Some things to read while stocking up on excuses.
Things will likely slow down a bit around here over the next few days, but there will still be a Thursday Thinker at noon. After that, I'll be off until Monday, with Noah handling this weekend's editor duties. Voting will also remain open for the final position player and lefty specialist on our BCB All Decade Team, so don't forget to cast your ballot.
As one might expect, we're a little light on Brewer news today, but heavy on Christmas gift suggestions. Miller Park Drunk has a list of ten gifts not to buy a Brewer fan, and a full three of them are Brewer related. Follow the link if you're not sick of Remetee jokes yet. Meanwhile, this is quietly moving to the top of my wish list.
Looking ahead to the 2010 draft, Andy Seiler has updated his projected draft order, and has the Brewers selecting 14th, 56th and 88th. Meanwhile, the Angels are set to cash in, selecting 18th, 29th, 30th, 36th and 37th.
Apparently the Timber Rattlers also have some time on their hands, as they've produced Episode 3 of The Offseason.
Around baseball:
Angels: Signed Fernando Rodney to a two year deal worth $11 million.
A's: Signed Coco Crisp to a one year deal with $5.25 million guaranteed, and a team option for 2011.
Braves: Signed Troy Glaus to a one year deal worth $2 million.
Nationals: Signed Matt Capps to a one year deal worth $3.5 million plus incentives.
Pirates: Signed pitcher Jack Taschner to a minor league deal.
What do you expect from J.J. Hardy in 2010? It's anyone's guess at this point, but you can count Seth McClung among those expecting a big bounce-back season from the former Brewer shortstop.
Meanwhile, we have a pretty good idea of what to expect from the Royals. Now that they've signed Brian Anderson and will likely start him in center field, Joe Posnanski passes along this somewhat astonishing stat:
So — there were seven every day players in all of baseball last year with OPS+ of 80 or less. The Royals project to have FIVE IN THEIR OPENING DAY LINEUP. And that is assuming that Josh Fields, with his 68 OPS+ in 268 plate appearances last year, does not win a place in the lineup. And he could. The Royals like his bat.
Happy birthday today to 2000-2002 Brewer Jamey Wright, who turns 35.
Drink up.