleasant surprise in the clubhouse -- save for what many Mets people saw as his overcoaching of teammates. It is that latter point that the Mets want to address, in addition to bringing in more pleasant people. On every level of the organization up to major league hitting coach Dave Hudgens, Alderson’s staff has spent three years working to instill a hitting philosophy that stresses plate discipline and on-base percentage. Agree or disagree with that view -- many baseball folks criticize it for making hitters less aggressive, a characterization that proponents dispute -- it is one that the GM insists on. Players like Byrd and Daniel Murphy are good hitters, but operate in a mode that is far from Aldersonian. Byrd is an aggressive swinger, unwilling or unable to draw many walks (his walk rate last year was a lowly 5.4 percent), and more than willing to encourage teammates to follow his own ideas while they worked pregame in the batting cage. That is one of the reasons the Mets did not pursue a reunion with the outfielder, who signed a two-year, $16 million deal with Philadelphia on Tuesday. The Mets are open trading Murphy for similar reasons. Murphy has earned the respect of the front office by working to turn himself into a passable second baseman, but he is another aggressive hitter, whose style does not fit what the general manager, hitting coach, and organizational instructors teach. This is one of the reasons that the team might be ready to move him. It's not that every Met has to be the same player, but the front office would like to see a higher percentage of the lineup mirror its overall philosophy. As club officials note, it is easier to enforce standards on minor leaguers and rookies if those youngsters see veterans modeling the program. Byrd and Murphy have many strong qualities as hitters, but they will never do that. Both Curtis Granderson and Nelson Cruz, free agents outfielders in whom the Mets are interested, would be better fits from both a personality and performance standpoint. Both have reputations as nice people; the only knock on Granderson is that he is pleasant, but not a leader, and while Cruz carries Biogenesis baggage, he is known as a nice, if quiet, guy. On the surface, Granderson does not seem like Alderson’s type of hitter. Although his career on-base percentage is a respectable .340, that number sunk to .317 in 2012, the outfielder’s most recent full season. When I pointed this out to a Mets official, that person immediately mentioned being impressed by Granderson’s walk rate, which at 10.2 percent is better than Byrd’s, Murphy’s (5.6 percent) Cruz’s (7.9 percent), or Jhonny Peralta (8.3 percent). The Mets might not sign either Granderson or Cruz, after seeing the frenzied outfield market develop; a trade for an Andre Ethier or Nick Markakis is also possible. Either way, it is time to end the era of sourpuss imports, and free swingers -- time to be more selective about the people invited to Queens. (Photo by Mark Bonifacio/New York Daily News)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Nov 18 2013 12:58 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Philling up his Phigurative off-season rucksack, Ruben Amaro is; Ruiz heads back to the Philadelphia-citizens for 3/$26M.

sharpie Nov 18 2013 03:00 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Tim Hudson to Giants. 2 years/$23 mil.

Frayed Knot Nov 18 2013 03:16 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

So the Phils currently have contracts and/or some kind of option/vesting option through 2015 or later for: - Hamels thru 2019 - Howard thru 2017 - Rollins thru 2015 - Cliff Lee thru 2016 - Papelbon thru 2016 - Utley thru 2018 - Byrd thru 2016 - Ruiz thru 2017 Of that group: none are under 30; only Hamels is under 33; and Rollins, Ruiz, Utley, Byrd, & Lee will be 35+ on opening day 2014 Good luck with all that, Cheesesteaks.

Lefty Specialist Nov 18 2013 04:57 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Boy, that's a lot of geezer money for the Phils. What if they can't stay awake for all the night games or someone steals their dentures? Is it harder to pick up a curveball with bifocals?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 18 2013 09:10 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Tim Hudson to Giants 2/23

MFS62 Nov 19 2013 08:46 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

If that sets a figure for 38 year old starters, maybe a 2/21 for a Bronson Arroyo isn't out of the question. Later

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 20 2013 07:03 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Josh Johnson to Padres for 1 year $8 mills

Frayed Knot Nov 20 2013 07:12 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

How the mighty have fallen. Couple of years ago the guy was on his way to either having the best pitcher in baseball tag hung on him was at least going to be in the class picture.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 20 2013 07:18 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Also, David Murphy (Muffy's longlost twin brother doncha know) signs with the Injuns for 2 years/ 10 mills.

Frayed Knot Nov 20 2013 07:31 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Muffy's actual brother The announcers would mention every once in a while how David would always insist that his brother was going to be a way better player than him. But, while you wouldn't eliminate him as a future major leaguer based on his career to date, an average-ish season in the Midwest Lg at age 23 doesn't exactly put him on the fast-track.

Mets Guy in Michigan Nov 20 2013 08:16 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: How the mighty have fallen. Couple of years ago the guy was on his way to either having the best pitcher in baseball tag hung on him was at least going to be in the class picture. Reading that he took less money for a one-year deal in San Diego to play a year in an extreme pitcher's park and boost his value. Hey, we have a pitcher's park!

Edgy MD Nov 20 2013 08:35 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hot, greasy Marlins stars and what became of them upon arriving in Toronto: [list]Josh Johnson: Went from throwing 191 innings with a 3.81 ERA to throwing 81 innigns with a 6.20 ERA. Strikeout rate actually went up, but hit rate increased dramatically, as did HR rate. Saw DL time for triceps soreness, forearm tightness, and ultimately bone spur surgery. Emilio Bonifacio: Played everywhere on the diamond, but lost 71 points from his OPS, before being dumped for cash to the Royals, where he instantly rebounded. John Buck: Flipped to the Mets in the Dickey deal, another muscling-up trade that went pear-shaped. Mark Buehrle: Added .39 runs to his ERA. José Reyes: Had pretty much the same season as last year, if certainly not the same season he had two years ago with the Mets that got him his big salary. The main problem is that it only lasted 93 games, following an ankle injury. That's an injury that certainly dampened his value as a baserunner/stealer and likely will continue to do so going forward. In addition, he suffered the indignity of hitting the disabled list to make way for Aaron Laffey, newly claimed from the Mets. The horror! Moreover, his salary is about to start getting silly.[/list:u]

Frayed Knot Nov 23 2013 06:09 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Brian McCann to the Yanx for five years, vesting option for sixth. Still not yet 30 y/o (will be in February) - he was essentially a full-timer at age 21 so it seems like he's been around longer. Hasn't played as many as 130 games since 2009 although the DH spot will help there. Of course he'll have to compete for time with the others seven DHs on that team.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Nov 23 2013 06:15 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That dovetails perfectly with my past-- and continuing-- feelings about Brian McCann.

Frayed Knot Nov 23 2013 06:18 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He can take over now as the AL representative in charge of enforcing player codes. In the NL the rest of the Braves and the Cardinals will continue in their self-appointed roles as keeper of the 'right way to play the game' flame. Yanx, btw, forfeit their 1st round pick for next June. McCann was one of those receiving the qualifying offer from his team.

MFS62 Nov 23 2013 06:23 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He's going to hit a zillion homers in that bandbox. At least he's out of the National League. Later

metirish Nov 23 2013 07:32 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

the $$$ five-year, $85M contract with a $15M vesting option for a sixth ... seems a lot for five?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Nov 23 2013 07:43 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Well, he's, what, the third most-valuable catcher in the league, or thereabouts, right? (Not counting Mauer, anymore.)

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 23 2013 08:25 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He sucks and so do the MFYs. I hate all their big-eared, fist-pumping, plane-crashing, juice-shooting, citizen-copping catchers.

Lefty Specialist Nov 23 2013 08:31 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Did the Yankees even have a catcher last year? I can't remember.

Benjamin Grimm Nov 23 2013 08:33 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

No, but they did have a lot of passed balls.

Ashie62 Nov 23 2013 09:24 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Interweb has Peralta going to St. Louis....

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 24 2013 09:04 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Bazooka Joe Smith gets a 3-year/$15 million deal from the Angels. Dan Haren gets a 1 year, $10 million deal from the Dodgers. Dan Haren sucks, doesn't he?

metirish Nov 24 2013 09:08 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Joe Smith - wow ..I would have been hard pressed to even say who he was playing for....but with some thought it was the Indians...I think. How long since he was a Mets player?, six seasons?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Nov 24 2013 09:15 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Not as much as you'd think-- following a DL stint in July for shoulder inflammation, he put up the following half-season: 15 GS 87 2/3 IP 3.28 ERA 1.04 WHIP 84 K/18 BB Maybe homes just needed a rest and a good massage?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 24 2013 09:18 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yes, I was at the game where Dan Haren "Turned" -- day after the famous DH sweep-blowing, beginning of the ending of the 2013 Metenders. FK and EDC were there too.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Nov 24 2013 09:37 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Did it feel like History In The MakingTM? I mean, everyone has a good month every now and again. But his was three-and-a-half months long, and looked a lot like/compared favorably to his prime time, y'know? And 1/$10M is like a slightly-splashy Show-Me contract these days.

Frayed Knot Nov 25 2013 07:15 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Haren was definitely a tale of two halves in 2013 Nats signed him to a one-year/$13mil FA deal which, while sounding high, had the whiff of a good deal in that if Dan Haren is your 5th starter then you've got a really good staff. And he promptly sucked early on, throwing up a line of: .299/.337/.516 BAA; a 5.61 ERA & 1.42 WHiP, plus 19 HRs before turning it all around starting in July to the tune of: .226/.265/.371; 3.52 & 1.02 and 9 HRs So he takes another one-year deal, this time with a bit of a pay cut, and takes on the whiff of someone destined to finish out his career via a series of short-term deals even though he just turned 33 and he was 'Ace' (or near Ace) material there for a short while. Maybe his biggest selling point is the durability: 9 years in a row of 30 starts or more.

Frayed Knot Nov 25 2013 10:51 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Apparently DBacks reliever Brad Ziegler went all Twitter crazy over the Peralta signing, saying stuff like 'Way to reward PED use owners' and similar missives that probably aren't going to go over well with either camp Jhonny when they meet next season or with the Players Union it would seem. To Ziegler's credit he's not claiming his account was hacked or backing off his statements.

Edgy MD Nov 25 2013 11:03 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

David Aardsma has also made some comments to that effect. I understand your feelings, guys, but take it to the union.

Edgy MD Nov 25 2013 02:17 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Brian McCann to the Yanx for five years, vesting option for sixth. Still not yet 30 y/o (will be in February) - he was essentially a full-timer at age 21 so it seems like he's been around longer. Hasn't played as many as 130 games since 2009 although the DH spot will help there. Of course he'll have to compete for time with the others seven DHs on that team. Name that John Sterling homerun call.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 25 2013 02:27 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

"It is high, It is far ..... It is..... GONE! And Brian does the McCann-Can as the Yankees now trail 9-2. OOOOOoh, Suzyn. That one must have traveled 297 feet to right!"

Lefty Specialist Nov 25 2013 02:33 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

"It is high, It is far ..... It is..... GONE! It's another McCannon shot! Oh Brian, you've got them cryin!!!!"

Edgy MD Nov 25 2013 02:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

"It is high, It is far ..... OH, YES..... HE..... McCANN! I'm sorry... I'm sorry. The ballgirl down the leftfield line picked it up. She's flipping it to a fan."

Ceetar Nov 25 2013 03:04 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Edgy MD wrote: "It is high, It is far ..... OH, YES..... HE..... McCANN! I'm sorry... I'm sorry. The ballgirl down the leftfield line picked it up. She's flipping it to a fan." "And now McCann is screaming at the fan, because he's fist-pumping and waving the ball around." "That's pathetic Jon. That fan really should act like he's been there before. It's a good thing dear ole Brian is here to set him right."

Ceetar Nov 25 2013 03:05 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Lefty Specialist wrote: "It is high, It is far ..... It is..... GONE! It's another McCannon shot! Oh Brian, you've got them cryin!!!!" I think this is closest. It's only a matter of time before the McCannon is a marketing tie-in with McDonalds.

Ashie62 Nov 25 2013 03:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

The MFY's did well on this one..

Frayed Knot Nov 28 2013 08:45 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ricky Nolasco - Twins, 4 years.

Lefty Specialist Nov 28 2013 07:44 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Ricky Nolasco - Twins, 4 years. And 49 million reasons for Nicky to be thankful. Suddenly, I find myself wondering if the Mets will ever become free-spenders like the Twins.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 30 2013 09:36 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Phil Hughes to the Twins: 3/24. I guess that's the outerest limits of what I would offer.

metirish Nov 30 2013 09:42 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Damn, I will echo what Lefty said above. mediocrity never paid so good. what will Big Pelf get in this market?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Nov 30 2013 10:08 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

metirish wrote: what will Big Pelf get in this market? 1 yr/ $3.5 million. From the Mets.

metirish Nov 30 2013 10:14 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

"drinking the piss"

sharpie Dec 02 2013 03:05 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Scott Kazmir to A's. 2 years, 22 mils.

Ashie62 Dec 02 2013 03:55 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

sharpie wrote: Scott Kazmir to A's. 2 years, 22 mils. This is astounding...

Frayed Knot Dec 02 2013 04:04 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

All this coming nearly twelve years after Billy Beane cheered the selection of Kazmir so as to clear the way for his dream draft choice of Nick Swisher.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 02 2013 10:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

It's a little higher than I thought he'd get, but it's only astounding if you, y'know, don't actually look at baseball play involving Scott Kazmir. He was a 2.5 WAR guy last year, and only got better as the season continued (Second-Half: 13 starts, 3.38 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 10.23 K/9, 2.29 BB/9), including a return to near-peak velocity and a dropping home-run rate over the last three months... in a pennant race, no less. He's also 29.

sharpie Dec 03 2013 09:45 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

20th Century Boy AJ Pierzynski to Bosox for 1 year/8.25 mils.

Vic Sage Dec 03 2013 09:50 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

BBRef says Kazmir was a 1.1 WAR guy in 2013 (not 2.5) but, regardless what his WAR was, he hasn't had a season with either 30+ starts or 180+ IP since his career year of 2007, at age 23. Over the last 5 years, he had negative WARs each season from 2009-2011 and didn't even pitch in the majors in 2012 (he pitched poorly for an independent league team that year). Yeah, he had a nice season for Cleveland last year (not great, but good), but he still only gave them 150 IP and had the highest ERA on the staff. That he finished well last year is no more predictive of this year's performance (and that of 2015 too) than a strong finish by Ike Davis in 2012 was predictive of a strong start for him in 2013. So no, I don't think it's irrational to think that investing 2yr/$22m on such a guy is high risk, to say the least. But, given his limited resources, Billy boy has to make high risk moves if he wants the As to stay competitive.

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 01:09 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Tigers send Doug Fister to Nats for Steve Lombardozzi and two prospects.. They better be good ones lol..

seawolf17 Dec 03 2013 01:16 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Stony Brook's Joe Nathan AGAIN NOT TO THE METS, instead to Detroit for two years. Actually, that'll work, because then we can acquire him for the 2015 stretch run. Twitter says Beltran has a 3/$48M offer on the table somewhere (Seattle?), apparently.

Edgy MD Dec 03 2013 01:29 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hmmm... Is Beltran worth to you and your Mets 1.87 Chris Youngs. Yes, I feel relatively safe saying that. Will he be worth that each of the next three years? Hurm...

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 01:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

seawolf17 wrote: Stony Brook's Joe Nathan AGAIN NOT TO THE METS, instead to Detroit for two years. Actually, that'll work, because then we can acquire him for the 2015 stretch run. Twitter says Beltran has a 3/$48M offer on the table somewhere (Seattle?), apparently. 3/48 if true is not tough to beat Jeff...

seawolf17 Dec 03 2013 02:03 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That's 3/$48+, plus a draft pick. $16M+ for a 39-year-old in 2016. Unless you're pretty confident that the NL will have the DH by then...

Ceetar Dec 03 2013 02:07 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

seawolf17 wrote: That's 3/$48+, plus a draft pick. $16M+ for a 39-year-old in 2016. Unless you're pretty confident that the NL will have the DH by then... only a second rounder for the Mets though.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2013 02:25 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition) Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Dec 03 2013 02:26 PM

seawolf17 wrote: Stony Brook's Joe Nathan AGAIN NOT TO THE METS, instead to Detroit for two years. Actually, that'll work, because then we can acquire him for the 2015 stretch run. Seems like Dombrowski is focusing his Tigers towards rebuilding the bullpen, definitely a weakness of the 2013 squad after Jose Valverde went into the tank in late 2012. Nathan takes over as closer; Ian Krol from the Fister trade, youngster Bruce Rondon (who they tried to shoe-horn into the closer role too early) plus possibly the minor league Ray who came in the same trade as Krol become set-up men; and that all allows Drew Smyly to move from the pen and take over Fister's slot in the rotation. Throw in Kinsler + 3B prospect Castellanos replacing Fielder + Infante and they're not looking too bad providing they can get another good year out of the aging Toriiiiii Hunter.

seawolf17 Dec 03 2013 02:26 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I'm just saying that it wouldn't kill Joe Nathan to sign with the Mets, JUST ONCE.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2013 02:28 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

seawolf17 wrote: I'm just saying that it wouldn't kill Joe Nathan to sign with the Mets, JUST ONCE. Sure, except that if I had to recommend to Sandy where NOT to spend major money this off-season it would be in the closer's spot. Buying closers on the open market is a questionable strategy in most cases (although the Tigers may be in that spot) and especially so in our condition right now.

Ceetar Dec 03 2013 02:35 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: seawolf17 wrote: I'm just saying that it wouldn't kill Joe Nathan to sign with the Mets, JUST ONCE. Sure, except that if I had to recommend to Sandy where NOT to spend major money this off-season it would be in the closer's spot. Buying closers on the open market is a questionable strategy in most cases (although the Tigers may be in that spot) and especially so in our condition right now. our condition being "having one already" or "not likely to score enough runs to close games"?

Edgy MD Dec 03 2013 02:44 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Our condition being "having one already" and "hopefully savvy enough or tempered-by-experience enough to realize the closer marketplace is a fool's paradise."

Benjamin Grimm Dec 03 2013 02:52 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I think the Mets feel that they already have two closers: Parnell and Black.

Frayed Knot Dec 03 2013 02:52 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ceetar wrote: our condition being "having one already" or "not likely to score enough runs to close games"? More the former than the latter. But there's also the concept of having a limited budget with other holes to fill. And then there's the whole thing about the erratic nature of closers, the relatively short span of greatness even the good ones tend to have, the marginal difference between the edge a supposedly "great" one will give you as compared to just a decent one and the difficulty in predicting which will be which, and so on. As I talked about towards the end of the year-long Adventures in Closerland thread, a number of what turned out to be the top closers in 2013 didn't even start out the year with that job in the same way that some of the ones who started there didn't finish. And that a team even keeping the same closer for more than a year or two at a time is more the exception than the rule.

Ceetar Dec 03 2013 02:59 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Ceetar wrote: our condition being "having one already" or "not likely to score enough runs to close games"? More the former than the latter. But there's also the concept of having a limited budget with other holes to fill. And then there's the whole thing about the erratic nature of closers, the relatively short span of greatness even the good ones tend to have, the marginal difference between the edge a supposedly "great" one will give you as compared to just a decent one and the difficulty in predicting which will be which, and so on. As I talked about towards the end of the year-long Adventures in Closerland thread, a number of what turned out to be the top closers in 2013 didn't even start out the year with that job in the same way that some of the ones who started there didn't finish. And that a team even keeping the same closer for more than a year or two at a time is more the exception than the rule. Think it was at Beyond the Box Score, but relievers who weren't "proven closers" out-closed their proven brethren by a hefty margin last year. Of course, that just means they've all become proven, and likely this year will continue to perform well this year as proven closers.

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 05:26 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

The twitterverse in pitching Nelson Cruz to the MFS's Choo to the Tigers..an MYF offer to Omar Infante and Beltran to several.. The board is moving..Anybody seen Mets attached to any FA??

Ceetar Dec 03 2013 05:50 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ashie62 wrote: The twitterverse in pitching Nelson Cruz to the MFS's Choo to the Tigers..an MYF offer to Omar Infante and Beltran to several.. The board is moving..Anybody seen Mets attached to any FA?? Curtis Granderson. Chris Young.

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 06:36 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Chris Young the Pitcher??

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 06:37 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Ceetar wrote: our condition being "having one already" or "not likely to score enough runs to close games"? More the former than the latter. But there's also the concept of having a limited budget with other holes to fill. And then there's the whole thing about the erratic nature of closers, the relatively short span of greatness even the good ones tend to have, the marginal difference between the edge a supposedly "great" one will give you as compared to just a decent one and the difficulty in predicting which will be which, and so on. As I talked about towards the end of the year-long Adventures in Closerland thread, a number of what turned out to be the top closers in 2013 didn't even start out the year with that job in the same way that some of the ones who started there didn't finish. And that a team even keeping the same closer for more than a year or two at a time is more the exception than the rule. Parnell et al should do just fine...

metirish Dec 03 2013 06:45 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Elsbury to the MFY's for seven years.......wow sorry, apparently this is the case.

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 06:48 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Same as it ever was...

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 06:48 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

We Mets are going to get coal in our stockings....

Ashie62 Dec 03 2013 06:51 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

metirish wrote: Elsbury to the MFY's for seven years.......wow sorry, apparently this is the case. 7/153

metirish Dec 03 2013 06:59 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That's a wonderfully stupid contract, well done NYY......

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 03 2013 07:21 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Curious. That's a long contract for a guy who's had a lot of trouble staying healthy and really only one good year. Wonder what if anything this means wrt the MFYs getting Cano also.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 03 2013 07:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Vic Sage wrote: BBRef says Kazmir was a 1.1 WAR guy in 2013 (not 2.5) Fangraphs-- which goes with fielding-independent metrics to determine pitcher value, versus BBRef's actual Runs Allowed numbers, and attempts to adjust that for team defense/opponents/ballparks-- disagrees. That he finished well last year may not end up being predictive. But that he finished well and his stat profile was shaped a lot like what it was during his early-peak years (in terms of key peripherals like K/BB, HR/9 and the like) lends the conjecture that, if healthy, he should be very effective, some credibility. So no, I don't think it's irrational to think that investing 2yr/$22m on such a guy is high risk, to say the least. But, given his limited resources, Billy boy has to make high risk moves if he wants the As to stay competitive. Stipulated. But I think we ALL can agree that HOLY SHIT 20 MILLION DOLLARS-PLUS BACKLOADED FOR JACOBY FUCKING ELLSBURY.

Edgy MD Dec 03 2013 07:29 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ashie62 wrote: We Mets are going to get coal in our stockings.... Buck up, little camper. This is a recording.

metirish Dec 03 2013 07:34 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

One of those coals might catch fire..seriously , how would we feel if the Mets had given Ellsbury that silly contract?, he's a leadoff hitter, that's some cabbage for that.

HahnSolo Dec 03 2013 07:36 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

If Ellsbury is worth 7/153, I don't see how they can possibly hold firm on 7/160 (reported) for Cano, who is way better and has way more value.

Edgy MD Dec 03 2013 07:49 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: But I think we ALL can agree that HOLY SHIT 20 MILLION DOLLARS-PLUS BACKLOADED FOR JACOBY FUCKING ELLSBURY. And what's the mofo deal with that guy? Hits 32 homers in 660 at bats in 2011. Hits 33 in 2,252 the rest of his career. And what's with Cashman's little fetish? Every time the Sox win a championship, you've got to go out and make a stupid offer to steal their sweet-assed centerfielder? Really? Both times it's been a guy with a name that actually sounds like a Boston neighborhood, too.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 03 2013 07:55 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Jacoby Ellsbury and Darrel Ceciliani from the same hometown and high school.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 03 2013 08:26 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Jacoby Ellsbury and Darrel Ceciliani from the same hometown and high school. So what you're saying is, it's not something in the water.

MFS62 Dec 03 2013 09:24 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Edgy MD wrote: LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: But I think we ALL can agree that HOLY SHIT 20 MILLION DOLLARS-PLUS BACKLOADED FOR JACOBY FUCKING ELLSBURY. And what's the mofo deal with that guy? Hits 32 homers in 660 at bats in 2011. Hits 33 in 2,252 the rest of his career. And what's with Cashman's little fetish? Every time the Sox win a championship, you've got to go out and make a stupid offer to steal their sweet-assed centerfielder? Really? Both times it's been a guy with a name that actually sounds like a Boston neighborhood, too. Yes, but he will go from a very good career to a Hall of Fame career because, as we all know, Jeter will make him better. I just threw up in my mouth when I typed that. Later

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 03 2013 09:40 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 03 2013 10:05 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Oh, yes.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 03 2013 10:19 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I can't pinpoint why Doge makes me LOLOLOL so much, I think it might be the font.

Lefty Specialist Dec 04 2013 06:51 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Wow, that's some awesomely stupid money for Ellsbury. If they get two full good years out of him I'll be surprised.

MFS62 Dec 04 2013 07:31 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Rockies signed Justin Morneau, so that could eliminate Colorado as a potential trade partner involving Ike Davis. Saltalamacchia(sp?) to the Fish - 3 years. Later

Edgy MD Dec 04 2013 07:43 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I don't sweat that stuff. For every team that grows richer, at least one other grows poorer.

Edgy MD Dec 04 2013 07:55 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hi, I'm Pirates GM Neal Huntington. You may remember me from... well, last year's post-season. I just thought I'd take this moment to remind the world that I locked up Andrew McCutchen early and he's mine through 2018. Take it easy.

Benjamin Grimm Dec 04 2013 08:26 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Lefty Specialist wrote: Wow, that's some awesomely stupid money for Ellsbury. If they get two full good years out of him I'll be surprised. If this also makes Carlos Beltran less likely to be a Yankee, that's good news too.

MFS62 Dec 04 2013 08:34 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Fangraphs, with another "rumor": http://www.fangraphs.com/not/hot-stove- ... ent-310346 Later

seawolf17 Dec 04 2013 08:50 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

MFS62 wrote: Rockies signed Justin Morneau, so that could eliminate Colorado as a potential trade partner involving Ike Davis. Saltalamacchia(sp?) to the Fish - 3 years. Later Morneau in Colorado is going to make a fantasy owner very happy who picks him up on the cheap, and a fantasy owner very unhappy who picks him up for Todd Helton 2002 pricing.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 04 2013 09:55 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

MFS62 wrote: Rockies signed Justin Morneau, so that could eliminate Colorado as a potential trade partner involving Ike Davis. Potential target Dexter Fowler already boarded a figurative flight for Houston anyway, in exchange for iffy-but-young starter Jordan Lyles and old rookie Brandon Barnes.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 04 2013 10:46 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Contrast the cost of that Fowler trade with what the MFYs are paying for Ellsbury. Its crazy.

Lefty Specialist Dec 04 2013 10:55 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

MFS62 wrote: Fangraphs, with another "rumor": http://www.fangraphs.com/not/hot-stove- ... ent-310346 Later Weren't they childhood friends of yours?

Vic Sage Dec 04 2013 10:57 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition) Edited 2 time(s), most recently on Dec 04 2013 11:10 AM

Hopefully, the Ellsbury signing costs the MFYs Cano. Man, they are an old expensive team. CF - Ellsbury (30/$22m) SS - Jeter (40/$12m) 2b - [Cano] (31/$20-$25m?) / [Ryan] (32/$2m) 1b - Texiera (34/$22.5m) 3b - [A-Rod] (38/$25m) / [E.Nunez] (27/?) C - McCann (30/$17m) / Cervelli (28/$1m) DH - Soriano (38/$5m) RF - Ichiro (40/$6.5m) / Wells (35/$2.4m) LF - Gardner (32/$4m) / Z.Almonte (25/?) SP - Sabathia (33/$22m) SP - Nova (27/$3m) SP - [Pineda] (25/$?) SP - [Phelps] (27/?) SP - [Huff] (29/?) RP - Robertson (29/$3m) RP - shawn Kelley (30/$2m) RP - Adam Warren (26/?) RP - Preston Claiborne (26/?) RP - Vidal Nuno (26/?) RP - Cesar Cabral (25/?)

Frayed Knot Dec 04 2013 11:03 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Plus $21 million worth of 35 y/o Vernon Wells on the bench/LF/DH/PH Angels are paying a chunk of that ($28 of the $42 over two seasons) , but still ...

Vic Sage Dec 04 2013 11:10 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Plus $21 million worth of 35 y/o Vernon Wells on the bench/LF/DH/PH Angels are paying a chunk of that ($28 of the $42 over two seasons) , but still ... Angels are paying Wells $18.6m of the $21m, which is more than a chunk.

d'Kong76 Dec 04 2013 11:13 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

The Ellsbury signing is downright funny. What do they do, print the money underneath the stadium?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 04 2013 02:06 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

A little Cano-fault insurance?

Frayed Knot Dec 05 2013 01:58 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

BoSox continue their seeming fascination with other teams' closers (Andrew Bailey, Joel Hanrahan) by striking a two-year deal with Edward Mujica. Mujica was the 2013 closer for StL before falling completely apart in September* to the point of not only losing the closer's job but falling into near total diis-use and was almost left off the post-season roster. One would certainly think that Uehara starts the year as the closer while Mujica and others set-up. * Mujica in 2013: - Runs allowed in April thru August: 11 on 42 hits in 57.1 IP - Runs allowed in September: 9 on 18 hits in 7.1 IPs

Frayed Knot Dec 05 2013 08:28 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Mariners are meeting with Cano and are reportedly willing to go [u:2eqrepq3]Ten years[/u:2eqrepq3] for the already 31 y/o FA (some teams never learn, do they?) with amounts variously reported at $200 mil or higher. "If that [a rumored 9 yrs @ $225 mil] is what Seattle is offering, he's gone" - says a Yanqui official acc to Wally Mathews

Zvon Dec 05 2013 09:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Kong76 wrote: The Ellsbury signing is downright funny. What do they do, print the money underneath the stadium? One of my first thoughts was Hughs and he have to be laughing. I'm not defending this "Met sticker shock" business, they should be prepared for what's in the wind $$ wise. But I have to say I am in shock myself over what these guys are getting. It's pretty crazy.

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 07:33 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hold the presses. Looks like Cano/Seattle talks have broken down. A sticking point seems to be whether s "Big Pimpin'" was Jay-Z at his finest or a cynical grab at what was already in the zeitgeist that's really a showcase to advance the brand of guest contributors UGK.

metirish Dec 06 2013 07:34 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Various reports on Twitter are saying Jay-Z blew the deal with Seattle when he wanted mo' money , Seattle's owner reportedly exploded and stormed out....$225 was on the table, Jay-Z wanted $252.

metirish Dec 06 2013 07:35 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Looks like my DC Dawg got the news in a'ight.

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 07:40 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Leaks are coming from multiple directions, and it'll be real interesting to see how this finishes --- with Jay-Z looking like a out of his depth and ruining his client's payday, or a savvy manipulator who is just staging this drama to up his client's market and his brand.

metirish Dec 06 2013 07:55 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Is there any reason why the MFY's would even approach that $225 million deal that was on the table? , looks like a mis-play all around.

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 07:57 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Looks like, but there are chapters yet to unfold.

MFS62 Dec 06 2013 08:34 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Marlins signed Fecal. So it looks like the remaining SS FA options not named Drew are Clint Barmes Jayson Nix Yuniesky Betancourt......if he even plays the position anymore or the Cuban guy. Later

metirish Dec 06 2013 09:05 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

MLB Network ?@MLBNetwork 1m It's being reported that @RobinsonCano has reached a deal with the @Mariners! Stay tuned to #MLBNHotStove for LIVE coverage! Boom!

Mets Guy in Michigan Dec 06 2013 09:13 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Looks like $240 million and 10 years. CRAZY!

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 09:15 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I thought there was yet another card to be played. Impressive. How often in the free agency era has an All Star-level Yankee property walked on them? Reggie Jackson? John Wetteland? With both those guys, the team had seemingly superior new talent already in place.

metirish Dec 06 2013 09:17 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Some big contracts in that division eh?

Mets Guy in Michigan Dec 06 2013 09:18 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

This is how bad teams stay bad teams. I get spending crazy money on the mega-mega stars. The Pojols contract isn't working out, but I see the thinking. People get excited about seeing Albert Pojols play. They'll sell all kinds of stuff with him on it. But I never thought of Robinson Cano as being in those circles. MVP awards? A fine player, to be sure. Better than anyone we have other that David Wright -- and some would argue that. But that's what $24 million a year buys you?

Ceetar Dec 06 2013 09:21 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Some fun stuff going on out west I guess. Poor Astros.

metirish Dec 06 2013 09:22 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yeah it is crazy....I naively thought the Pujols contract would be the last of it's kind, at least for a while. Cano like MGIM said is a fine player, but he is now going to a not so friendly hitters park, good luck with that.

seawolf17 Dec 06 2013 09:25 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yowza. Would have made more sense ten years ago, when guys in their late 30s were still whacking balls to the moon. But I sense those days have started to wane. This is going to be an albatross of a contract in two years.

Mets Guy in Michigan Dec 06 2013 09:28 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

seawolf17 wrote: Yowza. Would have made more sense ten years ago, when guys in their late 30s were still whacking balls to the moon. But I sense those days have started to wane. This is going to be an albatross of a contract in two years. Irish is right! Cano is going from that bandbox to one of the worst hitters parks. Quick, someone send flowers to Tom Verducci. I'm sure he's besides himself.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 06 2013 09:54 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yeah, guys, but think about all the off-field value Robinson Cano provides. Who else will bring out that Puget Sound Dominican population, or all those fans of boring, smiling dudes?

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 10:19 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Marketing-wise, I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss the guy. Seattle still has a world of guys yearning to remain hip despite their advancing years, and they're certainly as vulnerable as any to the notion that rooting for an Afro-Dominican by way of New York repped by Jay-Z makes them hip. Plus forget not that the Mariners are still owned by Nintendo, which has avenues of exploitation on the Pacific rim that few other teams could offer. Competition-wise, yeah, that contract's a terror, and if he doesn't produce and the team doesn't excel, all the marketing opportunities quickly grow thin, but they're betting their hopes and not their fears. Beyond that, if you believe the spooging folks have been doing about the stockpiles of talent in Houston's farm system, you perhaps don't feel as sad for them.

Frayed Knot Dec 06 2013 11:17 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I can't believe Seattle blinked on this! I was sure when reports started circulating this morning that not only had Cano/JZ played their way out of the best offer they were going to see but had also lowered the incentive for the Yanx to go any higher. IOW, for the want of an extra $15 mil I would have guessed that they were going to "lose" about $50. BUT NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! as Steve Martin used to say. Just two years after the Pujols contract--one that was given to a better player, a younger (at the time) player, in a bigger market--has proven to be well over-sold WITH STILL 80% OF IT STILL TO GO Seattle goes right down that same rabbit hole.

Edgy MD Dec 06 2013 11:33 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yeah, well, that's what you get for being so sure. I I saw it still to play out, and suspected capitulation was coming. Never quit on Jay Z. Conflicting leaks coming from multiple directions at the same time definitely suggested the truth was still further down the road. And for Pete's sake, it was Belushi, not Steve Martin.

Frayed Knot Dec 06 2013 11:45 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Well then, as Belushi used to say: WELL EXCUUUUUUUUUUUUSE ME!!

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 06 2013 12:58 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

[youtube:2la2gvlb]zANvYB93u2g[/youtube:2la2gvlb]

Mets Guy in Michigan Dec 06 2013 03:42 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

metsguyinmichigan wrote: Yowza. Would have made more sense ten years ago, when guys in their late 30s were still whacking balls to the moon. But I sense those days have started to wane. This is going to be an albatross of a contract in two years. Irish is right! Cano is going from that bandbox to one of the worst hitters parks. Quick, someone send flowers to Tom Verducci. I'm sure he's besides himself. Oh man, Verducci's not grieving -- he's bitter and turning on Cano You can take your legacy in pinstripes and your New York marketing opportunities and your direct flights to the Dominican Republic and the Yankee hat Jay-Z claims to have made famous and all of it becomes less important if another team wants you more than the only organization you have known in your 13 years in professional baseball. The reported 10-year, $240 million deal Cano agreed to with the Mariners on Friday is Albert Pujols 2.0. Two years ago the Angels offered Pujols $44 million more than did the Cardinals -- and that was not counting the $30 million in deferred money in St. Louis' offer and before the Cardinals cut a 10-year offer in half. Pujols later would say he was "bitter" about the way the St. Louis front office made him look "like the bad guy." This departure has a similar smell. This time the Mariners offered Cano as much as $70 million more than New York. Real money. And Cano can look back at the New York front office the way Pujols did his former employers. Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mlb/ne ... z2mjmFpzjk

MFS62 Dec 06 2013 08:42 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Beltran to the Yanks (3 years) and Scott Feldman to Houston. As for Carlos, Why would a nice guy like Carlos go over to the Dark Side? Shame. But if this means that they will have to move Soriano to second base, it will bring joy to MFY-haters everywhere. I thought Feldman would be a good Plan B if Arroyo became too expensive, Since Feldman signed for what I thought Arroyo would ($10/ yr) it looks like the price for Bronson could go even higher. Later

Zvon Dec 06 2013 08:50 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Holy crapoli things are shakin' out. I can't believe the deal Cano got. Insane.

Frayed Knot Dec 06 2013 08:56 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

MFS62 wrote: Beltran to the Yanks (3 years) Good thing the Yanx aren't panicking over the loss of Cano. The funny thing is though, I think Carlos brings their average age down a bit. Can't possibly see Soriano at 2B except in a rare emergency ... and Scott Feldman to Houston. And now we know what the price is for a decent 3rd/4th-type starter* -- approx 3 x $10 * 51-56 career record; 4.62 ERA; 1.37 WHiP; 31 y/o; double-digit wins twice (2009 & 2013)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 06 2013 09:31 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: MFS62 wrote: Beltran to the Yanks (3 years) Good thing the Yanx aren't panicking over the loss of Cano. The funny thing is though, I think Carlos brings their average age down a bit. Funny, but, y'know, even in a vacuum, Beltran's deal may actually be a better one than the Granderson one. It's almost certainly a better deal for the MFYs than the Granderson deal is for the Mets, if only because of what they get from marginal wins.

Nymr83 Dec 06 2013 10:05 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I hate seeing beltran in pinstripes

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 06 2013 10:55 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That, too.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 07 2013 05:28 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Just realized MFYs next move will be to trade for Reyes, play him at 2B/SS depending on Jeet's health/retirement status. I could give a shit Beltran is an MFY. That team is really getting old and artificial.

Frayed Knot Dec 07 2013 06:25 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: Frayed Knot wrote: MFS62 wrote: Beltran to the Yanks (3 years) Good thing the Yanx aren't panicking over the loss of Cano. The funny thing is though, I think Carlos brings their average age down a bit. Funny, but, y'know, even in a vacuum, Beltran's deal may actually be a better one than the Granderson one. It's almost certainly a better deal for the MFYs than the Granderson deal is for the Mets, if only because of what they get from marginal wins. Maybe, but even if you guy that line of thinking it only works if Beltran stays healthy and that's not only a big if coming into the season but it becomes an even bigger if as he turns 38 then 39. Of course they can always play him at DH ... except that they already have 9 DHs on the roster!

Ceetar Dec 07 2013 07:16 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Frayed Knot wrote: MFS62 wrote: Beltran to the Yanks (3 years) Good thing the Yanx aren't panicking over the loss of Cano. The funny thing is though, I think Carlos brings their average age down a bit. Funny, but, y'know, even in a vacuum, Beltran's deal may actually be a better one than the Granderson one. It's almost certainly a better deal for the MFYs than the Granderson deal is for the Mets, if only because of what they get from marginal wins. Maybe, but even if you guy that line of thinking it only works if Beltran stays healthy and that's not only a big if coming into the season but it becomes an even bigger if as he turns 38 then 39. Of course they can always play him at DH ... except that they already have 9 DHs on the roster! Yeah, I mean, Beltran's the better player though it's a gamble on when/if he hits a real decline, but the DH would in my mind help keep him healthy and make him the better player.. Well, what DHs do they have that they really want to play? They seem to be hoping A-Rod's not there, but really they should almost be aiming for a 50/50 3B/DH with him. They've never been concerned with Jeter's fielding anyway, and you're better off sitting him than DH. Their glut of other outfielders, Wells and Soriano and what not, are fine DHs but they're also the guys you put in RF for Beltran's DH days, which might be what they're thinking. Texiera? eh, he's probably fine at first. McCann could benefit from the DH though. My guess is it's going to be 50% Carlos, 20% Brian and 30% rotating rest. But that's only if A-Rod isn't playing.

Frayed Knot Dec 07 2013 07:46 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Potential Yanqui DHs either to get their bat into the lineup, or give their octogenarian legs the day off, or because their glove/fielding range has been declared a hazard by OSHA are (in no particular order): Jeter, ARod, Beltran, Soriano, Wells, McCann, Ichiro, Nunez What a lot of folks don't realize is that ARod & Jeter DH'd nearly 40% of the games (63 times combined) back in 2012 so it's not like they were everyday players even before their ankles & hips fell apart and their drug dealers got busted. And, sure, ARod's likely suspension takes one wrench out of the works (it also takes their best remaining bat out of the lineup no matter how much the fans want to pretend otherwise) but that still leaves 8 guys (the above seven plus Gardner) to fill 5 positions (3B, SS, DH, + both corner OF spots) plus give McCann & Teixeira days off in a lineup where probably only Ellsbury plays every day (assuming that he doesn't, y'know, miss an average of 67 games/year like he has over the previous four seasons). So, yeah, I think they'd prefer to DH Beltran as much as possible, but the rest of that roster makes it difficult to do so. Jeter's backup, remember, is now Brendan Ryan who has hit .217/.283/.294 over the last four seasons - and he just got a two-year deal plus player option. All this and we still don't know who's playing 2nd base ... or doing that starting pitching thing (although they've re-re-signed Kuroda) ... or closing (but that's a whole separate issue).

Edgy MD Dec 07 2013 08:03 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

How could they spend three years preparing for Rivera's retirement and still not have a successor in place? Is Joba a starter or a reliever this week?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 07 2013 08:59 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Brendan Ryan knows less about bat-handling than your idiot uncle heading up to the attic with a badminton racket and a blanket because he "heard something up there," but he's better than anyone we have there with his glove (plus he's Murph-plus, if not great, at 2B). And as for second, they just signed Kelly Johnson there, who's generally been a nice complementary piece-- okay-to-very-good offensively and okay defensively-- for the entirety of his career. 1 year, $3M. How could they spend three years preparing for Rivera's retirement and still not have a successor in place? Hiya! I mean, yes, it's chock full of imports and oldies. But the MFY lineup is looking damn solid, the bench is deeper than our starting outfield, and they've got money to spend before they hit last year's payroll. Mock all you'd like, but-- assuming they can find something for those rotation holes (hint: they could sign ANYONE on the market and still be around their stated budget for next season)-- they're set up nicely for next year.

Frayed Knot Dec 07 2013 09:02 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

"How could they spend three years preparing for Rivera's retirement and still not have a successor in place?" -- I guess theoretically it's David Robertson but while that team tends to say things like they're going to give the job to the up-and-coming guy (sure Brett Gardner is going to be our everyday CF next year) they rarely do. "Is Joba a starter or a reliever this week?" -- Joba's current title is "unemployed"; the Yanx cut him loose at the same time as Phil Hughes

Vic Sage Dec 07 2013 10:06 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition) Edited 1 time(s), most recently on Dec 09 2013 12:08 PM

Hopefully, the Ellsbury signing costs the MFYs Cano . looks like it did, at least in part. Man, they are an old expensive team. and that's before they signed KJohnson, Kuroda and Beltran! CF - Ellsbury (30/$22m) SS - Jeter (40/$12m) RF - Beltran (37/$15m) / Ichiro (40/$6.5m) 1b - Texiera (34/$22.5m) C - McCann (30/$17m) / Cervelli (28/~$1m) DH - Soriano (38/$5m) / Wells (35/$2.4m) 3b - Nunez (27/?) / Reynolds (30/~$4m) 2b - Johnson (32/$3m) / Ryan (32/$2m) LF - Gardner (32/~$4m) Suspension: A-Rod (38/$25m) SP - Sabathia (33/$22m) SP - Kuroda (39/$16M) SP - Nova (27/~$3m) SP - [Pineda] (25/~$?) SP - [Phelps] (27/~?) RP - Robertson (29/~$3m) RP - Shawn Kelley (30/~$2m) RP - C. Eppley (28/~?) RP - Adam Warren (26/~?) / Preston Claiborne (26/~?) RP - Vidal Nuno (26/~) / Cesar Cabral (25/~) RP/SP - [Huff] (29/~) I think they'll have to trade Gardner for a 3bman or 2bman. Gardner for Murphy anyone?

Edgy MD Dec 07 2013 01:08 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Nymr83 wrote: I hate seeing beltran in pinstripes I stripe seeing Hatetran in pinbelts.

Frayed Knot Dec 07 2013 02:44 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Vic Sage wrote: Man, they are an old expensive team. ... and that's before they signed KJohnson, Kuroda and Beltran! Well at least none of their old, expensive players are dealing with hip (Rodriguez), ankle (Jeter), knee (Beltran), wrist (Teixeira) or suspension issues.

Benjamin Grimm Dec 07 2013 03:16 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I could give a shit Beltran is an MFY. That team is really getting old and artificial. Me, I'd rather not see it, but having endured Strawberry and Gooden as Yankees, I know I can handle this.

MFS62 Dec 12 2013 12:47 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Looks like a good week for fat pitchers. Heard the Tigers are close to signing Joba Chamberlain. It would be interesting to know if there would be a "Don't do anything (I debated if there should be a comma there) stupid" clause in his contract. OE, Olney reporting it is for $2.5 Million base plus "incentives". Later

themetfairy Dec 13 2013 01:02 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Mat Gamel has reportedly signed with the Braves.

d'Kong76 Dec 13 2013 02:58 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He has like 250 PA in the last five years

Frayed Knot Dec 14 2013 06:58 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Mat Gamel has reportedly signed with the Braves. He should insist that his new contract include an extra T for his name. Omar Infante was a MFY target to fill the 2B hole left by Cano's defection but he reportedly has snubbed the Yanx for the Royals after KC was willing to include a fourth year to the deal. Just think about that statement for the moment and try and think how odd that would have sounded over most of the last couple of decades: A Free-Agent choosing the Royals over the Yankees

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 14 2013 07:13 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

themetfairy wrote: Mat Gamel has reportedly signed with the Braves. MInor-league deal, too. Low, with a high ceiling... now that's a risk to take.

Frayed Knot Dec 15 2013 02:35 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Pelfrey re-ups with the Twins; 2 years for $11mil guaranteed plus up to $3.5 in incentives. Life can't be too bad when 5-13 / 5.19 ERA / 1.55 WHiP nets you a raise plus increased job security (coming off 1-yr/$4mil deal).

Ashie62 Dec 15 2013 04:15 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I believe Joba is an Indian 1/2.5

Frayed Knot Dec 16 2013 07:40 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Mama don't let your babies grow up to be righties Boone Logan - 3 yrs / $16.5 mil with Colorado (pending physical and all that jazz) This for a guy who totals around 40-some innings/year and just over 2/3 of an inning per outing for his career -- and while his splits v-LHBs are good they're hardly eye-popping: .243/.312/.378, and then there's that whole 4.39 ERA & 1.48 career WHiP. Maybe the fact that his long (6' 5") side-winding motion makes him look more like the classic LOOGY than most leaves the impression that his effectiveness is better than it actually is.

Ceetar Dec 16 2013 08:03 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Pelfrey re-ups with the Twins; 2 years for $11mil guaranteed plus up to $3.5 in incentives. Life can't be too bad when 5-13 / 5.19 ERA / 1.55 WHiP nets you a raise plus increased job security (coming off 1-yr/$4mil deal). Perhaps they saw improvement, he was coming off Tommy John fairly quickly to start. Not that his second half numbers look much better, though July and August were pretty good. It looks like he basically threw everything right down the middle in September. 0-3, high ERA, tons of hits (high babip too) few walks and a ton of Ks. (Looks like his velocity was down in September too.)

Edgy MD Dec 16 2013 08:28 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ashie62 wrote: I believe Joba is an Indian 1/2.5 Coinicdentally, the same amount Elizabeth Warren claimed. WHOAH!

Lefty Specialist Dec 16 2013 08:56 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Joke falls apart. Joba signed with the Tigers.

Frayed Knot Dec 18 2013 06:35 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Kind of a nifty closer swap pulled off by the Orioles. First they trade their off-good though erratic closer Jim Johnson to Oakland for Jemile Weeks plus a throw-in ... then they go and sign Oakland's closer Grant Balfour as a FA. Balfour has even had a slight statistical advantage over Johnson over the last few seasons. The downside to the whole thing is that Balfour turns 36 next week and is 5-1/2 years older than Johnson, but they got Balfour for two years while Johnson can be a FA at the end of 2014. In other Baltimore news, longtime 2B Brian Roberts inks a one-year deal with the Yanx. 36 y/o and has missed 4,578 games over the last four seasons due to injuries, the Yanx are hoping Roberts makes them both younger and healthier.

Ceetar Dec 18 2013 09:25 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: In other Baltimore news, longtime 2B Brian Roberts inks a one-year deal with the Yanx. 36 y/o and has missed 4,578 games over the last four seasons due to injuries, the Yanx are hoping Roberts makes them both younger and healthier. Hard to say because he's barely played, but seems like his defensive ability has mostly dried up. So if when you play against the Yankees if you're at YSIII, you want a pop fly to right, if you're home, you want a dribbler up the middle.

Frayed Knot Dec 20 2013 03:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frayed Knot wrote: Kind of a nifty closer swap pulled off by the Orioles. First they trade their off-good though erratic closer Jim Johnson to Oakland for Jemile Weeks plus a throw-in ... then they go and sign Oakland's closer Grant Balfour as a FA. Balfour has even had a slight statistical advantage over Johnson over the last few seasons. The downside to the whole thing is that Balfour turns 36 next week and is 5-1/2 years older than Johnson, but they got Balfour for two years while Johnson can be a FA at the end of 2014. Yeah, about that whole closer swap thing ... the Orioles didn't like whatever they saw on Balfour's physical and have nixed the deal. Kurt Suzuki, one of the possible candidates for teaming with d'Arnaud, has signed on with the Twinkies. Eh, I wasn't too keen on getting him anyway. Didn't hit a lot except for that first half-season in Washington following his trade from Oakland, and isn't very good defensively either.

Zvon Dec 20 2013 04:39 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

No one is gonna bring this up? Beltran Felt Hurt And Disrespected By Mets (Owners) [url]http://bleacherreport.com/tb/dc2nT?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=new-york-mets

Edgy MD Dec 21 2013 06:42 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Thought this was about disagreements over the knee injury. I don't remember the (very stupid) Walter Reed attacks originating with the Mets brass.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 21 2013 06:44 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

The idea, I think, is that SOMEONE fed the press-- multiple writers-- the bit about Beltran not being there. (Otherwise, why note who ISN'T there in team fluff-coverage, right?)

Edgy MD Dec 21 2013 06:53 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I figured his absence was noted because reporters were on the trip.

Edgy MD Dec 21 2013 07:05 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

But re-reading, Rubin's story suggests there was some bus-throwing. http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/mlb/ ... id=5547824 Even if it was only aimed at Perez and Castillo, by not explicitly naming them, nobody explcitly absolved Beltran. At least, not at the time.

A Boy Named Seo Dec 21 2013 10:35 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

When teammates bitch about the guys who aren't with them at the hospital, it makes their own gesture to be there seem less altruistic. I never had a prob with Beltran missing because he was at another charitable commitment. That's 2 more commitments than most people bother to make. Luis' excuse seemed weak, if not sort of honest, and Ollie's response was just stupid, but that Rubin article sure focused on Beltran and the toxicity of him being around, didn't it?

Ceetar Dec 21 2013 10:59 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

you can rightly criticize the Mets for always "kicking players on their way out" but players just as often spit back. Yes, the comments in the New Yorker were stupid. Arguing over how/when to have medical procedures is commonplace. I'm not sure which idiot decided to leak that Beltran did it "without" the Mets consent, which wasn't true, they just wanted to sit down with the Mets doctors again, whereas Boras and Beltran decided the phone call to tell them, I agree with this second opinion, I'm going for it, was enough. And the Walter Reed thing was a prime example of why I feel the way I do about most of the media guys. but blah blah blah. "My previous employers didn't value you me the way I wanted, but I know YOU will" is new-employee fluff in every field. also, "Always wanted to play for the Yankees" is code for "Knew they'd give me a ton of money" or "cheap HRs really pad my HOF credentials"

John Cougar Lunchbucket Dec 21 2013 11:01 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That whole Walter Reed shit stunk. Don't blame the media: Rubin describes an incensed participant demanding that he confront Beltran on it. Who could that have been? Jeff Wilpon is no commenting. Wright is being diplomatically unapproving but we understand how he aims to please. I find it hard to believe that Rod Barajas and Mike Pelfrey are throwing those guys under the bus.

G-Fafif Dec 21 2013 11:18 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Shin-Soo Choo: a very rich Ranger today.

G-Fafif Dec 21 2013 11:30 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

7 years, $130 million, no regrets ever from Texas, hoss.

Zvon Dec 21 2013 12:47 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

G-Fafif wrote: 7 years, $130 million, no regrets ever from Texas, hoss. Damn.

bmfc1 Dec 21 2013 03:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Beltran needs to STFU. Yes, the Walter Reed incident was wrong but that was years ago. If he's so classy, he didn't need to mention it despite the prodding of the idiots in the main stream media ("that's water under the bridge, I'm just happy to be a [MFY]". He made millions from the Mets and that should have been enough to smile and say "I'm happy to be back in New York." I hope he hits .210 and is booed by the MFY mob by May.

Edgy MD Dec 21 2013 04:41 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Dickey and Wright do come off as Gary Carterish, don't they?

Zvon Dec 21 2013 06:57 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

bmfc1 wrote: Beltran needs to STFU. Yes, the Walter Reed incident was wrong but that was years ago. If he's so classy, he didn't need to mention it despite the prodding of the idiots in the main stream media ("that's water under the bridge, I'm just happy to be a [MFY]". He made millions from the Mets and that should have been enough to smile and say "I'm happy to be back in New York." I hope he hits .210 and is booed by the MFY mob by May. If the Mets didn't open their big mouths and put stuff out there that does not need to be put out there, we wouldn't even be talking about this. I actually think more highly of Beltran for slappin' back.

bmfc1 Dec 21 2013 08:31 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I see your point Zvon but the Beltran information was from years ago. It's not like he just walked out the door (as with Turner).

Edgy MD Dec 21 2013 08:50 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Whoever it was, it only takes one guy talking out of school, and then it's "the Mets." That's unfair and illogical, but that's how it is. Still seems silly that Beltran thinks of it as a deal. Mets made a point to support his school, I believe financially as well as promotionally. A new-to-the-job Alderson flew down to Puerto Rico to attend a big gala and throw the Mets support for the project.

Zvon Dec 21 2013 11:36 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

bmfc1 wrote: I see your point Zvon but the Beltran information was from years ago. It's not like he just walked out the door (as with Turner). He just walked back in as far as the press is concerned. This was bound to come up. He could have avoided a confrontational stance. He usually does. I like that he didn't. The Mets owners have been building a glass house for some time now. They should never throw stones. Maybe it is this recent business with Turner that has me all cranky at the team as far as this goes. It was just so unnecessary.

bmfc1 Dec 22 2013 02:48 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Agreed, and it seems that Sandy does too: http://www.faithandfearinflushing.com/2 ... ng-little/

Ceetar Dec 23 2013 07:46 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

wait, Turner said something? I missed that one.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Dec 23 2013 11:09 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Pass the douchey to the left-hand coast: Chris Perez is moving to the Doyers on a one-year handshake-type-thing.

Frayed Knot Jan 22 2014 07:18 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Grady Sizemore has finally re-surfaced, the Red Sox are the ones taking a shot with a one-year deal worth 750K + incentives that could bring it as high as $6mil Sizemore, 31, didn't play at all in 2012 or 2013 and prior to that averaged just 70 games/year with Cleveland in the 2009 thru 2011 seasons because of a slew of injuries which included both knee and back problems plus seven surgeries since 2009.

Ceetar Jan 23 2014 01:51 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Grant Balfour signs with Rays despite a supposed Mets offer that may have been equal to or greater than the Rays offer. Of course, no guarantee he closes here, home's in Florida, no income tax there, Rays are as currently constructed a better team.

Frayed Knot Jan 23 2014 01:56 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Matt Garza takes 4x$13 to move to Milwaukee - as the remainder of the pitching pieces start to move now that Tanaka is off the market

Vic Sage Jan 23 2014 01:59 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Endy Chavez goes back to Seattle on a minor-league deal with a ST invite.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 23 2014 02:04 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ceetar wrote: Grant Balfour signs with Rays despite a supposed Mets offer that may have been equal to or greater than the Rays offer. Of course, no guarantee he closes here, home's in Florida, no income tax there, Rays are as currently constructed a better team. I think it's interesting that the Mets were on this guy. If they were, who'd be their Plan B?

TransMonk Jan 23 2014 02:55 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Frank Francisco.

Frayed Knot Jan 23 2014 03:11 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

TransMonk wrote: Frank Francisco. I believe he's plan Double-Z at the moment and could move down a notch or two lower if either Steve Bedrosian or Kent Tekulve opt to come out of retirement.

Edgy MD Jan 23 2014 03:22 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I always forget that Tekulve isn't dead. I never conflated him and Quisenberry during their careers. But when one died, my mind somehow buried both.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Jan 23 2014 10:14 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Ceetar wrote: Grant Balfour signs with Rays despite a supposed Mets offer that may have been equal to or greater than the Rays offer. Of course, no guarantee he closes here, home's in Florida, no income tax there, Rays are as currently constructed a better team. I think it's interesting that the Mets were on this guy. If they were, who'd be their Plan B? OK, I'll try and answer my own question and continue to be intrigued with the notion of the Mets considering spending some $$ on a bullpen guy. Joel Hanrahan? Coming off injury but good enough to get a closer nod ahead of Uehara in Boston and price himself out of Pittsburgh. Fernando Rodney? Out of a job with Tampa. Wears hat with brim straight, offset. Evidently in talks with Baltimore.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 24 2014 06:14 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hanrahan-- at a low ebb, recovering from forearm issues, proven ability to get lefties and righties out-- on a cheapo deal. I would not bid against another team on a "closer" on an upswing.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 24 2014 06:15 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: Hanrahan-- at a low ebb, recovering from forearm issues, proven ability to get lefties and righties out-- on a cheapo deal. (With the added bonus of lots of Slap Shot-related jokes about his wife, should the thing not work out.) I would not bid against another team on a "closer" on an upswing.

Edgy MD Jan 24 2014 07:34 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He pronounces it "Jo-EL," right? Like he's half Biblical prophet and half Krypton survivor?

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Jan 24 2014 10:47 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I think you're thinking of Pineiro.

Edgy MD Jan 24 2014 12:29 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: Ceetar wrote: Grant Balfour signs with Rays despite a supposed Mets offer that may have been equal to or greater than the Rays offer. Of course, no guarantee he closes here, home's in Florida, no income tax there, Rays are as currently constructed a better team. I think it's interesting that the Mets were on this guy. If they were, who'd be their Plan B? OK, I'll try and answer my own question and continue to be intrigued with the notion of the Mets considering spending some $$ on a bullpen guy. Joel Hanrahan? Coming off injury but good enough to get a closer nod ahead of Uehara in Boston and price himself out of Pittsburgh. Fernando Rodney? Out of a job with Tampa. Wears hat with brim straight, offset. Evidently in talks with Baltimore. Bam! Reports pouring out placing the Mets in talks with Fernando Rodney.

smg58 Jan 24 2014 12:38 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I'd love to know what Rodney did differently in 2012 that made that season light years better than anything else he's ever done. You take away that season and he's... OK. Maybe not even that.

Edgy MD Jan 24 2014 12:46 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Rodney's like a throwback embodiment of adrenaline-doofus relievers everywhere: Stupid-hat style? Check! Trademark save celebration? Check! Sometimes goofy facial hair? Check! Sometimes carrying a little extra at the beltline? Check! Claims to be a better pitcher in save situations? CHECK!! All he's missing is cliche metal entrance music and a necklace of teeth. What kind of rap sheet does he have? Neck tatts?

Edgy MD Jan 24 2014 01:01 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

A Parnell-insurance reliever that can slide to a supporting role if all works out with BP is a great idea, but it's interesting that they felt strongly enough about it that they didn't just bring back LaTroy Hawkins, but wanted someone a little closer to his prime, and were willing to go two years and real money for such a beast. Got to think Jeurys Familia has started his last game, and they're looking to make a bullpen staple out of him.

Benjamin Grimm Jan 24 2014 01:34 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He was also a signer of the Declaration of Independence, if I remember my American History/baseball trivia correctly.

Lefty Specialist Jan 24 2014 01:46 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Benjamin Grimm wrote: He was also a signer of the Declaration of Independence, if I remember my American History/baseball trivia correctly. That's his brother Caesar, only a quarter of the pitcher he is.

MFS62 Jan 24 2014 08:42 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Lefty Specialist wrote: Benjamin Grimm wrote: He was also a signer of the Declaration of Independence, if I remember my American History/baseball trivia correctly. That's his brother Caesar, only a quarter of the pitcher he is. There's an error in that coin. He had scars on the left side of his face, and only permitted portraits of himself showing his right side. The person who engraved the design for the coin, 200 years later, did not know that. Later

Ashie62 Jan 25 2014 09:59 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Twitterverse says the Mets are looking at Rodney mainly to see if his price has come down. Puma says Parnell looks "great' throwing at the complex...

smg58 Jan 26 2014 10:52 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I do think they can use another quality reliever. I'm still a bit puzzled that Alderson thought $2M for Hawkins was too steep, especially if they're willing to go much higher for guys who had worse years last year. But we'll see how this plays out.

Benjamin Grimm Jan 26 2014 11:20 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Hawkins' age was probably a factor.

Frayed Knot Feb 07 2014 04:51 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Bronson Arroyo inks a deal with Arizona -- 2 years plus an option: $23.5 minimum, $28 max. Of the "name" FAs at the start of this off-season, I believe that leaves just Nelson Cruz and Stephen Drew* (have we mentioned him before?) still unsigned. Both are 'compensation' FAs, Arroyo was not. * oh, and AJ Burnett too

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 07 2014 08:09 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

How would you guys feel about a flier on Cruz at first base? I have no idea if he can actually play there but he might hit enough to try.

metsmarathon Feb 07 2014 08:56 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

i wouldn't mind trying to get aj burnett to fit into our rotation. have we collectively chosen not to talk about that guy?

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 07 2014 09:31 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

He would come with that "can't hack it in New York" baggage, people would beg him to screw up. OTOH, would not like to see him go to Washington.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 08 2014 07:34 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: How would you guys feel about a flier on Cruz at first base? I have no idea if he can actually play there but he might hit enough to try. If we're going to go that route, why not go with a young, cheap version of the same in Los Flowers?

Ceetar Feb 08 2014 07:58 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr wrote: John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: How would you guys feel about a flier on Cruz at first base? I have no idea if he can actually play there but he might hit enough to try. If we're going to go that route, why not go with a young, cheap version of the same in Los Flowers? because the guy's only tool is power and it's Citi Field. I'd bet on Duda, Davis or Satin (And probably Flores too) all outperforming him given equal opportunity and we already have those.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 08 2014 01:31 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Wait, are you talking about Cruz? (In case it isn't clear, when I say "Los Flowers," I mean, "Flores.")

smg58 Feb 09 2014 07:16 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Cruz has a career OPS+ of 114. So does Duda. Davis is 112. And that's ignoring the elephant in the room when discussing Cruz,

Nymr83 Feb 09 2014 01:05 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

smg58 wrote: Cruz has a career OPS+ of 114. So does Duda. Davis is 112. And that's ignoring the elephant in the room when discussing Cruz, More importantly it ignores that Davis is a good defender and Cruz doesnt play the position

sharpie Feb 12 2014 10:32 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ex=MFY douchebag AJ Burnett to Phillies for 1 yr/$16 mil.

Frayed Knot Feb 12 2014 10:36 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

sharpie wrote: Ex=MFY douchebag AJ Burnett to Phillies for 1 yr/$16 mil. Not all that surprising as this had been rumored and comes on the heels of the news that Cole Hamels won't be ready for the beginning of the season due to biceps tendinitis. Claims he'll pitch in April, just not in time for O.D.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 12 2014 10:41 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ex=MFY douchebag AJ Burnett to Phillies for 1 yr/$16 mil. BURNETT: Shit. I guess I better get in shape, then. [Unpacks personal grooming tools, beard-growin' hormone]

Edgy MD Feb 12 2014 11:00 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

That's some real cheese.

metirish Feb 12 2014 11:35 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

God Bless America.

John Cougar Lunchbucket Feb 12 2014 11:38 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

It's gonna be fun to beat AJB this year but I'd just as soon prefer not to have to allatime.

Frayed Knot Feb 22 2014 07:42 AM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Nelson Cruz "nearing a deal" with the Orioles.

Benjamin Grimm Feb 22 2014 01:26 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

One year, $8 million. He's one of the free agents who turned down the $14 million qualifying offer.

Edgy MD Feb 22 2014 01:37 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

So, Heyman's report that the Mets offered Drew one year at $9.5 million, which Rubin reported as "ain't happenin'" may be a little bit less not happenin'.

Benjamin Grimm Feb 22 2014 02:09 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Yeah, it may be more like "ain't happenin' yet".

metirish Feb 22 2014 04:12 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Benjamin Grimm wrote: One year, $8 million. He's one of the free agents who turned down the $14 million qualifying offer. much angst on twitter about this deal, it seems the writers can't help but take the Mets to task for spending their $8 million on Young and not Cruz, as if that was so cut and dry several months ago....God they are annoying.

Ceetar Feb 22 2014 04:15 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

metirish wrote: Benjamin Grimm wrote: One year, $8 million. He's one of the free agents who turned down the $14 million qualifying offer. much angst on twitter about this deal, it seems the writers can't help but take the Mets to task for spending their $8 million on Young and not Cruz, as if that was so cut and dry several months ago....God they are annoying. I'd rather have Young anyway. Writers can be so whiny.

LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr Feb 22 2014 04:40 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

I would MUCH rather have Young at his age/condition than Cruz at his.

Zvon Feb 22 2014 05:16 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

Ceetar wrote: metirish wrote: Benjamin Grimm wrote: One year, $8 million. He's one of the free agents who turned down the $14 million qualifying offer. much angst on twitter about this deal, it seems the writers can't help but take the Mets to task for spending their $8 million on Young and not Cruz, as if that was so cut and dry several months ago....God they are annoying. I'd rather have Young anyway. Writers can be so whiny. Annoying, whiny, and full of shit half the time. You really have to be reaching to take a shot at the Mets over that.

Edgy MD Feb 22 2014 06:15 PM Re: Off-season FA news (non-NYM edition)

And the corps would have been so supportive if the team held their outfield money until February and let the market come down to them. You know they would have because they're being so supportive of the Mets taking that tack with regards to Drew. To be fair, it's not that writers are whiny, it's that a whole lot of them know no better way to generate readership than to suck up to whiny fans.