On Saturday we counted down the five best moves made by Jim Hendry during his tenure as the general manager of the Chicago Cubs. Click here to read that post. As you know, not all of the moves he made were good. Now it's time to take a look at the five worst moves!
5. Signing Kosuke Fukudome... November 2007
At the time, I'll admit that I was excited about the Japanese import coming to Chicago. However, his offense sputter throughout his four season stay in Chicago. Hendry overpaid for Kosuke, giving him four years and $48 million.
4. Waiving Casey McGehee... October 2008
This move does not get that much attention, but it was the only one on this list that I knew was completely terrible the second it happened. McGehee was a promising prospect who saw some time with the Cubs during the 2008 season. He could have been Ramirez's successor at third base and learned a new spot while waiting for Rami's contract to expire. However, the rival Brewers snatched him off waivers. He had been very productive in the middle of the Milwaukee lineup.
3. Trading Nolasco, Mitre & Pinto for Juan Pierre... December 2005
The Cubs shipped three young arms to Florida to try to add a lead-off man. Pierre was lousy in his only season on the North Side, while Nolasco went on to become a quality starter.
2. Giving Alfonso Soriano 8 years... November 2006
At the time I was very excited about the Cubs picking up one of the top free agent on the market. However, this contract was way too long for an already ageing player like Soriano. The $136 million spent on Alfonso just about single handily led to the miserable 2010 and 2011 seasons. However, Soriano was a key piece to the team during the playoff runs of 2007 and 2008. Had the Cubs won a World Series it would have been worth it, so I don't blame Jim for going "all in." Note: John McDonough was the one who actually closed this deal, not Hendry.
1. Signing Milton Bradley... January 2009
While the winter between '06 and '07 was probably Hendry's best despite the Soriano contract, the 2008-2009 offseason was by far his worst. The biggest and worst move of that stretch was inking Milton Bradley to a $30 million deal. Bradley did not produce and was a distraction with his off the field antics. Bradley was the one big money signing that the Cubs literally got no production out of. During that same winter the Cubs also picked up Aaron Miles, Joey Gathright and Kevin Gregg.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!
Showing posts with label Milton Bradley. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Milton Bradley. Show all posts
Monday, August 22, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
A Look at Kosuke's Time with the Cubs
Even though Kosuke Fukudome's time with the Cubs was, for the most part, a failure, there is still a part of me that is sad to see him go. Anytime a Cub who has been with the team for several years departs, most die-hard fans miss seeing them play every day.
Let us say goodbye to Kosuke by looking back at his time with the Cubs.
December 11, 2007
The Cubs signed outfielder Kosuke Fukudome to a four year, $48 million contract. The Cubs thought that that Japanes import would help put their team over the top after winning the division title that year.
March 31, 2008: Big League Debut
There is no doubt that the highlight of Fukudome's time in Cubbie blue came very early on, in his big league debut on Opening Day of 2008. The fans at Wrigley Field, many of whom were sporting Fukudome Japanese headbands, went wild when he doubled on the first pitch he saw in the big leagues. Kosuke stepped to the plate with two men on base in the bottom of the ninth inning with the Cubs trailing the Brewers 3-0. He delivered a dramatic home run to tie the game at three and finish his debut 3-for-3. Although the Cubs fell 4-3 in ten innings, Kosuke's game tying homer is a moment that Cubs fans will never forget.
2008 Season: Hot When It's Cold, Cold When It's Hot
Each year Kosuke got off to a solid start in April and May before falling victim to a June swoon when the weather heated up. His number continued to decline each year as the season moved into the fall. That was evident in his first season when he batted .327 in April, .293 in May, .264 in June, .236 in July, .193 in August, .178 in September and .100 in two postseason games.
July 7, 2008: An All-Star
Kosuke told Judd Sirott in an interview for WGN Radio a few weeks ago that the 2008 season was his favorite in a Cub uniform for several reasons. It was the only one in which the Cubs won the division title. His hot start in the big leagues was also fun for him. It led to his lone All-Star appearance as well. Kosuke started in center for the NL and went 0-for-2.
2009: Position Switch
At the start of his second season with the Cubs, Kosuke was moved to center field so that Milton Bradley could play right. In July, he switched to first in the batting order, replacing Alfonso Soriano. For the rest of his Cubs career, Fukudome bounced around the lineup after hitting fifth for most of '08. Kosuke moved back to right field for 2010. In 2009, he actually finished second on the team in OBP at .375.
2010 & 2011 : Platooning
The past two seasons, the story of Kosuke Fukudome not living up to his large contract has faded onto the back burner with all the other headlines surrounding the Cubs. Kosuke's struggles were well documented his first two seasons, but he is actually an asset to a team when he is put into the proper role. Kosuke brings strong defense and draws a lot of walks, plus is one of baseball's good guys. He is not, however, a middle of the order hitter or a $48 million player. In 2010, Kosuke split time with fellow left handed hitter Tyler Colvin in right field. Colvin had a great season, so Fukudome's player time decrease quit a bit but he finished with his best average since signing with the Cubs at .263. Colvin started off slow in 2011 so he was sent back to Triple-A, with Kosuke sitting in favor of Reed Johnson against left handed pitchers.
July 28, 2011: Traded to the Indians
Yesterday, Kosuke's tenure with the Cubs came to an end when he was shipped to Cleveland for two minor leaguers. Click here for more information on the trade.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as we countdown to Sunday's 3pm CT trade deadline!
Let us say goodbye to Kosuke by looking back at his time with the Cubs.
December 11, 2007
The Cubs signed outfielder Kosuke Fukudome to a four year, $48 million contract. The Cubs thought that that Japanes import would help put their team over the top after winning the division title that year.
March 31, 2008: Big League Debut
There is no doubt that the highlight of Fukudome's time in Cubbie blue came very early on, in his big league debut on Opening Day of 2008. The fans at Wrigley Field, many of whom were sporting Fukudome Japanese headbands, went wild when he doubled on the first pitch he saw in the big leagues. Kosuke stepped to the plate with two men on base in the bottom of the ninth inning with the Cubs trailing the Brewers 3-0. He delivered a dramatic home run to tie the game at three and finish his debut 3-for-3. Although the Cubs fell 4-3 in ten innings, Kosuke's game tying homer is a moment that Cubs fans will never forget.
2008 Season: Hot When It's Cold, Cold When It's Hot
Each year Kosuke got off to a solid start in April and May before falling victim to a June swoon when the weather heated up. His number continued to decline each year as the season moved into the fall. That was evident in his first season when he batted .327 in April, .293 in May, .264 in June, .236 in July, .193 in August, .178 in September and .100 in two postseason games.
July 7, 2008: An All-Star
Kosuke told Judd Sirott in an interview for WGN Radio a few weeks ago that the 2008 season was his favorite in a Cub uniform for several reasons. It was the only one in which the Cubs won the division title. His hot start in the big leagues was also fun for him. It led to his lone All-Star appearance as well. Kosuke started in center for the NL and went 0-for-2.
2009: Position Switch
At the start of his second season with the Cubs, Kosuke was moved to center field so that Milton Bradley could play right. In July, he switched to first in the batting order, replacing Alfonso Soriano. For the rest of his Cubs career, Fukudome bounced around the lineup after hitting fifth for most of '08. Kosuke moved back to right field for 2010. In 2009, he actually finished second on the team in OBP at .375.
2010 & 2011 : Platooning
The past two seasons, the story of Kosuke Fukudome not living up to his large contract has faded onto the back burner with all the other headlines surrounding the Cubs. Kosuke's struggles were well documented his first two seasons, but he is actually an asset to a team when he is put into the proper role. Kosuke brings strong defense and draws a lot of walks, plus is one of baseball's good guys. He is not, however, a middle of the order hitter or a $48 million player. In 2010, Kosuke split time with fellow left handed hitter Tyler Colvin in right field. Colvin had a great season, so Fukudome's player time decrease quit a bit but he finished with his best average since signing with the Cubs at .263. Colvin started off slow in 2011 so he was sent back to Triple-A, with Kosuke sitting in favor of Reed Johnson against left handed pitchers.
July 28, 2011: Traded to the Indians
Yesterday, Kosuke's tenure with the Cubs came to an end when he was shipped to Cleveland for two minor leaguers. Click here for more information on the trade.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as we countdown to Sunday's 3pm CT trade deadline!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Numbers Breakdown: A Look at the 2009-2010 Offseason Now
Half way through the year, we always like to take a look at back at what Jim Hendry did in his offseason transactions. It's fun to grade the moves when they happen, but at that point we are just speculating. Now that we have seen the Cubs play, we know if how the moves are turning out so far.
Based on the Cubs record, one would think that the Hendry's offseason moves have not panned out. However, that is not necessarily the case!
Date: 11/19/09
Move: Traded Aaron Heilman to Arizona for Ryne White and Scott Maine
Heilman's Numbers (this season): 2-3, 3.83 ERA
Maine's Numbers: 2.20 ERA in 12 games at AA, 3.81 ERA in 20 games at AAA
White's Numbers: .228 AVG 11 games at Daytona
Move Grade: B-
Date: 11/20/09
Move: Resigned John Grabow
Grabow's Stats: 1-3, 7.36 ERA in 28 games this season
Move Grade: F
Date: 12/4/09
Move: Jake Fox and Aaron Miles traded to Oakland for Jeff Gray, Ronny Morla, & Matt Spencer
Fox's stats: .222 AVG, 51 games between Baltimore and Oakland
Miles' Stats: Only played in minor with A's before being released, picked up by St. Louis
Gray's Stats: Brief stint w/ Cubs, 5.00 ERA in 7 game at AAA, currently injured
Morla's Stats: 2-2, 3.58 ERA, 28 games at Peoria
Spencer's Stats: .286 AVG at Daytona; .264 AVG, 9 HR, 33 RBIs at AA
Move Grade: A-
Date: 12/18/09
Move: Traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for Carlos Silva & cash
Bradley's Stats: .210 AVG in 62 games
Silva's Stats: 9-3, 3.45 ERA, 17 starts
Move Grade: A
Date: 1/2/10
Move: Signed Marlon Byrd to a 3-year contract
Byrd's stats: .317 AVG, 18 games
Move Grade: A
Date: 1/27/10
Move: Signed Chad Tracy to a minor league deal w/ Spring Training invite
Tracy's stats: .250 AVG, 28 games before being DFA'd
Move Grade: C+
Date: 1/29/10
Move: Signed Xavier Nady to a one year contract
Nady's Stats: .225 AVG, 62 Games
Move Grade: C-
Move (Grade): Allowing Kevin Gregg (B-), Neal Cotts (A), Reed Johnson (C), Rich Harden (B+), and Chad Fox (A) to leave via free agency.
With the additions of Byrd, Silva, and some prospects and the subtractions of Jake Fox, Miles, Bradley, Heilman, and other Hendry had a very good offeason. The only moves that didn't turn out well were resigning Grabow and signing Nady.
Overall Offseason Grade Now: B
And remember... the numbers don't lie!
Based on the Cubs record, one would think that the Hendry's offseason moves have not panned out. However, that is not necessarily the case!
Date: 11/19/09
Move: Traded Aaron Heilman to Arizona for Ryne White and Scott Maine
Heilman's Numbers (this season): 2-3, 3.83 ERA
Maine's Numbers: 2.20 ERA in 12 games at AA, 3.81 ERA in 20 games at AAA
White's Numbers: .228 AVG 11 games at Daytona
Move Grade: B-
Date: 11/20/09
Move: Resigned John Grabow
Grabow's Stats: 1-3, 7.36 ERA in 28 games this season
Move Grade: F
Date: 12/4/09
Move: Jake Fox and Aaron Miles traded to Oakland for Jeff Gray, Ronny Morla, & Matt Spencer
Fox's stats: .222 AVG, 51 games between Baltimore and Oakland
Miles' Stats: Only played in minor with A's before being released, picked up by St. Louis
Gray's Stats: Brief stint w/ Cubs, 5.00 ERA in 7 game at AAA, currently injured
Morla's Stats: 2-2, 3.58 ERA, 28 games at Peoria
Spencer's Stats: .286 AVG at Daytona; .264 AVG, 9 HR, 33 RBIs at AA
Move Grade: A-
Date: 12/18/09
Move: Traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for Carlos Silva & cash
Bradley's Stats: .210 AVG in 62 games
Silva's Stats: 9-3, 3.45 ERA, 17 starts
Move Grade: A
Date: 1/2/10
Move: Signed Marlon Byrd to a 3-year contract
Byrd's stats: .317 AVG, 18 games
Move Grade: A
Date: 1/27/10
Move: Signed Chad Tracy to a minor league deal w/ Spring Training invite
Tracy's stats: .250 AVG, 28 games before being DFA'd
Move Grade: C+
Date: 1/29/10
Move: Signed Xavier Nady to a one year contract
Nady's Stats: .225 AVG, 62 Games
Move Grade: C-
Move (Grade): Allowing Kevin Gregg (B-), Neal Cotts (A), Reed Johnson (C), Rich Harden (B+), and Chad Fox (A) to leave via free agency.
With the additions of Byrd, Silva, and some prospects and the subtractions of Jake Fox, Miles, Bradley, Heilman, and other Hendry had a very good offeason. The only moves that didn't turn out well were resigning Grabow and signing Nady.
Overall Offseason Grade Now: B
And remember... the numbers don't lie!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Seattle
Tomorrow night the Cubs will return to action to battle the Seattle Mariners in the first of a three game interleague set. The off day today came at a perfect time for the club to rest up after dropping six of the last seven series. On Sunday, the bats showed some signs of life in a 12-1 stomping of the L.A. Angels to avoid the weekend sweep at Wrigley.
Geovany Soto was the only Cub to homer yesterday launching his eighth dinger of the year. It was good to see Geo go deep, but it was also good to see the Cubs finding some other ways to score some runs. Carlos Zambrano helped his own cause with a run scoring single and got his first win at Wrigley since last July. Z went seven innings and allowed only one run to improve 3-5 overall on the year. Despite the fact that the game was already in the bag, Andrew Cashner and Carlos Marmol got their work in pitching the eighth and ninth respectively. Neither man surrendered a run. Derrek Lee drove in four runs and Marlon Byrd, who was hitting lead-off doubled twice.
The Seattle Mariners are not having a fun 2010 campaign either. They are just 28-41, which puts them in last of four teams in the AL West and 13 game behind first place Texas. The M's have played decent ball at Safeco Field where they hold an 18-17 mark.
The Mariners also have an off day today. They are in the midst of a four game winning streak including a sweep of the Reds this weekend to kick off their six game homestand. They are also in the middle of 15 straight games against NL opponents.
Seattle has several former Cubs on its roster, most notably controversial outfielder Milton Bradley. The Ex-Cubbie is hitting just .215 with 6 homers and 25 runs batted in. He will be swamped by his old pals from the Chicago media all series long. Luckily for him, Bradley does not have to go back to Wrigley to face the Cubs' faithful, which he has publicly ripped since departing from the North Side. Pitcher David Aardsma is also with the Mariners. Aardsma was a piece in the Cubs bullpen during the forgettable 2006 season before they shipped him to the White Sox in the Neal Cotts trade. The only reason David will be remembered by Cubs fans is because his last name comes first alphabetically on the list of all the players in Cubs history. Garrett Olson is another familiar name on the roster. Olson has never appeared in a game in the blue pinstripes, but he was a Cub for a short time during the 2008-2009 offseason. Garrett came over from Baltimore in the Felix Pie deal but was sent to Seattle along with Ronny Cedeno in the trade that netted the Cubs reliever Aaron Heilman.
These two clubs don't exactly have a long history of playing one another. They've played a total of six games (three in Chicago, three in Seattle) most recently at Wrigley in 2007. The Cubs took two of three in '07 and in '02 when the clubs met in Seattle. Every year, they face off during Spring Training games. This spring, they played only one Cactus League game against one another... a 1-0 Cubs win in Peoria on March 28.
This series will be a homecoming for manager Lou Piniella, who led the M's from 1993 to 2002. The Mariners made four postseason appearances during his tenure including 2001 when they won 116 regular season games.
Cubs' legend and radio broadcaster Ron Santo decided not to make the trip to his hometown. Ronny, who's 70 years old and has already had several health scares this season, is feeling fine and just wants to stay back to rest up. He will rejoin the Cubs when they play at U.S. Cellular Field on Friday. Santo plans to cut back on his travelling because of his health. Dave Otto will fill in for this series.
Third baseman Aramis Ramirez is expected to come off the DL at some point during this series. Rami finished his rehab stint in Peoria 1-6 with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Cubs will activate Aramis, who was hitting just .168 before going down with the thumb injury, prior to Wednesday night's game. The Cubs will have to make a corresponding roster move... which means Chad Tracy could be in danger of being sent back to Iowa once again.
Game 1: Tuesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster (5-5, 3.67 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Jason Vargas (5-2, 2.88 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN+, WGN Radio
Game 2: Wednesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells (3-5, 4.92 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee (5-3, 2.55 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN, WGN Radio
Game 3: Thursday at 2:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Silva (8-2, 3.01 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Felix Hernandez (5-5, 3.39 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN, WGN Radio
The Cubs are embarking on a six game road trip, but after the three in the Pacific Northwest they will be right back to the city of Chicago to play the South Siders. They are 31-38, 7 games out of first, and in third place in the NL Central. The bottom line: The Cubs are much in need of a series win... and against last-place Seattle a sweep would not be too much to ask for.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Geovany Soto was the only Cub to homer yesterday launching his eighth dinger of the year. It was good to see Geo go deep, but it was also good to see the Cubs finding some other ways to score some runs. Carlos Zambrano helped his own cause with a run scoring single and got his first win at Wrigley since last July. Z went seven innings and allowed only one run to improve 3-5 overall on the year. Despite the fact that the game was already in the bag, Andrew Cashner and Carlos Marmol got their work in pitching the eighth and ninth respectively. Neither man surrendered a run. Derrek Lee drove in four runs and Marlon Byrd, who was hitting lead-off doubled twice.
The Seattle Mariners are not having a fun 2010 campaign either. They are just 28-41, which puts them in last of four teams in the AL West and 13 game behind first place Texas. The M's have played decent ball at Safeco Field where they hold an 18-17 mark.
The Mariners also have an off day today. They are in the midst of a four game winning streak including a sweep of the Reds this weekend to kick off their six game homestand. They are also in the middle of 15 straight games against NL opponents.
Seattle has several former Cubs on its roster, most notably controversial outfielder Milton Bradley. The Ex-Cubbie is hitting just .215 with 6 homers and 25 runs batted in. He will be swamped by his old pals from the Chicago media all series long. Luckily for him, Bradley does not have to go back to Wrigley to face the Cubs' faithful, which he has publicly ripped since departing from the North Side. Pitcher David Aardsma is also with the Mariners. Aardsma was a piece in the Cubs bullpen during the forgettable 2006 season before they shipped him to the White Sox in the Neal Cotts trade. The only reason David will be remembered by Cubs fans is because his last name comes first alphabetically on the list of all the players in Cubs history. Garrett Olson is another familiar name on the roster. Olson has never appeared in a game in the blue pinstripes, but he was a Cub for a short time during the 2008-2009 offseason. Garrett came over from Baltimore in the Felix Pie deal but was sent to Seattle along with Ronny Cedeno in the trade that netted the Cubs reliever Aaron Heilman.
These two clubs don't exactly have a long history of playing one another. They've played a total of six games (three in Chicago, three in Seattle) most recently at Wrigley in 2007. The Cubs took two of three in '07 and in '02 when the clubs met in Seattle. Every year, they face off during Spring Training games. This spring, they played only one Cactus League game against one another... a 1-0 Cubs win in Peoria on March 28.
This series will be a homecoming for manager Lou Piniella, who led the M's from 1993 to 2002. The Mariners made four postseason appearances during his tenure including 2001 when they won 116 regular season games.
Cubs' legend and radio broadcaster Ron Santo decided not to make the trip to his hometown. Ronny, who's 70 years old and has already had several health scares this season, is feeling fine and just wants to stay back to rest up. He will rejoin the Cubs when they play at U.S. Cellular Field on Friday. Santo plans to cut back on his travelling because of his health. Dave Otto will fill in for this series.
Third baseman Aramis Ramirez is expected to come off the DL at some point during this series. Rami finished his rehab stint in Peoria 1-6 with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Cubs will activate Aramis, who was hitting just .168 before going down with the thumb injury, prior to Wednesday night's game. The Cubs will have to make a corresponding roster move... which means Chad Tracy could be in danger of being sent back to Iowa once again.
Game 1: Tuesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster (5-5, 3.67 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Jason Vargas (5-2, 2.88 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN+, WGN Radio
Game 2: Wednesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells (3-5, 4.92 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee (5-3, 2.55 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN, WGN Radio
Game 3: Thursday at 2:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Silva (8-2, 3.01 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Felix Hernandez (5-5, 3.39 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN, WGN Radio
The Cubs are embarking on a six game road trip, but after the three in the Pacific Northwest they will be right back to the city of Chicago to play the South Siders. They are 31-38, 7 games out of first, and in third place in the NL Central. The bottom line: The Cubs are much in need of a series win... and against last-place Seattle a sweep would not be too much to ask for.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Cubs Radio, Howry, Zambrano, and More
- Carlos Zambrano will return to the rotation against the Pirates next week. Tom Gorzelanny could be the odd starter out.
- The Cubs have agreed to move their radio broadcasts to accommodate the Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup Finals games. The Hawks games will be on the the WGN-720 flagship station while Pat and Ron will be moved to 560 WIND on conflicting dates. The days the Cubs will be on 560 will be June 2, 4, and possibly 9th (if Game 6 is needed in Stanley Cup).
- Speaking of the Hawks, some of their players were at Wrigley tonight to cheer on the Cubbies.
- Aramis Ramirez got another day off on Tuesday. He sat out with a thumb injury. A-ram is hitless in his last four games and is hitting just .160 this year.
- Phil Rogers reports that Aramis will most likely avoid the DL and could return to the lineup against the Cardinals this weekend.
- Bobby Howry believes he still has something to bring to the table. He will be used in middle relief.
- Jim Hendry wasn't sure how to react when he was told that Milton Bradley is taking his advice at looking in the mirror, according to Bruce Levine.
- Carlos Zambrano's 73 pitch simulated game went well yesterday. Jeff Baker and Tyler Colvin were among the batters.
- After a 3-0 win against the Dodgers tonight, the Cubs are 7-0 when Starlin Castro bats second in the lineup.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Former Cub Updates: May 1, 2010
For the first time in 2010, let's take a look at how our ex-Cubbies are fairing! For this post, we will focus only on players that were members of the Cubs in 2009.
- Kevin Gregg, Blue Jays: 0.82 ERA, 6 SV, 11 IP
- Reed Johnson, Dodgers: .282 AVG, 3 RBIs, 19 games
- Rich Harden, Rangers: 1-1, 4.56 ERA, 23.2 IP
- Milton Bradley, Seattle: .211 AVG, 2 HR, 11 RBIs, 18 Games
- Jake Fox, Oakland: .182 AVG, 1 HR, 8 RBIs, 16 Games
- Aaron Heilman, Arizona: 0-1, 5.59 ERA, 9.2 IP
- Kevin Hart, Pirates: Has torn labrum, could have season ending surgery.
- Aaron Miles, Cardinals: The Cubs traded Miles to Oakland, then they shipped him to Cincinnati. Then, he was released on April 14 after being DFA out of Spring Training. This week, he signed a minor league deal to return to St. Louis.
- Neal Cotts, Pirates: Has not pitched yet this season after signing with Pittsburgh on January 4. He is not listed on the Pirates 40-man roster.
- Luis Vizcaino: Free agent
- Chad Fox: Free Agent
- So Taguchi: Playing for Orix BlueWaves in Japan
- Ryan Freel: Signed with Somerset Patriots, an independent club
- Andres Blanco, Texas: .214 AVG, 1 RBI, 14 Games
- Jason Waddell: Pitching in the Tigers' system
That covers them all!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Pitching Shuffle: Z to the Pen, Lilly Returns, Shark to AAA, and More
Samardzija Sent to AAA
Yesterday the Cubs had to make a roster move to make room for Ted Lilly on the active roster. 90% of you that voted on our right sidebar agree with the move to send Jeff Samardzija to Iowa. Jeff went 0-1 with an 18.90 ERA. He will join the I-Cubs bullpen.
A Pair of Debuts
Last night was a big night for the Cubs' pitching staff. It was like adding two new pitchers to the staff without making a transaction. Carlos Zambrano made his first relief appearance of the year. Before taking the hill, Z delivered a pinch hit sac fly at the plate. Then allowed a walk and 2 hits in the 8th which led to a Brewer run, but he was able to work out of the inning. The new addition to the starting rotation was lefty Ted Lilly, who started the year on the DL. Ted surrendered just one run on three hits in 6 innings of work in his season debut at Miller Park. The Cubs won the game 5-1.
Lead-off Situation
Paul Sullivan reports that Lou Piniella is happy with Ryan Theriot leading off. Marlon Byrd led-off a game against a left handed pitcher last week, but don't expect to see him there every time a southpaw is on the mound. Pineilla would rather have one set lead-off guy than a platoon.
Not Him Again
With Milton Bradley back in Chicago to face the White Sox this weekend, his name has been appearing all over Chicago newspapers and websites. Bradley told CSN on Friday that he was misunderstood on the North side of Chicago and mentioned that race could have played a factor in the way he was treated. Bradley describe himself as a non-violent, non-threatening nerd. He is hitting just .167.
Caridad's Progress
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Esmalin Caridad is expected to come off the DL by the end of next weekend. He is rehabbing at Fitch Park in Mesa.
Zambrano Won't Go Back to Back
The Cubs will not be using Carlos Zambrano again today. Since Z is used to pitching every fifth day, Piniella wants to wait until he has three or four relief appearances under his belt to use him on back to back days. Expect to see Carlos on the hill "about every other day." Having Big Z down there allows the Cubs to use the bullpen better.
Byrd Gets Day Off
Marlon Byrd leads the club in RBIs and is red hot, but he sat out today's series finale against the Brewers. The Cubs are trying to rotate their outfielders so that everyone gets some rest. In addition, this allows them to use rookie Tyler Colvin more. Tyler got the nod in center field today.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Yesterday the Cubs had to make a roster move to make room for Ted Lilly on the active roster. 90% of you that voted on our right sidebar agree with the move to send Jeff Samardzija to Iowa. Jeff went 0-1 with an 18.90 ERA. He will join the I-Cubs bullpen.
A Pair of Debuts
Last night was a big night for the Cubs' pitching staff. It was like adding two new pitchers to the staff without making a transaction. Carlos Zambrano made his first relief appearance of the year. Before taking the hill, Z delivered a pinch hit sac fly at the plate. Then allowed a walk and 2 hits in the 8th which led to a Brewer run, but he was able to work out of the inning. The new addition to the starting rotation was lefty Ted Lilly, who started the year on the DL. Ted surrendered just one run on three hits in 6 innings of work in his season debut at Miller Park. The Cubs won the game 5-1.
Lead-off Situation
Paul Sullivan reports that Lou Piniella is happy with Ryan Theriot leading off. Marlon Byrd led-off a game against a left handed pitcher last week, but don't expect to see him there every time a southpaw is on the mound. Pineilla would rather have one set lead-off guy than a platoon.
Not Him Again
With Milton Bradley back in Chicago to face the White Sox this weekend, his name has been appearing all over Chicago newspapers and websites. Bradley told CSN on Friday that he was misunderstood on the North side of Chicago and mentioned that race could have played a factor in the way he was treated. Bradley describe himself as a non-violent, non-threatening nerd. He is hitting just .167.
Caridad's Progress
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Esmalin Caridad is expected to come off the DL by the end of next weekend. He is rehabbing at Fitch Park in Mesa.
Zambrano Won't Go Back to Back
The Cubs will not be using Carlos Zambrano again today. Since Z is used to pitching every fifth day, Piniella wants to wait until he has three or four relief appearances under his belt to use him on back to back days. Expect to see Carlos on the hill "about every other day." Having Big Z down there allows the Cubs to use the bullpen better.
Byrd Gets Day Off
Marlon Byrd leads the club in RBIs and is red hot, but he sat out today's series finale against the Brewers. The Cubs are trying to rotate their outfielders so that everyone gets some rest. In addition, this allows them to use rookie Tyler Colvin more. Tyler got the nod in center field today.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Friday Night Quick Hits: Lilly's Return, Football at Wrigley, & More
After a rough series in New York that saw the Cubs drop three of four, it was good to see the Boys in Blue bounce back tonight. They got a big 8-1 win over the Brewers behind a strong outing by Ryan Dempster and a Tyler Colvin 2-run bomb. Here are the latest notes:
- Carlos Zambrano warmed up tonight but did not get into the game. He could make his bullpen debut tomorrow.
- Also tomorrow night, Ted Lilly will come off the DL and make his season debut. Lilly has pitched well in rehab outings and is ready to go.
- Aramis Ramiez, who's hitting just .127, got the last two nights off to work with Rudy Jaramillo. Chad Tracy played third base for the Cubs.
- Ron Santo was back in the broadcast booth tonight. He did not go to New York because of a health issue, but we are happy to report that Ronny is feeling better.
- Whether they'll be a game at Wrigley in October or not remains to be seen, but they'll be one there in November. The Northwestern Wildcats will battle Illinois as football returns to the Friendly Confines.
- Ken Rosenthal suggests that the Cubs trade Tom Gorzelanny for a reliever. This would create an opening in the rotation that could be filled by Andrew Cashner or Jay Jackson.
- Milton Bradley is back in Chicago to face the White Sox.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Giants 5, Cubs 1 (Game Recap & More)
We'll get to the Milton Bradley stuff later in the post, but let's start off with a recap of today's Cactus League game. The Cubs hosted the Giants at HoHoKam Park for the first of two Cactus League meetings between the two clubs.
Big Z
Carlos Zambrano worked quickly through the first two innings, but then allowed 5 runs in the 3rd including a Pablo Sandoval grand slam. Big Z would go on to take the loss in the game.
The Cubs got one run back on Aramis Ramirez's second hit of the day in the fourth inning, an RBI single. After that, pitching dominated the game and the silent bats of the Cubs led to a 5-1 loss.
The Short Stops
There were a few bright spots on the offensive side, however. Ryan Theriot went 3-3 as his average climbed to .692! When Starlin Castro took over for Theriot as the Cub lead-off man and short stop, he too hit well. Castro went 2-2 with a pair of singles.
X Man
Xavier Nady made his Cactus League debut a day earlier than expected. Zambrano was willing to sacrifice his ABs to allowed Nady to DH today. Xavier looked good, going 1-2 with a walk. He most likely will travel with the half of the team that is going to Las Vegas to get some more at bats in.
The 0 fors
The Spring Training struggles of Jeff Baker continued today. He was in the lineup for the whole game- starting at second base and then shifting over to third when Ramirez departed. Baker was hitless in 4 trips to the plate, but he did draw a walk. Jeff, who's batting .000, will need to step it up in order to beat Mike Fontenot out for the majority of the second base playing time. Koyie Hill (0-3), Alfonso Soriano (0-3), James Adduci (0-4), Micah Hoffpauir (0-2), and Sam Fuld (0-2) all had bad days at the dish as well.
Lights Out Relievers
After Zambrano's rocky start, the Cubs pitching staff was terrific. John Grabow, Mike Parisi, Andrew Cashner, Thomas Diamond, John Gaub, and Justin Berg all worked scoreless innings. Grabow will be a key to the bullpen as one of the only veterans. The rest of the guys that pitched in this game are looking to win the final few open jobs in the pen. Berg and Diamond looked especially sharp, as they each retired the Giants in order. Thomas was picked up after he was let go by the Rangers last year, and is looking to bounce back from an injury. Justin came over as a minor leaguer in a trade with the Yankees a few years ago. Cashner was the Cubs first round draft choice in 2008, Parisi was drafted in the Rule 5 draft this winter, and Gaub came over in the Mark DeRosa trade in late 2008.
No Action For Dolis or Patton
As Chicago Cubs Online pointed out, the Cubs still have several players who have not gotten into any Cactus League games. Diamond pitched for the first time today, while David Patton, Vince Perkins, and Rafael Dolis have yet to take the mound. Patton is expected to start the year at AAA after he was hidden in the bullpen and on the DL in '09 so the organization could keep him. Dolis is a young prospect that the organization is very high on. Also, Steve Clevenger and Blake Lalli are position player who have not played in any Spring Training games yet. With Clevenger and Lalli, it is very surprising because there have been plenty of opportunities for Lou to get different guys in as defensive subs or pinch hitters. Perhaps there is an injury or some other situation that we do not know about.
Backup Outfield Update
Lou Piniella indicated yesterday that he will keep 5 outfielders on the roster to start the season. According to Carrie Muskat, Nady may not be able to throw at full strength until June. Piniella may not want to waste a roster spot on somebody that can pinch hit only, so the DL is a possibility. Right now, there's a good chance that one or possibility two of these young outfielder could break camp with the big club. Their Spring Training stats so far are included:
Jim Adduci: 6 games, .182 AVG
Tyler Colvin: 5 games, .545 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBIs
Brad Snyder: 5 games, .545 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBIs
Sam Fuld: 4 games, .200 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBIs
Right now, Colvin and Snyder have identical spring numbers. The Cubs are going to need 12 pitchers, so using 5 outfielders would leave them with only 6 infielders plus the 2 catchers. Ramirez, Lee, Fontenot, Baker, and Theriot are 5 infielders on the roster for sure. Therefore, the group of Hoffpauir, LaHair, Tracy, Blanco, and Millar may be competing for 1 spot, with the 4 outfielders listed competing for 1-2 spots depending on the health of Nady. Tyler Colvin and Sam Fuld are the front runners for winning roster spots, with Brad Snyder in the mix as a dark horse.
Can We Just Move On?
Milton Bradley is at it again. Click here for his interview with ESPN in which he describes Cub fans as racist and once again blames the city of Chicago for his failures while he was here. Jim Hendry said that Bradley needs to take a look in the mirror. Hendry and Lou both feel that it is 2010 now, and it's time to focus on 2010. Alfonso Soriano's message to Milton is to leave the negativity in the past. Sori says he thinks Milton is an OK guy. Ryan Dempster defended the city, and says that fans who pay good money to see the team play have every right to boo if they don't like what they see.
Cubs Idol
While Bradley is still discussing the Cubs, it's evident that the current team is much more relaxed. They are putting on their own version of American Idol behind closed doors. Younger players like Andrew Cashner, Jim Adduci, Brett Jackson, and Mike Parisi do the singing while veterans like Kevin Millar and Ryan Dempster put on the competition and serve as judges.
Injury Updates
Cubs LHP Ted Lilly through 30 pitches earlier this week and tossed 35 today. He is feeling good and is hoping to get into a few Spring Training game before the team leaves the valley. Still no word on whether or not Angel Guzman will have surgery or on a timetable for reliever Jeff Gray, who's been out since the start of camp with a groin injury. Andres Blanco is also still sidelined.
A Return of Kerry?
Several sources have mentioned that Kerry Wood could be an option for the Cubs bullpen. Phil Rogers puts him on a list that also includes Brad Ziegler, Jason Frasor, and Heath Bell, but Rogers thinks the Cubs would have to give up lots of talent in return for any of these guys.
Nomar to ESPN
Former Cubs short stop Nomar Garciapara has announced his retirement today. He will take a job as a TV analyst for ESPN. He hit .289 in his two years (2005-2006) in a Cub uniform, playing in just 105 total games.
Random Stat
Kosuke Fukudome hit just .132 with 2 outs and runners in scoring position last season, which was second worst in the league. He has to be better in the clutch in 2010.
Up Next
Tomorrow afternoon the Cubs take on the Padres at 2:05 PM CT in Peoria. The game will not be broadcast on Chicago TV or radio, but you can get it if you have MLB.com's gameday audio package via the Padres Radio Network. Carlos Silva, who has made some mechanical adjustments since his last outing, will take the hill against Jon Garland. On Friday, the Cubs have a split squad game with Jeff Samardzija facing the Brewers in Arizona and Tom Gorzelanny going against the White Sox in Las Vegas.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Big Z
Carlos Zambrano worked quickly through the first two innings, but then allowed 5 runs in the 3rd including a Pablo Sandoval grand slam. Big Z would go on to take the loss in the game.
The Cubs got one run back on Aramis Ramirez's second hit of the day in the fourth inning, an RBI single. After that, pitching dominated the game and the silent bats of the Cubs led to a 5-1 loss.
The Short Stops
There were a few bright spots on the offensive side, however. Ryan Theriot went 3-3 as his average climbed to .692! When Starlin Castro took over for Theriot as the Cub lead-off man and short stop, he too hit well. Castro went 2-2 with a pair of singles.
X Man
Xavier Nady made his Cactus League debut a day earlier than expected. Zambrano was willing to sacrifice his ABs to allowed Nady to DH today. Xavier looked good, going 1-2 with a walk. He most likely will travel with the half of the team that is going to Las Vegas to get some more at bats in.
The 0 fors
The Spring Training struggles of Jeff Baker continued today. He was in the lineup for the whole game- starting at second base and then shifting over to third when Ramirez departed. Baker was hitless in 4 trips to the plate, but he did draw a walk. Jeff, who's batting .000, will need to step it up in order to beat Mike Fontenot out for the majority of the second base playing time. Koyie Hill (0-3), Alfonso Soriano (0-3), James Adduci (0-4), Micah Hoffpauir (0-2), and Sam Fuld (0-2) all had bad days at the dish as well.
Lights Out Relievers
After Zambrano's rocky start, the Cubs pitching staff was terrific. John Grabow, Mike Parisi, Andrew Cashner, Thomas Diamond, John Gaub, and Justin Berg all worked scoreless innings. Grabow will be a key to the bullpen as one of the only veterans. The rest of the guys that pitched in this game are looking to win the final few open jobs in the pen. Berg and Diamond looked especially sharp, as they each retired the Giants in order. Thomas was picked up after he was let go by the Rangers last year, and is looking to bounce back from an injury. Justin came over as a minor leaguer in a trade with the Yankees a few years ago. Cashner was the Cubs first round draft choice in 2008, Parisi was drafted in the Rule 5 draft this winter, and Gaub came over in the Mark DeRosa trade in late 2008.
No Action For Dolis or Patton
As Chicago Cubs Online pointed out, the Cubs still have several players who have not gotten into any Cactus League games. Diamond pitched for the first time today, while David Patton, Vince Perkins, and Rafael Dolis have yet to take the mound. Patton is expected to start the year at AAA after he was hidden in the bullpen and on the DL in '09 so the organization could keep him. Dolis is a young prospect that the organization is very high on. Also, Steve Clevenger and Blake Lalli are position player who have not played in any Spring Training games yet. With Clevenger and Lalli, it is very surprising because there have been plenty of opportunities for Lou to get different guys in as defensive subs or pinch hitters. Perhaps there is an injury or some other situation that we do not know about.
Backup Outfield Update
Lou Piniella indicated yesterday that he will keep 5 outfielders on the roster to start the season. According to Carrie Muskat, Nady may not be able to throw at full strength until June. Piniella may not want to waste a roster spot on somebody that can pinch hit only, so the DL is a possibility. Right now, there's a good chance that one or possibility two of these young outfielder could break camp with the big club. Their Spring Training stats so far are included:
Jim Adduci: 6 games, .182 AVG
Tyler Colvin: 5 games, .545 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBIs
Brad Snyder: 5 games, .545 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBIs
Sam Fuld: 4 games, .200 AVG, 1 HR, 2 RBIs
Right now, Colvin and Snyder have identical spring numbers. The Cubs are going to need 12 pitchers, so using 5 outfielders would leave them with only 6 infielders plus the 2 catchers. Ramirez, Lee, Fontenot, Baker, and Theriot are 5 infielders on the roster for sure. Therefore, the group of Hoffpauir, LaHair, Tracy, Blanco, and Millar may be competing for 1 spot, with the 4 outfielders listed competing for 1-2 spots depending on the health of Nady. Tyler Colvin and Sam Fuld are the front runners for winning roster spots, with Brad Snyder in the mix as a dark horse.
Can We Just Move On?
Milton Bradley is at it again. Click here for his interview with ESPN in which he describes Cub fans as racist and once again blames the city of Chicago for his failures while he was here. Jim Hendry said that Bradley needs to take a look in the mirror. Hendry and Lou both feel that it is 2010 now, and it's time to focus on 2010. Alfonso Soriano's message to Milton is to leave the negativity in the past. Sori says he thinks Milton is an OK guy. Ryan Dempster defended the city, and says that fans who pay good money to see the team play have every right to boo if they don't like what they see.
Cubs Idol
While Bradley is still discussing the Cubs, it's evident that the current team is much more relaxed. They are putting on their own version of American Idol behind closed doors. Younger players like Andrew Cashner, Jim Adduci, Brett Jackson, and Mike Parisi do the singing while veterans like Kevin Millar and Ryan Dempster put on the competition and serve as judges.
Injury Updates
Cubs LHP Ted Lilly through 30 pitches earlier this week and tossed 35 today. He is feeling good and is hoping to get into a few Spring Training game before the team leaves the valley. Still no word on whether or not Angel Guzman will have surgery or on a timetable for reliever Jeff Gray, who's been out since the start of camp with a groin injury. Andres Blanco is also still sidelined.
A Return of Kerry?
Several sources have mentioned that Kerry Wood could be an option for the Cubs bullpen. Phil Rogers puts him on a list that also includes Brad Ziegler, Jason Frasor, and Heath Bell, but Rogers thinks the Cubs would have to give up lots of talent in return for any of these guys.
Nomar to ESPN
Former Cubs short stop Nomar Garciapara has announced his retirement today. He will take a job as a TV analyst for ESPN. He hit .289 in his two years (2005-2006) in a Cub uniform, playing in just 105 total games.
Random Stat
Kosuke Fukudome hit just .132 with 2 outs and runners in scoring position last season, which was second worst in the league. He has to be better in the clutch in 2010.
Up Next
Tomorrow afternoon the Cubs take on the Padres at 2:05 PM CT in Peoria. The game will not be broadcast on Chicago TV or radio, but you can get it if you have MLB.com's gameday audio package via the Padres Radio Network. Carlos Silva, who has made some mechanical adjustments since his last outing, will take the hill against Jon Garland. On Friday, the Cubs have a split squad game with Jeff Samardzija facing the Brewers in Arizona and Tom Gorzelanny going against the White Sox in Las Vegas.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Cubs Win! Cubs Win!
The Cubs are in the win column to start the 2010 exhibition season! Just the fact that they Boys in Blue were in action on WGN Radio made today a great day, but a 9-3 win against the Oakland A's made today even sweeter.
Although there's still snow on the ground here, the sound of Pat and Ron makes it feel like summer. Spring is officially on the way... let's check out some of the game highlights:
Randy Wells
After a great rookie season, Wells is expected to perform at a high level this year. Today, Randy was handed the ball to kick off the Cactus League schedule. Randy had great stuff today, going 2 shutout innings. He did not allow any men to reach base and sent two down on strikes. Two inning outings are typical of early spring games because manager want the avoid injury risk by building their pitchers' stamina up start by start. By the end of the spring, each guy will be going 5-6 innings.
Marlon Byrd
After signing as a free agent last winter, Marlon swooped into his first game in Cubbie Blue today. He wasted no time in making Cub fans happy by knocking a solo homer to lead off the fourth for his second hit of the game. Byrd went 2-2 with a pair of runs scored before departing.
Sean Marshall
Let the competition for the spots in the back end of the rotation begin! Sean got off to a great start today by throwing 2 scoreless frames in relief of Wells. Marshall did not allow a hit and walked one. Carlos Silva will start against the White Sox on Saturday, with Gorzelanny and Samardzija pitching in Sunday's split squad.
Other Pitchers
After Marshall and Wells each went two innings, three younger guys got a chance to take the hill against the A's. Mike Parisi, who was the Cubs' Rule V Draft pick in June, went two innings. He pitched pretty well but made one mistake, which resulted in an Adam Rosales solo homer. Parisi allowed just the one run on one hit and one walk. Lefty J.R. Mathes pitched the 7th and 8th, surrendering 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk. Esmalin Caridad worked a one, two, three 9th.
The Star
Top prospect Starlin Castro has received tons of sudden praise and attention from the media this offseason. We got our first look at him in a big league setting today. He showed impressive speed as he was able to leg out a triple, which was his only hit of the day (1-3).
Power Surge
After a 2009 season where runs were hard to come by, the Cubs brought the bats today. Perhaps new hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo has already made in impact on this club. As a team, they pounded out 9 runs on 16 hits, 5 of them home runs. In addition to Byrd; Derrek Lee, Sam Fuld, Tyler Colvin, and Brad Snyder all went deep. Lee got the scoring started with his first inning blast. Former first round draft pick Tyler Colvin homered in the 6th to cap off a 3 for 3 day. Colvin bulked up over the offseason, putting on 25 pounds of muscle. Snyder and Fuld both hit long balls in the 7th inning. Fuld's two run shot was the only multi-run bomb of the day. Brad Snyder is a long time minor leaguer who played good in Mexico over the winter. He hit a LONG ball according to the call of Pat Hughes. Little Sammy Fuld getting into one very well could have been the biggest surprise of the day.
Other Hitters
Kosuke batted second and put together a 2-3 day behind Ryan Theriot, who was 0-2. Alfonso Soriano was the only regular who did not start the game. Aramis Ramirez went 0-2, D-Lee was 2-3, Geo drove in a run, and Mike Fontenot hit a sac fly and walked. Today we got brief looks at a few guys competing for spots on the bench. Micah Hoffpauir played first base after Lee's departure and was retired in his only plate appearance. Non roster invitee Chad Tracy went 1-2 with a run scored. Brian LaHair, Bobby Scales and Kevin Millar each got pinch hit at bats. Millar singled while LaHair ground into a double play and Scales struck out. Outfielders Fuld and Snyder were impressive coming off the Cub bench. Andres Blanco went 1-2 when he took over at second base for Mike Fontenot. Farm guys James Adduci (OF) and Robinson Chirinos (C)both went hitless.
Former Cubs
Utility man Jake Fox was sent to Oakland this winter in a swap that brought pitcher Jeff Gray to the Northside. Gray has been sidelined with a groin injury, so he did not pitch against his former team today, but Fox started at third base for Oakland in his first pro game outside of the Cubs organization. He went 0-2. Eric Patterson, a former Cubs farm hand, was 1-2 off the A's bench. Patterson is the only player who is still with the A's or Cubs that was part of the five player deal between to two clubs at the 2008 trade deadline. The Cubs with play the Athletics in interleague play this season.
Sunny at HoHoKam
Everyone in attendance, with the possible exception of second base umpire Mike Winters, was please with the 66 degree and sunny day. There were 7,496 fans at the ballpark.
Upcoming Games
Tomorrow: VS Arizona 2:05 CT- no broadcast (Zambrano)
Saturday: VS Chicago White Sox 2:05 CT- WGN TV, WGN Radio (Silva)
Sunday: (ss) VS CWS 2:05 WGN
VS LAD 2:05- no broadcast (Gorzelanny/Samardzija)
Injury Updates
Angel Guzman and Ted Lilly were both spotted on the field today before the game according to Chicago Cubs Online. Xavier Nady is expected to make his spring debut on Saturday against the White Sox as the DH. Nady is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Not Him Again
I guess it wouldn't be a Chicago Cubs blog post without Milton Bradley. The outspoken former Cub told ESPNChicago.com today that the city of Chicago was at fault for his 2009 struggles. "Two years ago, I played, and I was good. I go to Chicago, not good. I've been good my whole career. So obviously it was something with Chicago, not me." Oh, Milton. The Cubs travel to Seattle this summer for interleague action. To bad the M's don't visit Wrigley.
Baseball is back! I'll keep you posted.
Although there's still snow on the ground here, the sound of Pat and Ron makes it feel like summer. Spring is officially on the way... let's check out some of the game highlights:
Randy Wells
After a great rookie season, Wells is expected to perform at a high level this year. Today, Randy was handed the ball to kick off the Cactus League schedule. Randy had great stuff today, going 2 shutout innings. He did not allow any men to reach base and sent two down on strikes. Two inning outings are typical of early spring games because manager want the avoid injury risk by building their pitchers' stamina up start by start. By the end of the spring, each guy will be going 5-6 innings.
Marlon Byrd
After signing as a free agent last winter, Marlon swooped into his first game in Cubbie Blue today. He wasted no time in making Cub fans happy by knocking a solo homer to lead off the fourth for his second hit of the game. Byrd went 2-2 with a pair of runs scored before departing.
Sean Marshall
Let the competition for the spots in the back end of the rotation begin! Sean got off to a great start today by throwing 2 scoreless frames in relief of Wells. Marshall did not allow a hit and walked one. Carlos Silva will start against the White Sox on Saturday, with Gorzelanny and Samardzija pitching in Sunday's split squad.
Other Pitchers
After Marshall and Wells each went two innings, three younger guys got a chance to take the hill against the A's. Mike Parisi, who was the Cubs' Rule V Draft pick in June, went two innings. He pitched pretty well but made one mistake, which resulted in an Adam Rosales solo homer. Parisi allowed just the one run on one hit and one walk. Lefty J.R. Mathes pitched the 7th and 8th, surrendering 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk. Esmalin Caridad worked a one, two, three 9th.
The Star
Top prospect Starlin Castro has received tons of sudden praise and attention from the media this offseason. We got our first look at him in a big league setting today. He showed impressive speed as he was able to leg out a triple, which was his only hit of the day (1-3).
Power Surge
After a 2009 season where runs were hard to come by, the Cubs brought the bats today. Perhaps new hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo has already made in impact on this club. As a team, they pounded out 9 runs on 16 hits, 5 of them home runs. In addition to Byrd; Derrek Lee, Sam Fuld, Tyler Colvin, and Brad Snyder all went deep. Lee got the scoring started with his first inning blast. Former first round draft pick Tyler Colvin homered in the 6th to cap off a 3 for 3 day. Colvin bulked up over the offseason, putting on 25 pounds of muscle. Snyder and Fuld both hit long balls in the 7th inning. Fuld's two run shot was the only multi-run bomb of the day. Brad Snyder is a long time minor leaguer who played good in Mexico over the winter. He hit a LONG ball according to the call of Pat Hughes. Little Sammy Fuld getting into one very well could have been the biggest surprise of the day.
Other Hitters
Kosuke batted second and put together a 2-3 day behind Ryan Theriot, who was 0-2. Alfonso Soriano was the only regular who did not start the game. Aramis Ramirez went 0-2, D-Lee was 2-3, Geo drove in a run, and Mike Fontenot hit a sac fly and walked. Today we got brief looks at a few guys competing for spots on the bench. Micah Hoffpauir played first base after Lee's departure and was retired in his only plate appearance. Non roster invitee Chad Tracy went 1-2 with a run scored. Brian LaHair, Bobby Scales and Kevin Millar each got pinch hit at bats. Millar singled while LaHair ground into a double play and Scales struck out. Outfielders Fuld and Snyder were impressive coming off the Cub bench. Andres Blanco went 1-2 when he took over at second base for Mike Fontenot. Farm guys James Adduci (OF) and Robinson Chirinos (C)both went hitless.
Former Cubs
Utility man Jake Fox was sent to Oakland this winter in a swap that brought pitcher Jeff Gray to the Northside. Gray has been sidelined with a groin injury, so he did not pitch against his former team today, but Fox started at third base for Oakland in his first pro game outside of the Cubs organization. He went 0-2. Eric Patterson, a former Cubs farm hand, was 1-2 off the A's bench. Patterson is the only player who is still with the A's or Cubs that was part of the five player deal between to two clubs at the 2008 trade deadline. The Cubs with play the Athletics in interleague play this season.
Sunny at HoHoKam
Everyone in attendance, with the possible exception of second base umpire Mike Winters, was please with the 66 degree and sunny day. There were 7,496 fans at the ballpark.
Upcoming Games
Tomorrow: VS Arizona 2:05 CT- no broadcast (Zambrano)
Saturday: VS Chicago White Sox 2:05 CT- WGN TV, WGN Radio (Silva)
Sunday: (ss) VS CWS 2:05 WGN
VS LAD 2:05- no broadcast (Gorzelanny/Samardzija)
Injury Updates
Angel Guzman and Ted Lilly were both spotted on the field today before the game according to Chicago Cubs Online. Xavier Nady is expected to make his spring debut on Saturday against the White Sox as the DH. Nady is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Not Him Again
I guess it wouldn't be a Chicago Cubs blog post without Milton Bradley. The outspoken former Cub told ESPNChicago.com today that the city of Chicago was at fault for his 2009 struggles. "Two years ago, I played, and I was good. I go to Chicago, not good. I've been good my whole career. So obviously it was something with Chicago, not me." Oh, Milton. The Cubs travel to Seattle this summer for interleague action. To bad the M's don't visit Wrigley.
Baseball is back! I'll keep you posted.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Jim Hendry on Waddle & Silvy
Jim Hendry checked in to talk Cubs on ESPN 1000 today:
- Before Bradley, the Cubs always went after good chemistry guys. The didn't do something totally different this offseason by getting Millar and Byrd, it was more "back to the norm".
- Offensively Milton was the right guy. If he would have hit like he normally did the first couple of months, a lot of the problems would not have occur.
- Hendy said that Bradley got off to a bad start and then it got away from him.
- Jim thinks the Cubs are much better than they were last year. They need a lot of guys to get on track, and Rudy Jaramillo should help with that. The Cubs didn't need a lot of new bodies, they just need guys to come back and play like they did in '07 and '08.
- Having veterans on the bench and in the bullpen is important (hence the Millar and Tracy adds).
- The Cubs are still looking to make another move before or during camp. They need a veteran guy in the 'pen.
- The guys coming in on Non Roster Invites have a good chance to compete for spots.
- The Cubs did like Jermaine Dye. Hendy spoke to Dye and his agent. Jermaine and Nady were two of the Cubs options for 4th outfielder.
- The team is done adding position players. If they make any more moves, it will be to sign pitchers.
- The Ricketts family has given Jim a fair budget.
- More good, young players are coming, and it's time for guys like Marshall, Samardzija, and Marmol to get more of a chance to have bigger roles.
- Hendy thinks that the Ricketts will be great owners for the city of Chicago long after his tenure with the Cubs.
- Alfonso is a good guy, a good teammate, he wants to win, and he does care when he doesn't do well. Having Rudy with him should help him find out what he needs to do to get back on track. The Cubs will be happy if he hits .270-.275 and 30+ home runs.
- Sori's speed game will never return because of the injuries, but he should be able to avoid the long slumps this year.
- The Cubs do not do the promoting for their own prospects. The organization is not looking to over-hype Starlin Castro. He is a very talented guy who has a chance to play well on both sides of the ball. "He'll let us know when he's ready."
- The team has settled 36 arbitration cases in a row, but if it end up going to a trial, that's just part of the business. Neither side likes it, but it is what it is.
- Ted Lilly had a very minor procedure. The Cubs have never been worried about it. If he's 100% the first week of the season, he'll pitch then. If not, they won't rush him. The first few weeks you have some off days, therefore do not need five starters.
Paul Sullivan joined the Danny Mac Show on 670 the Score yesterday:
- The Cubs are going to open up the bottom of the bleachers in the area underneath the cat walk in right field. That will be opened up before the game for corporate events. During the game, it will be open to fans with flat screen TVs, beverage stands, ect.
- They have already begun constructing this at Wrigley.
- The Cubs are looking to get people to stay in the ballpark to spend money after the games, instead of going to the bars and restaurants to spend their money before and after games.
- Sullivan thinks it's worrisome that Wrigley is using many ideas that the Red Sox are using for Fenway Park.
- Sully doesn't like the idea of advertising in the left field bleachers.
- He would like to see the Cubs come up with their own ideas instead of copying everything off of Boston.
- Ricketts is into statistical thinking, but Jim Hendy is definitely old school and loves scouting first.
That's it for now!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Cubs Caravan Info, Bruce Levine Chat, and More
The Cubs Caravan tour is coming up! The stops for each tour have been announced!
Tour 1
Day 1 (Wednesday January 13):
Tour 1
Day 1 (Wednesday January 13):
- Hospital Visits- Northwestern Hospital
- Cubs Care Luncheon (sold out)- Harry Caray's Restaurant
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- De Duprey/Von Humboldt Schools
- P.L.A.Y. Program
Day 2 (Thursday January 14):
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading: Lincoln Library & Museum
- Peoria Chiefs Fan Fest- O'Brien Field/River Plex
Tour 2
Day 1 (Wednesday January 13):
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Alexander Hamilton Elementary
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Uplift Community School
- Cubs Care Luncheon (tickets sold out)- Harry Caray's Restaurant
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Crispus Attucks Elementary School
- P.L.A.Y Program- Northwestern Boys & Girls Club Gary, IN
Day 2 (Thursday January 14):
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- James Blaine Elementary School
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading- Hawthorne Scholastic Academy
- Cubs Spotlight on Reading & P.L.A.Y. Program Waukegan School District
- Private Event at the Naval Training Center- HUSO Illisnois
The participants in the caravan have not yet been announced for this year, but I'll post them on this site as soon as they are. Last year Tour 1 featured Lou Piniella, Bob Brenly, Jim Hendry, Len Kasper, Dave Otto, Oneri Fleita, Matt Sinatro, Lester Strode, Ivan DeJesus, Darwin Barney, Jeff Samardzija, Kevin Hart, Neal Cotts, Micah Hoffpauir, Kevin Gregg, Felix Pie and Joey Gathright; while Randy Bush, Pat Hughes, Cory Provus, Oneri Fleita, Larry Rothschild, Alan Trammell, Mike Quade, Gerald Perry, Brandon Guyer, Kevin Hart, Carlos Marmol, Kevin Gregg, Jeff Samardzija, and Sean Marshall were on Tour 2 a year ago.
That week will be a busy one for the Chicago Cubs because Len Kasper and Bob Brenly will be hosting their 4th annual Len and Bob bash, which will be Thursday night. Len and Bob will "reprise their role as honorary rock stars" this year for a few songs, after taking a year of from performing last year. All proceeds benefit Chicago Cubs Charities.
In addition, the Cubs will have the Cubs Convention which starts on Friday (January 15) and runs through Sunday at the Hilton Chicago. The annual gathering of Cubs fans is the highlight of the offseason for any big Cub fan who attends.
Some more Cubs stuff going around tonight:
- According to Nationals beat write Bill Ladson, Matt Capps will sign with either the Cubs or Washington. He is expected to make his decision tomorrow (Wednesday) night.
- The Royals signed Brian Anderson today. Scott Merkin says the Cubs were also interested in Anderson.
- We've heard the past few days the a four team trade that would have sent Bradley to Tampa Bay fell through before the Cubs shipped Milton to Seattle. The Cubs would have gotten Pat Burrell and Luis Castillo, and the Angels would have sent Gary Matthews Jr. to New York.
- The New York Yankees have sent outfielder Melky Cabrera, who the Cubs had interest in, to the Braves for Javier Vazquez. The Cubs have lost out on yet another outfielder: Granderson, Cameron, and now Cabrera. Marlon Byrd and Rick Ankiel are now their best bets.
- Chip Caray will return to the Braves broadcast booth. The former Cub broadcaster was recently sent packing from TBS.
- Former Cub pitcher Jason Marquis has signed with the Washington Nationals.
- The Cubs Reporter reviews the 2001 Cubs season.
- John Grabow wants Capps on the North Side.
- An MLB.com Q&A with Aramis Ramirez
Carrie Muskat had her Cubs Inbox earlier this week:
- Reed Johnson could still come back to the Cubs, but it depends on who Jim Hendry is able to acquire.
- Kosuke is an excellent right fielder and an average center field, so the Cubs are looking to get stronger up the middle by moving him to right.
- Marlon Byrd and Scott Podsednik are both option for the Cubs, and it may come down to which player fits better on the payroll.
- Starlin Castro is not the far away from the big leagues.
- The Cubs feel that a combination of Mike Fontenot, Jeff Baker, and Andres Blanco will do the job at second base.
- The core of the team that won 97 games is still in place. The Cubs are depending on better performances from Soriano, Fontenot, Zambrano, and Soto.
- Carrie thinks it could be Double-A Tennessee's turn to play at Wrigley Field.
Bruce Levine chatted Chicago Baseball today. Here's what he had to say:
- Johnny Damon is looking for at least $11-12 million per season on a multi year year deal right now. That isn't going to work for the Cubs, but if his demands become more realistic the Cubs may listen.
- Jeff Baker probably won't be the Opening Day starter at second base unless to opponent is a strong left handed pitcher.
- The Cubs rotation is solid. Right now, whether Randy Wells is a 15-game winner or a 9-game winner is the question.
- Look for Starlin Castro mid to late season, depending on whether or not the Cubs are competing.
- The Cubs are looking at rehabs like Kelvim Escbar and Ben Sheets.
- The North Siders may not be able to afford Aroldis Chapman.
- Levine thinks the Cubs have listened on Kerry Wood trade ideas from Cleveland, but "that ship has sailed".
- Look for the Cubs to be very active over the next 10 days (don't we always hear that?). They could sign Capps sometime Wednesday.
- The Cubs feel good about Marlon Byrd, and they are seriously considering signing him. Rudy Jaramillo worked with Byrd in Texas.
- Carlos Silva will be given every chance with the Cubs, including in the bullpen.
- First and foremost the Cubs are looking at CF and the bullpen. After that, they may look for bench help. Reed Johnson could be brought back to solidify the bench.
- Hendry may sign both Capps and Byrd. The organization definitely has enough money for both of them.
- When asked about Carlos Zambrano trade talk, Levine said two word, "It's over."
- Jim Hendry has made mistakes, but it's time to move on.
- The Cubs like Orlando Hudson, but he's not their first priority right now.
- Jaramillo and Soriano worked very well together with the Rangers.
- "Look for Jim Hendry to bee extremely aggressive, even during the holidays." Interesting- maybe we'll get a big Christams Present from Hendry.
- Jim is still looking at some veteran pitchers. A guy like Jose Contreras might be considered.
- Who knows what Lou Piniella will do in Spring Training. Once he sees Starlin Castro's talent, he may end up being our Opening Day short stop. You never know.
- The Cubs would love to trade Kosuke, but there's not much of a market for him.
- Josh Vitters is going to hit. However, he is not a finished product at third base. He may end up at first.
- The Ricketts family really likes Ryne Sandberg, but ideally the GM names the manager. Piniella's contract expires after 2010.
- Bruce expects Geovany Soto to return as a better conditioned athlete when he reports to Mesa in mid-February.
Len Kasper joined the Danny Mac show today on WSCR 670 The Score:
- Len thinks it's possible that Milton Bradley could have a good season in Seattle.
- The "other stuff" besides Bradley's play on the field is what got him sent packing.
- Kasper has no idea how Carlos Silva could help this team.
- Carlos throws strikes, but he gives up a lot of hits.
- Silva will get a chance because Lilly will start the year on the DL.
- Milton was baffled as to why writers wanted to talk to him so much. He didn't understand that he would be in the spotlight no matter what. For whatever reason, Bradley doesn't like the spotlight.
- Len called Bradley an independent guy, a loner, and very smart and sensitive.
- Milton is not a good fit for a big market like Chicago.
- Kasper is 99.9% sure that Carlos Zambrano isn't going anywhere. He's the Cubs number 1 starter, Ted Lilly has gone down, and Big Z had a better ERA in 2009 than '07 and '08.
- Winning the Cy Young may never happen for Zambrano, but if he stays in Chicago his whole career, he could become the greatest Cub starter in terms of longevity and wins since Fergie Jenkins.
- The NL Central is 100% up for grabs. It doesn't take much to get back to the top of this division for the Cubs.
That's it for now, I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always as the Cubs could be making a move just before the holidays!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday AM Quick Hits
Let's start this Monday with some rumors:
- The Cubs are not leaning towards any one outfield candidate according to FOX Sports. Jim Hendry may trade to work out a trade with the Yankees for Brett Gardner or Melky Cabrera.
- Mike Puma of the New York Post tells us that the Yankees have inquired on Carlos Zambrano, but the Cubs' asking price was too high.
- Steven Henson thinks that the Mariners will regret the Bradley trade when it's all said and done.
- Jon Heyman tweets that the Cubs center field options are Byrd, Ankiel, Cabrera, and Podsednik.
- A center fielder and a set-up man are two of the Cubs main needs according to Gordon Wittenmyer. The Cubs could land Matt Capps and Marlon Byrd to fill both those needs.
- The Seattle Times has quoted a handful of Bradley's ex-teammates and coaches who said he's a great guy to work with. Same thing we heard when he came to Chicago.
- Ken Davidoff lists the Cubs, along with the Braves, Rays, and Mets, as possible destinations for Johnny Damon.
- Gordon Wittenmyer said on XM Radio that Marlon Byrd is very likely to sign with the Cubs. Byrd and Capps could be in a Cub uniform in the next couple of days!
Last Friday the guys talked about the Milton Bradley trade on MLB Network's Hot Stove:
- Herold Reynolds thinks this is an interesting move for the Mariners. The talent is there, and Herold, who is a former M, says that if Milton can't get along with the people in Seattle, he's not going to get along with anybody.
- "This is it for Milton Bradley," Reynolds said.
- Mitch Williams said that sooner or later Bradley will have to understand that it's his problem, not everybody else in baseball that has the problem.
- Bradley's batting average is much better in the American League.
- Tom Verducci says that the reason for his better play in the AL is that he has played for two big market teams in the NL and he doesn't fit there. Also, Bradley needs the DH spot to get more playing time because he can't play in the outfield every day.
- Jack Zduriencik, the Mariners General Manager, thinks that Seattle is a great place to be. Seattle was looking for a middle of the lineup fielder. Jack says, "This guy once to win."
- He talked to some of the guys in the M's organization and everyone said that this guy can play, this guy can hit. Just let him do his thing.
- Ken Griffey has a great personality, he's a leader, and he has great leadership skills. Griffey will lead the whole ball club in the right direction.
That's it for now, there's more to come!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
More Trade Reaction
- Be sure to check out our recap of today's "Talkin' Baseball" on ESPN Radio 1000.
- Jim Hendry talked about the trade
- Paul Sullivan took a look at Bradley's rocky moments with the Cubs.
- The Cubs can move on to other problems, but according to Phil Rodgers it appears the budget won't allow the Cubs to make a big move.
- Aroldis Chapman is still drawing interest from the Cubs.
- Carlos Silva is expected to compete for the 5th starter's job or work in long relief according to Gordon Wittenmyer.
- Milton Bradley has said that he "has no interest in speaking about Chicago."
- Bruce Miles' story focused a lot on Bradley's teleconference.
- According to M's writer Greg Johns, the people in Seattle a very happy with the trade to dump Carlos Silva and add Milton.
Other Links and Notes:
- Ryan Dempster and the Cubs helped open the rink at Wrigley today.
- Carrie Muskat says that Chris Brady, the Mesa city manager was told in a meeting with the Cubs on Friday that the city is still a serious candidate for the team's Spring Training site.
- A Q&A with Ryan Theriot
- Al from BCB has more on the Mesa Spring Training situation.
David Kaplan, Dave Van Dyck, and Paul Sullivan talked about the Bradley trade on Chicago Tribune Live yesterday with Jim Hendry:
- Hendry is happy to have the whole Bradley thing behind him.
- It's no secret that Bradley never really achieved on the field, and had issues off the field that weren't tolerable.
- Jim takes full responsibility for the Bradley signing.
- The Cubs had other avenues that they could have taken, but in the long run this is a good deal for them because they got some cash back in the deal.
- He will look at the trade based on not only Silva's performance, but also based on the performance of the player that the Cubs get with the extra money they receive in the deal.
- When Paul congratulated him on the deal, Hendry said thanks but it's not something he thinks of as congratulations, but you have to move on and put it behind you.
- At the meetings, the president of Seattle told Sully that the M's were not looking at Bradley.
- Jim said that he first heard from the Mariners on Bradley 2 days ago.
- This week, two clubs that Hendry had not talked to all off season long (one being Seattle) contacted him this week.
- Van Dyck thinks that the Mariners kept Silva on the DL longer than he needed to be because he wasn't performing well.
- "He's not hurt, he's 30 years old, and maybe he just needs a change of scenery. This is a very good guy, a good team got, and he helps young pitcher," Hendry said of Carlos Silva.
- He'll be a candidate for the rotation and for the middle relief job.
- The Cubs have been keeping track of all their possibilities. They know they would like to move Kosuke back to right field.
- Jim is also looking to add a bullpen piece to go with Grabow and Marmol.
- They would also like to add a quality person or two to their bench, and they need a right handed bat who can play with Kosuke in right field.
- Reed Johnson is a guy that the Cubs will always consider for their baseball guy. Johnson is a great team guy, but he has had a tough time staying healthy.
- Jim certainly wouldn't rule out Reed coming back.
After Jim was off the phone, the guys talked more about the Cubs:
- They were surprised that this deal to Seattle got done as suddenly as it did.
- Van Dyck thinks that when they relized how big of a contract Jason Bay wanted, they decided that Bradley might be a better fit.
- Kap thinks that he will go out to the West Coast and have a great season.
- Dave thinks Ken Griffey Jr. will have a good impact on Bradley.
Todd Hollandsworth joined the guys next:
- The first thing Todd said was, "Christmas came to Chicago early."
- It was a good time to get Bradley out.
- Silva has a little up side and potential in the bullpen.
- Hollandsworth thinks that one person can have a huge impact on the clubhouse. Chicago's relationship with Bradley was not a good one.
- Todd believes that this could possibly be a very good situation for Carlos Silva, who is an innings eater and a ground ball pitcher.
- He thinks Carlos could be a fit in the bullpen.
- Bradley hurt the Cubs in the clubhouse and on the field. He was brought in to be the guy in between Aramis Ramirez and Derrek Lee.
- When Aramis got hurt, Milton needed to step it up. When the Cubs needed him the most, his game really started to turn south. A lot of things played off of that.
- Todd says that there's not a lot of pressure in Texas. The pressure in Chicago got to Bradley.
- Hollandsworth thinks that it was the best situation for both Silva and Bradley to go to a new place.
More CTR Cubs talk:
- Dave Van Dyck thinks that if Bradley would have signed for 1 year $8 million it might have all ended up differently.
- Kaplan thinks Lou Piniella has to come in with a little more edge next year. Sullivan says that they just need to hit.
- Kap thinks the manager has to hold people accountable.
- Van Dyck and Sullivan agree that the hitters not hitting was the key to the season, not Piniella's lack of fire.
- Dave pointed out that the Cubs won 97 games under Lou in 2008.
- Paul says that if you want to blame Piniella for something, blame him for sticking with Kevin Gregg too long and leaving Soriano as the lead-off man for too long.
- Frankie O. from Harry Caray's restaurant called it an awesome day. He said today the people at Harry Caray's were celebrating the trade of Bradley.
- Milton never endeared himself to Cub fans. He was the guy that the fans had a lot of resentment towards. Frankie says that this team needs to move towards winning. Cubs fans want to see what will happen next.
- People want to see if this Cubs team can hit next season.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!
Talkin' Baseball
Bruce Levine and Jonathan Hood talked baseball on ESPN 1000 on this snowy Saturday morning:
- Levine says that the deck was stacked against Milton Bradley from the beginning.
- Hood didn't like Gordon Wittenmyer's article about black players struggling at Wrigley Field right before Milton's first game at Wrigley Field.
- Hate mail is "part of the gig", and most pro athletes get it.
- The bottom like for Bradley was play on the field.
- Hendry has said that the Cubs are going to move on the from this. He stepped up and took the blame for himself. It was his choice to sign Milton.
- Getting $9 million back was the key to the deal, and that money will help him improve the 2010 Chicago Cubs.
- Carlos Silva was a work horse for the Twins, but then things fell apart when he went 4-15 for the M's.
- Even if the Cubs get nothing out of Silva, Levine still likes the deal because the Cubs get some money in the deal to help them go after a player that they do want.
- Levine mentioned to Seattle radio hosts that the Cubs have an aggressive media in Chicago.
- Having lots of media here was too much for Bradley.
- Todd Hunley was the first Cub to be booed out of town.
- The White Sox crowd "is no different" now then the Cubs crowd.
- We have a tougher media who ask tougher questions. The beat reporters are more involved in not just reporting the news, but also giving their opinion.
- Bruce sees a guy who couldn't handle Chicago and failed.
- Jonathan thinks that Seattle could be Milton's last chance, but Bruce doesn't think so because when someone thinks you still have talent a team will still give you a chance.
- Bradley failed in Chicago, and that will always be remembered. He still has a chance to do good in Seattle.
- Jim Hendry talked with the Yankees about a possible trade for Melky Carbera to fill the outfield vacancy.
- Bruce thinks Melky would be a good addition in center field for the Chicago Cubs.
Matt Capps joined the guys to talk baseball:
- Capps loves Chicago. Every time he's been there he's always enjoyed it.
- The people and the atmosphere at Wrigley help make it a great city and a great sports town.
- He has had a lot of success as a set-up man and as a closer.
- At this point Matt wants to win, and he wants to go to a team with an opportunity to win. Whether it's pitching in the 7th, 8th, or 9th; he'd rather be with a winning team.
- If the opportunity and the fit is right, he'd say that the chances of coming to the Cubs are pretty good. There's still a lot of work to be done with Capps' agent and the Cubs; but Matt seems to like Chicago.
- There's just as good a chance as him being a Cub as him going anywhere else.
- He has had some talks with the Cubs.
- The injury he suffered at Wrigley Field did set him back a little bit, and by the end of the year he was over it.
- Pittsburgh is a phenomenal sports towns. When the Steelers and Penguins are playing, there's a great atmosphere. They've had night like that at PNC Park, but the Pirates hasn't had a whole lot of excitement the last few years.
- When the tides to turn and the Pirates get back to winning, that will be a great town to play in.
- Capps admitted that his wife loved the city of Chicago. Matt's wife is very good friends with the wife's of Tom Gorzelanny and John Grabow.
The the guys talked more Cubs:
- Bruce said that it might be between the Cubs and Washington right now for the services of Capps.
- $5.5 million will come to the Cubs this year, and $3.5 will come next year.
- Levine called the Cubs' bench "not very good" right now. Jeff Baker is a great backup, but right now Mike Fontenot is the starting second baseman.
- Hendry has a lot of work to do still, but it's December 19 and there's plenty of time next until the season starts.
- The people in Seattle are calling their GM a miracle worker. The M's fans are ecstatic that Silva is gone, and they are also happy with adding Bradley.
- Cub fans will tell them that there were 7 or 8 guys on the Cubs who had more RBIs than Milton Bradley, who was batting in the middle of the order all year long. Milton finished with just 40 RBIs.
- Seattle loves the idea that Bradley could be a productive player for them.
- Tyler Colvin is not projected as a staring center fielder for the 2010 Chicago Cubs.
- Signing a free agent center fielder is easier for the Cubs because they want to hold on to their good young players at this point.
- Jim Hendry is trying to win next year, and keep his good young players in the organization.
- One of the keys to this winter for the Cubs is how much the rest of the division does.
- Levine says that if the Cubs make a few good moves and have good health they could be right there with the Cardinals in 2010.
- The guys talked about how when someone is working hard in the offseason, it's really doesn't tell fans anything.
That's it for now, much more to come this weekend!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Cubs Close to Signing Marlon Byrd
The Cubs traded Milton Bradley earlier for Carlos Silva (click for more info on trade plus radio recaps), and the Cubs are looking to move forward with their offseason.
Soon after the trade, more Cubs rumors started to fly. According to the Dallas Morning News, the Cubs are close to signing Marlon Byrd. Evan Grant is "looking for confirmation on the rumored deal".
Bruce Levine says this trade could free up money for Matt Capps and Marlon Byrd.
I'll keep you posted!
Soon after the trade, more Cubs rumors started to fly. According to the Dallas Morning News, the Cubs are close to signing Marlon Byrd. Evan Grant is "looking for confirmation on the rumored deal".
Bruce Levine says this trade could free up money for Matt Capps and Marlon Byrd.
I'll keep you posted!
Milton Bradley Traded to Seattle
Updated at 4:30 CT with Radio Recaps (bottom of post)
According to ESPN Chicago.com the Cubs have traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for right handed pitcher Carlos Silva. The Mariners will sent a total of $9 million to the Cubs, and $3M of that amount will be to even out the difference between Silva and Bradley's salary in 2010. The other $6 million "constitutes payroll relief for the Cubs and will be paid out over 2010 and 2011.
Bruce Levine says that the money could be used to help the Cubs add a center fielder so that Kosuke can be moved to right.
The Cubs have watched Carlos Silva in Venezuela the last 7-10 days.
As Paul Sullivan points out, the Cubs will visit Seattle for interleague play June 22-24.
Here is the official press release from Cubs.com.
Info on Carlos Silva:
According to ESPN Chicago.com the Cubs have traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for right handed pitcher Carlos Silva. The Mariners will sent a total of $9 million to the Cubs, and $3M of that amount will be to even out the difference between Silva and Bradley's salary in 2010. The other $6 million "constitutes payroll relief for the Cubs and will be paid out over 2010 and 2011.
Bruce Levine says that the money could be used to help the Cubs add a center fielder so that Kosuke can be moved to right.
The Cubs have watched Carlos Silva in Venezuela the last 7-10 days.
As Paul Sullivan points out, the Cubs will visit Seattle for interleague play June 22-24.
Here is the official press release from Cubs.com.
Info on Carlos Silva:
- 30 years old
- Right Handed Pitcher
- 1-3 with an 8.60 ERA in only 8 games in 2009 due to injuries
- 4-15 with 6.46 ERA in 28 Games in 2008
- Career 60-64 record with an ERA of 4.72
- Signed by the Phillies as an amateur free agent in 1996
- MLB Debut: April 1, 2002
- Played for Phillies (2002-2003), Twins (2004-2007), and Mariners (2008-2009) before being traded to the Cubs
- Currently playing for Caribes in the Venezuelan Winter League. He has an ERA of 8.00 in 4 games there so far, going a total of 9 innings.
Ryan Theriot joined Waddle & Silvy today to talk about the trade & more:
- When asked about his mood after the Bradley trade, Theriot said he's doing better because the sun is out, and he heard a trade rumor that the Cubs are doing their best to get Drew Brees.
- Ryan saying that his memory of the Saints growing up is his dad throwing the remote at the TV by the second or third quarter because they were so bad. Now it's good times in New Orleans.
- When asked if he was avoiding the (Milton Bradley) topic, Theriot said, "What topic?"
- Theriot said that it really is surprising to him that Milton was traded to the Mariners.
- He said that he knows Silva is a bulldog and a good guy to have on your staff.
- Silvy said Silva has a good reputation.
- Ryan isn't worried about the Cubs.
- Talent wise, the sky is the limit for Milton Bradley. "Just my judging last season, it's really a coin flip what you're going to get," Theriot said.
- If things would have been going well on the field, it would have been a totally different story.
- Ryan learned how to stay humble and professional no matter what from Kerry Wood.
- Bradley was a wear on the entire Cubs team. Ryan did everything possible to try to help the situation, but it was just difficult for everybody. Bradley being gone will help the clubs focus and make the Cubs much better.
Bert Blyleven also joined the Waddle & Silvy show today to talk about Carlos Silva:
- Bert was there the day when Milton Bradley tossed the ball into the stands.
- As a Twins broadcaster and fan, he kind of liked Bradley's move to toss the ball into the stands.
- He also likes Jim Hendry's move to trade "his headache".
- Silva went to Seattle and had a miserable year after pitching well in Minnesota.
- Carlos has had some back problems, and in 2009 his shoulder flared up, so he made only 6 starts.
- Silva has good control, a good sinking fastball, and is a battler.
- Blyleven compared him to Carlos Zambrano, except he doesn't walk or strikeout a lot of guys.
- Carlos gives up a lot of home runs. In 2006, he gave up a league leading 30 home runs. When his sinker stays up in the strike zone, it's a very hittable pitch.
- Silva has a chance to turn over a new leaf with the Chicago Cubs. All is not lost.
- He "works his rear end off", has a great work ethic, and is a great guy to have in the clubhouse.
- Carlos is dedicated to the game of baseball. If he's healthy, Blyleven thinks he will be a great fit for the Cubs.
Yesterday (before the trade) Ron Santo talked with Waddle & Silvy:
- Ronny's feeling well. Marc had just had dinner with Andy Masur in San Diego, and Marc was talking with Marc for the first time in awhile.
- As long as he's feeling good, Santo will do as many games as he can broadcasting on WGN Radio next season.
- Ron has been working out every other day all winter.
- When he doesn't travel with the team, he goes nuts at home. He says he's better off being there.
- "I just love working with that man. He's the best," Ron said of his partner Pat Hughes.
- There was no doubt in Ron's mind that he'd be back for the next 3 years. He's been surprised that everyone has been calling him congratulating him on the 3 year contract.
- Broadcasting and watching the Cubs at the ballpark is like therapy for him. When he walks in the ballpark, he feels really good.
- Ron loves the Ricketts family taking over the team because he came up with the Wrigley family. He liked playing for a family owned team because it's more personable.
- Tom's definitely going to bring a winner here. The talent is there and the Cubs are on the right track.
- Ron believed definitely that Bradley would be moved. He was right. Santo added that there will be other moves for the Cubs.
- He thinks we'll see more trades than free agent signings.
- The key for the Cubs returning to postseason play is health. When you have 4 of your main pitchers out for a month, Aramis Ramirez out for 2.5 months, and bad years from Soto, Bradley, and Soriano, that's what happens. Soto has the talent to come back and stay healthy, and Ronny thinks Soriano will be back next year. Santo thinks Kosuke will be moved to right field.
- He likes Theriot in the leadoff spot or the number two spot, but the Cubs are still looking at other leadoff men.
Paul Sullivan joined Boers and Bernstein on 670 the Score today:
- When asked how he was, Sully said "Can you here the champagne?"
- Half the time you could get a good interview with Bradley half the time he was a lunatic.
- Hendry knew what he was getting with Milton Bradley
- Jim took all the blame, and rightfully so.
- Paul says that lots of this is Bradley's fault, but Hendry will have to live with the move to get him the rest of his career.
- Tom Ricketts was paying close attention to the Bradley situation to ensure that Hendry made the right move.
- At one point Jim thought he could get a serviceable player, but he got sick of trying to work out a better trade than Silva.
- The Cubs did not want to take this through Christmas.
- Marlon Byrd could be the next move. Sully is not a big fan of Byrd, he would rather the Cubs make a play at Jermaine Dye and leave Kosuke in center.
- The Cubs lack a power hitter for the 5th spot in the lineup.
- Sullivan says that the Cubs need to look at all options before they move Kosuke to right.
- Byrd is going to want a 3 year deal, he has the same agent of Milton Bradley, and he's getting older.
- Guys don't draw a lot of walks under Rudy Jaramillo. Rudy likes guys to swing.
- It's going to be interesting to watch what Jaramillo can do to reshape the Cubs bats.
- Sullivan says that the window is still open for the Cubs team because the division they play in is going to leave it open.
- Once you win the division and get in the playoffs, who knows.
- If Soriano and Soto have better years, that will help tremendously.
- It's hard to stay how much the Bradley stuff really affected the Cubs' play on the field.
- There were a hand full of people who didn't speak to Milton the entire season according to Sullivan.
- Once Hendry told the team the news that Bradley was going to be suspended for the last two weeks of the season, the team celebrated and cheered in the clubhouse.
Still more to come, expect this post to be updated once again.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Capps & Calero on the Cubs Radar
We've added another new poll to our blog! Be sure to vote on the right sidebar on the blog's mainpage. Our "Cubs All Decade Team" voting continues, as we move on the hot corner, third base. Please vote only once, and consider the players' contributions as a Chicago Cub in the 2000s only as always. If there's anyone you'd like to vote for that was not listed as a choice, email me at cubsblogmailbag@aol.com.
Check out my updated early roster predictions.
Now for today's Cubs news and notes:
Check out my updated early roster predictions.
Now for today's Cubs news and notes:
- Paul Sullivan says the Cubs are interested in pitcher Matt Capps, who was non-tendered by the Pirates yesterday. The Cubs are not looking for a closer, but Capps could fill the right handed veteran set-up man role.
- There's no news on the Milton Bradley front this weekend. Rays VP Andrew Friedman says there's a chance that this is the team the Rays are going to Spring Training with, according to Sully.
- Kiki Calero, free agent right hander, could also be on the Cubs' radar. He was 2-2 with a 1.95 ERA with the Marlins in 2009.
- Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus gives Mike Parisi, who was drafted in the Rule 5, an 18-1 chance of staying with the Cubs.
I think that Capps and Calero would both be worth it. The bullpen needs a little improvement, and at this point so does the bench. We'll see what the Cubs do to address those areas... according to many sources the next 10 days leading up to Christmas will be full of Cubs news. Let's hope so!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Cotts Non-Tendered, Cubs on MLB Network, and Former Cubs returns
Update 10pm CT: There will be a Cubs special program tomorrow at 4:30 on CSN Chicago called "Island Dreaming With the Cubs". The special will be on the Cubs in the Dominican Republic including Carlos Marmol and Aramis Ramirez.
As expected, the Cubs have offered contacts to Carlos Marmol, Ryan Theriot, Jeff Baker, Angel Guzman, Sean Marshall, Koyie Hill, Tom Gorzelanny, and Mike Fontenot. The only player that they did not make an offer to is lefty Neal Cotts. Paul Sullivan points out that with John Grabow signed with the Cubs, it makes more sense for Cotts to go elsewhere. Cotts could still return to the Cubs, but he is a free agent.
The Marlins have non-tender pitcher Alfredo Amezaga, and the Cubs could be interested in adding him.
The A's non tendered Jack Cust, and his bat could be a fit for the Cubs.
On MLB Network's Hot Stove yesterday, the Cubs were listed as a "seller" this winter. Tom Verducci says "it's all about Milton Bradley". Mitch Williams said that "they've got to get that guy moved!"
Also on Hot Stove, the Cubs season was recapped in their "30 Clubs, 30 Recaps". Derrrek Lee says that the Cubs have a good team, and he expects the Cubs to make some good moves this winter.
The Cubs Shopping List from MLB Network:
1. Move Milton
2. Center Fielder
3. Bullpen Arm
Herold Reynolds says the Cubs have a long way to go still. He also describe them as "in trouble" pointing out that they are in a worse situation than they were last year at this time. Reynolds doesn't think the Cubs would have been good in 2009 even if they were healthy. Tom says that missing a center fielder is a pretty big thing for a team that hopes to contend. Verducci called the Cubs too right handed. Mitch said that when the main thing on your shopping list is a return (trading Bradley) there's something wrong. Williams says that the Cubs have two terrific set up guys in Marmol and Gregg, but neither one of them is a closer. Tom disagrees letting Mitch know that the Cubs are committed to Marmol. Mitch was critical of Carlos' mechanics and inconsistency, but The Wild Thing did admit that he was throwing stones from a glass house.
By the way, the Cubs will see some former Cubs in Spring Training and during the regular season-
As expected, the Cubs have offered contacts to Carlos Marmol, Ryan Theriot, Jeff Baker, Angel Guzman, Sean Marshall, Koyie Hill, Tom Gorzelanny, and Mike Fontenot. The only player that they did not make an offer to is lefty Neal Cotts. Paul Sullivan points out that with John Grabow signed with the Cubs, it makes more sense for Cotts to go elsewhere. Cotts could still return to the Cubs, but he is a free agent.
The Marlins have non-tender pitcher Alfredo Amezaga, and the Cubs could be interested in adding him.
The A's non tendered Jack Cust, and his bat could be a fit for the Cubs.
On MLB Network's Hot Stove yesterday, the Cubs were listed as a "seller" this winter. Tom Verducci says "it's all about Milton Bradley". Mitch Williams said that "they've got to get that guy moved!"
Also on Hot Stove, the Cubs season was recapped in their "30 Clubs, 30 Recaps". Derrrek Lee says that the Cubs have a good team, and he expects the Cubs to make some good moves this winter.
The Cubs Shopping List from MLB Network:
1. Move Milton
2. Center Fielder
3. Bullpen Arm
Herold Reynolds says the Cubs have a long way to go still. He also describe them as "in trouble" pointing out that they are in a worse situation than they were last year at this time. Reynolds doesn't think the Cubs would have been good in 2009 even if they were healthy. Tom says that missing a center fielder is a pretty big thing for a team that hopes to contend. Verducci called the Cubs too right handed. Mitch said that when the main thing on your shopping list is a return (trading Bradley) there's something wrong. Williams says that the Cubs have two terrific set up guys in Marmol and Gregg, but neither one of them is a closer. Tom disagrees letting Mitch know that the Cubs are committed to Marmol. Mitch was critical of Carlos' mechanics and inconsistency, but The Wild Thing did admit that he was throwing stones from a glass house.
By the way, the Cubs will see some former Cubs in Spring Training and during the regular season-
- March 4 VS Oakland in Mesa, first game of Spring Training, Jake Fox and Aaron Miles
- March 5 VS Arizona in Mesa, Aaron Heilman
- March 8 @Oakland in Phoenix
- March 16 VS Texas in Mesa (Rich Harden)
- March 20 @Oakland in Phoenix
- March 24 @Texas in Surprise
- March 25 @Arizona in Tuscan
- March 26 VS Oakland in Mesa
- April 2 @Arizona Spring Training @Chase Field
- April 3 @ Arizona Spring Training @Chase Field
Regular season:
- VS Arizona (Aaron Heilman): April 29-May 2, @Arizona June 5-7
- VS Oakland, Interleague play (Jake Fox and Aaron Miles) June 15-17
- @Texas, Interleague play, (Rich Harden) May 21-23
We'll look forward to seeing the guys that we dumped so far this offseason when they play the Cubs next year!
That's it for now, I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.
Weekend Update: The Latest on Bradley& More
Cubs Talk on CSN's Chicago Tribune Live yesterday:
- Phil Rodgers doesn't think there's a real landing place for Milton.
- Rodgers says that the Yankees got a great player in Granderson.
- White Sox writer Mark Gonzales feels that Curtis Granderson is the good player, but he has an astrick because he can't hit lefties.
- Gonzales says the Cubs have bigger problems than needing a center fielder.
Dave Van Dyck talked Cubs on the Mully and Hanley show on 670 the score yesterday:
- Van Dyck and the guys joked about the lack of a Bradley trade.
- Dave thinks that at some point the Cubs have to give him away.
- If the Cubs eat everything, the Rays will take him.
- Right now the Cubs are trying wait and see where other outfielder like Bay and Holliday end up, and then a team may be left out once the dominoes for outfielders have started to fall.
- The later you wait, the worse off it is, because if the Cubs can't dump Burrell after getting him from Tampa, the Cubs could end up $21 million.
- Dave said "yes and no" when he was asked if it's fair to rip the Ricketts family's tenure so far.
- There's teams out there that would take him. He will not be released or return to the team.
More Notes:
- Ryan Dempster is trying to sell his Lake View mansion according to the Tribune.
- Paul Sullivan says that the Cubs may have lost their best possible trade partner for Bradley, because the Rays have signed Rafael Soriano for $7.25 million.
- The Cubs may be forced to pay the "bulk" of Bradley's $13M salary in 2011.
- Right now, Sully says, the Ricketts Family is more focused on remodeling Wrigley Field. Ryan Dempster said that an improvement to the trophy room for a World Series trophy would be number 1 on his list in remodeling the ballpark.
- Thanks to Phil Rodgers for this quote: "You really don't have to follow him all that closely to know what a dominant upper-rotation starter he has the ability to be and has been in his career. Hopefully not just this year but a majority of his career is spent in Texas. ... We know what he's capable of. He can go in there and flat shut down an opposing lineup." -- Rangers GM Jon Daniels on Rich Harden, the former Cub who signed for one year and an option.
- Nick Gandy, a communications director for the Florida Sports Foundation, thinks that teams in the Midwest and Northeast should train in Florida.
- MLB.com's Q&A with Sean Marshall.
- How eager do fans want to see Bradley go? Someone on Twitter urged people to send $3 to "No More Milton Bradley" to pay for his salary to help move him, and listed an address. That address was for Wrigley Field. No, it wasn't Jim Hendry who posted the tweet.
That's it for now, more later with the non-tender deadline tonight...
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