I guess it should be considered a vote of no confidence.
The Sox traded Edgar "the Error" Renteria to the Braves last week, and had to assume millions in salary, signing bonuses and trade bonuses to make it happen. When it was all said and done, the Sox paid $23 million for exactly one year of Renteria's services. The Braves, meanwhile, get a former All Star, and two-time Gold Glove winner, for just $18 million over three years. Yeah, that 's just $6 million per season -- well below market value for front-line shortstops. Consider this: the Braves previous shortstop, Rafael Furcal, just signed a three-year, $39 million deal with the Dodgers.
Well, maybe Sox fans don't consider Renteria a front-line shortstop anymore after witnessing his Major League leading 30 error nightmare in Boston this season. And it seems that Red Sox management didn't either. The club clearly expected much more than the .276 average, 8 HR, 70 RBI, and 100 strike outs they got for their $40 million investment.
But put the errors aside -- if you can manage to do that -- and Renteria's numbers weren't all that bad. The only truly horrible number was his exorbitant price tag. If Renteria had made, say, $5 million last season, then his 172 hits, 100 runs, and 36 doubles (second on the team behind Ortiz's 40) would have seemed like a great deal. But since he made twice that, there were much higher expectations of him as a result. So, after not meeting those expectations he was unceremoniously ushered out of town, and now the Braves appear to have gotten themselves quite a bargain in return.
The deal was clearly a vote of no confidence in Renteria. However it's rationalized -- he's old, he couldn't handle AL pitching, he couldn't handle the pressure and scrutiny of the Boston media and fans -- no one could justify the Sox paying Renteria that much money to play in Boston for what they got in return. The problem is that the Sox are paying him millions not to play in Boston, and they don't even have a replacement for him yet. They entered the off season needing a first baseman and a third baseman, and now, with the conclusion of the Winter Meetings, they still need a first baseman, plus a shortstop to boot. Well, hopefully not to boot -- Renteria did enough of that. So it's hard to tell whether this has been a productive off season, or not. Some questions may have been answered, but an equal number have been raised.
But the trade of Renteria could also be viewed as a vote of no confidence in Theo Epstein. Renteria was his boy, his grand off season acquisition just a year ago. And his other big signing after the 2004 campaign - Matt Clement - is another guy who arrived with a lot hype, but who seriously underperformed and is also grossly overpaid.
The Sox have made it clear to anyone who's listening that Clement, and the $19 million that is owed to him over the next two years, is very available. That's the thing with three and four year deals; you don't get much time to prove yourself and there's no room for "off years." One bad year is a quarter to a third of the contract, and that's just not acceptable. So the Sox want to cut bait and run.
But just think about what they're willing to accept in return. It seems kind of desperate. The Sox took Andy Marte who is entirely unproven at the big league level -- unless of course you count his dismal performance when he was called up to Atlanta this year. Undoubtedly, Marte could realize his great potential and develop into a future star for the Sox, but that isn't guaranteed. He'll likely start the year at Pawtucket while the Sox are paying some of Renteria's salary to help the Braves compete for another NL East title.
And now, while planning for the possible departure of Johnny Damon, the Red Sox have apparently discussed a deal with the Mariners that would send Clement to Seattle for 24-year-old center fielder Jeremy Reed. Yes, that's right, the great Jeremy Reed who hit .254 with 3 homers, 45 RBIs, and a .322 on-base percentage last season. Woo hoo! Let's try to contain ourselves. In truth, that's nothing but a contract dump -- unless the Sox get screwed again and have to ante up some of Clement's salary in order to get Seattle to take him.
What's going on here? Theo's two big free agent pick-ups being kicked to the curb after just one year? Wow. That hardly seems like a ringing endorsement of Theo's strategy - what ever that was. But the Sox could also be seen as quite sensibly cutting their losses and moving on. And perhaps Theo has endorsed, or even orchestrated, these moves from behind the scenes. Maybe he realizes his mistakes and wants to put them behind him, and the team. After all, there's no getting around the fact that Clement faltered miserably in the season's second half (5.72 ERA), and imploded in his only playoff start. In that game he allowed more earned runs than any Sox pitcher in postseason history. Ouch.
So are these good moves, or desperate moves? At this point it's hard to say, but I'm leaning toward desperate. Perhaps Marte will pan out, and we may even get a chance to find out next year. But Jeremy Reed in return for Matt Clement? Give me a break. Lyle Overbay, a proven commodity, would have been a reasonable return if the Brewers had been willing to pick up all of Clement's remaining salary. But unfortunately they weren't. If the Sox are willing to accept so little in return for a starting pitcher -- and no matter how bad Clement was, starting pitching is still hard to come by -- then someone else better be picking up the tab on what remains of his contract.
If that happens, and the Sox are able to go out and land a better starting pitcher -- like AL ERA king Kevin Milwood -- who would improve their rotation, then I'm all for it. Otherwise, why get screwed twice? Once for overpaying these guys in the first place, and a second time for paying them to play for someone else while getting no proven commodities in return.
The problem with Renteria and Clement wasn't their respective performances, it's how little return the Red Sox got for their investments. The least the Sox can do now is try to get something decent in return for Clement to make up for his losses -- both literal and figurative. Yes, pun intended.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Thursday, December 08, 2005
NOMAR ONCE MORE?
For the first time this off-season, a member of the Red Sox organization spoke publicly about the possibility of re-signing one of the most popular players in recent Sox history. Sox senior advisor Bill Lajoie said today that the team has considered bringing back Nomar Garciaparra -- but not as a shortstop.
The question is, then, for what position?
The question is, then, for what position?
TEJADA IN RED SOX?
The Sox are need of a shortstop, and coincidentally, Miguel Tejada wants out of Baltimore. A match made in heaven?
Speaking from the Dominican Republic today, the Orioles shortstop said he's unhappy with the team's direction and wants to be traded.
"I've been with the Orioles for two years and things haven't gone in the direction that we were expecting, so I think the best thing will be a change of scenery," Tejada said during a telephone interview in his native country.
The demonstrative, clubhouse leader, who won the 2002 AL MVP with Oakland, signed a $72 million, six-year contract with the Baltimore before the 2004 season.
A durable gamer, Tejada played in all 162 contests this year, hitting .304 with 26 home runs and 98 RBI. But the underperforming Orioles finished 21 games behind the Yankees and Red Sox in the AL East.
"I've done many things with this team and I haven't seen results, and the other teams are getting stronger while the Orioles have not made any signings to strengthen the club," said Tejada.
Most tantalizingly, Tejada specifically mentioned the possibility of coming to Boston to play for the Sox.
The Sox will likely examine any and all possibilities for obtaining Tejada, but trading players of his caliber within a division is uncommon. The Orioles would hate to see him come back to haunt them 19 times a year.
But there's always hope. He'd certainly look good in Red Sox.
Speaking from the Dominican Republic today, the Orioles shortstop said he's unhappy with the team's direction and wants to be traded.
"I've been with the Orioles for two years and things haven't gone in the direction that we were expecting, so I think the best thing will be a change of scenery," Tejada said during a telephone interview in his native country.
The demonstrative, clubhouse leader, who won the 2002 AL MVP with Oakland, signed a $72 million, six-year contract with the Baltimore before the 2004 season.
A durable gamer, Tejada played in all 162 contests this year, hitting .304 with 26 home runs and 98 RBI. But the underperforming Orioles finished 21 games behind the Yankees and Red Sox in the AL East.
"I've done many things with this team and I haven't seen results, and the other teams are getting stronger while the Orioles have not made any signings to strengthen the club," said Tejada.
Most tantalizingly, Tejada specifically mentioned the possibility of coming to Boston to play for the Sox.
The Sox will likely examine any and all possibilities for obtaining Tejada, but trading players of his caliber within a division is uncommon. The Orioles would hate to see him come back to haunt them 19 times a year.
But there's always hope. He'd certainly look good in Red Sox.
YOU WANT CHANGE? YOU GOT IT!
The Red Sox continued remaking their infield today, a day after acquiring second baseman Mark Loretta from the Padres, and just weeks after picking up third baseman Mike Lowell from Florida.
Yes, the Sox finally pulled the trigger on the deal that sends Error Renteria to Atlanta, for 22-year-old Andy Marte, one of the Braves’ top prospects the last few years. With Chipper Jones having a contractual agreement to man third base for the Braves for the foreseeable future, Marte was deemed expendable by Atlanta. One Braves executive called him "probably the best player we've ever traded."
Though he'll likely begin the year in Triple A, the Red Sox hope to have Marte on the big league roster at some point next season. Because he's rated as an average defensive third baseman, the Sox expect to try him out at first base at Pawtuckett. Marte's strength is as a run producer, where he has considerable upside.
Some had speculated that the Sox might turn around and flip Marte in another deal, perhaps to the Devil Rays for Julio Lugo, but that is not the case. Red Sox senior adviser Bill Lajoie was quick to dispel that rumor.
"We want to keep that player. ... He's ready to have a good year," said Lajoie. "He would be one of the five players you would want to start a ballclub with."
Lajoie said he expected to see Marte play for the Red Sox this year -- either in the outfield or first base -- because of his great offensive potential. He projects Marte as a 25-30 home run player in the near future. Last season, Marte batted .275 with 20 homers and 74 RBIs in 109 games in Triple-A, and .140 with no homers and four RBIs in 24 games with the Braves. So he's yet to prove that he can match his minor league numbers at the big league level.
Unfortunately, the Red Sox agreed to pay $11 million of the remaining $32 million left on Renteria’s contract ($29 million over three years plus a $3 million buyout -- his deal has a club option for 2009). It's strange that the Sox capitulated to the Braves demand considering that owner John Henry has gone on the record as being opposed to paying former Red Sox to play for other teams. Furthermore, the Sox reportedly lost out on Milwaukee first baseman Lyle Overbay because they would not pick up enough of the $19 million that remains on Matt Clement’s contract over the next two seasons.
The upside to all these moves is that the Sox have thus far managed to pull off all their acquisitions without trading a single everyday player. Instead, they gave up some minor league prospects -- meaning players with "potential" but no evidence of Major League effectiveness -- and a back-up catcher, Doug Mirabelli.
The 35-year-old Mirabelli is a career .241 hitter, but in 4 1/2 years with the Sox he hit just .228. However Mirabelli's strength is his defensive prowess, particularly his ability to catch knuckleballer Tim Wakefield. The two had developed a strong working relationship in their years together. Now that needs to be replaced.
The Sox will weigh Wakefield’s input before signing a new backup catcher. The most likely scenario would be a free agent, such as Ken Huckaby, who played for Toronto last season and was the MVP on the 2001 silver-medal Team USA managed by Terry Francona. The Sox will also consider Kelly Shoppach for the role but the young backstop may well be part of a future trade. He's got to be given a chance to prove his big league readiness somewhere, or else his stock will drop. Apparently Sox special assistant Craig Shipley thinks that time is now.
“When you talk about Kelly Shoppach, you’re talking about someone with 20-plus home runs the last two years in Triple-A,” Shipley said. “He’s a good commodity to have and he’s ready for the big leagues.”
There is, however, some potential downside. Though the Sox have addressed some urgent needs in the starting rotation, bullpen, plus second and third bases, they still have questions remaining at first and short -- not to mention center field becasue Johnny Damon remains unsigned. The team that takes the field next April will barely resemble the one that ended this past season, much less the one that won the World Series in 2004. For starters, their entire infield will have been remade - all four positions. That's a remarkable off season transformation, and the Sox can only hope that the new players find a chemistry amongst them that makes all of this work out for the best.
Though Lowell and Loretta have great histories, Lowell is coming off a career-worst season, and Loretta will be returning from thumb surgery. The Sox could be playing Kevin Youkilis at first, a position at which he's never been a regular. In fact, Youkilis has yet to play a full season as a starter at any position. And the Sox are at least considering the idea of platooning him and Marte at first. You'd have to think that the Sox still have their eye on a veteran first baseman with power, but they're hard to come by this year. Got any ideas? The Rangers' Adrian Gonzalez, who's name has come up in trade talks, has never played a full season in the bigs either, and as such is still an unproven talent himself.
David Wells is sure to be dealt, and either Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo could join him on the way out the door.
And then there's the outfield. The Damon situation remains fluid, though I believe the Sox will eventually resign him. Manny's wife wants him out of Boston -- though I think that he too will be back next season -- and Trot Nixon's name keeps coming up in trade rumors. If any of the three change uniforms that would just add to the incredible amount of change already begun. As it stands, half the everyday position players will be newcomers when the season gets underway in April.
Let's hope that the new guys can help rekindle some of the old magic and spark from 2004. And let's also hope that there's enough of the core players left from that Championship season to show them how.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Yes, the Sox finally pulled the trigger on the deal that sends Error Renteria to Atlanta, for 22-year-old Andy Marte, one of the Braves’ top prospects the last few years. With Chipper Jones having a contractual agreement to man third base for the Braves for the foreseeable future, Marte was deemed expendable by Atlanta. One Braves executive called him "probably the best player we've ever traded."
Though he'll likely begin the year in Triple A, the Red Sox hope to have Marte on the big league roster at some point next season. Because he's rated as an average defensive third baseman, the Sox expect to try him out at first base at Pawtuckett. Marte's strength is as a run producer, where he has considerable upside.
Some had speculated that the Sox might turn around and flip Marte in another deal, perhaps to the Devil Rays for Julio Lugo, but that is not the case. Red Sox senior adviser Bill Lajoie was quick to dispel that rumor.
"We want to keep that player. ... He's ready to have a good year," said Lajoie. "He would be one of the five players you would want to start a ballclub with."
Lajoie said he expected to see Marte play for the Red Sox this year -- either in the outfield or first base -- because of his great offensive potential. He projects Marte as a 25-30 home run player in the near future. Last season, Marte batted .275 with 20 homers and 74 RBIs in 109 games in Triple-A, and .140 with no homers and four RBIs in 24 games with the Braves. So he's yet to prove that he can match his minor league numbers at the big league level.
Unfortunately, the Red Sox agreed to pay $11 million of the remaining $32 million left on Renteria’s contract ($29 million over three years plus a $3 million buyout -- his deal has a club option for 2009). It's strange that the Sox capitulated to the Braves demand considering that owner John Henry has gone on the record as being opposed to paying former Red Sox to play for other teams. Furthermore, the Sox reportedly lost out on Milwaukee first baseman Lyle Overbay because they would not pick up enough of the $19 million that remains on Matt Clement’s contract over the next two seasons.
The upside to all these moves is that the Sox have thus far managed to pull off all their acquisitions without trading a single everyday player. Instead, they gave up some minor league prospects -- meaning players with "potential" but no evidence of Major League effectiveness -- and a back-up catcher, Doug Mirabelli.
The 35-year-old Mirabelli is a career .241 hitter, but in 4 1/2 years with the Sox he hit just .228. However Mirabelli's strength is his defensive prowess, particularly his ability to catch knuckleballer Tim Wakefield. The two had developed a strong working relationship in their years together. Now that needs to be replaced.
The Sox will weigh Wakefield’s input before signing a new backup catcher. The most likely scenario would be a free agent, such as Ken Huckaby, who played for Toronto last season and was the MVP on the 2001 silver-medal Team USA managed by Terry Francona. The Sox will also consider Kelly Shoppach for the role but the young backstop may well be part of a future trade. He's got to be given a chance to prove his big league readiness somewhere, or else his stock will drop. Apparently Sox special assistant Craig Shipley thinks that time is now.
“When you talk about Kelly Shoppach, you’re talking about someone with 20-plus home runs the last two years in Triple-A,” Shipley said. “He’s a good commodity to have and he’s ready for the big leagues.”
There is, however, some potential downside. Though the Sox have addressed some urgent needs in the starting rotation, bullpen, plus second and third bases, they still have questions remaining at first and short -- not to mention center field becasue Johnny Damon remains unsigned. The team that takes the field next April will barely resemble the one that ended this past season, much less the one that won the World Series in 2004. For starters, their entire infield will have been remade - all four positions. That's a remarkable off season transformation, and the Sox can only hope that the new players find a chemistry amongst them that makes all of this work out for the best.
Though Lowell and Loretta have great histories, Lowell is coming off a career-worst season, and Loretta will be returning from thumb surgery. The Sox could be playing Kevin Youkilis at first, a position at which he's never been a regular. In fact, Youkilis has yet to play a full season as a starter at any position. And the Sox are at least considering the idea of platooning him and Marte at first. You'd have to think that the Sox still have their eye on a veteran first baseman with power, but they're hard to come by this year. Got any ideas? The Rangers' Adrian Gonzalez, who's name has come up in trade talks, has never played a full season in the bigs either, and as such is still an unproven talent himself.
David Wells is sure to be dealt, and either Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo could join him on the way out the door.
And then there's the outfield. The Damon situation remains fluid, though I believe the Sox will eventually resign him. Manny's wife wants him out of Boston -- though I think that he too will be back next season -- and Trot Nixon's name keeps coming up in trade rumors. If any of the three change uniforms that would just add to the incredible amount of change already begun. As it stands, half the everyday position players will be newcomers when the season gets underway in April.
Let's hope that the new guys can help rekindle some of the old magic and spark from 2004. And let's also hope that there's enough of the core players left from that Championship season to show them how.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
GIRL TROUBLE SAID TO FUEL MANNY'S TRADE WISHSES
First Tuesday's Providence Journal reported, "it appears agent Greg Genske has communicated to management that Ramirez is so intent on being dealt that he will accept a trade almost anywhere."
Then Gordon Edes reported that Manny's agents, Genske and Gene Mato, "threw out is the possibility that Manny's contract will be extended, or restructured, to make a deal happen."
With Manny having given his reps a mandate to do whatever they can to get him out of town, one has to ask, why? What would make Manny so desperate to get out of Boston?
In a recent interview, David Ortiz said that there were private issues that Manny and his wife were dealing with that were driving his determination to leave.
The question is, what kind of issues?
A source with knowledge of the situation tells me that Manny's considerable desire to get out of Boston stems from some serious girl trouble. Though the source wouldn't elaborate, it seems that Manny may have been having an affair and his wife found out. Now she wants him out of Beantown and away from his paramour.
Of course neither the Red Sox nor Manny Ramirez - or his representatives - will ever confirm this, but it gives his trade demand perspective and makes this issue a whole lot clearer.
Then Gordon Edes reported that Manny's agents, Genske and Gene Mato, "threw out is the possibility that Manny's contract will be extended, or restructured, to make a deal happen."
With Manny having given his reps a mandate to do whatever they can to get him out of town, one has to ask, why? What would make Manny so desperate to get out of Boston?
In a recent interview, David Ortiz said that there were private issues that Manny and his wife were dealing with that were driving his determination to leave.
The question is, what kind of issues?
A source with knowledge of the situation tells me that Manny's considerable desire to get out of Boston stems from some serious girl trouble. Though the source wouldn't elaborate, it seems that Manny may have been having an affair and his wife found out. Now she wants him out of Beantown and away from his paramour.
Of course neither the Red Sox nor Manny Ramirez - or his representatives - will ever confirm this, but it gives his trade demand perspective and makes this issue a whole lot clearer.
CLEMENT & NIXON ON THE MOVE?
The word in Dallas is that Sox starter Matt Clement is eminently available. One intriguing rumor has him going to Philadelphia, along with Trot Nixon, in exchange for Bobby Abreu. However, the Philadelphia Enquirer reports that the Phillies are "cool on Clement." Another rumor, which has been floating around for at least a week, has Clement headed to Milwaukee for first baseman Lyle Overbay. Stay tuned...things could develop rapidly.
According to the Hartford Courant, the Sox have also spoken to the Pirates about dealing Nixon for one of two pitchers, either Kip Wells or Mark Redman. That could mean that another deal for a replacement right fielder is imminent, or at least necessary. It's hard to imagine the Sox letting Adam Stern inherit that position at this point. Stern showed excellent defensive prowess in his few opportunities in right last season, but he struggled at the plate. He'll also be returning from off-season shoulder surgery.
Most recently, the Sox spoke with Seattle about a trade involving Nixon, who are interested in the Sox longest tenured position player. Nixon is the only everyday player to have come up through the Sox minor league system. There is no word on what that would mean for the Mariners' All Star right fielder, Ichiro Suzuki. Ichiro has expressed frustration with playing for a continually losing franchise, but the Mariners have said he is not on the trading block. In some ways it's hard to imagine the M's trading Ichiro, but then again, in the past they traded Ken Griffey Jr,. Alex Rodriguez, and Randy Johnson in succession. I guess that would indicate that no one is truly untouchable in Seattle.
According to the Hartford Courant, the Sox have also spoken to the Pirates about dealing Nixon for one of two pitchers, either Kip Wells or Mark Redman. That could mean that another deal for a replacement right fielder is imminent, or at least necessary. It's hard to imagine the Sox letting Adam Stern inherit that position at this point. Stern showed excellent defensive prowess in his few opportunities in right last season, but he struggled at the plate. He'll also be returning from off-season shoulder surgery.
Most recently, the Sox spoke with Seattle about a trade involving Nixon, who are interested in the Sox longest tenured position player. Nixon is the only everyday player to have come up through the Sox minor league system. There is no word on what that would mean for the Mariners' All Star right fielder, Ichiro Suzuki. Ichiro has expressed frustration with playing for a continually losing franchise, but the Mariners have said he is not on the trading block. In some ways it's hard to imagine the M's trading Ichiro, but then again, in the past they traded Ken Griffey Jr,. Alex Rodriguez, and Randy Johnson in succession. I guess that would indicate that no one is truly untouchable in Seattle.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
CASEY & OLERUD REMOVED FROM SOX LIST
The Red Sox can remove first baseman Sean Casey from their wish list because the Reds have dealt him to the Pittsburgh Pirates for left-hander Dave Williams.
Casey, who grew up in a Pittsburgh suburb, will be going back home. In making the move, the Reds dumped $8.5 million in salary for next season.
At first glance, the Sox would seem to have lost out on a fine opportunity - Casey is a lifetime .305 hitter - but they had conversations with the Reds and must have decided to move in a different direction. You'd have to figure that the Red Sox could have made the Reds a better offer than Williams, who finished the season with a losing 10-11 record, a 4.41 ERA, and struck out just 88 batters in 138 2/3 innings. Hardly the kind of return that a trade of Casey, a three-time All-Star, would seem to warrant.
So the Sox will turn their attention to Lyle Overbay, Adrian Gonzalez, or some other first baseman -- likely a left handed hitter.
But John Olerud will no longer be an option either. The Red Sox announced today that Olerud is retiring after 16 Major League seasons.
The 37-year-old was a two-time All-Star ('93 & '01) a three-time Gold Glove winner ('00, '02 and '03) and won the AL batting title in 1993 with a .363 average that helped Toronto win its second consecutive World Series title.
A .295 career hitter with 255 home runs and 1,230 RBI in 2,234 games, Olerud played for Toronto (1989-96), the New York Mets (1997-99), Seattle (2000-04) and the Yankees (2004) before coming to Boston last season.
After having surgery last November to repair torn ligaments in his foot, he signed a minor league deal with the Red Sox on May 1 and went from extended spring training to a minor-league rehab. In 87 games of limited action, he batted .289 and played excellent defense for the Sox.
Widely regarded as a true class act, wherever Olerud played his teammates considered to be him one of the nicest guys in the game. His quiet, steady presence will surely be missed in the Sox clubhouse next season.
Casey, who grew up in a Pittsburgh suburb, will be going back home. In making the move, the Reds dumped $8.5 million in salary for next season.
At first glance, the Sox would seem to have lost out on a fine opportunity - Casey is a lifetime .305 hitter - but they had conversations with the Reds and must have decided to move in a different direction. You'd have to figure that the Red Sox could have made the Reds a better offer than Williams, who finished the season with a losing 10-11 record, a 4.41 ERA, and struck out just 88 batters in 138 2/3 innings. Hardly the kind of return that a trade of Casey, a three-time All-Star, would seem to warrant.
So the Sox will turn their attention to Lyle Overbay, Adrian Gonzalez, or some other first baseman -- likely a left handed hitter.
But John Olerud will no longer be an option either. The Red Sox announced today that Olerud is retiring after 16 Major League seasons.
The 37-year-old was a two-time All-Star ('93 & '01) a three-time Gold Glove winner ('00, '02 and '03) and won the AL batting title in 1993 with a .363 average that helped Toronto win its second consecutive World Series title.
A .295 career hitter with 255 home runs and 1,230 RBI in 2,234 games, Olerud played for Toronto (1989-96), the New York Mets (1997-99), Seattle (2000-04) and the Yankees (2004) before coming to Boston last season.
After having surgery last November to repair torn ligaments in his foot, he signed a minor league deal with the Red Sox on May 1 and went from extended spring training to a minor-league rehab. In 87 games of limited action, he batted .289 and played excellent defense for the Sox.
Widely regarded as a true class act, wherever Olerud played his teammates considered to be him one of the nicest guys in the game. His quiet, steady presence will surely be missed in the Sox clubhouse next season.
HOT STOVE HEATING UP
The biggest question in Red Sox Nation this week is if the Sox will really trade All Star Manny Ramirez, and if they can ever possibly get equal value in return. The Sox aren't a team of the future and aren't in a rebuilding phase. They need players that can help them win next year, as they are otherwise constructed to do. Prospects won't help in 2006.
Although he batted under .300 for the first time since 1998, Ramirez nevertheless finished third in the American League with 45 home runs and tied for second with 144 RBI. After batting .358 with runners in scoring position, Manny cemented his reputation as a nearly-unstoppable force in clutch situations.
But Manny's lack of focus has become legendary. Though he batted .346 with runners on last season, his average plummeted to just .237 with the bases empty. Then there was his problem with hustle -- whether it was to first base on an infield grounder, or when chasing fly balls in the outfield.
Whether the Sox want to keep their disgruntled slugger or not, Manny seems determined to leave. Tuesday's Providence Journal reported that "it appears agent Greg Genske has communicated to management that Ramirez is so intent on being dealt that he will accept a trade almost anywhere."
At least that what he says today. But the Sox aren't obligated to trade their left fielder. Manny is under contract for the next three years to the tune of $57 million. Does anybody really think he'll sit out and forfeit that cash? I don't. Manny has never been a clubhouse cancer, and he could come around. Money is very motivational.
As to the potential of trading Manny Ramirez, special assistant Craig Shipley indicated both the challenges and the risks of such a deal.
"That's a lot of offense. He's an outstanding hitter. To replace him would be difficult. I think a lot of time and energy has been spent on Manny, trying to come up with a deal that is good for us and a place he would like to go."
Senior advisor Bill Lajoie also warned that a fair deal for Ramirez may not materialize in Dallas.
"First of all, you're not going to get fair value in any way, shape or form. This is an A-1 hitter and you're not going to find an A-1 player that someone is going to give you. So, if you trade him, you will not get the value man for man. And sometimes three or four pieces don't add up to that one man. It just depends."
But Lajoie, who is serving as the point person in Boston's GM-by-committee, also said "There's different values that we place on players that are different than other clubs."
That is a very interesting point of view. The Sox may be looking at more than just home runs and RBIs in return for any trade that involves Manny. Leadership and clubhouse chemistry are clearly important to management, not to mention on base percentage..
Time will tell, but any trade involving Manny would be especially complicated. It could involve multiple players and multiple teams. The taker would need to have the resources to afford Manny's salary, not just the desire. Though the Sox might like to get out from under the weight of his hefty contract in order to address other needs, the truth is they are one of the few teams that can truly afford him, and they'll need to make up his offensive production somehow. And then there's the fact that Manny can veto any trade. The capricious All Star is quite hard to figure out, and even though he's rumored to willing to go "almost anywhere," that just can't be true. Boston just isn't that bad, and neither is being so beloved in a genuine baseball town.
In other matters, don't be surprised if the Sox trade Mike Lowell before he ever formally puts on a Red Sox uniform. The Twins have been interested in him since he was a Marlin. They still need a third baseman and Bill Meuller appears to be headed out West.
The Sox want another starter and would love to jettison Matt Clement and his undeserved contract to make room for one. He could be bait for any fool who's willing to assume the remaining two years on his deal. The Sox also want a slugger to man first base because, even with Manny, they still need more offense. They're also in the market for a second baseman who will assume that role for at least one season.
With that in mind, the Sox are talking to the D-Rays about both OF/1B Aubrey Huff, who they've long coveted, and shortstop Julio Lugo, who they would move to second.
This is an exciting time in Hot Stove baseball, and the Sox are likely to make some dynamic moves this week that will improve the club, even if Manny Ramirez isn't involved in any of them.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Although he batted under .300 for the first time since 1998, Ramirez nevertheless finished third in the American League with 45 home runs and tied for second with 144 RBI. After batting .358 with runners in scoring position, Manny cemented his reputation as a nearly-unstoppable force in clutch situations.
But Manny's lack of focus has become legendary. Though he batted .346 with runners on last season, his average plummeted to just .237 with the bases empty. Then there was his problem with hustle -- whether it was to first base on an infield grounder, or when chasing fly balls in the outfield.
Whether the Sox want to keep their disgruntled slugger or not, Manny seems determined to leave. Tuesday's Providence Journal reported that "it appears agent Greg Genske has communicated to management that Ramirez is so intent on being dealt that he will accept a trade almost anywhere."
At least that what he says today. But the Sox aren't obligated to trade their left fielder. Manny is under contract for the next three years to the tune of $57 million. Does anybody really think he'll sit out and forfeit that cash? I don't. Manny has never been a clubhouse cancer, and he could come around. Money is very motivational.
As to the potential of trading Manny Ramirez, special assistant Craig Shipley indicated both the challenges and the risks of such a deal.
"That's a lot of offense. He's an outstanding hitter. To replace him would be difficult. I think a lot of time and energy has been spent on Manny, trying to come up with a deal that is good for us and a place he would like to go."
Senior advisor Bill Lajoie also warned that a fair deal for Ramirez may not materialize in Dallas.
"First of all, you're not going to get fair value in any way, shape or form. This is an A-1 hitter and you're not going to find an A-1 player that someone is going to give you. So, if you trade him, you will not get the value man for man. And sometimes three or four pieces don't add up to that one man. It just depends."
But Lajoie, who is serving as the point person in Boston's GM-by-committee, also said "There's different values that we place on players that are different than other clubs."
That is a very interesting point of view. The Sox may be looking at more than just home runs and RBIs in return for any trade that involves Manny. Leadership and clubhouse chemistry are clearly important to management, not to mention on base percentage..
Time will tell, but any trade involving Manny would be especially complicated. It could involve multiple players and multiple teams. The taker would need to have the resources to afford Manny's salary, not just the desire. Though the Sox might like to get out from under the weight of his hefty contract in order to address other needs, the truth is they are one of the few teams that can truly afford him, and they'll need to make up his offensive production somehow. And then there's the fact that Manny can veto any trade. The capricious All Star is quite hard to figure out, and even though he's rumored to willing to go "almost anywhere," that just can't be true. Boston just isn't that bad, and neither is being so beloved in a genuine baseball town.
In other matters, don't be surprised if the Sox trade Mike Lowell before he ever formally puts on a Red Sox uniform. The Twins have been interested in him since he was a Marlin. They still need a third baseman and Bill Meuller appears to be headed out West.
The Sox want another starter and would love to jettison Matt Clement and his undeserved contract to make room for one. He could be bait for any fool who's willing to assume the remaining two years on his deal. The Sox also want a slugger to man first base because, even with Manny, they still need more offense. They're also in the market for a second baseman who will assume that role for at least one season.
With that in mind, the Sox are talking to the D-Rays about both OF/1B Aubrey Huff, who they've long coveted, and shortstop Julio Lugo, who they would move to second.
This is an exciting time in Hot Stove baseball, and the Sox are likely to make some dynamic moves this week that will improve the club, even if Manny Ramirez isn't involved in any of them.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
YANKS LOST $50 million - $85 million!!
The Yankees quiet restraint in the free agent market this off-season has been quite a curiosity. We may now have an answer as to why.
According to the New York Daily News, the Yankees lost between $50 million and $85 million for the 2005 season.
The paper reveals that despite drawing more than four million fans, an inflated payroll of $200 million plus an additional $110 million in revenue sharing and luxury taxes has put the Yankees in the red.
"Yes, even George has his limits," one source told the Daily News.
The paper also reports that the Yankees might go further into debt if an MLB consultant determines that the team undervalued their television rights.
The Yankees currently charge the YES Network about $60 million for annual broadcast rights, but if it's found to be undervalued, the Yankees will have to make up the difference by putting more money into the revenue-sharing fund.
The exact numbers won't be known for a few months, but it's believed that the figure will amount to roughly $80 million when the final tally is added up.
"They're going to owe us money," one MLB source predicted to the paper.
This isn't the first time that Steinbrenner and co. have run into a deficit. According to Forbes magazine, the Yankees also lost $37.1 million in 2004.
Reality bites.
According to the New York Daily News, the Yankees lost between $50 million and $85 million for the 2005 season.
The paper reveals that despite drawing more than four million fans, an inflated payroll of $200 million plus an additional $110 million in revenue sharing and luxury taxes has put the Yankees in the red.
"Yes, even George has his limits," one source told the Daily News.
The paper also reports that the Yankees might go further into debt if an MLB consultant determines that the team undervalued their television rights.
The Yankees currently charge the YES Network about $60 million for annual broadcast rights, but if it's found to be undervalued, the Yankees will have to make up the difference by putting more money into the revenue-sharing fund.
The exact numbers won't be known for a few months, but it's believed that the figure will amount to roughly $80 million when the final tally is added up.
"They're going to owe us money," one MLB source predicted to the paper.
This isn't the first time that Steinbrenner and co. have run into a deficit. According to Forbes magazine, the Yankees also lost $37.1 million in 2004.
Reality bites.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
AN EXCITING WEEK AHEAD
With the opening of the Winter Meetings, the Red Sox top priorities are to re-sign Johnny Damon and listen to all offers for the disgruntled Manny Ramirez. The Sox also have slots to fill at first and second base.
Allegedly, the Sox were contacted by the Rangers about a trade for Ramirez that would include second baseman Alfonso Soriano. But the Sox might move Soriano to left to replace Ramirez should that deal pan out. That would still leave second base in play since some in the organization doubt Dustin Pedroia's readiness to start regularly. With that in mind, the Sox have spoken to the representatives of free agent Tony Graffanino about returning to the club in 2006. However, Graffanino is said to be looking for a three year deal.
If the those conversations don't pan out, the Sox are also said to be interested in free agent second baseman, Mark Grudzielanek, who played for the Cardinals last year. Nomar Garciaparra could also be an inexpensive option. That would a strange turnabout since Nomar rejected a four-year $60 million dollar offer from the Sox just two years ago.
Another rumor has the Padres offering second baseman Mark Loretta to the Sox for David Wells and Doug Mirabelli, who could become the Padres everyday catcher. The 34-year-old Loretta had a career year in 2004, batting .335 with 16 home runs and 76 RBIs, all personal bests. Previously, the Padres have offered a variety of players, including pitcher Woody Williams, outfielder Dave Roberts, and reliever Akinori Otsuka, in return for Wells.
Loretta underwent surgery last season to repair a torn ligament in his left thumb. Appearing in just 105 games, he batted .280 with three home runs and 38 RBIs. Loretta is said to be expendable because the Padres have an interest in signing Garciaparra to play second. Loretta is in the last year of his Padres deal and is due just $3 million in 2006. If Mirabelli is to be included in the deal, the Sox are expected to ask for another player, possibly Otsuka.
The Sox are also said to have an interest in several left-handed hitting first baseman, such as Milwaukee’s Lyle Overbay, Cincinnati’s Sean Casey, and the Ranger's Adrian Gonzalez. The club is also considering making an offer to free agent John Olerud. Olerud would be an inexpensive option and would likely accept a one-year offer. Arizona's Troy Glaus would be another intriguing, though quite expensive, possibility at first. Glaus is owed $33 million over the next three years, but his big bat could still arrive in Boston if Manny is dealt.
The Sox may use any combination of Manny Ramirez, David Wells, Matt Clement, Bronson Arryo, Kevin Youkilis, and Kelly Shoppach as bargaining chips. Don't be surprised if any of them are gone before the season starts.
This should be an interesting week, as a lot could happen. Stay tuned.
Allegedly, the Sox were contacted by the Rangers about a trade for Ramirez that would include second baseman Alfonso Soriano. But the Sox might move Soriano to left to replace Ramirez should that deal pan out. That would still leave second base in play since some in the organization doubt Dustin Pedroia's readiness to start regularly. With that in mind, the Sox have spoken to the representatives of free agent Tony Graffanino about returning to the club in 2006. However, Graffanino is said to be looking for a three year deal.
If the those conversations don't pan out, the Sox are also said to be interested in free agent second baseman, Mark Grudzielanek, who played for the Cardinals last year. Nomar Garciaparra could also be an inexpensive option. That would a strange turnabout since Nomar rejected a four-year $60 million dollar offer from the Sox just two years ago.
Another rumor has the Padres offering second baseman Mark Loretta to the Sox for David Wells and Doug Mirabelli, who could become the Padres everyday catcher. The 34-year-old Loretta had a career year in 2004, batting .335 with 16 home runs and 76 RBIs, all personal bests. Previously, the Padres have offered a variety of players, including pitcher Woody Williams, outfielder Dave Roberts, and reliever Akinori Otsuka, in return for Wells.
Loretta underwent surgery last season to repair a torn ligament in his left thumb. Appearing in just 105 games, he batted .280 with three home runs and 38 RBIs. Loretta is said to be expendable because the Padres have an interest in signing Garciaparra to play second. Loretta is in the last year of his Padres deal and is due just $3 million in 2006. If Mirabelli is to be included in the deal, the Sox are expected to ask for another player, possibly Otsuka.
The Sox are also said to have an interest in several left-handed hitting first baseman, such as Milwaukee’s Lyle Overbay, Cincinnati’s Sean Casey, and the Ranger's Adrian Gonzalez. The club is also considering making an offer to free agent John Olerud. Olerud would be an inexpensive option and would likely accept a one-year offer. Arizona's Troy Glaus would be another intriguing, though quite expensive, possibility at first. Glaus is owed $33 million over the next three years, but his big bat could still arrive in Boston if Manny is dealt.
The Sox may use any combination of Manny Ramirez, David Wells, Matt Clement, Bronson Arryo, Kevin Youkilis, and Kelly Shoppach as bargaining chips. Don't be surprised if any of them are gone before the season starts.
This should be an interesting week, as a lot could happen. Stay tuned.
Friday, December 02, 2005
SOX ACQUIRE CUBS TRIPLE A PITCHER OF THE YEAR
On Thursday, the Red Sox acquired 25-year-old right-hander Jermaine Van Buren from the Cubs for either a player to be named later, or cash.
Van Buren was the Cubs' Pitcher of the Year at Triple A Iowa last season, going 2-3 with a 1.98 ERA and setting a franchise record with 25 saves. He held batters to a lowly .181 average and had a phenomenal 65 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings.
Since becoming a reliever in 2004, Van Buren has excelled, posting a 1.92 ERA with 47 saves in 109 minor league games.
Making his major league debut Aug. 31, the 6-foot-1, 220-pounder held opponents to a .118 batting average, allowing two earned runs in six relief appearances. Over six innings he surrendered just two hits. If he continues that trend, the youngster should bolster the Sox bullpen next season, and potentially for years to come.
It's quite curious that the Cubs would part with the their Triple A Pitcher of the Year for an undetermined player or cash. It's hard to figure what would provoke such a move, but let's just hope that the Cubs loss is the Sox gain. It seems like yet another smart off-season move by the Red Sox GM by committee.
Van Buren was the Cubs' Pitcher of the Year at Triple A Iowa last season, going 2-3 with a 1.98 ERA and setting a franchise record with 25 saves. He held batters to a lowly .181 average and had a phenomenal 65 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings.
Since becoming a reliever in 2004, Van Buren has excelled, posting a 1.92 ERA with 47 saves in 109 minor league games.
Making his major league debut Aug. 31, the 6-foot-1, 220-pounder held opponents to a .118 batting average, allowing two earned runs in six relief appearances. Over six innings he surrendered just two hits. If he continues that trend, the youngster should bolster the Sox bullpen next season, and potentially for years to come.
It's quite curious that the Cubs would part with the their Triple A Pitcher of the Year for an undetermined player or cash. It's hard to figure what would provoke such a move, but let's just hope that the Cubs loss is the Sox gain. It seems like yet another smart off-season move by the Red Sox GM by committee.
FROM THE RUMOR MILL
There are rumors that the Sox have engaged in trade talks with the Reds for outfielder Adam Dunn, just the third player in Reds history to hit 40 homers in consecutive seasons. For a while now, similar rumors have also circulated about the Sox interest in Reds first baseman Sean Casey, who led the Reds with a .312 average last year. The left-handed hitter has a lifetime .305 average, striking out in less than 12% of his at-bats. The Sox might be particularly impressed by Casey's .371 on-base percentage in 2005.
There have also been reports that the Sox are interested in Diamondbacks third baseman Troy Glaus. Perhaps the Sox would contemplate moving Glaus to first, considering that they've just committed the next two years to Gold Glove winner Mike Lowell. Glaus is said to be expendable because the D-Backs believe he has lazy work habits.
With the Sox unsure of Dustin Pedroia's ability to step in right away and take over second base on a full time basis this spring, would they consider Nomar Garciaparra for the job? The two-time batting champion is looking for work and made it clear that he he would switch positions.
"I played third last year. You do what you can do when you're on a team," he recently said.
Nomar batted .283 in 62 games with the Cubs last season and played 34 games at third base because of an injury to Aramis Ramirez.
There have also been reports that the Sox are interested in Diamondbacks third baseman Troy Glaus. Perhaps the Sox would contemplate moving Glaus to first, considering that they've just committed the next two years to Gold Glove winner Mike Lowell. Glaus is said to be expendable because the D-Backs believe he has lazy work habits.
With the Sox unsure of Dustin Pedroia's ability to step in right away and take over second base on a full time basis this spring, would they consider Nomar Garciaparra for the job? The two-time batting champion is looking for work and made it clear that he he would switch positions.
"I played third last year. You do what you can do when you're on a team," he recently said.
Nomar batted .283 in 62 games with the Cubs last season and played 34 games at third base because of an injury to Aramis Ramirez.
Friday, November 25, 2005
CLEMENT FOR OVERBAY?
Even in the aftermath of the Josh Beckett acquisition, there's been speculation that the Red Sox may not yet be done in their attempts to overhaul their 2005 rotation. Assuming that David Wells will be traded, the Sox opening day staff could include Beckett, Curt Schilling, Tim Wakefield, Bronson Arroyo, Matt Clement, and likely Jonathan Papelbon. That means there are already six starters on the staff before another pitcher is acquired.
As I've written in the past, Arroyo would seem like the most likely trade option because of his low cost and durability. While not exceptional, Arroyo's numbers last year were good enough to make him a solid back of the rotation starter, and many teams might be interested in the right deal.
But Red Sox Nation might be much happier to see the Sox part company with Matt Clement and his large contract instead. Clement faded miserably in the season's second half - for the second year in a row. See a pattern developing here? But it seemed that Clement's $8 million plus annual salary would scare away any potential trade partners. The Sox overbid on a mediocre pitcher, and it seemed they were stuck with him for two more years. Or, maybe not.
According to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the Red Sox have inquired about Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay. The paper claims that a rumor is "circulating" that the Sox have offered Clement as compensation. Overbay's production took a dip last year when he hit .276 for the Brewers with 19 home runs and 72 runs-batted in, along with a .367 on-base percentage and a .449 slugging percentage. But in 2004, the left-handed Overbay, who turns 29 in January, hit .301/.385/.478, with 16 homers, 53 doubles and 87 RBI. After earning $446,000 last season he is arbitration eligible and could potentially triple his salary in 2006. That would still be a deal. The Blue Jays are also said to interested in Overbay's services.
If the Sox can dump Clement, they can make a run at free agent Kevin Millwood, who led the AL with a 2.86 ERA last season in Cleveland. Millwood will only be 31 next season. AJ Burnett may be too pricey, considering the 5-year $50 million offer that the Blue Jays recently tendered, while Matt Morris and Jarrod Washburn (3.20 ERA) remain other possibilities. All of them had better ERA's than Clement's 4.57. Clement also gave up more than a hit an inning, so if the Sox could lose him and upgrade, particularly with Millwood, they would have a much better staff next season.
That's something to look forward to.
As I've written in the past, Arroyo would seem like the most likely trade option because of his low cost and durability. While not exceptional, Arroyo's numbers last year were good enough to make him a solid back of the rotation starter, and many teams might be interested in the right deal.
But Red Sox Nation might be much happier to see the Sox part company with Matt Clement and his large contract instead. Clement faded miserably in the season's second half - for the second year in a row. See a pattern developing here? But it seemed that Clement's $8 million plus annual salary would scare away any potential trade partners. The Sox overbid on a mediocre pitcher, and it seemed they were stuck with him for two more years. Or, maybe not.
According to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the Red Sox have inquired about Brewers first baseman Lyle Overbay. The paper claims that a rumor is "circulating" that the Sox have offered Clement as compensation. Overbay's production took a dip last year when he hit .276 for the Brewers with 19 home runs and 72 runs-batted in, along with a .367 on-base percentage and a .449 slugging percentage. But in 2004, the left-handed Overbay, who turns 29 in January, hit .301/.385/.478, with 16 homers, 53 doubles and 87 RBI. After earning $446,000 last season he is arbitration eligible and could potentially triple his salary in 2006. That would still be a deal. The Blue Jays are also said to interested in Overbay's services.
If the Sox can dump Clement, they can make a run at free agent Kevin Millwood, who led the AL with a 2.86 ERA last season in Cleveland. Millwood will only be 31 next season. AJ Burnett may be too pricey, considering the 5-year $50 million offer that the Blue Jays recently tendered, while Matt Morris and Jarrod Washburn (3.20 ERA) remain other possibilities. All of them had better ERA's than Clement's 4.57. Clement also gave up more than a hit an inning, so if the Sox could lose him and upgrade, particularly with Millwood, they would have a much better staff next season.
That's something to look forward to.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
WOULDN'T IT BE NICE?
The Red Sox have been searching for an answer at first base since the end of the season. Heck, they were searching for an answer during the season as well. Kevin Millar seemed to get old overnight, and John Olerud is even older. Did you see him run the bases last year after off-season foot surgery? Sure, Olerud can still play some excellent defense and still hits well too. But he is not a long term solution. He could be a temporary fix and would make a fine veteran back-up next season.
Paul Konerko has proclaimed his desire to stay in Chicago or go to the West Coast. The Angels would happy to oblige him. The Mets just picked up Carlos Delgado in a trade, which removes him from the market and could put Manny Ramirez out of the Mets price range too. The Angels won't pay Manny $20 million to DH, and if they land Konerko, Manny would be removed from their wish list anyway.
So the Sox will likely (hopefully) end up with Manny playing left field again next year. Johnny Damon will cost them if they hope to keep him, and they've just committed $18 million to Mike Lowell over the next two years. What this all adds up to is the Sox needing an affordable, young first baseman, who can provide some much needed punch from the position.
Adrian Gonzalez just might be that guy.
Two major league sources have revealed that the Sox and the Texas Rangers have spoken about a trade that would send the first baseman, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 draft, to Boston. A lefthanded hitter, the 23-year-old Gonzalez, tore up Triple A Oklahoma last year, hitting .338 with 18 homers and 65 RBIs. When he was called up to Texas at the end of the season he cooled off considerably. In 150 at-bats for the Rangers, he hit .227 with 6 homers and 17 RBIs. So he didn't exactly light up big league pitching, but how often does a team get a chance to snag a 23-year-old former No. 1 pick? Not often. The Rangers like Gonzalez, but he's become expendable due to the emergence of All Star Mark Texiera.
Hopefully the Rangers can be persuaded to swap Gonzalez for Triple A catcher Kelly Shoppach, a Texas native. The Sox will have no use for Shoppach for at least the next couple of seasons, and they are known to have shopped him last summer.
If the Sox acquire Gonzalez, they could platoon him at first-base with the righthanded-hitting Kevin Youkilis. That might be good for Youk because he's not a natural first baseman. Both players are young and hungry, and they could push each other to be their very best.
The Sox need to continue their youth movement, blending those youngsters with their seasoned veterans. That'll make for a very nice compliment of players, and the young guys come cheap. Perhaps Adrian Gonzalez could be one of them. A young, inexpensive infield comprised, for the foreseeable future, by the likes of Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, and Adrian Gonzalez. Wouldn't it be nice?
Paul Konerko has proclaimed his desire to stay in Chicago or go to the West Coast. The Angels would happy to oblige him. The Mets just picked up Carlos Delgado in a trade, which removes him from the market and could put Manny Ramirez out of the Mets price range too. The Angels won't pay Manny $20 million to DH, and if they land Konerko, Manny would be removed from their wish list anyway.
So the Sox will likely (hopefully) end up with Manny playing left field again next year. Johnny Damon will cost them if they hope to keep him, and they've just committed $18 million to Mike Lowell over the next two years. What this all adds up to is the Sox needing an affordable, young first baseman, who can provide some much needed punch from the position.
Adrian Gonzalez just might be that guy.
Two major league sources have revealed that the Sox and the Texas Rangers have spoken about a trade that would send the first baseman, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2000 draft, to Boston. A lefthanded hitter, the 23-year-old Gonzalez, tore up Triple A Oklahoma last year, hitting .338 with 18 homers and 65 RBIs. When he was called up to Texas at the end of the season he cooled off considerably. In 150 at-bats for the Rangers, he hit .227 with 6 homers and 17 RBIs. So he didn't exactly light up big league pitching, but how often does a team get a chance to snag a 23-year-old former No. 1 pick? Not often. The Rangers like Gonzalez, but he's become expendable due to the emergence of All Star Mark Texiera.
Hopefully the Rangers can be persuaded to swap Gonzalez for Triple A catcher Kelly Shoppach, a Texas native. The Sox will have no use for Shoppach for at least the next couple of seasons, and they are known to have shopped him last summer.
If the Sox acquire Gonzalez, they could platoon him at first-base with the righthanded-hitting Kevin Youkilis. That might be good for Youk because he's not a natural first baseman. Both players are young and hungry, and they could push each other to be their very best.
The Sox need to continue their youth movement, blending those youngsters with their seasoned veterans. That'll make for a very nice compliment of players, and the young guys come cheap. Perhaps Adrian Gonzalez could be one of them. A young, inexpensive infield comprised, for the foreseeable future, by the likes of Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, and Adrian Gonzalez. Wouldn't it be nice?
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
A MATTER OF PROOF OVER POTENTIAL
Josh Beckett and MIke Lowell for Hanley Ramirez, Anibel Sanchez, and Jesus Delgado.
I like this move. It shows that, even without a GM, the Red Sox organization isn't asleep at the wheel. The Sox had plenty of offense last season, but pitching was their Achilles heel. Their 4.74 team ERA ranked 24th out of 30 teams. They were 15th in complete games (6), 18th in shut outs (8), and 21st in strike out per game (5.9). They needed to get better if they genuinely hoped to repeat as World Series Champions. This trade shows just how genuine those aspirations are.
Sure, there are risks, but there is also the significant likelihood of great reward. The Sox starting rotation was old last year and getting older this year. Everyone knew that changes had to be made. The additions of Josh Beckett and Jon Papelbon to the rotation will make the staff younger in a hurry. And the Sox may not be done yet. They could still pursue someone like Kevin Millwood. The Blue Jays 5-year, $50 million offer to AJ Burnett may have priced him right out of the market, considering that he's a game under .500 lifetime.
Yes, there are some worries about Beckett's reliability. In four big league seasons, he's struggled with nine trips to the DL -- but six were for blisters on the middle finger of his throwing hand. That can be overcome. It's important to remember that in those four years, Beckett averaged 150 K's per season. Though he's struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, he is coming off a year in which he notched career highs in wins (15), starts (29), innings (178 2/3) and strikeouts (166).
The Marlins were concerned enough about Beckett's shoulder to have him undergo two MRIs at the end of the season. If there are any problems, they should be revealed in his pending physical. There probably won't be. If there were any significant issues, they would have been disclosed during trade talks and if so, the Sox would have balked. The good news is that Beckett's shoulder likely didn't suffer from overuse. The 25-year-old righty has yet to make as many as 30 starts or pitch as many as 180 innings in a season. You could say he has low miles.
Beckett proved himself to be a big game performer during the 2003 postseason. At just the tender age of 23, he pitched a complete-game shutout against the Cubs in Game 5 of the NLCS, and then only three days later pitched four innings of relief in Game 7, allowing just one run. He followed up those incredible performances with another complete-game shutout -- a Game 6 World Series clincher against the Yankees -- again on just three days' rest.
In all, he made six postseason appearances that year, going 2-2 with a 2.11 ERA, 47 strike outs, and only 12 walks in 42 2/3 innings. He has proven himself big-game ready, and he is a Yankee killer. Need I say more?
One major league executive said of Beckett, "Everybody in the game would love to have him. He's got a plus fastball, a plus breaking ball, and a plus changeup, and he comes right at you. He's a horse. He's a legitimate No. 1, and I don't know how many of those exist anymore. He's special. He wanted the ball in New York in Game 6. He's a special guy."
The Marlins were so desperate to rid themselves of third baseman Mike Lowell's burdensome contract that they were willing to part with one of the game's finest young arms to make it happen. They weren't trying to get rid of Beckett; they were trying to get rid of Lowell and had to toss in Beckett to make it happen. The Marlins have attendance issues down in Miami and can't afford a competitive big league payroll. They ranked 28 out of 30 teams in home attendance despite three straight winning seasons, including a World Series championship. They deal with oppressive heat plus constant rain outs / delays in South Florida, and the club is threatening to relocate if they don't get a baseball-only stadium with a retractable roof. The Marlins have issues, but Beckett wasn't one of them.
Lowell, an eight-year veteran, was an All-Star for three consecutive seasons prior to 2005, a year in which he still won a Gold Glove. Though he struggled with a .236 average last season, he hit .293 the previous year and is a lifetime .272 hitter. There are baseball scouts and executives who believe that he simply had an off year and will thrive in the friendly confines of Fenway Park - the epitome of a hitter's park. The Monster is only 310 feet from home, and he should take ample advantage of it. There is a reason that Lowell has such a big contract -- he earned it. In 2003, he belted 32 homers and 105 RBI. He followed that up in '04 by hitting 27 homers and driving in 85 runs.
Hanley Ramirez, long hailed for his impressive skills, has been described as a five tool player. But he's yet to develop into a productive offensive force in the Minors. In 2005, Ramirez hit .271 with six homers and 52 RBIs at Double-A Portland. If that's the best he could do in AA, he's clearly not ready for the Bigs. Perhaps Ramirez was the victim of unrealistic hype or excessive pressure, but it wouldn't have gotten any easier if he ever made it to Fenway. He's been in the organization for four years, and at the age of 22 he still isn't ready for prime time. Perhaps he'll thrive in the low-pressure environment of Miami, but if he repeats his 2005 performance his stock will fall considerably by this time next year. That would make a trade like this impossible.
Sanchez, who missed the entire 2003 season due to Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, came back strong the last two years. He opened the 2005 season at Class A Wilmington, going 6-1 with a 2.40 ERA in 14 starts. He was then promoted to Double-A Portland, going 3-5 with a 3.45 ERA in 11 starts. His performance clearly diminished with the promotion, and he obviously isn't even ready for Pawtuckett yet. He's made only 11 starts above Single A, and one high-ranking Sox executive projected him as a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher when he's finally major league-ready. The Sox didn't expect that to be until approximately 2007.
This was the right move for the Red Sox at the right time. Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell are proven big league players. Hanley Ramirez and Anibel Sanchez have proven only that they have potential. I'll take proof over potential any day.
I like this move. It shows that, even without a GM, the Red Sox organization isn't asleep at the wheel. The Sox had plenty of offense last season, but pitching was their Achilles heel. Their 4.74 team ERA ranked 24th out of 30 teams. They were 15th in complete games (6), 18th in shut outs (8), and 21st in strike out per game (5.9). They needed to get better if they genuinely hoped to repeat as World Series Champions. This trade shows just how genuine those aspirations are.
Sure, there are risks, but there is also the significant likelihood of great reward. The Sox starting rotation was old last year and getting older this year. Everyone knew that changes had to be made. The additions of Josh Beckett and Jon Papelbon to the rotation will make the staff younger in a hurry. And the Sox may not be done yet. They could still pursue someone like Kevin Millwood. The Blue Jays 5-year, $50 million offer to AJ Burnett may have priced him right out of the market, considering that he's a game under .500 lifetime.
Yes, there are some worries about Beckett's reliability. In four big league seasons, he's struggled with nine trips to the DL -- but six were for blisters on the middle finger of his throwing hand. That can be overcome. It's important to remember that in those four years, Beckett averaged 150 K's per season. Though he's struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, he is coming off a year in which he notched career highs in wins (15), starts (29), innings (178 2/3) and strikeouts (166).
The Marlins were concerned enough about Beckett's shoulder to have him undergo two MRIs at the end of the season. If there are any problems, they should be revealed in his pending physical. There probably won't be. If there were any significant issues, they would have been disclosed during trade talks and if so, the Sox would have balked. The good news is that Beckett's shoulder likely didn't suffer from overuse. The 25-year-old righty has yet to make as many as 30 starts or pitch as many as 180 innings in a season. You could say he has low miles.
Beckett proved himself to be a big game performer during the 2003 postseason. At just the tender age of 23, he pitched a complete-game shutout against the Cubs in Game 5 of the NLCS, and then only three days later pitched four innings of relief in Game 7, allowing just one run. He followed up those incredible performances with another complete-game shutout -- a Game 6 World Series clincher against the Yankees -- again on just three days' rest.
In all, he made six postseason appearances that year, going 2-2 with a 2.11 ERA, 47 strike outs, and only 12 walks in 42 2/3 innings. He has proven himself big-game ready, and he is a Yankee killer. Need I say more?
One major league executive said of Beckett, "Everybody in the game would love to have him. He's got a plus fastball, a plus breaking ball, and a plus changeup, and he comes right at you. He's a horse. He's a legitimate No. 1, and I don't know how many of those exist anymore. He's special. He wanted the ball in New York in Game 6. He's a special guy."
The Marlins were so desperate to rid themselves of third baseman Mike Lowell's burdensome contract that they were willing to part with one of the game's finest young arms to make it happen. They weren't trying to get rid of Beckett; they were trying to get rid of Lowell and had to toss in Beckett to make it happen. The Marlins have attendance issues down in Miami and can't afford a competitive big league payroll. They ranked 28 out of 30 teams in home attendance despite three straight winning seasons, including a World Series championship. They deal with oppressive heat plus constant rain outs / delays in South Florida, and the club is threatening to relocate if they don't get a baseball-only stadium with a retractable roof. The Marlins have issues, but Beckett wasn't one of them.
Lowell, an eight-year veteran, was an All-Star for three consecutive seasons prior to 2005, a year in which he still won a Gold Glove. Though he struggled with a .236 average last season, he hit .293 the previous year and is a lifetime .272 hitter. There are baseball scouts and executives who believe that he simply had an off year and will thrive in the friendly confines of Fenway Park - the epitome of a hitter's park. The Monster is only 310 feet from home, and he should take ample advantage of it. There is a reason that Lowell has such a big contract -- he earned it. In 2003, he belted 32 homers and 105 RBI. He followed that up in '04 by hitting 27 homers and driving in 85 runs.
Hanley Ramirez, long hailed for his impressive skills, has been described as a five tool player. But he's yet to develop into a productive offensive force in the Minors. In 2005, Ramirez hit .271 with six homers and 52 RBIs at Double-A Portland. If that's the best he could do in AA, he's clearly not ready for the Bigs. Perhaps Ramirez was the victim of unrealistic hype or excessive pressure, but it wouldn't have gotten any easier if he ever made it to Fenway. He's been in the organization for four years, and at the age of 22 he still isn't ready for prime time. Perhaps he'll thrive in the low-pressure environment of Miami, but if he repeats his 2005 performance his stock will fall considerably by this time next year. That would make a trade like this impossible.
Sanchez, who missed the entire 2003 season due to Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, came back strong the last two years. He opened the 2005 season at Class A Wilmington, going 6-1 with a 2.40 ERA in 14 starts. He was then promoted to Double-A Portland, going 3-5 with a 3.45 ERA in 11 starts. His performance clearly diminished with the promotion, and he obviously isn't even ready for Pawtuckett yet. He's made only 11 starts above Single A, and one high-ranking Sox executive projected him as a middle-of-the-rotation pitcher when he's finally major league-ready. The Sox didn't expect that to be until approximately 2007.
This was the right move for the Red Sox at the right time. Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell are proven big league players. Hanley Ramirez and Anibel Sanchez have proven only that they have potential. I'll take proof over potential any day.
Monday, November 21, 2005
BECKETT AND LOWELL TO SOX
The Red Sox and Marlins have reached a tentative agreement on a trade that will send Josh Beckett and Mike Lowell to Boston for two prospects, shortstop Hanley Ramirez and right-hander Anibal Sanchez, plus another minor-league pitcher.
According to Peter Gammons, the deal is contingent on the completion of paperwork and all players passing physicals. Gammons said an official announcement is not expected until at least Tuesday, meaning that the deal could still fall apart.
Jayson Stark said the deal appears to be held up only by last-minute haggling over dollars. Florida will pick up an undetermined portion of the $18 million owed to Lowell over the next two seasons.
In return, the Red Sox will send their much heralded shortstop prospect Ramirez, as well as the highly touted Sanchez. According to Stark, the Marlins had originally sought left-hander Jon Lester, but the Sox balked at including him in the trade. Instead, Boston agreed to add a second, as yet unnamed, minor leaguer if Florida agreed to take Sanchez instead.
Lowell, who will be 32 next season, won the NL Gold Glove at third base last season. Though he had an uncharacteristically off year at the plate, hitting just .236 with eight homers and 58 RBI, it's worth noting that he averaged 24 homers and 94 RBI in the five previous seasons.
According to Peter Gammons, the deal is contingent on the completion of paperwork and all players passing physicals. Gammons said an official announcement is not expected until at least Tuesday, meaning that the deal could still fall apart.
Jayson Stark said the deal appears to be held up only by last-minute haggling over dollars. Florida will pick up an undetermined portion of the $18 million owed to Lowell over the next two seasons.
In return, the Red Sox will send their much heralded shortstop prospect Ramirez, as well as the highly touted Sanchez. According to Stark, the Marlins had originally sought left-hander Jon Lester, but the Sox balked at including him in the trade. Instead, Boston agreed to add a second, as yet unnamed, minor leaguer if Florida agreed to take Sanchez instead.
Lowell, who will be 32 next season, won the NL Gold Glove at third base last season. Though he had an uncharacteristically off year at the plate, hitting just .236 with eight homers and 58 RBI, it's worth noting that he averaged 24 homers and 94 RBI in the five previous seasons.
RUMOR HAS IT...
In an effort to clear payroll and make room for long-term contract offers to Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera, the Florida Marlins are said to be deep in trade discussions involving Josh Beckett and Carlos Delgado.
The Red Sox are said to be one of the teams negotiating with Florida to get Beckett. As part of the deal, the Sox would have to take on Mike Lowell's bloated contract, which has nearly $18 million remaining over the next two seasons. The Marlins also want shortstop Hanley Ramirez and a young pitcher, either Jon Lester or Anibel Sanchez, in return.
The Sox already balked at taking Lowell as part of the AJ Burnett trade package at July's trade deadline, so it's hard to imagine what would persuade them at this point. Perhaps it's simply the opportunity to get a very talented 25-year-old starting pitcher, which the team could desperately use. Beckett was the 2003 World Series MVP for the Marlins.
A 6'5" righty, Beckett is a four-year arbitration-eligible player who made $2.4 million in 2005. Last season he went 15-8 for the Marlins with a 3.38 ERA, and is 41-34 lifetime with a very respectable 3.46 ERA.
The Rangers are also said to be in the hunt for Beckett and are willing to deal third baseman Hank Blalock.
The Red Sox are said to be one of the teams negotiating with Florida to get Beckett. As part of the deal, the Sox would have to take on Mike Lowell's bloated contract, which has nearly $18 million remaining over the next two seasons. The Marlins also want shortstop Hanley Ramirez and a young pitcher, either Jon Lester or Anibel Sanchez, in return.
The Sox already balked at taking Lowell as part of the AJ Burnett trade package at July's trade deadline, so it's hard to imagine what would persuade them at this point. Perhaps it's simply the opportunity to get a very talented 25-year-old starting pitcher, which the team could desperately use. Beckett was the 2003 World Series MVP for the Marlins.
A 6'5" righty, Beckett is a four-year arbitration-eligible player who made $2.4 million in 2005. Last season he went 15-8 for the Marlins with a 3.38 ERA, and is 41-34 lifetime with a very respectable 3.46 ERA.
The Rangers are also said to be in the hunt for Beckett and are willing to deal third baseman Hank Blalock.
THE GM SEARCH (OR SAGA) CONTINUES
I was wrong. Though I said that Dayton Moore was likely to become the Red Sox next GM, Moore took himself out of consideration and opted to remain with the Braves organization. Moore joined the long list of candidates - Kevin Towers, Doug Melvin, J.P. Ricciardi, Brian Sabean, Terry Ryan, Chris Antonetti, and Tony LaCava - who've told the Red Sox that they're not interested.
The Red Sox are now the only team in baseball without a GM. They are clearly one of the best franchises in baseball, and their GM position is generally considered one of the plum jobs in the sport. They have excellent revenue streams, a top-end payroll, a very dedicated fan base, ownership that has proven itself committed to winning, and a rich history to boot. And yet none of the Sox top choices wanted the job. It now appears that whoever ownership eventually chooses, they'll be settling.
Though some of the candidates declined due to family reasons, many assume that none of them wanted to work with Larry Lucchino. Rightly or wrongly, Lucchino seems to have earned himself a bad reputation, and that could hurt the club in its search for the best candidate.
While Lucchino denies that the Sox are currently in turmoil, it's hard to see how not currently having a GM isn't hurting the team during this free agent period, and with the Winter Meetings just weeks away. No one will be surprised if the club is beaten to the punch in the free agent or trade markets because they are unprepared.
This is a very unfortunate position for the club to be in right now, and it won't just suddenly get better with the selection of a new GM. That person will have to get up to speed very quickly with things such as the team's off season needs, its player personnel, its minor league rosters, and its payroll to name a few.
It shouldn't have come to this. None of this should have ever happened. Theo Epstein told the club back in Spring Training that he wanted to negotiate his contract then so that the organization wouldn't be distracted during a critical free agent period, when there would be other very important decisions to be made. But ownership wouldn't listen, and this is where they find themselves now as a result. That's very unfortunate. And now all we can do is hope for the best.
The Red Sox are now the only team in baseball without a GM. They are clearly one of the best franchises in baseball, and their GM position is generally considered one of the plum jobs in the sport. They have excellent revenue streams, a top-end payroll, a very dedicated fan base, ownership that has proven itself committed to winning, and a rich history to boot. And yet none of the Sox top choices wanted the job. It now appears that whoever ownership eventually chooses, they'll be settling.
Though some of the candidates declined due to family reasons, many assume that none of them wanted to work with Larry Lucchino. Rightly or wrongly, Lucchino seems to have earned himself a bad reputation, and that could hurt the club in its search for the best candidate.
While Lucchino denies that the Sox are currently in turmoil, it's hard to see how not currently having a GM isn't hurting the team during this free agent period, and with the Winter Meetings just weeks away. No one will be surprised if the club is beaten to the punch in the free agent or trade markets because they are unprepared.
This is a very unfortunate position for the club to be in right now, and it won't just suddenly get better with the selection of a new GM. That person will have to get up to speed very quickly with things such as the team's off season needs, its player personnel, its minor league rosters, and its payroll to name a few.
It shouldn't have come to this. None of this should have ever happened. Theo Epstein told the club back in Spring Training that he wanted to negotiate his contract then so that the organization wouldn't be distracted during a critical free agent period, when there would be other very important decisions to be made. But ownership wouldn't listen, and this is where they find themselves now as a result. That's very unfortunate. And now all we can do is hope for the best.
Monday, November 14, 2005
IS MOORE THE NEXT GM?
Braves assistant general manager Dayton Moore, 38, may have become the front runner in the Red Sox quest to find a new GM. At this point, Moore is the only candidate to have been granted a second interview by the club.
One aspect of Moore's resume that appeals to the Sox brass is that he has coached, managed and scouted at various levels of the game. And under his guidance, Atlanta developed one of the best farm systems in baseball. The Sox like that record and hope to mimic the Braves success in breeding young talent.
Trot Nixon is the only everyday position player to have come up through the Sox farm system, and the club wants to get away from having to continually go after pricey free agents in an effort to fill holes each year. Clearly, Moore shares their way of thinking.
''My philosophy is you should have three or four kids a year competing with your 25-man roster every season. If you don't have that, I think you're going to run into trouble as an organization," he said.
Moore has declined other offers in the past because of his affinity for the Braves organization, the deep minor league talent pool that has kept the club so competitive every year, and because indications are that he'll eventually succeed current Braves GM, John Schuerholz. But Moore has described the Boston job as ''very special." Having already gone through two interviews, it's obvious he genuinely thinks so.
Moore is one candidate to keep your eye on, and his proven track record in Atlanta may, in fact, make him the ideal candidate to succeed Theo Epstein and continue the Red Sox winning tradition.
One aspect of Moore's resume that appeals to the Sox brass is that he has coached, managed and scouted at various levels of the game. And under his guidance, Atlanta developed one of the best farm systems in baseball. The Sox like that record and hope to mimic the Braves success in breeding young talent.
Trot Nixon is the only everyday position player to have come up through the Sox farm system, and the club wants to get away from having to continually go after pricey free agents in an effort to fill holes each year. Clearly, Moore shares their way of thinking.
''My philosophy is you should have three or four kids a year competing with your 25-man roster every season. If you don't have that, I think you're going to run into trouble as an organization," he said.
Moore has declined other offers in the past because of his affinity for the Braves organization, the deep minor league talent pool that has kept the club so competitive every year, and because indications are that he'll eventually succeed current Braves GM, John Schuerholz. But Moore has described the Boston job as ''very special." Having already gone through two interviews, it's obvious he genuinely thinks so.
Moore is one candidate to keep your eye on, and his proven track record in Atlanta may, in fact, make him the ideal candidate to succeed Theo Epstein and continue the Red Sox winning tradition.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
THE WRITING'S ON THE WALL
Let's hope that Red Sox management had a contingency plan in place to deal with the loss of GM Theo Epstein. But gauging by the remarks of owner John Henry at Wednesday's highly anticipated Fenway Park press conference, we shouldn't count on it. The organization clearly seems to have been caught flat footed.
Discussing Epstein's surprise resignation, Henry faulted himself for the breakdown in negotiations.
"I hold myself wholly responsible," Henry lamented before a packed conference room. ''This is a great, great loss, to lose Theo. What could I have done? There's plenty I could have done. I have to ask myself, maybe I'm not fit to be principal owner of the Boston Red Sox."
That revelation was starkly revealing, and Henry seemed genuinely shocked and saddened by Epstein's departure.
''Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would ever happen. I had this romantic notion that Theo's going to be our general manager for the rest of my life. We have the best relationship imaginable. We still have the best relationship. I can't imagine having a better relationship with a human being than I have with Theo."
''This is a great loss. It's a great personal loss."
In claiming personal responsibility, Henry was careful to defend CEO Larry Luchino from the sharp criticism that's been leveled at him by the fans and the Boston media.
"I am much more responsible for this than Larry Luchino is," Henry said. ''Did I blow it? Yeah, I feel that way."
''You may notice Larry Lucchino is not here today. He's been maligned and blamed for this situation over the last couple of days. I think that's wrong. I think that's inaccurate."
"Larry Lucchino is not the root of the problem here. He's going to do what he did before, and build a baseball organization."
Building the team, or more specifically rebuilding it, will be the work of the next general manager - Kevin Towers or whoever else it may be.
And perhaps that is just exactly the task that Epstein wanted to avoid. After careful examination, Epstein may have concluded that, at least for the for time being, the Red Sox have reached the pinnacle of their success and have begun a slow process of decline. Perhaps he sees the last three seasons as a remarkable run that cannot be matched with the personnel that will take the field next spring, including available free agents. Maybe he thinks the Sox have been as good as they'll be for quite a while.
Doubt it? It's not that inconceivable. If ownership is determined to trade Manny Ramirez - no matter what they get in return - and Johnny Damon decides to leave due to a combination of Manny's departure and a better offer from another club, two central components of the vaunted Red Sox offense will have been lost.
And in assessing next year's likely roster, things don't look much better from there. First base remains a mystery, and the top prize, Paul Konerko will likely re-sign with the White Sox. If Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis are the starting second and third basemen, respectively, the infield will be quite inexperienced. Youkilis has never played a full season in the majors, and hasn't had the opportunity to prove himself over the long haul. As for Pedroia, he's never even played a single game in the majors, and yet he may inherit second anyway.
Edgar (Error) Renteria's contract is an albatross slung tightly around the team's collective neck. That signing appears to be one of the glaring errors of Epstein's tenure. Perhaps ER will rebound and have a better all-around performance next year, but he'll never be worth $10 million per season, no matter what.
And then there's the pitching staff. David Wells reportedly wants to be traded back to the West Coast to finish his career. With his 15 wins, he was one of the Sox best pitchers last season - for whatever that's worth. His trade availability may garner some interest this off-season and perhaps a decent player in return. Another pitcher would be nice, but the team certainly has no shortage of of holes to fill. The addition of Jonathan Papelbon to the rotation will help, but it won't be enough to get them back to the World Series, much less win it. The team needs an ace - someone who is consistent and who they can count on at every start. At present that pitcher is not on their staff, and that is their Achilles heal. Or at least one of them.
Even is he's physically healthy, Keith Foulke's mental and emotional problems may continue, and at this point the team should expect that likelihood. Mike Timlin's pending return is the one positive in an off-season that has otherwise gotten off to a rather ominous start. He'll resume his role as the team's top set up man, but a front line closer is needed. Billy Wagner anyone?
The question is money. If ownership is determined to shrink payroll, despite the potential subtraction of Manny's contract, Epstein may have seen the writing on the wall and known that they wouldn't cough up the money needed to fill all the holes, replace all the parts, and make this team a World Series Champion again next year.
Perhaps, in Epstein's view, this Red Sox team was as good as it gets and saw their glory years come and go. As a result, he may have concluded that this was the perfect time to get out of Dodge. Nothing less than greatness is expected in Boston now, and Epstein may see those expectations as being completely unrealistic for the 2006 Red Sox. He's always been praised for his intellect and his youthful wisdom, so who's to doubt that this was his estimation? And perhaps he's right. It certainly doesn't require a leap of logic to come to that conclusion.
When you've seen the top of the mountain at such a young age, and in only your second season, you enjoy the view while it lasts. But deep down inside, you know you can't stay there forever, and that the only place to go is back down.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Discussing Epstein's surprise resignation, Henry faulted himself for the breakdown in negotiations.
"I hold myself wholly responsible," Henry lamented before a packed conference room. ''This is a great, great loss, to lose Theo. What could I have done? There's plenty I could have done. I have to ask myself, maybe I'm not fit to be principal owner of the Boston Red Sox."
That revelation was starkly revealing, and Henry seemed genuinely shocked and saddened by Epstein's departure.
''Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would ever happen. I had this romantic notion that Theo's going to be our general manager for the rest of my life. We have the best relationship imaginable. We still have the best relationship. I can't imagine having a better relationship with a human being than I have with Theo."
''This is a great loss. It's a great personal loss."
In claiming personal responsibility, Henry was careful to defend CEO Larry Luchino from the sharp criticism that's been leveled at him by the fans and the Boston media.
"I am much more responsible for this than Larry Luchino is," Henry said. ''Did I blow it? Yeah, I feel that way."
''You may notice Larry Lucchino is not here today. He's been maligned and blamed for this situation over the last couple of days. I think that's wrong. I think that's inaccurate."
"Larry Lucchino is not the root of the problem here. He's going to do what he did before, and build a baseball organization."
Building the team, or more specifically rebuilding it, will be the work of the next general manager - Kevin Towers or whoever else it may be.
And perhaps that is just exactly the task that Epstein wanted to avoid. After careful examination, Epstein may have concluded that, at least for the for time being, the Red Sox have reached the pinnacle of their success and have begun a slow process of decline. Perhaps he sees the last three seasons as a remarkable run that cannot be matched with the personnel that will take the field next spring, including available free agents. Maybe he thinks the Sox have been as good as they'll be for quite a while.
Doubt it? It's not that inconceivable. If ownership is determined to trade Manny Ramirez - no matter what they get in return - and Johnny Damon decides to leave due to a combination of Manny's departure and a better offer from another club, two central components of the vaunted Red Sox offense will have been lost.
And in assessing next year's likely roster, things don't look much better from there. First base remains a mystery, and the top prize, Paul Konerko will likely re-sign with the White Sox. If Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis are the starting second and third basemen, respectively, the infield will be quite inexperienced. Youkilis has never played a full season in the majors, and hasn't had the opportunity to prove himself over the long haul. As for Pedroia, he's never even played a single game in the majors, and yet he may inherit second anyway.
Edgar (Error) Renteria's contract is an albatross slung tightly around the team's collective neck. That signing appears to be one of the glaring errors of Epstein's tenure. Perhaps ER will rebound and have a better all-around performance next year, but he'll never be worth $10 million per season, no matter what.
And then there's the pitching staff. David Wells reportedly wants to be traded back to the West Coast to finish his career. With his 15 wins, he was one of the Sox best pitchers last season - for whatever that's worth. His trade availability may garner some interest this off-season and perhaps a decent player in return. Another pitcher would be nice, but the team certainly has no shortage of of holes to fill. The addition of Jonathan Papelbon to the rotation will help, but it won't be enough to get them back to the World Series, much less win it. The team needs an ace - someone who is consistent and who they can count on at every start. At present that pitcher is not on their staff, and that is their Achilles heal. Or at least one of them.
Even is he's physically healthy, Keith Foulke's mental and emotional problems may continue, and at this point the team should expect that likelihood. Mike Timlin's pending return is the one positive in an off-season that has otherwise gotten off to a rather ominous start. He'll resume his role as the team's top set up man, but a front line closer is needed. Billy Wagner anyone?
The question is money. If ownership is determined to shrink payroll, despite the potential subtraction of Manny's contract, Epstein may have seen the writing on the wall and known that they wouldn't cough up the money needed to fill all the holes, replace all the parts, and make this team a World Series Champion again next year.
Perhaps, in Epstein's view, this Red Sox team was as good as it gets and saw their glory years come and go. As a result, he may have concluded that this was the perfect time to get out of Dodge. Nothing less than greatness is expected in Boston now, and Epstein may see those expectations as being completely unrealistic for the 2006 Red Sox. He's always been praised for his intellect and his youthful wisdom, so who's to doubt that this was his estimation? And perhaps he's right. It certainly doesn't require a leap of logic to come to that conclusion.
When you've seen the top of the mountain at such a young age, and in only your second season, you enjoy the view while it lasts. But deep down inside, you know you can't stay there forever, and that the only place to go is back down.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
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