Tuesday's Frosty Mug
by Kyle Lobner on Nov 1, 2011 11:23 AM CDT
in Milwaukee Brewers News
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Some things to read while keeping track.
Award season opens its march through November tonight, as the AL and NL Gold Gloves will be awarded. In a somewhat surprising note, Ryan Braun is one of three nominees to win the NL Award in left field (FanShot). This is the first season where the outfield awards are separated by position instead of being given to three outfielders. Jaymes Langrehr of The Brewers Bar nailed the situation with this quote:
"Braun being named a finalist only really tells us two things -- one, the list of good defenders in left (especially in the National League) is incredibly short; two, offensive numbers are still largely being considered for a defensive award."
The awards will be announced on ESPN2 at 9 pm tonight. The Fielding Bible Awards were announced yesterday and feature no Brewers. (h/t Baseball Nation)
The Milwaukee chapter of the BBWAA handed out their 2011 awards yesterday (FanShot). Ryan Braun was the unanimous choice for team MVP, while John Axford, Jonathan Lucroy, Nyjer Morgan and LaTroy Hawkins won the Most Valuable Pitcher, Unsung Hero, Top Newcomer and Good Guy awards.
Our awards also continue here: Zack Greinke won the #5 spot on our MVBrewer list, and you can see his profile here. Shaun Marcum is currently leading the voting for #6 by about 20 votes.
Meanwhile, MLB Trade Rumors has predictions for each of their top 50 free agents. They think Fielder (ranked #2 overall) will go to the Mariners, Francisco Rodriguez will be a Marlin and the Brewers will sign Jose Reyes. Dave Cameron of FanGraphs rated Fielder as this winter's fourth best free agent, and ranked K-Rod 30th.
Elsewhere in Fielder notes:
- Jon Heyman says the Cubs and Nationals are the current favorites to land Fielder.
- Steve Melewski of MASN thinks it makes sense for the Orioles to pursue Prince Fielder, but says pitching should be their top priority.
The JS notes that the Brewers have four ranked free agents this winter: Prince Fielder, Francisco Rodriguez and Takashi Saito are Type A's while Yuniesky Betancourt is a Type B. Saito's contract prevents the Brewers from offering him arbitration, but Tom Haudricourt says the Brewers might offer it to the other three.
On the less-heralded free agent front: Matthew Pouliot of Hardball Talk is taking another shot at ranking this winter's free agent class and has Jerry Hairston Jr 91st out of 111. If other teams really think Hairston's value is that low, I'd be happy to have him back as a Brewer.
Here's an interesting note on Hairston's defensive abilities: Tom Tango of The Book Blog is wrapping up the Fan Scouting Report this week (go vote if you haven't), and noticed that Nationals fans rated Hairston's defensive skills significantly higher than Brewer fans did.
LaTroy Hawkins is also a new free agent, and he's spending his first week of freedom touring Taiwan with a team of MLB players. Adam McCalvy has the first story from over there.
The Red Sox's managerial search continues, and we'll continue to follow it as long as Dale Sveum is a candidate. Mark J. Miller of Yahoo reports that the Sox expect to interview "five or six" candidates.
Elsewhere in managerial news: Tony La Russa's retirement yesterday could mean Ron Roenicke will get to manage the NL All Star Team in 2012. Derrick Goold reports that the Commissioner's Office will choose between Roenicke and whoever replaces La Russa in St. Louis. Roenicke said he was surprised by La Russa's decision to leave.
Randy Wolf probably won't win many awards this winter, but at least he'll have this: The Platoon Advantage named him (and former Brewer Damian Miller) to their "All Hallow's Eve Team."
Being named "Mustached American of the Year" has to give John Axford the inside track in this competition: The Outside Corner matched him up with reliever Clay Zavada in the first round of their Movember MLB Mustache Madness tournament. The Hall of Very Good has pictures of people who were Axford for Halloween.
If you'd like, today we have another opportunity to look back on the 2011 season: Pat Lackey of The Outside Corner has the 2011 Brewers' Post-Mortem.
In the minors:
- Daniel Meadows was one of five pitchers to combine on a three hit shutout as Peoria beat Salt River 8-0 yesterday in AFL play. You can read about that and more in today's Winter League Notes.
- The AFL Rising Stars game is on Saturday, and the rosters for the contest will be announced at 1 pm today.
- Brewersprospects.com unveiled their 2011 All Farm Team yesterday.
Are you ready to put your money on the 2012 Brewers? Bodog lists them at 22:1 odds to win the World Series next season, making them the eleventh most likely team.
If you haven't yet, please take a moment today to vote in this week's BCB Tracking Poll. The poll will remain open through the day today and results will be posted tomorrow.
Around baseball:
Blue Jays: Exercised third baseman Edwin Encarnacion's 2012 club option ($3.5 million) and declined reliever Jon Rauch's.
Braves: Exercised 1B/OF Eric Hinske's $1.5 million club option for 2012.
Cardinals: Declined pitcher Octavio Dotel and shortstop Rafael Furcal's 2012 club options.
Cubs: Declined pitcher Jeff Samardzija's club option for 2012, but he remains under team control.
Diamondbacks: Exercised Henry Blanco's $1.15 million 2012 option, declined second baseman Aaron Hill and pitcher Zach Duke's and announced that infielder Willie Bloomquist declined his mutual option.
Indians: Acquired pitcher Derek Lowe and cash from the Braves for a minor league pitcher.
Mariners: Pitcher David Aardsma has elected to become a free agent.
Marlins: Announced that infield coach Perry Hill and bench coach Brandon Hyde will not return for 2012.
Nationals: Bench coach Pat Corrales will not return for the 2012 season.
Padres: Declined outfielder Brad Hawpe and pitcher Chad Qualls' 2012 club options.
Pirates: Declined 2012 options for catchers Chris Snyder and Ryan Doumit, pitcher Paul Maholm and shortstop Ronny Cedeno and removed pitchers Brian Burres, Kevin Hart and Aaron Thompson, infielder Brandon Wood and 1BOF Steven Pearce from the 40 man roster.
Rangers: Exercised pitchers Colby Lewis ($3.25 million) and Yoshinori Tateyama's ($1 million) club options for 2012.
Rays: Exercised pitchers James Shields ($7.5 million) and Kyle Farnsworth's ($3.3 million) club options for 2012 and declined catcher Kelly Shoppach's.
Red Sox: Declined pitchers Scott Atchison and Dan Wheeler's 2012 club options.
Reds: Exercised second baseman Brandon Phillips' $12 million club option for 2012, declined Francisco Cordero's and removed pitchers Daryl Thompson and Jared Burton from the 40 man roster.
Royals: Exercised reliever Joakim Soria's $6 million club option.
Tigers: Outrighted catcher Omir Santos and pitcher Brad Thomas off the 40 man roster. Both will be free agents.
Twins: Claimed pitcher Jeff Gray off waivers from the Mariners and pitcher Matt Maloney off waivers from the Reds.
White Sox: Exercised reliever Jason Frasor's $3.75 million) club option for 2012.
Yankees: Signed CC Sabathia to a one year contract extension for 2016 that guarantees him an additional $30 million and has a vesting option for 2017.
The Biz of Baseball has my favorite infographic from today: A look at Twitter use during the World Series.
Today in former Brewers:
- Robin Yount and Bob Uecker are both partial owners of an expansion Northwoods League team that will play its home games in Mequon. The team name will be announced at a press conference today.
- Value Over Replacement Grit included Hernan Iribarren, Dave Krynzel, Kevin Mench, Dave Nilsson, Eric Plunk and Ron Roenicke on their Periodic Table of Ballplayers.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to consult my lawyer.
Drink up.
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Comments
I wouldn't be opposed to the Brewers looking at an incentive laden deal for Sizemore.
But Corey doesn’t want to move to 1B.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 11:28 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Hell, why not ask Braun to move? He still thinks of himself as an infielder anyway.
"I agree but dont agree"
by juggernaut400 on Nov 1, 2011 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Waste of his speed then..
Corey IMO is a way worse defender. Worse arm, worse catching mechanics (How many times have I seen him flat foot a ball instead of moving towards the direction of the throw?) and has as bad routes but doesn’t seem to make up for it with his supposed speed.
by SgtClueLs on Nov 1, 2011 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You don't move a gold glove LF
/sarcasm
Get a ife broseph
by Supertramp on Nov 1, 2011 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sizemore is interesting
Red Sox are said to be interested in him which would drive up his price.
He’s looking for a 1 year deal with a player option – I’m not sure its worth moving Hart to 1B for that, especially when Sizemore hasn’t shown the ability to play a full year or hit is pre-injury numbers.
Get a ife broseph
He'd never sign with the Brewers if he was going to be a 1B
Even though it’d probably make more sense than moving Hart.
Get a ife broseph
It'd be hurting his future earning potential quite a bit
His agent seems ready to concede a move to the corner, but that’s about it. Maybe one more injury-plagued year in 2012 would get him to move to 1B?
"I’m certain he would not rule out playing a corner outfield spot if it was the best opportunity to show he’s healthy and an elite player."
Get a ife broseph
Eh, Hart signed a team friendly extension
I’m sure part of the reason he did so was that the Brewers told him he would stay in RF.
Get a ife broseph
I'm not sure Hart's extension was "team friendly" at the time.
He was basically coming off half of one good recent season at that point.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
by Kyle Lobner on Nov 1, 2011 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
It turned into one
Wouldn’t you think at one point they agreed that if his production at the plate kept up he’d stay in RF?
Even if it wasn’t team friendly at the time, his agent would want to maintain his value, as it won’t be the last contract he signs.
Get a ife broseph
I don't know if it ever came up
Why would that be a part of a contract? Its not like the Brewers have a huge penchant for moving guys around. I’m not really sure at the time they were doing Hart’s contract he said “OK guys, I know Prince is going to be leaving in a couple of years, and I’m not going to play first!” I don’t think the ’won’t move you anywhere’ argument holds water here either: where else would he play but 1B or RF?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Right that's what I'm thinking
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
No, "If you're healthy and producing, we'll keep you in RF where you're comfortable"
I don’t think I’m crazy here. Players always discuss what they’ll role with be with any team before they sign a contract.
You don’t think Prince will have long discussions about what his role will be with his potential suitors? Or K-Rod won’t know if he is or isn’t the closer on his potential teams?
Get a ife broseph
I feel like Free Agency is a little bit different than when signing a contract extension.
by Noah Jarosh on Nov 1, 2011 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm sure it varies on a case by case basis
I think it’d be weird if players and their agents didn’t discuss long term plans in regards to their careers before they signed a contract.
When Melvin said “In the past Hart’s said no to moving to 1B,” wouldn’t he be referring to their contract talks? That seems like far and away the most likely time to address something like that.
Get a ife broseph
Possibly.
I’m sure the Brewers jerking Hart from position-to-position earlier in his career may have had some effect on those feelings, too.
DM probably threw in there
“you should sign this deal I am offering” because you arent as good as Madison Bumgarner, so take what you can get.
You can be exasperated by the comment
But this probably isnt too far from what actually happened with the extension.
Bumgarner pitches for the Giants
In their pitcher friendly environment. Clearly, he is an ace.
Gallardo sucks. Greinke sucks. Marcum sucks. Give me Madison Bumgarner.
You know....
… people would probably take your opinions more seriously if 99.99999999999% of them weren’t some variation on “the Brewers suck”.
It’s really not that hard to figure out. You can’t think a person is wrong nearly 100% of the time without departing from the path of reason. And getting defensive doesn’t prove your point either.
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Nov 1, 2011 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
How would it make more sense?
I don’t think Sizemore’s numbers at a corner IF could be acceptable. On the other hand, they could be acceptable in RF, and I could take Corey’s numbers at 1B.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions
A former CF moved to 1B?
I mean, that might be the craziest approach I’ve ever seen to trying to get a guy into a uniform. Plus if you’re leaving Hart and his bad defense in RF, but you could move Sizemore there and he would play, presumably better defense, its a bigger win. To my knowledge Sizemore hasn’t ever played a professional inning at 1B, which is not the case for Hart.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions
I guess.
But keep in mind that since his injuries started, Sizemore’s defense seems to have gone downhill, and he hasn’t exactly been an ordinary CF bat.
He would probably be the only 1B with more than 130 SB in his career
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions
D-Lee has over 100
Adam Dunn (!) has 59 MLB SBs. He actually stole 29 bases in A-Ball.
FWIW, Sizemore has 4 SBs the last 2 years (100 games).
Get a ife broseph
Adam Dunn was a football player
And a good one before he played baseball. I’m guessing the beer drinking, tobacco chewing, relaxed atmosphere of the MLB probably helped him slow down a bit.
Should have clarified active 1B
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Michale Young--87 stolen bases
but 2011 was his first go at 1B-36 games.
He said 1B was the hardest position to learn.
by Rob Deer For President on Nov 1, 2011 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions
122
and 110 before he played his first game at 1B in 2009.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Injury history mostly
Microfracture surgery on his left knee, left elbow surgery (he throws LH). Two extended DL stints last year with a right knee injury and has had 2 sports hernia surgeries.
He played OF the last 2 years and couldn’t stay on the field.
In his peak before the injuries, he was a .850 to .900 OPS hitter.
Get a ife broseph
I'm fully aware of all of his statistics and injury history
but that doesn’t mean he would be any good at 1B
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions
And Jose Reyes' injury history might mean he might not be any good at SS
What’s the point of this line of conversation?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions
The point is that after Sizemore's injuries he's become an ineffective OF
Both in playing time and performance. If its between Hart and Sizemore, I’d rather have the guy who last year put up a 4 WAR season play RF, not the guy who hasn’t been able to play a full season in since 2008.
I don’t understand why you’re comparing him to Jose Reyes (6 WAR just last year) or bringing up his pre-injury SB totals.
Get a ife broseph
I just think you're a little hastily saying he's an ineffective outfielder
he’s been injury-limited to 435 PAs the past two seasons. There are plenty of players that experience injuries and come back from them. Or is he the exception?
I don’t understand why Sizemore’s OF career is suddenly over in your mind.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Its not over, at all
He’s definitely worth a shot if you don’t have already have a RF/LF.
There would be a tremendous risk in moving Hart to 1B and having Sizemore get hurt.
Get a ife broseph
I don't think he's ineffective defensively
but I think playing in the OF increases his chances of getting injured.
He’s had surgery on both knees, elbow surgery on this throwing arm and two sports hernia surgeries… all since the end of the 2009 season.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Sizemore's stats pre-injury are more than acceptable for someone playing 1B
Unless you’re saying that he’s not going to be able to hit like that ever again.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
by sjlee on Nov 1, 2011 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, does anyone think he's going to put up a .900 OPS ever again?
I sure don’t.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't understand why Sizemore's career at the plate is over in your mind
(insert whatever smiley face to show that I’m not actually serious)
Get a ife broseph
Sigh ok fine let's try it THIS way
Hart’s numbers would be more acceptable to me at 1B, and Sizemore’s numbers more acceptable to me in RF. In addition, the main point here is that Sizemore has played ONE game at 1B in his professional career, at age 17, in the Expos system. Hart has a tiny bit more experience there..
But now I feel like people are just sort of needling to needle, not that they’re actually arguing a point for any reason. I don’t care if you think sack of potatoes would be better in RF. I think moving Hart to 1B and giving Sizemore an incentive laden deal to play RF is just fine.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
I am very opposed to a Sizemore deal.
The manager was willing to put to corpse of Kotsay in CF. I really don’t want another no longer good enough to play CF center-fielder on the team.
Give him an offspeed pitch down and in. He will swing and miss.
Only if he doesn't play in CF.
Give him an offspeed pitch down and in. He will swing and miss.
He wouldn't
Like I said above, I’d like him to play RF. In an incentive-laden deal.
I honestly don’t know why there’s so much negative sentiment to this.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Mark Kotsay.
You may not play him in CF. On the other hand you are not deciding who to play where once they are on the team. Our manager, who played Kotsay in CF, is. I am very opposed to giving our manager guys he can play out of position because he will and Melvin will not tell him not to do stupid things.
Give him an offspeed pitch down and in. He will swing and miss.
Ok
so…who plays RF then?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Possibly Hart?
Give him an offspeed pitch down and in. He will swing and miss.
Because the Brewers have a RF
I don’t know why this is difficult. You don’t see the downside in moving a 29 year old RF to 1B, having Sizemore suck or get hurt, then being SOL in RF?
Or are you simply not worried about moving Hart to 1B? Think it’d be no problem for him to move back to RF (both physically or messing with his head). Or do you think Sizemore would sign on to be a 4th OF?
Get a ife broseph
No, I have zero problem moving Hart to 1B
it will be the cheapest and most productive option. Payroll constraints etc. Team needs 1B and SS. $10M to spend. But you knew all of that.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Gomez/Morgan?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Man, maybe?
Though I think those guys’ value takes a big hit if they have to play every day and aren’t platooned.
I guess you could make it work, I think you’d get more value out of keeping them in CF, Hart in RF and signing a cheaper 1B instead of moving established guys around the field.
Hart was moved off of 1B nearly a decade ago, you’d be rolling the dice that a) He learns 1B b) Sizemore doesn’t get hurt and c) Sizemore puts up better numbers than he did in 2011 and 2010.
I just don’t know if that’s a responsible signing for the Brewers.
Get a ife broseph
How did Nyjer beat out Greinke for top newcomer...
…when Greinke beat Nyjer in the MVBrewer polls? Odd.
Because BCB readers are more intelligent than Milwaukee BBWAA writers
Boom.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions
+1
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Although I don't like him
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Ah, the old addition by subtraction rule...I like it.
by kotsaythebuzzkill on Nov 1, 2011 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions
If I was to argue that Freese is better than Green but not McGehee
Do you think it would breathe new life into “the 3rd base debate that never ends”?
"I love it when any team called 'The Brew Crew' wins": Tad Kubler
"LOLOL I LOVE YUNI!!!!": ThroughBeingCool
Is this seriously a debate?
Do people really think one or both of McGehee or Green are better than Freese?
I’m not going to get into it, I just thought that was so plainly obvious that it wouldn’t even be an issue.
Both are definately better than Freese
Their plate coverage would be exceptional, although it would take terrific timing and positioning for them not to injure each other when batting. And if they had two guys playing 3B it might take enough pressure off Yuni’s range so he has an average UZR.
When there is a scuffle in Ireland, there’s no need to specifically mention in the news story that alcohol was involved
by Getting Yosted on Nov 1, 2011 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 11 recs
Hahah, that's like a Mr. Leam post, without the weird vernacular.
by tcyoung on Nov 1, 2011 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
...and with some recs
"I love it when any team called 'The Brew Crew' wins": Tad Kubler
"LOLOL I LOVE YUNI!!!!": ThroughBeingCool
by MrLeam on Nov 1, 2011 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
I know we've gone over the Reyes possibility a lot, but with MLB rumors suggesting The Brewers as most likely, I'm wondering if they won't at least give it a shot.
However, it seems like a really dangerous potential contract. 100+ million on someone with his injury history? I wonder if the last few years would feel like a huge, terrible contract (think Carlos Lee, etc.). I still think the Brewers will go the safer route at SS (which hopefully does not mean re-signing Yuni for slightly less money) but the more I think about the amount it would take to land Reyes, the less excited I am about the whole thing. The team wouldn’t have much breathing room with his and Braun’s contracts.
by kotsaythebuzzkill on Nov 1, 2011 11:53 AM CDT reply actions
I saw the same thing
And am very much hoping it is MLBTR’s usual scattergun approach. I think the Brewers are probably investigating the possibility of Reyes (as, quite rightly, will plenty of other teams) but I’d be surprised if we actually ponied up for him…
"I love it when any team called 'The Brew Crew' wins": Tad Kubler
"LOLOL I LOVE YUNI!!!!": ThroughBeingCool
Reyes is a case study in payroll discrepancy
He has major upside with durability issues – high risk, high reward. The small payroll teams won’t even bother calling his agent. His pricetag is going to be so high that for the $85-$95 million payroll teams will have to take an enormous risk when signing him. If he only spends 15 days on the DL each year, he’s probably worth the money. If he has even one 60-day DL stint, they’ve compromised almost that entire season. A large payroll teams can afford to have $17 million sit on the bench for 2 months and still have a 1.5 WAR $6 million player there backing him up while he’s out.
It’s not the same with Fielder, for instance, as he’s low risk, high reward. He’s proven more durable as any player in the game and even his bad years are solid years. A mid-range payroll team can afford to put him on their roster as the centerpiece of their team over the next 5 years (and a role player for the remaining 1-2).
Even if the Brewers could trade Wolf to free up enough space (in theory) for Reyes’ contract, they can’t afford the risk that comes along with him.
MLB sucks.
Even with this being the case
The Brewers theorhetically have $10 million to play with this year. Without a salary dump in Wolf or Greinke, they cant afford him anyway. If they could they would/will have simply re-signed Fielder.
Im going to say Mets or Giants is Reyes’ most likely landing spot.
Unless Mark A. has a moment
Like the German government recently then there is unlikely to be any high priced FAs coming to the Brewers this off-season unless Wolf/Greinke are traded.
I think that with Weeks/Gallardo/Braun signed to fairly long term contracts (or in Braun case for ever) there is probably only 1 more long term contract that they can consider at the moment. They already have over $40million committed to 2013 and that is for only 4 players signed.
Hopefully it will be something like signing Gamel to a team friendly deal after he has a break-through 2012.
Is this any worse than having Rickie Weeks at 2B?
An injury could happen at any time – but when he’s healthy he’s phenomenal.
by nullacct on Nov 1, 2011 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think the point was
having two high-paid guys with a history of injury — Week, Reyes — is probably a luxury that the Brewers can’t afford.
We pull our pants up and do our jobs here.
So we're agreed that we should trade Weeks and sign Reyes then?
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Nov 1, 2011 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions
@si_jonheyman
Decent chatter that sveum might have shot with #cubs as well as good chance with red sox
Not sure why the Cubs would want him for that.
by cwolf20 on Nov 1, 2011 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 7 recs
Read it again.
We pull our pants up and do our jobs here.
by Rubie Q on Nov 1, 2011 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 7 recs
Yeah, I read it the first time
And Theo Epstein is the new President of the Cubs, even Jim Hendry got them to the playoffs.
Silly question.
Just genuflect and get it over with.
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Nov 1, 2011 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions
What does Brad Mills have to do with Dale Sveum?
Get a ife broseph
by Supertramp on Nov 1, 2011 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
If we offer arb to Yuni
He will most definitely accept, no? Can we just cut him then? If we’re not going to get any picks for him, why are we offering arb? Why am I asking so many questions?
"Our attitude is we look at ourselves and we grade ourselves. And even if we don’t like what’s happening on the other side, we don’t make a — it’s not our business" - Tony Larussa
Ugh
Although it would be interesting to see how big a raise he gets for one of the worst seasons in the league.
"Our attitude is we look at ourselves and we grade ourselves. And even if we don’t like what’s happening on the other side, we don’t make a — it’s not our business" - Tony Larussa
I remember something similar coming up when Jeff Francoeur went to arb a couple of years ago.
Team: “You suck.”
Player: “If I suck, why did you insist on playing me every day?”
Now that's great tasting chicken!
by Kyle Lobner on Nov 1, 2011 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
In other words, yes.
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Nov 1, 2011 6:33 PM CDT up reply actions
The player is guaranteed 80% of his previous year's salary, if I recall correctly.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions
What did it say about pre-6 players?
The same salary?
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Pre-6 players are guaranteed at least 80% of the previous seasons contract
And at least 70% of 2 years previous.
Blah I meant post-6
sorry
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:25 AM CDT up reply actions
If he accepts and they go before an arbitration panel
Yuni is awarded a non-guaranteed 1 yr deal for the amount that they pick. If the Brewers cut him during ST (within 16 days of Opening Day), they only have to pay 30-days termination pay. If it’s after 16 days, then they have to pay 45-days.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Soooo
CoCo’s available, no? Is it at all in the realm of possibility that his value has declined enough to pursue him for the set up role?
I’m just spitballin’ here.
I got goons.
by Dikembe Meiztombo on Nov 1, 2011 1:43 PM CDT reply actions
If the Brewer budget is what it appears to be (roughly $10 million available, 1B and SS vacant)
Then I’ll be pretty pissed if they blow any significant money on a setup guy.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
It probably isn't the biggest hole
But I don’t feel very comfortable with anyone after Axford and Loe in the bullpen right now. And I don’t feel all that great about Loe being the primary set-up man again.
Yes, this.
But regardless, I also don’t want the team spending a bunch on a set up man. Rauch, perhaps?
I got goons.
by Dikembe Meiztombo on Nov 1, 2011 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions
And the Cardinals already signed Yadier Molina
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions
OR, god forbid,
The manager gives Axford a bat, shoves him in the cage, and tells him he’s getting his fair share of 4+ out finishes this season.
I got goons.
by Dikembe Meiztombo on Nov 1, 2011 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions
No to Rauch, please
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Out of curiosity
What do you consider “significant money”?
Contributor on Brew Crew Ball, Commissioner of Prognostikeggers, Owner of a broken sarcasm detector
Anything more than $2M
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions
I'd even be a little above that.
I guess I could see giving one guy somewhere in the $1-1.5mm range, but I’d rather see the money spent elsewhere and gaps in the pen filled with low risk deals and internal options.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
Do they really have any decent in-house options?
Fiers and Peralta, if you want to move them to the bullpen, I guess.
Internal options
Not all of these guys will pan out and some of them shouldn’t work late innings, but I’m guessing the current bullpen is something like Axford, Loe, Estrada, McClendon, FDLC, Dillard, Parra, Stetter, Kintzler.
That’s already nine options for seven spots. I’m fine with them adding a veteran or two at a reasonable price. But I’ll be upset if they give someone another Hawkins type deal.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
Yikes
I’m not crazy about giving a veteran reliever substantial money either, but that bullpen would scare me.
by Cheeseandcorn on Nov 1, 2011 5:46 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I doubt they'll go into Opening Day with any seven of those nine.
but I think it’s reasonable to believe that there’s 5-6 solid options there, among nine candidates.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
I agree with this completely.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions
We know Melvin will be signing a reliever to a 3 year contract
He always does. Riske and Hawkins all but prove that. He’ll find someone for 3 years at $7-8 million. Let’s just accept that now and hope he finds someone that has a puncher’s chance of being worth half that.
After that $8 million bullpen arm, I’m sure they’ll find mostly internal options to fill the bullpen unless he can find another Saito sitting around willing to give it one last go.
Yeah, a three year deal in the Riske vein is exactly what I don't want.
But I think you’ve got your dollars confused. If he gives someone 3/$7mm, that’s a low enough annual number that I’d almost be ok with it. Both Riske and Hawkins cost much more than that.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
Personally?
About £2.62
"I love it when any team called 'The Brew Crew' wins": Tad Kubler
"LOLOL I LOVE YUNI!!!!": ThroughBeingCool
by MrLeam on Nov 1, 2011 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Too bad money is an issue
If I were Doug I’d call up the White Sox and say “Hey, how about we trade shortstops.”
Sox: “Are you crazy? Yuni Betancourt for Alexei Ramirez??”
DM: “Ok, throw in Adam Dunn and we’ll —”
Sox: “Deal.”
99%
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions
How much a year would the Brewers have to pay realistically
For this to happen?
Anything under $5million a year for the remaining 3 years would be make it interesting. Also it would mean that the Brewers would probably actually got worse defensively at 1B
The more money the White Sox pay, the better the player(s) the Brewers would have to give up.
I believe that’s how it usually works.
But the Brewers probably can't afford to do this deal
without the White Sox paying most of the salary.
Considering how little the Braves got for Lowe and they are still paying about 2/3 of his salary for him to pitch for the Indians I’m not sure how much the Brewers would have to give up to get him and pay him $5million a year
Unless they were just trying to cut their losses
By getting someone else to pay part of the sunk cost and playing someone different at 1B
He was DH a lot this year
2010 Dunn played 1B all season and his #s were almost identical to Prince’s. So… not good, but not worse.
2010 1B Dunn was an abberation to his career numbers at a -3.3 UZR/150
It was also the only year he played first full time, though.
You'll have to educate me on UZR, I was looking at other numbers
Dunn 2010: 1309 chances, 13 errors; 9.36 RF/9, Rdrs -8
Fielder 2011: 1431 chances, 15 errors; 9.14 RF/9, Rdrs -1
Here's a primer on it.
Link.
Basically, it takes a whole lot of stuff into account and is, at the very least, better than looking at errors. There is plenty of debate on whether it is accurate or not, though. I, personally, like it just fine, though I get that it has flaws.
One year of data tends to be insufficient though
and I don’t think there’s technically enough data to make an informed opinion on what Dunn’s true 1B defensive talent is. Although I’d assume its probably around Prince’s.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Right.
My guess is a little bit worse than Prince, but not too far off. His height probably helps him a bit, there, too.
His defense will probably get worse at a faster rate than Prince, too.
Age and work ethic are concerns. He should hit a lot better next year, though.
that's a damn good question
defense to take a batter’s mind off the last at bat-more in the game sort of thing.
by Rob Deer For President on Nov 1, 2011 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Or just staying somewhat warmed up rather than sitting on a bench for 30-45 minutes between at-bats.
And seeing the ball in play every inning
Getting the eyes accustomed to tracking it. I can see how it would help.
But if he is not DH'ing
He will not be able to visit the booth with Bob and Corey.
You know they would be up for the Brewers trading for Dunn
I'd be all for it
the question is (realistically, and you already posed it, but I was a bit facetious) how much?
Could the Brewers stand to pay $5M a year? Could the Sox stand to take that hit?
I really have no idea.
But I love the Big Donkey. Maybe its irrational and undeserved, but I really, really like him.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 1, 2011 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions
So we've generally agreed that we would take a cheap Dunn
This wasn’t exactly the way I thought the conversation would head, to be honest.
The Brewers could probably re-sign both Saito and Hawkins
for the money that Cordero probably wants.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
On a totally different topic
I have just read here that CJ Wilson is possibly looking to get a contract approaching $20million a year.
If that is the case then the Brewers have to figure that Greinke is gone at the end of next season since I guess he would be looking at a similar amount assuming that he is a little bit less HR prone next year.
That contract was signed mid-season
I think that if Greinke does not sign before reaching free agency his price will too high for the Brewers.
I know that Greinke is rumoured as not wanting to play in the larger markets so he may do a discount to stay with in Milwaukee but it would be better if they think they have the funds, to do so before the start of this season
There are other smaller markets like Seattle and Toronto
That would be able to offer him a full value so I still don’t think the Brewers have a real chance of keeping him.
I wonder if getting to hit carries any value for him.
I know he was excited about it after the trade.
Now that's great tasting chicken!
Not sure that pitching in the AL East qualifies as low-key
But the Mariners are a good shout I suppose it depends on what happens with King Felix.
A starting 3 of Hernandez,Greinke and Pineda would be tough to beat so long as they can upgrade their current AA hitting line-up.
I don't think pitching is a priority for Seattle.
They have good pitching but they have crap pitching. They’re like the anti-2009/2010 Brewers.
Go ahead, make my day.
by ilikeburritos on Nov 1, 2011 6:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Meant to say crap hitting.
Go ahead, make my day.
by ilikeburritos on Nov 1, 2011 6:49 PM CDT up reply actions
You can never have too much pitching
As true today as it ever was. If the Brewers had the money to land CC Sabathia or Prince Fielder, I would happily take CC Sabathia.
They could also wait
and offer him an extension mid-season as well.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
I'm probably just in a bad mood, but....
… the more I think about it, the more I think the Brewers should take their obligatory run at Fielder in the first 72 hours of free agency, and when it becomes clear they have no shot at keeping him, bust up the roster: move Greinke and Marcum (because realistically, they can’t sign Greinke after next year and they shouldn’t sign Marcum, IMO), and mix in a couple of the position guys not named Braun.
Realizing I know much much less than many, many people that frequent this site, I can’t this team doing more than hang around the fringes of the wild card chase next year, with a strong possibility of being a relatively expensive 81 win team. And what’s the point of that? I’d rather dip a little lower next year and have a shot at peaking again in 2014 with the players those trades might net than take a doomed to fail run at it next year and then watch 3/5 of our rotation walk out the door next November with only compensatory picks coming back in exchange (assuming that system is still in place at that point.)
Tell me why I’m wrong.
Please.
"fortunate, but also lucky"
by Ted Simmons Speed Camp on Nov 1, 2011 6:46 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Well signing Greinke isn't as impossible as signing Fielder.
The Brewers do have a legitimate chance of signing Greinke IMO. But what I think they should do is to put greater effort to strengthen the farm system so they can remain competitive in the long run. No more signing unnecessarily long contracts, and focus on the farm system.
Go ahead, make my day.
by ilikeburritos on Nov 1, 2011 6:53 PM CDT up reply actions
So you would hold onto Greinke to get the draft picks
Or would you trade him this year?
Personally I think that they should still go for it next year, remember some bunch of lucky so-and-so’s won the WS even though they won 6 games less than the Brewers during the regular season.
If they can:
A – Find a decent 1B which in theory should not be too difficult (Note to management Kotsay in no-way equals the definition of decent) and
B – Manage to put together an ok bullpen, which is always a bit of a crapshoot each year. then combined with the improvements that are bound to happen on the left side of the Infield there is no reason why they cannot get to 90+ wins again next year.
Because we don't know the rest of the roster yet
There was no way anyone would’ve believed Melvin had the pieces (and piece of mind) to get Greinke and Marcum last year. Maybe he finds a way to ship Wolf and Gamel somewhere without paying much of Wolf’s salary (see above thread on Adam Dunn for unconventional trade ideas) and that frees up enough payroll to bring in Reyes.
That’s a lineup that has Dunn at 1B, Reyes at SS and Fiers/Estrada at #5 in the rotation. I would pay my MLB.TV subscription to see that team on the field in 2012. I can’t say I expect Melvin to pull yet another rabbit out of his hat, but I’ll wait until February to consider calling for a fire sale.
That said, the FA pitching market is utterly non-existent this offseason. Greinke and Marcum would be worth a ton on the trade market. Melvin would have a decent chance of getting back 80% of what he paid for Greinke and Marcum last offseason.
You're wrong because the Brewers can fill Fielder's void with some strategic moves
Barmes at SS, Gamel at 1B, Green at 3B. I think that equals about even assuming even just 1 WAR each for Gamel and Green. Barmes is a 2 win upgrade, Green couldn’t be any worse. Gamel should put up about a 2 WAR season in my opinion.
If you think the Brewers were legitimately a 90 win team last year, they would be about an 88-89 win team next year. That’s plenty good to work towards the division/wildcard.
We can do better than this.
And too many people here are way too high on Clint Barmes. Seriously.
I got goons.
by Dikembe Meiztombo on Nov 2, 2011 12:22 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You don't have to be anything but ordinary at the plate
if you play average defense at SS to be a 2 win upgrade over Betancourt. Seriously
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:26 AM CDT up reply actions
If you trust UZR data
And with the amount of data + eye test confirming it, the guy is a plus defender who gets on base better than Betancourt did. That’s a 2 win upgrade, easily.
And, he’ll only cost about 6 million to sign. He’s a steal in this market.
His career OBP at home is .329
While still not great, it’s still better than Betancourt.
Pujols is the Barack Obama of baseball.
Yes, way way to high on Barmes
Get a ife broseph
by Supertramp on Nov 2, 2011 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who's your guy at SS?
Just curious. It seems like you’ve devoted a lot of time to “your idea won’t work” and “I don’t think that’s a good idea”, with little of your own input as to what you think would be realistic.
"If we want to sign a Type A free agent, we would lose a second-round pick, but we don't have a way to get picks back. Our whole Draft process needs to be redone."
~Doug Melvin
"Something always good seems to happen when he's in there. Numbers matched up good."
~RRR
by Charlie Marlow on Nov 2, 2011 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Although your premise is pretty much right on
You forget that Braun probably doesnt put up a 7 WAR season again, and Morgan probably doesnt put up a 4 WAR. Add up Fielder’s 5.5 and you probably need to replace about 7 WAR total. You probably get upgrades from Gallardo,Grreinke and Marcum for underperformance.
I have no doubt they will contend next year but they will probably have a difficult time reaching their true talent results from last year (92 wins). I thiink your 88 number will be right around where I will be depending on who they bring in for next year.
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NL Central Standings
| W | L | PCT | GB | STRK | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cincinnati
|
25 | 20 | .555 | 0 | Lost 1 |
|
St. Louis
|
25 | 21 | .543 | 0.5 | Lost 2 |
|
Houston
|
22 | 23 | .488 | 3 | Won 4 |
|
Pittsburgh
|
21 | 24 | .466 | 4 | Won 1 |
|
Milwaukee
|
19 | 26 | .422 | 6 | Won 2 |
|
Chicago
|
15 | 30 | .333 | 10 | Lost 10 |
(updated 5.26.2012 at 6:00 PM CDT)
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