Saturday, January 2, 2010

Quick Thoughts on CF

After reading this post from McCalvy, especially blurb #10, I was reminded of what we gave up for CC.

Aside from LaPorta (who may have been able to man 1b after Prince's exit), we lost Michael Brantley. Some scouts have said he is very reminiscent of Kenny Lofton. Casuals just don't understand that you can't teach a .400 OBP at such a young age. That's simply talent.

Most Improved

I would have to agree with the consensus of posts in this, also. The M's and Jack Zduriencik have added some good pieces this offseason.

Losing Jack Z. was a blow to the Brewers, but his track record on pitchers hasn't been the best (injuries obviously played a part in that). Judging by the first draft from Bruce Seid, the Crew may already be transitioning from the "big bat" philosophy, to the "load up on pitching & see who sticks" angle.

And remember, Braun is locked up until '15, but Fielder comes up on FA after the '11 season. A possible trade next offseason would certainly bring a bounty of talent back, if they decide to go that way.

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Cards/Holliday Gaining Momentum

Huh... This has shades of Texas & A-Rod. Aside from the 8yr/130mil the O's reportedly offered, it almost feels like the Cards are bidding against themselves for Holliday's services.

Keeping Holliday/Pujols together would be very powerful, just as the Braun/Fielder combo drives the Crew's offense.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

DeRosa To The Giants

Looks like 2yr/12mil for DeRosa. Seems a little pricey for a 35-year-old utlility man whose only come into consciousness in the last few years.

I agree with Al on this though: Pushing Sandoval across the diamond essentially lowers Pablo's value as a 1st baseman. I wouldn't mind DeRosa on the Crew, either. But only as a super-utility guy, not a starter. 35-year-olds rarely continue past offensive production, especially when that offensive production didn't show up until after age 30.

Metropolitans Sign Bay

Jason Bay and the Mets agreed to a 3yr/66mil deal, with a 5th year vesting option that probably puts it in the $80mil range.

We'll see how the dimensions of Citi Field affect his power numbers, as it appears it did to David Wright this past season. I'll qualify that statement by saying I haven't delved into any numbers to back that up, though.

Bay is a solid player, but I get the feeling he is valued higher simply because he went to Boston instead of wading around in the general obscurity of Pittsburgh. A good coup for NYM considering I'd seen many comments this offseason about how the Mets weren't doing anything to improve.

Badgers Win!

Congrats on a 10-win season, culminating in beating the U in the Champ Sports Bowl 20-14!
The defense was outstanding tonight, especially the front 4. John Clay took the MVP with 121 yds & 2 touches. I would've given it to Kendricks, as every catch seemed to be in a huge situation. Nevertheless, a great season from a team that was picked to do nothing this year.