The Red Sox had a problem that most teams would love; too much pitching. The question was, what to do with David Wells, Matt Clement or Bronson Arroyo. Wells' age and Clement's price made them prohibitive trade targets. That left Arroyo, and off he went to the Reds, ending a three year reign as one of the Red Sox primary heart throbs. No doubt, today many young female Sox fans are quite saddened. First johnny, now Bronson.
But Arroyo was more than just a heart throb. He was also quite versatile, showing the ability to start or come on in relief, he was dependable and not injury prone, and he was a kid who had big game experience and wanted the ball on any given day. Goodbye and good luck, Bronson. And thanks for your contributions. I'm sorry to see you go. Twenty-nine-year-old pitchers with rubber arms are hard to come by. Arroyo was a perfect four or five pitcher. But apparently the Sox thought they'd seen his best.
The Sox claimed Arroyo off waivers from Pittsburgh before the 2003 season. In 126 major-league games, he's 33-33 with a 4.59 ERA. Last year he was 14-10 with a 4.51 ERA in a career-high 205 1/3 innings.
In return, the Sox got themselves a project. It could be a boom, or a bust.
Wily Mo Pena said he was surprised by his trade to the Red Sox. But he'll be more disappointed than surprised if he finds himself on on the bench instead of in the field.
"I just want to be on a team and play every day," the young slugger said.
After having played no more than 110 games in any of his three previous seasons with the Reds, last year Pena finally got the chance to play left field regularly, batting .254 with 19 homers and 51 RBIs. But four years into his big league career, the unpolished Dominican has just 850 at bats, hitting .248 with 51 homers and 134 RBI.
And once again, at least for this season, he'll likely find himself in a limited role - unless Trot Nixon suffers another injury. The right-hitting Pena will be Boston's fourth outfielder, platooning with the left-hitting Nixon against left-handed pitchers. It's a role he should fill nicely, having fared well against lefties in the past. Last year he hit .291 against lefties, 57 points higher than against righties.
The Sox seem to have a long-term plan in mind with the acquisition of Pena. He may be the heir apparent in right field when Nixon becomes a free agent after this season. What's more, Pena can also play center. However, two scouts say that Pena has added 30 pounds in muscle, and as a result has regressed defensively and doesn't run as well as he used to.
There's also the distinct possibility that if Mike Lowell continues to struggle at the plate, proving that last season was more than just an aberration, Pena could see time at first with Kevin Youkilis moving back to his natural position at third.
The Sox see Pena as a very raw talent with an excellent arm to go with tremendous power potential. They plan to nurture and harness that talent in the coming years, believing that Boston offers just the right environment to continue Pena's development.
"The best thing that happened to him was coming over here," David Ortiz said. "He can learn from all of us."
Particularly, the Sox are hoping that Pena will learn plate discipline and pitch selection.
"This guy has some sick power," Ortiz said. "This guy has some crazy power, man." In fact, Ortiz said the 6-foot-3, 245 pound Pena is even stronger than him. "I've never seen a guy hit a ball harder than that guy... No, not even [me]."
The 19 homers he hit in just 99 games last year are a clear indication of that strength. And in 2004, Pena hit 26 homers in just 110 games. Theo Epstein described Pena as a "physical freak."
"We were talking about hitting a lot during the WBC," Ortiz said of Pena. "He wants to learn. He's a hard worker, good kid."
He'll need to be a hard worker. Apparently there is still a lot Pena needs to learn, and plenty of time to be made up for in his rushed development.
The Reds had to keep Pena in the majors the past three seasons, or place him on waivers, after he ran out of options in 2002 at the age of 20. He was just 17 when he signed a five-year major league contract with the New York Yankees in April 1999.
"He hasn't had time to develop" in the minors, Epstein said. "He's still a really dangerous threat against left-handed pitching."
Pena struck out 116 times in 311 at bats last season - an incredible 37% of the time - while walking only 20 times. But at just 24, the Sox think he has tremendous potential. They see him as a burgeoning middle-of-the-order power hitter with 40-homer potential. Red Sox fans can tolerate, perhaps even love, a true power hitter who strikes out a lot. But a guy who strikes out frequently minus the power (i.e. Mark Belhorn), they will not.
However, Ortiz seems unfazed. "Wily Mo is learning. He's going to be a great player."
"When I was 24 the ability that he has right now I didn't have it and I was in the big leagues, just like him," Ortiz said. "Wait until you see him. He looks like a football player. He's huge. He's got legs like nobody I've ever seen."
There will be lots of work to do. Pena has a meager .303 career on-base percentage. That clearly flies in the face of the Red Sox philosophy of the past few years.
"Pena strikes out on a rate basis more than anyone else in the big leagues," Epstein said. "There is precedent for those (type) players developing a little bit more discipline, increasing their walk rate and becoming better all around hitters as they adjust to the big leagues."
Pena is signed to a one-year, $1.25 million contract for 2006, and can't be a free agent until after the 2008 season. The Sox have him in their control for the next three years at a low cost.
Arroyo is just the latest member of the 2004 World Series Champions to have departed. Just seventeen months later, only nine players from that team remain.
With Jonathan Papelbon, Jon Lester, and even Abe Alvarez in their system, the Sox felt comfortable about their pitching prosects in the coming years. But they have a decided lack of power within the system, which made this trade worth its risks.
As happy as he is about the arrival of Pena, Ortiz isn't happy about the departure of Arroyo, who was a very popular member of the Red Sox.
"I don't know, man. That's why I'm always going to look at this game as a business," Ortiz said. "The game is crazy, but that's how it goes."
It is a business, indeed. Players are rented, not owned. So don't fall in love with Wily Mo if he starts clearing the Monster with great regularity. Who knows how long he'll be around? Just ask Bronson arroyo. He never would've guessed.
Copyright © 2006 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Saturday, March 18, 2006
A SEASON IN THE BALANCE
When it comes to the weather in New England, like it not, just wait a while. It'll surely change. The same goes for the Red Sox. Every season sees the addition and subtraction of various players, some more talented and and more well-liked than others.
Professional baseball isn't always marked by loyalty. Just ask Mark Belhorn, Alan Embree, Kevin Millar or Bill Mueller. You can be a key part of a World Series Championship team and within a year, or less, be out of a job.
But it cuts both ways. Players often show just as little loyalty to their teams. Free agents usually follow the money, chasing the contract offer of the highest bidder, in search of what they believe will be greener pastures.
As such, this will be a critical year for the Red Sox longest-tenured position player.
Selected by the Sox in the first round of the 1993 draft, added to the roster in August 1995, and playing regularly since 1999, Trot Nixon has been with the Red Sox organization longer than any other player. But if he is to continue that distinction he will have to stay healthy, and be at his best, this season.
Nixon is coming into the final year of a 3-year, $19.5 million contract he signed in the winter of 2004. But the first two years didn't go nearly as well as he'd hoped. Because of various injuries in each of those seasons, Nixon saw his playing time, and his performance, decline considerably. Playing in just 48 games in 2004 and 124 in 2005, Nixon dealt with a herniated disc injury, a quadriceps problem, a strained oblique, and an injury to his left knee that required arthroscopic surgery this offseason. But, as usual, the right fielder kept his mouth shut about the injury and gamely played through it for much of last season.
While Nixon has proven himself a solid solid hitter, as evidenced by his 3-year OPSs of .974, .887, and .803, he's also shown an inability to consistently hit left-handed pitching. As a result, the Sox have found it necessary to platoon him with another outfielder who fares better against lefties. This has limited the club in some ways because it creates the need for a specific type of fourth outfielder.
There is no question that Nixon can hit. He had a terrific year in 2003 when he batted .306, smacked 28 homers, and knocked in 87 runs. However, last year those numbers fell considerably to .275, 13 HR, and 67 RBI. But what concerns the Sox the most is the dramatic drop off Nixon experienced during the second half of 2005. He started the year strongly, hitting .296 with a .377 on-base percentage and a .484 slugging percentage before the All-Star break. But his numbers fell to .241/.326/.386 after the break.
Determined to be in great shape and return to form, Nixon showed up at camp on February 1 - earlier than any other Sox position player. If he can once again become the player he was from 2001-2003, it would add some much needed pop to the middle of the Sox order, making him, and the team, quite happy. During that period, Nixon averaged 26 homers, 90 RBI, and a .370 on base percentage.
So far this spring, he's showing signs of his former self. Nixon is hitting .417 (10 for 24) with a homer and 6 RBIs. But the Sox still have their concerns. Manager Terry Francona has tried to avoid putting Nixon on a bus this spring, so as not to aggravate his cranky back. Asked Francona rhetorically, ''Is it preferential treatment? Yeah. He looks so good this spring. He looks healthy. He looks like he's having fun. He feels good. I don't want him limping around."
Realistically, this could be Nixon's final year in a Red Sox uniform - no matter how he plays. Under his present contract, Nixon earns $6.5 million per season, and if he returns to form will surely seek a raise under any new deal. But with a number of talented and inexpensive outfielders in their system, including Adam Stern, David Murphy, Brandon Moss and Jacoby Ellsbury, the Sox may choose to go younger, and cheaper, next season. And of course if Nixon is injured again, or otherwise performs like an aging player with his best years squarely behind him, the Sox probably won't even offer him a contract. Though he turns just 32 next month, Nixon has been around for so long that some fans might think he's older. And though he should still be in the prime of his career, he'll be playing for a contract and will have to prove it.
It's hard to imagine the original dirt dog not patrolling right field at Fenway, an area he negotiates with such great expertise, but it's a possibility that bears consideration. Red Sox fans have come to love and respect Nixon's rugged and determined style of play. He never leaves the field with a clean uniform. His no nonsense, blue collar ethic has been tailor made for Boston. But one way or the other, we may be seeing the last of Trot Nixon in a Red Sox uniform in 2006.
Copyright © 2006 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Professional baseball isn't always marked by loyalty. Just ask Mark Belhorn, Alan Embree, Kevin Millar or Bill Mueller. You can be a key part of a World Series Championship team and within a year, or less, be out of a job.
But it cuts both ways. Players often show just as little loyalty to their teams. Free agents usually follow the money, chasing the contract offer of the highest bidder, in search of what they believe will be greener pastures.
As such, this will be a critical year for the Red Sox longest-tenured position player.
Selected by the Sox in the first round of the 1993 draft, added to the roster in August 1995, and playing regularly since 1999, Trot Nixon has been with the Red Sox organization longer than any other player. But if he is to continue that distinction he will have to stay healthy, and be at his best, this season.
Nixon is coming into the final year of a 3-year, $19.5 million contract he signed in the winter of 2004. But the first two years didn't go nearly as well as he'd hoped. Because of various injuries in each of those seasons, Nixon saw his playing time, and his performance, decline considerably. Playing in just 48 games in 2004 and 124 in 2005, Nixon dealt with a herniated disc injury, a quadriceps problem, a strained oblique, and an injury to his left knee that required arthroscopic surgery this offseason. But, as usual, the right fielder kept his mouth shut about the injury and gamely played through it for much of last season.
While Nixon has proven himself a solid solid hitter, as evidenced by his 3-year OPSs of .974, .887, and .803, he's also shown an inability to consistently hit left-handed pitching. As a result, the Sox have found it necessary to platoon him with another outfielder who fares better against lefties. This has limited the club in some ways because it creates the need for a specific type of fourth outfielder.
There is no question that Nixon can hit. He had a terrific year in 2003 when he batted .306, smacked 28 homers, and knocked in 87 runs. However, last year those numbers fell considerably to .275, 13 HR, and 67 RBI. But what concerns the Sox the most is the dramatic drop off Nixon experienced during the second half of 2005. He started the year strongly, hitting .296 with a .377 on-base percentage and a .484 slugging percentage before the All-Star break. But his numbers fell to .241/.326/.386 after the break.
Determined to be in great shape and return to form, Nixon showed up at camp on February 1 - earlier than any other Sox position player. If he can once again become the player he was from 2001-2003, it would add some much needed pop to the middle of the Sox order, making him, and the team, quite happy. During that period, Nixon averaged 26 homers, 90 RBI, and a .370 on base percentage.
So far this spring, he's showing signs of his former self. Nixon is hitting .417 (10 for 24) with a homer and 6 RBIs. But the Sox still have their concerns. Manager Terry Francona has tried to avoid putting Nixon on a bus this spring, so as not to aggravate his cranky back. Asked Francona rhetorically, ''Is it preferential treatment? Yeah. He looks so good this spring. He looks healthy. He looks like he's having fun. He feels good. I don't want him limping around."
Realistically, this could be Nixon's final year in a Red Sox uniform - no matter how he plays. Under his present contract, Nixon earns $6.5 million per season, and if he returns to form will surely seek a raise under any new deal. But with a number of talented and inexpensive outfielders in their system, including Adam Stern, David Murphy, Brandon Moss and Jacoby Ellsbury, the Sox may choose to go younger, and cheaper, next season. And of course if Nixon is injured again, or otherwise performs like an aging player with his best years squarely behind him, the Sox probably won't even offer him a contract. Though he turns just 32 next month, Nixon has been around for so long that some fans might think he's older. And though he should still be in the prime of his career, he'll be playing for a contract and will have to prove it.
It's hard to imagine the original dirt dog not patrolling right field at Fenway, an area he negotiates with such great expertise, but it's a possibility that bears consideration. Red Sox fans have come to love and respect Nixon's rugged and determined style of play. He never leaves the field with a clean uniform. His no nonsense, blue collar ethic has been tailor made for Boston. But one way or the other, we may be seeing the last of Trot Nixon in a Red Sox uniform in 2006.
Copyright © 2006 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
GUESS WHO'S BACK? LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!
After much speculation, and an offseason that included a trade demand and various trade proposals, Manny Ramirez finally reported to spring training in Fort Meyers. Whew. Glad that's over.
This offseason Manny continued being Manny, resulting in more of the strangeness and mystery that has become commonplace over the past five seasons. Of Manny's tenure in Boston, the best way to describe it would be, 'what a long, strange trip it's been.' Say what you will, but the man sure makes things interesting.
Truth be told, the Red Sox are better off with Manny in camp and in a Red Sox uniform. He is strange, odd, unpredictable - and a host of other adjectives would apply - but he is not a troublemaker or a clubhouse cancer. He is not a malcontent who puts himself above his team, and every time he takes the field he offers the Red Sox a better chance at winning.
So let's all be grateful that he's back, and hope that this latest episode is over. The issue of a trade may rasie it's ugly head yet again between now and the end of the 2008 season when his contract expires, but until then let's just hope that the marriage of Manny Ramirez and the Boston Red Sox is one of mutual benefit and understanding - if the latter is ever possible.
After telling friends and teammates that he found the environment in Boston suffocating, Manny now says "I ain't got no problems with Boston. I like the atmosphere. I know I'm one of the top guys in the game and there's a lot of people on my shoulders."
In a complete turnaround that testifies to his capriciousness and unpredictability, Manny told reporters yesterday, "I especially like the attention."
After revealing that he was in the best shape of his life due to his offseason conditioning program, he added: "I got a beautiful career going on and I'm not going to let little things like this mess [up] all the things that I accomplished because I think when I finish my career I'm going to be a special player."
Despite his penchant for not making sense, truer words could not be said. Manny is on the fast track to the Hall of Fame, and with just a couple more typical seasons, he'll be donning a Red Sox cap in Cooperstown about a decade from now.
Shortly after the new year, Manny let it be known that he'd apparently had a change of heart regarding his trade request. With some time to reflect during the offseason, somehow his perspective had changed.
"There will be no trade, I'm staying in Boston, where I'm familiar with the system and where I have a lot of friends, especially David Ortiz," Ramirez told ESPNdeportes.com while in Miami on personal business.
"I'm going to take things easy and focus on my career," he said.
Though he said the Sox may still try to trade him, he said he hopes that doesn't happen. "I also want to play for a contender, and I think with Boston I'm assured of that."
Of course what Manny says says and what Manny means may not be the same thing. It's hard to say if Manny even knows what he means, or what he wants. After all, as he noted, he's in a pretty good situation in Boston. Making $20 million a year, as a beloved figure on one of baseball's most consistently competitive teams, would be a dream come true for most big leaguers.
For Manny, who knows? Maybe he's matured somehow this offseason. Maybe we're in for more surprises. But for now we should just give him the benefit of the doubt and let him go out and play. That's what he does best.
Reporters look to athletes for great quotes, as if they were great writers, comics, philosophers or wisemen. That is expecting too much. Most of the time we get the same old stale, trite quotes. On those rare occasions when he actually talks to the media, Manny can occasionally say something hilarious, whether it makes sense or not. So let's just try to enjoy the amusement, not to mention the homers and the RBI.
Perhaps Curt Schilling put it best when being interviewed by Bill Simmons.
Simmons said, "My favorite "Manny being Manny" moment happened in the final game of the regular season -- he had just crushed a home run, the cameras caught you guys sitting next to one another in the dugout, he was talking excitedly about what pitch he had hit, and somewhere along the way, you just started staring at him in disbelief, as though he had just said something like, "I knew it was going to be a slider because I started craving a pork sandwich, and that always means a slider's coming!" And you just kept staring at him, and then he walked away to another part of the dugout, and you started shaking your head in shock like, "Wow, I will never, ever, ever figure that guy out." How many of those Manny encounters happen per season?
To which Schilling replied, "Three to four per day."
That, my friends, says it all.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
This offseason Manny continued being Manny, resulting in more of the strangeness and mystery that has become commonplace over the past five seasons. Of Manny's tenure in Boston, the best way to describe it would be, 'what a long, strange trip it's been.' Say what you will, but the man sure makes things interesting.
Truth be told, the Red Sox are better off with Manny in camp and in a Red Sox uniform. He is strange, odd, unpredictable - and a host of other adjectives would apply - but he is not a troublemaker or a clubhouse cancer. He is not a malcontent who puts himself above his team, and every time he takes the field he offers the Red Sox a better chance at winning.
So let's all be grateful that he's back, and hope that this latest episode is over. The issue of a trade may rasie it's ugly head yet again between now and the end of the 2008 season when his contract expires, but until then let's just hope that the marriage of Manny Ramirez and the Boston Red Sox is one of mutual benefit and understanding - if the latter is ever possible.
After telling friends and teammates that he found the environment in Boston suffocating, Manny now says "I ain't got no problems with Boston. I like the atmosphere. I know I'm one of the top guys in the game and there's a lot of people on my shoulders."
In a complete turnaround that testifies to his capriciousness and unpredictability, Manny told reporters yesterday, "I especially like the attention."
After revealing that he was in the best shape of his life due to his offseason conditioning program, he added: "I got a beautiful career going on and I'm not going to let little things like this mess [up] all the things that I accomplished because I think when I finish my career I'm going to be a special player."
Despite his penchant for not making sense, truer words could not be said. Manny is on the fast track to the Hall of Fame, and with just a couple more typical seasons, he'll be donning a Red Sox cap in Cooperstown about a decade from now.
Shortly after the new year, Manny let it be known that he'd apparently had a change of heart regarding his trade request. With some time to reflect during the offseason, somehow his perspective had changed.
"There will be no trade, I'm staying in Boston, where I'm familiar with the system and where I have a lot of friends, especially David Ortiz," Ramirez told ESPNdeportes.com while in Miami on personal business.
"I'm going to take things easy and focus on my career," he said.
Though he said the Sox may still try to trade him, he said he hopes that doesn't happen. "I also want to play for a contender, and I think with Boston I'm assured of that."
Of course what Manny says says and what Manny means may not be the same thing. It's hard to say if Manny even knows what he means, or what he wants. After all, as he noted, he's in a pretty good situation in Boston. Making $20 million a year, as a beloved figure on one of baseball's most consistently competitive teams, would be a dream come true for most big leaguers.
For Manny, who knows? Maybe he's matured somehow this offseason. Maybe we're in for more surprises. But for now we should just give him the benefit of the doubt and let him go out and play. That's what he does best.
Reporters look to athletes for great quotes, as if they were great writers, comics, philosophers or wisemen. That is expecting too much. Most of the time we get the same old stale, trite quotes. On those rare occasions when he actually talks to the media, Manny can occasionally say something hilarious, whether it makes sense or not. So let's just try to enjoy the amusement, not to mention the homers and the RBI.
Perhaps Curt Schilling put it best when being interviewed by Bill Simmons.
Simmons said, "My favorite "Manny being Manny" moment happened in the final game of the regular season -- he had just crushed a home run, the cameras caught you guys sitting next to one another in the dugout, he was talking excitedly about what pitch he had hit, and somewhere along the way, you just started staring at him in disbelief, as though he had just said something like, "I knew it was going to be a slider because I started craving a pork sandwich, and that always means a slider's coming!" And you just kept staring at him, and then he walked away to another part of the dugout, and you started shaking your head in shock like, "Wow, I will never, ever, ever figure that guy out." How many of those Manny encounters happen per season?
To which Schilling replied, "Three to four per day."
That, my friends, says it all.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
DEFENSE RULES THE DAY
THE RECONSTRUCTED SOX DEFENSE SHOULD HELP THEIR PITCHERS AND REDUCE RUNS SCORED AGAINST THEM
The Sox made a smart move by committing to only a one-year, $3 million dollar deal with shortstop Alex Gonzalez. The free agent had been seeking a two-year deal worth a reported $10 million. The Sox don't need to be committed that long, or for that much, to a guy who has a such hard time handling the bat. That's because they have young Dustin Pedroia, their No. 1 pick two years ago, waiting in the wings. He should be ready to go in 2007.
Gonzalez, who will be 29 at the start of spring training, is a defensive whiz who struggles at the plate. He's .245 career hitter with a career on-base percentage of just .291. But Gonzalez made some nice improvements last season with the Marlins. His 31 walks were just two off his career high and, more impressively, his strikeout total shrunk from a career-high of 126 in 2004 down to 81. Continuing that trend, his on-base percentage increased to .319 while his batting average rose to . 264.
Working with hitting coach Ron Jackson should be of great benefit to Gonzalez, and could help continue the improvement of his stroke. In each of "Papa Jack's" first 2 years with the club, the Sox led the majors in runs, batting average, doubles, extra-base hits, total bases, on-base percentage and slugging.
Jackson's tutelage should also aid the reemergence of third baseman Mike Lowell, who along with Gonzalez constituted the left side of the Marlins infield for the last several years. Lowell was the 2005 Gold Glove winner after committing just six errors in 135 games at third. And in 2004, Lowell set a NL record for the fewest errors (7) by a third baseman playing in a minimum of 150 games. But after being a consistent offensive force for the previous five seasons, in which he averaged 25 homers, 95 RBI and a .280 average, Lowell had an off year offensely, experiencing career lows in batting average (.236), home runs (eight) and RBI (58).
What's impressive about Lowell's stats in those previous years was that he was able to be so productive playing in what is known as a pitcher's park, Dolphins Stadium. Fenway Park, as well as Jackson, should help Lowell's return to form. You've got to figure that he really wants to prove himself to his new teammates, coaches, as well as the Boston fans.
One way or the other, the Red Sox defense figures to be significantly improved this season with Lowell, Gonzalez, Mark Loretta at second, and JT Snow at first. If Kevin Youkilis proves to be as able at first as he was at third, then he will provide solid defense as well. And with Alex Cora coming off the bench late in games when the Sox hold a lead, or to rest a starter on any given day, the Sox should be in fine shape. Even with his below average arm, Coco Crisp should also be an upgrade in center over Johnny Damon, who may have the weakest throwing arm in the Majors.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Sox made a smart move by committing to only a one-year, $3 million dollar deal with shortstop Alex Gonzalez. The free agent had been seeking a two-year deal worth a reported $10 million. The Sox don't need to be committed that long, or for that much, to a guy who has a such hard time handling the bat. That's because they have young Dustin Pedroia, their No. 1 pick two years ago, waiting in the wings. He should be ready to go in 2007.
Gonzalez, who will be 29 at the start of spring training, is a defensive whiz who struggles at the plate. He's .245 career hitter with a career on-base percentage of just .291. But Gonzalez made some nice improvements last season with the Marlins. His 31 walks were just two off his career high and, more impressively, his strikeout total shrunk from a career-high of 126 in 2004 down to 81. Continuing that trend, his on-base percentage increased to .319 while his batting average rose to . 264.
Working with hitting coach Ron Jackson should be of great benefit to Gonzalez, and could help continue the improvement of his stroke. In each of "Papa Jack's" first 2 years with the club, the Sox led the majors in runs, batting average, doubles, extra-base hits, total bases, on-base percentage and slugging.
Jackson's tutelage should also aid the reemergence of third baseman Mike Lowell, who along with Gonzalez constituted the left side of the Marlins infield for the last several years. Lowell was the 2005 Gold Glove winner after committing just six errors in 135 games at third. And in 2004, Lowell set a NL record for the fewest errors (7) by a third baseman playing in a minimum of 150 games. But after being a consistent offensive force for the previous five seasons, in which he averaged 25 homers, 95 RBI and a .280 average, Lowell had an off year offensely, experiencing career lows in batting average (.236), home runs (eight) and RBI (58).
What's impressive about Lowell's stats in those previous years was that he was able to be so productive playing in what is known as a pitcher's park, Dolphins Stadium. Fenway Park, as well as Jackson, should help Lowell's return to form. You've got to figure that he really wants to prove himself to his new teammates, coaches, as well as the Boston fans.
One way or the other, the Red Sox defense figures to be significantly improved this season with Lowell, Gonzalez, Mark Loretta at second, and JT Snow at first. If Kevin Youkilis proves to be as able at first as he was at third, then he will provide solid defense as well. And with Alex Cora coming off the bench late in games when the Sox hold a lead, or to rest a starter on any given day, the Sox should be in fine shape. Even with his below average arm, Coco Crisp should also be an upgrade in center over Johnny Damon, who may have the weakest throwing arm in the Majors.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, January 29, 2006
OBTAINING CRISP THE RIGHT MOVE
All things considered, I really like this deal for the Red Sox.
The Sox now have a speedy, switch hitting leadoff hitter to replace Johnny Damon.
Though he played left field for Cleveland last year, Crisp was a center fielder prior to the emergence of Grady Sizemore in 2005. While the average AL left fielder hit .278/.333/.437 in 2005, Crisp hit .300/.345/.465. And even if he'd played center, only three other center fielders hit for a higher average than Crisp.
In each of his four seasons, Crisp's numbers have continued to improve. His average steadily climbed from .260 to .266 to .297. to .300 last year. He also collected 62 extra-base hits last season (more than Damon), compared to a total of 77 in his first three. It's a trend the Sox brass expect to continue.
While the Sox gave up 22-year-old prospect Andy Marte to acquire Crisp, Crisp is only 26 himself and is just starting to emerge. Right now, the primary difference between Crisp and Marte is that Crisp has proven himself at the big league level, and shown that he's more than just a prospect.
A classic line-drive hitter, Crisp hit 42 his doubles last year - fifth-best in the American League. He should be a fixture on second base, just waiting to score, for years to come.
As for the relief pitchers exchanged, the Sox managed to get younger. The 29-year-old Riske has fanned 318 batters in 317 career innings. That's a higher strike out ratio than Guillermo Mota. And Riske always has been able to get both lefties and righties out, which makes him more than just a matchup reliever. Last year, righties hit just .204 vs. Riske, and lefties had little more success, hitting only .213.
Riske had an amazing WHIP (walks plus hits per innings pitched) of 0.96 last season. To give that some framework, only four AL relievers (New York's Mariano Rivera - 0.87, Cleveland's Bobby Howry - 0.89, Chicago's Cliff Politte - 0.94, and Toronto's Justin Speier - 0.95) registered a better WHIP than Riske.
This deal makes the Sox stronger not only now, but in the future as well. Center field was the current priority right, not third base. Kevin Youkilis is another young infielder, and the Sox can always move him back to third if necessary in the future.
Copyright © 2006 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Sox now have a speedy, switch hitting leadoff hitter to replace Johnny Damon.
Though he played left field for Cleveland last year, Crisp was a center fielder prior to the emergence of Grady Sizemore in 2005. While the average AL left fielder hit .278/.333/.437 in 2005, Crisp hit .300/.345/.465. And even if he'd played center, only three other center fielders hit for a higher average than Crisp.
In each of his four seasons, Crisp's numbers have continued to improve. His average steadily climbed from .260 to .266 to .297. to .300 last year. He also collected 62 extra-base hits last season (more than Damon), compared to a total of 77 in his first three. It's a trend the Sox brass expect to continue.
While the Sox gave up 22-year-old prospect Andy Marte to acquire Crisp, Crisp is only 26 himself and is just starting to emerge. Right now, the primary difference between Crisp and Marte is that Crisp has proven himself at the big league level, and shown that he's more than just a prospect.
A classic line-drive hitter, Crisp hit 42 his doubles last year - fifth-best in the American League. He should be a fixture on second base, just waiting to score, for years to come.
As for the relief pitchers exchanged, the Sox managed to get younger. The 29-year-old Riske has fanned 318 batters in 317 career innings. That's a higher strike out ratio than Guillermo Mota. And Riske always has been able to get both lefties and righties out, which makes him more than just a matchup reliever. Last year, righties hit just .204 vs. Riske, and lefties had little more success, hitting only .213.
Riske had an amazing WHIP (walks plus hits per innings pitched) of 0.96 last season. To give that some framework, only four AL relievers (New York's Mariano Rivera - 0.87, Cleveland's Bobby Howry - 0.89, Chicago's Cliff Politte - 0.94, and Toronto's Justin Speier - 0.95) registered a better WHIP than Riske.
This deal makes the Sox stronger not only now, but in the future as well. Center field was the current priority right, not third base. Kevin Youkilis is another young infielder, and the Sox can always move him back to third if necessary in the future.
Copyright © 2006 Sean M. Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
NEW CHEMISTRY IN THE LAB
Much has been made of the Red Sox team chemistry during a three-year playoff run that resulted in a 2004 World Series Championship. That run was unprecedented in team history, and saw the club average 95 wins per season.
We all know about the "Idiots", and "Cowboy Up!" Now many fans are sorry to see the likes of Johnny Damon, Bill Mueller, Kevin Millar, and Doug Miribelli leave Boston for other cities.
But what's often overlooked is that the clubhouse chemistry wasn't all good, all the time.
Toward the end of last season, a Sox player who chose to remain anonymous (meaning he's a coward) suggested that Curt Schilling had unfairly escaped the same public criticism that other Sox players had endured for their lackluster performances.
After Schilling sacrificed his health, and potentially his career, to pitch on a severely damaged ankle during the 2004 playoffs and World Series, his cowardly teammate said, ''When he comes into the game, people cheer him like he's the Pope? You think they'd let Pedro [Martinez] get away with this? Why does he get a free pass?"
Though the player chose to remain publicly anonymous, Schilling seemed to know who it was, calling him "somebody who's not wired right." And there's a good chance that player is no longer on the team.
Thirteen days after the Sox won the World Series, Schilling underwent three hours of surgery on his right ankle to repair a dislocated and torn tendon, a bone defect, and cartilage damage, among other problems. Other than when he used crutches for several public appearances, the next eight weeks were spent at home in a wheelchair. By the time Schilling was out of the wheelchair, spring training was little more than four weeks away. Even if his ankle had healed perfectly, which it clearly hadn't, there wasn't sufficient time to get in game shape.
But Schilling had deservedly earned a free pass from the fans, the media, and most of his teammates. His poor performance was warranted, and had a legitimate excuse. The same could not be said of Kevin Millar, Mark Belhorn or Alan Embree. All of them tanked for, seemingly, no good reason.
Schilling realized that the fans were very appreciative of his on field exploits and his personal sacrifices, and last fall he was quick to credit his teammates for the 2004 Championship.
''I've been given a long leash this year by the fans, which I'm very appreciative of," he said at the time. ''But my teammates were just as responsible as I was for helping to win the World Series last year, and it has been really, really uncomfortable for me to see them go through what they have gone through this year," he said in reference to teammates like Millar, Belhorn, Embree and Keith Foulke.
But that wasn't the first crack in the facade. In July, when Schilling returned from the DL to take over the closer's role after Foulke made his own trip to the injured squad, the sniping began almost immediately. Johnny Damon aired his opinion loud and clear.
''I don't think he's ready to be our closer," Damon said of Schilling.
''He's never done it. He throws 60 pitches to get loose for a game. He needs to get loose.... He can't do it."
But Damon saved his best zinger for last. "Schilling's a little too old and it takes too long to get loose to be in that closer role."
Clearly, opinions like that should be discussed internally, and left in the clubhouse - not in the media. Not to mention that the guy Damon was lobbying for, Mike Timlin, was even older than Schilling.
So not everything was so honky dory in Red Sox Land. Maybe it was more than just team defense and pitching that needed an overhaul this off season. Perhaps the team chemistry needed a shot in the arm, and a little manipulating to rid itself of any malcontents, snipers, or overly outspoken players who liked the camera and the microphone just a little too much (read, Millar and Damon).
To that end, extend a welcome to a group of dignified professionals such as Mark Loretta, Mike Lowell, and JT Snow. These guys do their talking on the field and have earned the respect of their teammates wherever they've played. Schilling, for one, is looking forward to playing with the new guys.
"It certainly is a different team. It’s going to be tremendously different team chemistry wise, and I’m not really sure that’s going to end up being a bad thing."
Referring to Lowell and Loretta, Schilling said, "(You) could not find two more quality human beings. I’ve never heard a bad word said about either one of those guys. In this day and age, that’s rare. I fully expect Mike Lowell, given what I know about what happened to him last year, to have a Mike Lowell-type season this year.
Mark Loretta is a guy that fits right in with the philosophy here. He’s an impossible out. He makes productive outs when he does make outs. Fantastic ballplayer that’s exciting, but I think I look at it more as a whole.
Those two guys are what you call professional players on and off the field. They handle themselves in both places. They’re both fantastic people and they can play the game. Boston is merciless if you suck, and I don’t see any of the guys coming in here as being guys that are going to suck."
That sounds like a ringing endorsement. And as far as those are concerned, Schilling gave another to his own health and preparedness to pitch this spring.
"About 14-17 days ago, I woke up and my foot was normal. Going through workouts and doing the stuff I’m doing here, and I don’t know what the combination was, but it feels right again. It feels normal. It feels like it’s always felt. I have some aches and pains early in the morning, but it’s felt normal for the first time in a long, long time."
"I don’t know what it was, but I really noticed it more throwing than anything."
"I just started noticing everything changing about three weeks ago."
"Being able to run, and being able to move extensively to do workouts has changed my body comp dramatically in the last month, month and a half. And that’s something I haven’t been able to do for almost a year, so I knew that was going to have a dramatic impact on how I felt, how my foot felt, how my body felt going into spring training."
With a healthy Schilling and a rehabilitated Foulke - who is said to be in his best shape in years - back in the bullpen, the new additions to this year's roster should make the Red Sox a very competitive team once again. Pitching and defense will be their strengths, and they should be a similar offensive squad as well. They should be able to count on more offensive production at first and second, more power at third, and something similar at short. If the Coco Crisp trade is finally consummated, the 2006 Red Sox will be a very competitive team indeed.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
We all know about the "Idiots", and "Cowboy Up!" Now many fans are sorry to see the likes of Johnny Damon, Bill Mueller, Kevin Millar, and Doug Miribelli leave Boston for other cities.
But what's often overlooked is that the clubhouse chemistry wasn't all good, all the time.
Toward the end of last season, a Sox player who chose to remain anonymous (meaning he's a coward) suggested that Curt Schilling had unfairly escaped the same public criticism that other Sox players had endured for their lackluster performances.
After Schilling sacrificed his health, and potentially his career, to pitch on a severely damaged ankle during the 2004 playoffs and World Series, his cowardly teammate said, ''When he comes into the game, people cheer him like he's the Pope? You think they'd let Pedro [Martinez] get away with this? Why does he get a free pass?"
Though the player chose to remain publicly anonymous, Schilling seemed to know who it was, calling him "somebody who's not wired right." And there's a good chance that player is no longer on the team.
Thirteen days after the Sox won the World Series, Schilling underwent three hours of surgery on his right ankle to repair a dislocated and torn tendon, a bone defect, and cartilage damage, among other problems. Other than when he used crutches for several public appearances, the next eight weeks were spent at home in a wheelchair. By the time Schilling was out of the wheelchair, spring training was little more than four weeks away. Even if his ankle had healed perfectly, which it clearly hadn't, there wasn't sufficient time to get in game shape.
But Schilling had deservedly earned a free pass from the fans, the media, and most of his teammates. His poor performance was warranted, and had a legitimate excuse. The same could not be said of Kevin Millar, Mark Belhorn or Alan Embree. All of them tanked for, seemingly, no good reason.
Schilling realized that the fans were very appreciative of his on field exploits and his personal sacrifices, and last fall he was quick to credit his teammates for the 2004 Championship.
''I've been given a long leash this year by the fans, which I'm very appreciative of," he said at the time. ''But my teammates were just as responsible as I was for helping to win the World Series last year, and it has been really, really uncomfortable for me to see them go through what they have gone through this year," he said in reference to teammates like Millar, Belhorn, Embree and Keith Foulke.
But that wasn't the first crack in the facade. In July, when Schilling returned from the DL to take over the closer's role after Foulke made his own trip to the injured squad, the sniping began almost immediately. Johnny Damon aired his opinion loud and clear.
''I don't think he's ready to be our closer," Damon said of Schilling.
''He's never done it. He throws 60 pitches to get loose for a game. He needs to get loose.... He can't do it."
But Damon saved his best zinger for last. "Schilling's a little too old and it takes too long to get loose to be in that closer role."
Clearly, opinions like that should be discussed internally, and left in the clubhouse - not in the media. Not to mention that the guy Damon was lobbying for, Mike Timlin, was even older than Schilling.
So not everything was so honky dory in Red Sox Land. Maybe it was more than just team defense and pitching that needed an overhaul this off season. Perhaps the team chemistry needed a shot in the arm, and a little manipulating to rid itself of any malcontents, snipers, or overly outspoken players who liked the camera and the microphone just a little too much (read, Millar and Damon).
To that end, extend a welcome to a group of dignified professionals such as Mark Loretta, Mike Lowell, and JT Snow. These guys do their talking on the field and have earned the respect of their teammates wherever they've played. Schilling, for one, is looking forward to playing with the new guys.
"It certainly is a different team. It’s going to be tremendously different team chemistry wise, and I’m not really sure that’s going to end up being a bad thing."
Referring to Lowell and Loretta, Schilling said, "(You) could not find two more quality human beings. I’ve never heard a bad word said about either one of those guys. In this day and age, that’s rare. I fully expect Mike Lowell, given what I know about what happened to him last year, to have a Mike Lowell-type season this year.
Mark Loretta is a guy that fits right in with the philosophy here. He’s an impossible out. He makes productive outs when he does make outs. Fantastic ballplayer that’s exciting, but I think I look at it more as a whole.
Those two guys are what you call professional players on and off the field. They handle themselves in both places. They’re both fantastic people and they can play the game. Boston is merciless if you suck, and I don’t see any of the guys coming in here as being guys that are going to suck."
That sounds like a ringing endorsement. And as far as those are concerned, Schilling gave another to his own health and preparedness to pitch this spring.
"About 14-17 days ago, I woke up and my foot was normal. Going through workouts and doing the stuff I’m doing here, and I don’t know what the combination was, but it feels right again. It feels normal. It feels like it’s always felt. I have some aches and pains early in the morning, but it’s felt normal for the first time in a long, long time."
"I don’t know what it was, but I really noticed it more throwing than anything."
"I just started noticing everything changing about three weeks ago."
"Being able to run, and being able to move extensively to do workouts has changed my body comp dramatically in the last month, month and a half. And that’s something I haven’t been able to do for almost a year, so I knew that was going to have a dramatic impact on how I felt, how my foot felt, how my body felt going into spring training."
With a healthy Schilling and a rehabilitated Foulke - who is said to be in his best shape in years - back in the bullpen, the new additions to this year's roster should make the Red Sox a very competitive team once again. Pitching and defense will be their strengths, and they should be a similar offensive squad as well. They should be able to count on more offensive production at first and second, more power at third, and something similar at short. If the Coco Crisp trade is finally consummated, the 2006 Red Sox will be a very competitive team indeed.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
DEAL FOR CRISP APPEARS IMMINENT
Reports indicate that the Red Sox and Indians have reached a preliminary agreement in a deal involving center fielder Coco Crisp, and highly touted third base prospect Andy Marte. Marte is coveted by the Indians, and has been their focus in any trade with the Sox.
To obtain Josh Beckett, the Sox had to part with the organization's top position-player prospect, Hanley Ramirez. In acquiring Marte from the Braves in exchange for Edgar Renteria, the Sox filled that void with yet another elite prospect. But almost immediately, other teams began inquiring about the young third baseman in trade talks with the Red Sox this offseason. However, the Sox have appeared reluctant to deal Marte before he's even donned a team jersey.
For the Sox, Marte's arrival softened the blow of losing their most highly regarded prospect - one who could have become a mainstay of the infield for years to come. But if they are now grudgingly forced to part with him - to fill the gaping hole in center - they would be obligated to make up for having mortgaged their future by acquiring yet another frontline prospect.
That player could be Dodgers third base prospect Willy Aybar. If the Sox are able to secure Aybar in a trade for David Wells, that would make Marte expendable.
Last year in 26 games with the Dodgers, Aybar hit .326 with a .448 on base percentage. If the Sox can pry him away from L.A., the deal for Crisp looks even better. Aybar would easily make up for the loss of Marte, who hit just .140 with a .227 OBP in 24 games with the Braves last season.
The 26-year-old Crisp would fill both the center field and leadoff holes for the Sox.
Crisp appeals to the Red Sox not only because he's very inexpensive - and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years - but also because he hit .300 last season, to go along with an .810 OPS, 16 home runs and 69 RBI. His 178 hits and 44 walks resulted in a .345 OBP. A speedster, Crisp hit 43 doubles and stole 15 bases. Hardball Times also ranked him as the best defensive left fielder in baseball. Furthermore, Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
As you can see, the numbers are quite comparable. But at 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as he gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely rise. If Crisp played 81 games a season at Fenway, it's not difficult to imagine him standing on second base quite regularly. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway Park would likely be quite satisfactory, and equally rewarding, to him.
But the deal could be held up if the Indians can't find a suitable replacement for Crisp.
To that end, Cleveland has had talks with the Phillies about acquiring outfielder Jason Michaels in exchange for Rafael Betancourt, plus David Riske or Arthur Rhodes. However, those negotiations have proven unsuccessful to this point.
The reason could be that Michaels comes with baggage. On Friday he agreed to complete 100 hours of community service to settle charges that he allegedly assaulted a Philadelphia police officer.
The 29-year-old was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest after he allegedly punched Officer Timothy Taylor, wrestled him to the ground, and ripped his shirt outside a nightclub on July 3. Other officers had to subdue Michaels during the incident.
Michaels agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract with the Phillies this week after hitting .304 with four homers and 31 RBI in 289 at-bats last season.
Let's hope Cleveland is willing to take a gamble on him, and isn't scared off by his seemingly out of control behavior.
Copyright © 2006 Sean Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
To obtain Josh Beckett, the Sox had to part with the organization's top position-player prospect, Hanley Ramirez. In acquiring Marte from the Braves in exchange for Edgar Renteria, the Sox filled that void with yet another elite prospect. But almost immediately, other teams began inquiring about the young third baseman in trade talks with the Red Sox this offseason. However, the Sox have appeared reluctant to deal Marte before he's even donned a team jersey.
For the Sox, Marte's arrival softened the blow of losing their most highly regarded prospect - one who could have become a mainstay of the infield for years to come. But if they are now grudgingly forced to part with him - to fill the gaping hole in center - they would be obligated to make up for having mortgaged their future by acquiring yet another frontline prospect.
That player could be Dodgers third base prospect Willy Aybar. If the Sox are able to secure Aybar in a trade for David Wells, that would make Marte expendable.
Last year in 26 games with the Dodgers, Aybar hit .326 with a .448 on base percentage. If the Sox can pry him away from L.A., the deal for Crisp looks even better. Aybar would easily make up for the loss of Marte, who hit just .140 with a .227 OBP in 24 games with the Braves last season.
The 26-year-old Crisp would fill both the center field and leadoff holes for the Sox.
Crisp appeals to the Red Sox not only because he's very inexpensive - and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years - but also because he hit .300 last season, to go along with an .810 OPS, 16 home runs and 69 RBI. His 178 hits and 44 walks resulted in a .345 OBP. A speedster, Crisp hit 43 doubles and stole 15 bases. Hardball Times also ranked him as the best defensive left fielder in baseball. Furthermore, Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
As you can see, the numbers are quite comparable. But at 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as he gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely rise. If Crisp played 81 games a season at Fenway, it's not difficult to imagine him standing on second base quite regularly. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway Park would likely be quite satisfactory, and equally rewarding, to him.
But the deal could be held up if the Indians can't find a suitable replacement for Crisp.
To that end, Cleveland has had talks with the Phillies about acquiring outfielder Jason Michaels in exchange for Rafael Betancourt, plus David Riske or Arthur Rhodes. However, those negotiations have proven unsuccessful to this point.
The reason could be that Michaels comes with baggage. On Friday he agreed to complete 100 hours of community service to settle charges that he allegedly assaulted a Philadelphia police officer.
The 29-year-old was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest after he allegedly punched Officer Timothy Taylor, wrestled him to the ground, and ripped his shirt outside a nightclub on July 3. Other officers had to subdue Michaels during the incident.
Michaels agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract with the Phillies this week after hitting .304 with four homers and 31 RBI in 289 at-bats last season.
Let's hope Cleveland is willing to take a gamble on him, and isn't scared off by his seemingly out of control behavior.
Copyright © 2006 Sean Kennedy. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Saturday, January 21, 2006
HOW COCO CRISP COULD COME TO BOSTON
Right now, trade discussions between the Red Sox and Indians regarding Coco Crisp center around third base prospect Andy Marte. Marte is coveted by the Indians, and would be their center piece in any trade with the Sox.
If the Red Sox are able to secure third base prospect Willy Aybar from the Dodgers in a trade for David Wells, that would make Marte expendable.
Last year in 26 games with the Dodgers, Aybar hit .326 with a .448 on base percentage. If the Sox can pry him away from the Dodgers, all of the other pieces could fall neatly into place. Aybar would easily make up for the loss of Marte, who hit just .140 with a .227 OBP in 24 games with the Braves last season.
The 26-year-old Crisp would fill both the center field and leadoff holes for the Sox.
Crisp appeals to the Red Sox not only because he's very inexpensive - and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years - but also because he hit .300 last season, to go along with an .810 OPS, 16 home runs and 69 RBI. His 178 hits and 44 walks resulted in a .345 OBP. A speedster, Crisp hit 43 doubles and stole 15 bases. Hardball Times also ranked him as the best defensive left fielder in baseball. Furthermore, Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
As you can see, the numbers are quite comparable. But at 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as he gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely rise. If Crisp played 81 games a season at Fenway, it's not difficult to imagine him standing on second base quite regularly. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway Park would likely be quite satisfactory, and equally rewarding, to him.
But the Indians won't trade Crisp unless they found someone to replace him.
To that end, Cleveland has had talks with the Phillies about acquiring outfielder Jason Michaels in exchange for Rafael Betancourt, plus David Riske or Arthur Rhodes. However, those negotiations have proven unsuccessful to this point.
The reason could be that Michaels comes with baggage. On Friday he agreed to complete 100 hours of community service to settle charges that he allegedly assaulted a Philadelphia police officer.
The 29-year-old was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest after he allegedly punched Officer Timothy Taylor, wrestled him to the ground, and ripped his shirt outside a nightclub on July 3. Other officers had to subdue Michaels during the incident.
Michaels agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract with the Phillies this week after hitting .304 with four homers and 31 RBI in 289 at-bats last season.
Let's hope Cleveland is willing to take a gamble on him, and isn't scared off by his seemingly out of control behavior.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
If the Red Sox are able to secure third base prospect Willy Aybar from the Dodgers in a trade for David Wells, that would make Marte expendable.
Last year in 26 games with the Dodgers, Aybar hit .326 with a .448 on base percentage. If the Sox can pry him away from the Dodgers, all of the other pieces could fall neatly into place. Aybar would easily make up for the loss of Marte, who hit just .140 with a .227 OBP in 24 games with the Braves last season.
The 26-year-old Crisp would fill both the center field and leadoff holes for the Sox.
Crisp appeals to the Red Sox not only because he's very inexpensive - and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years - but also because he hit .300 last season, to go along with an .810 OPS, 16 home runs and 69 RBI. His 178 hits and 44 walks resulted in a .345 OBP. A speedster, Crisp hit 43 doubles and stole 15 bases. Hardball Times also ranked him as the best defensive left fielder in baseball. Furthermore, Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
As you can see, the numbers are quite comparable. But at 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as he gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely rise. If Crisp played 81 games a season at Fenway, it's not difficult to imagine him standing on second base quite regularly. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway Park would likely be quite satisfactory, and equally rewarding, to him.
But the Indians won't trade Crisp unless they found someone to replace him.
To that end, Cleveland has had talks with the Phillies about acquiring outfielder Jason Michaels in exchange for Rafael Betancourt, plus David Riske or Arthur Rhodes. However, those negotiations have proven unsuccessful to this point.
The reason could be that Michaels comes with baggage. On Friday he agreed to complete 100 hours of community service to settle charges that he allegedly assaulted a Philadelphia police officer.
The 29-year-old was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest after he allegedly punched Officer Timothy Taylor, wrestled him to the ground, and ripped his shirt outside a nightclub on July 3. Other officers had to subdue Michaels during the incident.
Michaels agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract with the Phillies this week after hitting .304 with four homers and 31 RBI in 289 at-bats last season.
Let's hope Cleveland is willing to take a gamble on him, and isn't scared off by his seemingly out of control behavior.
Copyright © 2006 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
INDIANS MAY LOOK TO DEAL
With the signing of free agent first baseman Eduardo Perez, the Indians need to make room for him on the 40-man roster by releasing or trading another player. With six outfielders on their roster, this might be an ideal time for the Tribe to work out a deal with the Red Sox for 26-year-old switch-hitter Coco Crisp.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
AN INJUSTICE FOR RICE
For the twelfth consecutive year Jim Rice fell short of qualifying for the Hall of Fame. Rice finished second in the voting (64.8 percent) to Bruce Sutter, once again failing to get the requisite 75 percent the votes needed for induction.
Though Rice had eight seasons of 100-plus RBIs and hit .300 seven times, for some voters it just wasn't enough. Rice slugged 382 home runs, 2,452 hits and 1,451 RBIs to go along with a .298 average in 2,089 games. He was clearly dominant in his era, perhaps the most dominant hitter of his time, but what he lacked was longevity.
That lack of longevity didn't hurt Twins outfielder Kirby Puckett. Playing only 12 seasons, Puckett was inferior to Rice in every offensive category, except batting, and yet he still achieved the immortality that induction confers. Either Puckett's induction was a mistake, or Rice has been unfairly left out.
While it's often said that Rice played 16 season in the majors, he didn't. Rice was a September call up in 1974 and had only 67 at bats in 24 games. It wasn't enough to qualify him as a rookie, and it's not enough to be considered a season. Furthermore, Rice only played in 56 games in 1989, his final season. That year Rice had just 209 at bats. To be considered for a batting title, a player must have at least 400 at bats. In a typical season, an everyday player might see as many as 600 at bats. So the reality is that Rice played just 14 seasons, and in that time he amassed absolutely phenomenal statistics. The truth is, if Rice had just sat out those 56 games in 1989 - when his eyesight had long since failed him - he would have finished his career with a magical .300 average. I say magical because many believe that if he'd lifted his average a measly .002 points that he'd have been in years ago.
From 1975-1986 Rice averaged 29 homers, 106 RBI, 91 runs and a .303 average. During this period, Rice led all American League players in 12 different offensive categories, including home runs (350), RBI (1,276), total bases (3,670), slugging percentage (.520), runs (1,098) and hits (2,145), as well as games, at bats, extra base hits, multiple hit games, go-ahead RBI, and outfield assists.
Rice dominated his era, finishing in the top five in the MVP voting six times in an eight-year span. He won the MVP award in 1978, when he became the first American League player to collect 400 total bases since Joe Dimaggio. He led the AL in homers three times, RBI twice, total bases four times, and was an All-Star eight times. He is the only player in major league history with three consecutive seasons of 35 homers and 200 hits. He led the AL in total bases for three straight seasons, tying a record held by Ted Williams and Ty Cobb. And Rice joined Babe Ruth and Jimmy Foxx as the only players in AL history with three consecutive 39 homer, .315 average seasons. Need I say more?
Rice was often perceived as a power hitter because of those three consecutive 39 + homers seasons, and because he hit 25 or more homers seven times in a ten year span. But Rice wasn't a power hitter so much as he was a hitter, plain and simple. Between '75-'86, he collected over 200 hits four times, hit .300 or better seven times, and .290 or better nine times.
First baseman Tony Perez was considered worthy of the Hall after batting .279 with 379 home runs and 1,652 RBI over 23 seasons. He certainly had the longevity, and therefore the durability, but a lifetime .279 average can qualify one for the Hall? And Perez only averaged 16 home runs and 72 RBI per season. That is not dominant.
But Rice doesn't just outshine Hall of Famers Puckett and Perez. Some would argue that it's only fair to compare players by position. For example, second basemen generally don't hold up well against outfielders in terms of offensive production. They generally get into the Hall based on their their defensive prowess and how they compare to other second basemen offensively. But for argument's sake, I think it's fair to compare Rice to other Hall of Fame players of similar offensive stature.
Rice outperformed Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda in every offensive category; runs, hits, homers, RBI, total bases, walks, OBP, slugging, and hitting. Rice also had more homers, RBI and a higher slugging percentage than Roberto Clemente. Rice had more hits, home runs, and total bases than Joe Dimaggio. Rice had more runs, hits, homers, RBI, and total bases than Hank Greenberg. Rice crushes Ralph Kiner in runs, hits, home runs, RBI, total bases and batting. Rice had more hits, total bases and a higher average than Eddie Mathews - not to mention a nearly identical slugging percentage and RBI total. Rice had more runs, hits, total bases and a higher average than Willie McCovey. Rice bested Johnny Mize in runs, hits, total bases, home runs and RBI. Rice surpassed Enos Slaughter in runs, hits, total bases, home runs, RBI, slugging percentage and had a nearly identical average. Rice had more hits, total bases, RBI, and a higher average than Duke Snider. Rice had more runs, hits, total bases, and a higher average than Willie Stargell. And finally, Rice had more runs, hits, total bases, homers, and RBI than Hack Wilson.
Only nine players in Major League history have compiled as high a career batting average and as many homers as Rice. They are: Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Stan Musial. Naturally, each of them is in the Hall.
Despite the fact that 10% of the voters didn't get it right, the evidence is clear; Jim Rice is worthy and deserving of the Hall of Fame. Hopefully, next year all of the voters will finally do him justice. Rice earned it.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Though Rice had eight seasons of 100-plus RBIs and hit .300 seven times, for some voters it just wasn't enough. Rice slugged 382 home runs, 2,452 hits and 1,451 RBIs to go along with a .298 average in 2,089 games. He was clearly dominant in his era, perhaps the most dominant hitter of his time, but what he lacked was longevity.
That lack of longevity didn't hurt Twins outfielder Kirby Puckett. Playing only 12 seasons, Puckett was inferior to Rice in every offensive category, except batting, and yet he still achieved the immortality that induction confers. Either Puckett's induction was a mistake, or Rice has been unfairly left out.
While it's often said that Rice played 16 season in the majors, he didn't. Rice was a September call up in 1974 and had only 67 at bats in 24 games. It wasn't enough to qualify him as a rookie, and it's not enough to be considered a season. Furthermore, Rice only played in 56 games in 1989, his final season. That year Rice had just 209 at bats. To be considered for a batting title, a player must have at least 400 at bats. In a typical season, an everyday player might see as many as 600 at bats. So the reality is that Rice played just 14 seasons, and in that time he amassed absolutely phenomenal statistics. The truth is, if Rice had just sat out those 56 games in 1989 - when his eyesight had long since failed him - he would have finished his career with a magical .300 average. I say magical because many believe that if he'd lifted his average a measly .002 points that he'd have been in years ago.
From 1975-1986 Rice averaged 29 homers, 106 RBI, 91 runs and a .303 average. During this period, Rice led all American League players in 12 different offensive categories, including home runs (350), RBI (1,276), total bases (3,670), slugging percentage (.520), runs (1,098) and hits (2,145), as well as games, at bats, extra base hits, multiple hit games, go-ahead RBI, and outfield assists.
Rice dominated his era, finishing in the top five in the MVP voting six times in an eight-year span. He won the MVP award in 1978, when he became the first American League player to collect 400 total bases since Joe Dimaggio. He led the AL in homers three times, RBI twice, total bases four times, and was an All-Star eight times. He is the only player in major league history with three consecutive seasons of 35 homers and 200 hits. He led the AL in total bases for three straight seasons, tying a record held by Ted Williams and Ty Cobb. And Rice joined Babe Ruth and Jimmy Foxx as the only players in AL history with three consecutive 39 homer, .315 average seasons. Need I say more?
Rice was often perceived as a power hitter because of those three consecutive 39 + homers seasons, and because he hit 25 or more homers seven times in a ten year span. But Rice wasn't a power hitter so much as he was a hitter, plain and simple. Between '75-'86, he collected over 200 hits four times, hit .300 or better seven times, and .290 or better nine times.
First baseman Tony Perez was considered worthy of the Hall after batting .279 with 379 home runs and 1,652 RBI over 23 seasons. He certainly had the longevity, and therefore the durability, but a lifetime .279 average can qualify one for the Hall? And Perez only averaged 16 home runs and 72 RBI per season. That is not dominant.
But Rice doesn't just outshine Hall of Famers Puckett and Perez. Some would argue that it's only fair to compare players by position. For example, second basemen generally don't hold up well against outfielders in terms of offensive production. They generally get into the Hall based on their their defensive prowess and how they compare to other second basemen offensively. But for argument's sake, I think it's fair to compare Rice to other Hall of Fame players of similar offensive stature.
Rice outperformed Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda in every offensive category; runs, hits, homers, RBI, total bases, walks, OBP, slugging, and hitting. Rice also had more homers, RBI and a higher slugging percentage than Roberto Clemente. Rice had more hits, home runs, and total bases than Joe Dimaggio. Rice had more runs, hits, homers, RBI, and total bases than Hank Greenberg. Rice crushes Ralph Kiner in runs, hits, home runs, RBI, total bases and batting. Rice had more hits, total bases and a higher average than Eddie Mathews - not to mention a nearly identical slugging percentage and RBI total. Rice had more runs, hits, total bases and a higher average than Willie McCovey. Rice bested Johnny Mize in runs, hits, total bases, home runs and RBI. Rice surpassed Enos Slaughter in runs, hits, total bases, home runs, RBI, slugging percentage and had a nearly identical average. Rice had more hits, total bases, RBI, and a higher average than Duke Snider. Rice had more runs, hits, total bases, and a higher average than Willie Stargell. And finally, Rice had more runs, hits, total bases, homers, and RBI than Hack Wilson.
Only nine players in Major League history have compiled as high a career batting average and as many homers as Rice. They are: Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Stan Musial. Naturally, each of them is in the Hall.
Despite the fact that 10% of the voters didn't get it right, the evidence is clear; Jim Rice is worthy and deserving of the Hall of Fame. Hopefully, next year all of the voters will finally do him justice. Rice earned it.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
ADDITION BY SUBTRACTION DOESN'T ADD UP
Enough already. The Red Sox latest offer of Manny Ramirez and Matt Clement for Miguel Tejada is absurdly lopsided, and the Orioles' demand for their MVP shortstop is even more absurd. Ramirez for Tejada - straight up - is a fair deal. Ramirez and Clement - both All Stars last season - is too generous, and yet it was still declined by the O's. Ridiculous. Apparently, Baltimore not only wants Ramirez and Clement, but also top prospect Andy Marte, who the Sox received from the Braves in exchange for Edgar Renteria. Even more ridiculous. Essentially the Sox got the Braves to take Renteria by agreeing to pay him $4 million a year for the next three seasons.
So if the Sox were foolish enough to cave to the Orioles outrageous demands, they would in essence be getting Tejada in exchange for Renteria, Ramirez, and Clement. And all the while they'll still be paying Renteria to play for the Braves. Incredibly, the Orioles seemed poised to ask the Sox to do the same for Ramirez and/or Clement. For the Red Sox, that is not what you'd call upgrading. I'd call it the height of lunacy.
One problem with trades is that while they can accomplish the task of filling certain holes, new ones can be created. Minus Ramirez, the Sox would be in need of two starting outfielders with just six weeks to go until spring training.
No one truly knows how good Marte will be, but the Braves organization was very impressed with him. With Chipper Jones manning the hot corner in Atlanta for the forseeable future, there was no room for Marte at third. So the Braves parted with a talented and highly touted 22-year old who one Braves exec called "perhaps the greatest player we've ever traded."
The Sox brass seem equally impressed with Marte. In fact, Sox Senior Advisor Bill Lajoie called Marte the kind of player you build a team around. These types of accolades indicate that the kid is worth keeping. Mike Lowell is under contract for two more years, and upon his departure Marte becomes the third basemen of the future.
The Sox have spent this off season restructuring their team to be centered around pitching and defense. With that in mind, what's wrong with Alex Cora at short? The obvious answer is that he can't hit, but not everyone in the lineup can be expected to bat .280 or better. Someone's got to bat 9th. Yes, Cora has a career .244 average, and in Boston we're accustomed to a shortstop that can hit .300 every year. But Cora plays outstanding defense. In 373 games at short, Cora owns a career .980 fielding percentage. For comparison sake, lets look at some other shortstops: Rafael Furcal - who just signed a 3-year, $39 million contract with the Dodgers - has a .964 career FP, Orlando Cabrera a .968 career FP, and Derek Jeter a .975 career FP.
The Sox really seem to like Devil Rays shortstop Julio Lugo, who would bat leadoff. But the Rays want Marte in return (doesn't everybody?), and Lugo becomes a free agent at the end of 2006. Lugo is a lifetime .276 hitter with a .340 OBP, though last year he had career highs of .295 and .362, respectively. And his career .965 FP at short is lower than Cora's.
There has also been talk of the Sox going after free agent Alex Gonzalez. That would be better since it wouldn't require parting with Marte or any other prospects. But Gonzalez is a lifetime .245 hitter - about the same as Cora - and he possesses a lifetime .968 FP. Though he's viewed as defensive star, is he really any better than Cora? What's more, in his best year Gonzalez hit just .256, and he once hit an embarrassing .200. How much of an upgrade is that?
Cora and Lugo are both 30, and Gonzalez turns 29 next month. The Red Sox aren't looking at any of them as long term solutions, but they already have Cora under contract which is a huge plus over any other candidate. Dustin Pedroia provides flexibility beyond this year because he can play both short and second. Options are nice. Should the Sox find a long term replacement for Mark Loretta at second next off-season, Pedroia could move back to his natural position at short in 2007. The 34-year-old Loretta is entering the final year of his current contract. And by the way, while the Sox are searching for a leadoff hitter, Loretta has a higher career OBP (.365) than either Johnny Damon (.353) or Julio Lugo (.340).
Finally, one of the best reasons not to make a deal for a shortstop is that the Sox will likely need to engage in a trade to obtain a center fielder. Since there are no good free agents left on the market, it will necessitate a trade. Though signing Johnny Damon would have been quite expensive, not signing him could have its own expense if the Sox have to part with a talented prospect in order to replace him. David Wells, Matt Clement, Bronson Arroyo and Kelly Shopach could be used in any combination as part of a trade package for a new center fielder, and that would be better than having to part with any of the terrific youngsters that are part of the Red Sox not so distant future.
The Sox should hold off on trading for a shortstop. Right now their most pressing need is for a solid center fielder. For some reason the Sox seem to be taken with the underwhelming Jeremy Reed, but if the Twins are out of the playoff hunt at the All Star break, Torri Hunter could be available. The question is what to do until then, and right now it seems that the Sox have no immediate answers and few good options.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
So if the Sox were foolish enough to cave to the Orioles outrageous demands, they would in essence be getting Tejada in exchange for Renteria, Ramirez, and Clement. And all the while they'll still be paying Renteria to play for the Braves. Incredibly, the Orioles seemed poised to ask the Sox to do the same for Ramirez and/or Clement. For the Red Sox, that is not what you'd call upgrading. I'd call it the height of lunacy.
One problem with trades is that while they can accomplish the task of filling certain holes, new ones can be created. Minus Ramirez, the Sox would be in need of two starting outfielders with just six weeks to go until spring training.
No one truly knows how good Marte will be, but the Braves organization was very impressed with him. With Chipper Jones manning the hot corner in Atlanta for the forseeable future, there was no room for Marte at third. So the Braves parted with a talented and highly touted 22-year old who one Braves exec called "perhaps the greatest player we've ever traded."
The Sox brass seem equally impressed with Marte. In fact, Sox Senior Advisor Bill Lajoie called Marte the kind of player you build a team around. These types of accolades indicate that the kid is worth keeping. Mike Lowell is under contract for two more years, and upon his departure Marte becomes the third basemen of the future.
The Sox have spent this off season restructuring their team to be centered around pitching and defense. With that in mind, what's wrong with Alex Cora at short? The obvious answer is that he can't hit, but not everyone in the lineup can be expected to bat .280 or better. Someone's got to bat 9th. Yes, Cora has a career .244 average, and in Boston we're accustomed to a shortstop that can hit .300 every year. But Cora plays outstanding defense. In 373 games at short, Cora owns a career .980 fielding percentage. For comparison sake, lets look at some other shortstops: Rafael Furcal - who just signed a 3-year, $39 million contract with the Dodgers - has a .964 career FP, Orlando Cabrera a .968 career FP, and Derek Jeter a .975 career FP.
The Sox really seem to like Devil Rays shortstop Julio Lugo, who would bat leadoff. But the Rays want Marte in return (doesn't everybody?), and Lugo becomes a free agent at the end of 2006. Lugo is a lifetime .276 hitter with a .340 OBP, though last year he had career highs of .295 and .362, respectively. And his career .965 FP at short is lower than Cora's.
There has also been talk of the Sox going after free agent Alex Gonzalez. That would be better since it wouldn't require parting with Marte or any other prospects. But Gonzalez is a lifetime .245 hitter - about the same as Cora - and he possesses a lifetime .968 FP. Though he's viewed as defensive star, is he really any better than Cora? What's more, in his best year Gonzalez hit just .256, and he once hit an embarrassing .200. How much of an upgrade is that?
Cora and Lugo are both 30, and Gonzalez turns 29 next month. The Red Sox aren't looking at any of them as long term solutions, but they already have Cora under contract which is a huge plus over any other candidate. Dustin Pedroia provides flexibility beyond this year because he can play both short and second. Options are nice. Should the Sox find a long term replacement for Mark Loretta at second next off-season, Pedroia could move back to his natural position at short in 2007. The 34-year-old Loretta is entering the final year of his current contract. And by the way, while the Sox are searching for a leadoff hitter, Loretta has a higher career OBP (.365) than either Johnny Damon (.353) or Julio Lugo (.340).
Finally, one of the best reasons not to make a deal for a shortstop is that the Sox will likely need to engage in a trade to obtain a center fielder. Since there are no good free agents left on the market, it will necessitate a trade. Though signing Johnny Damon would have been quite expensive, not signing him could have its own expense if the Sox have to part with a talented prospect in order to replace him. David Wells, Matt Clement, Bronson Arroyo and Kelly Shopach could be used in any combination as part of a trade package for a new center fielder, and that would be better than having to part with any of the terrific youngsters that are part of the Red Sox not so distant future.
The Sox should hold off on trading for a shortstop. Right now their most pressing need is for a solid center fielder. For some reason the Sox seem to be taken with the underwhelming Jeremy Reed, but if the Twins are out of the playoff hunt at the All Star break, Torri Hunter could be available. The question is what to do until then, and right now it seems that the Sox have no immediate answers and few good options.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
RICE IS WORTHY AND DESERVING OF HALL
Jim Rice was the most feared hitter in the American League over a 12-year span. That says it all.
But for 11 years, Rice has failed to garner enough votes for entrance into the Hall of Fame. This year, with a weak field of candidates, Rice may have his best, and last, opportunity. As a lifelong Red Sox fan with fond memories of Rice's greatness, my hope is that he finally gets to join the other all-time greats in the hallowed halls of Cooperstown.
Rice might benefit from the fact that this year's ballot lacks any first-timers who are bona fide inductees. Without any newcomers to consider, voters may reevaluate nominees they've passed over in previous years.
And upon closer inspection, Rice's case deserves further examination. In an era when power numbers are suspiciously viewed through the lens of steroids and other performance enhancers, Rice's production over the course of his 16 years merits that additional consideration.
An argument used against Rice was that he wasn't a great fielder. Dale Murphy, another player of Rice's era seeking election again this year, was a five time Gold Glove winner, yet his career fielding percentage is just .002 higher than Rice's. Either the criteria for a Gold Glove wasn't as strict in the NL, or Rice was overlooked. Believe it or not, from 1975-1986 Rice led the American League in outfield assists. Simply put, he was always underated as a defensive player.
Rice's numbers are impressive -- 382 homers, 1,451 RBI -- and they aren't tainted. We live in an era era when 40 homer season became common, and when the achievements of Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Barry Bonds -- the three best power hitters of their generation -- are highly dubious. Yet there is no such suspicion of Rice.
Sure, Rice fell short of the 400 career homer mark which used to almost assure election. But his accomplishments over a twelve year span were nothing short of spectacular, though clearly under appreciated. Rice was the most dominant hitter of his time, outshining all of his contemporaries. That alone qualifies him for the Hall.
Longtime Red Sox public relations executive Dick Bresciani issued a highly detailed four page report on Rice's achievements, and if Rice gets elected to the Hall, he will have Bresciani to thank. That report has surely been studied by the baseball writers of America.
When it comes to stats, Rice's were considerable. Coming from a Red Sox fan, and someone who grew up watching Rice's exploits, this may sound biased. But Rice's numbers speak loudly and convincingly for him, so I'll let them.
Though some have argued that Rice wasn't great for a long enough period of time, for a period of 12 years -- 1975-86 -- Rice led all American League players in 12 different offensive categories, including home runs (350), RBI (1,276), total bases (3,670), slugging percentage (.520), runs (1,098) and hits (2,145). The other categories were games, at bats, extra base hits, multiple hit games, go-ahead RBI, and the previously mentioned outfield assists. What these statistics bear out is that over this remarkable period Rice was not only durable, but consistent and clutch as well.
During that span, Rice averaged 29 homers, 106 RBI, 91 runs scored and a .303 average. Though his career slugging percentage is .502, Rice wasn't just a power hitter - he was a hitter, plain and simple. In four of those seasons he collected over 200 hits, hit .300 or better seven times, and .290 or better nine times.
Put Rice's accomplishments in context. He led every player in his league in virtually every significant offensive category for twelve consecutive years. Even if you add in all of the National League players from the same era, Rice still leads in five categories and finishes second in three others.
First or second in eight different categories for a dozen years means that Rice is certainly well qualified for the Hall. If Kirby Puckett is deserving, Rice is more deserving.
Some say that if Rice had just hit 18 more homers and lifted his .298 career batting average a mere two points, that his election would be guaranteed. That's splitting hairs.
Rice dominated his era, finishing in the top five in the MVP voting six times in an eight-year span. He won the MVP award in 1978, when he collected a staggering 406 total bases, becoming the first American League player to crack 400 since Joe Dimaggio. He led the AL in homers three times, RBI twice, total bases four times, and was an All-Star eight times. He is the only player in major league history with three consecutive seasons of 35 homers and 200 hits. He led the AL in total bases for three straight seasons, tying a record held by Ted Williams and Ty Cobb. And Rice, Babe Ruth and Jimmy Foxx are the only players in AL history with three consecutive 39 homer, .315 average seasons. Enough said.
Lest anyone need more convincing, feel free to measure Rice against the all-time greats. Among all major leaguers, only nine players have compiled as high a career batting average (.298) and as many homers. They are: Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Stan Musial.
All of them are in the Hall of Fame, and Rice should finally join them -- where he rightfully belongs.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
But for 11 years, Rice has failed to garner enough votes for entrance into the Hall of Fame. This year, with a weak field of candidates, Rice may have his best, and last, opportunity. As a lifelong Red Sox fan with fond memories of Rice's greatness, my hope is that he finally gets to join the other all-time greats in the hallowed halls of Cooperstown.
Rice might benefit from the fact that this year's ballot lacks any first-timers who are bona fide inductees. Without any newcomers to consider, voters may reevaluate nominees they've passed over in previous years.
And upon closer inspection, Rice's case deserves further examination. In an era when power numbers are suspiciously viewed through the lens of steroids and other performance enhancers, Rice's production over the course of his 16 years merits that additional consideration.
An argument used against Rice was that he wasn't a great fielder. Dale Murphy, another player of Rice's era seeking election again this year, was a five time Gold Glove winner, yet his career fielding percentage is just .002 higher than Rice's. Either the criteria for a Gold Glove wasn't as strict in the NL, or Rice was overlooked. Believe it or not, from 1975-1986 Rice led the American League in outfield assists. Simply put, he was always underated as a defensive player.
Rice's numbers are impressive -- 382 homers, 1,451 RBI -- and they aren't tainted. We live in an era era when 40 homer season became common, and when the achievements of Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Barry Bonds -- the three best power hitters of their generation -- are highly dubious. Yet there is no such suspicion of Rice.
Sure, Rice fell short of the 400 career homer mark which used to almost assure election. But his accomplishments over a twelve year span were nothing short of spectacular, though clearly under appreciated. Rice was the most dominant hitter of his time, outshining all of his contemporaries. That alone qualifies him for the Hall.
Longtime Red Sox public relations executive Dick Bresciani issued a highly detailed four page report on Rice's achievements, and if Rice gets elected to the Hall, he will have Bresciani to thank. That report has surely been studied by the baseball writers of America.
When it comes to stats, Rice's were considerable. Coming from a Red Sox fan, and someone who grew up watching Rice's exploits, this may sound biased. But Rice's numbers speak loudly and convincingly for him, so I'll let them.
Though some have argued that Rice wasn't great for a long enough period of time, for a period of 12 years -- 1975-86 -- Rice led all American League players in 12 different offensive categories, including home runs (350), RBI (1,276), total bases (3,670), slugging percentage (.520), runs (1,098) and hits (2,145). The other categories were games, at bats, extra base hits, multiple hit games, go-ahead RBI, and the previously mentioned outfield assists. What these statistics bear out is that over this remarkable period Rice was not only durable, but consistent and clutch as well.
During that span, Rice averaged 29 homers, 106 RBI, 91 runs scored and a .303 average. Though his career slugging percentage is .502, Rice wasn't just a power hitter - he was a hitter, plain and simple. In four of those seasons he collected over 200 hits, hit .300 or better seven times, and .290 or better nine times.
Put Rice's accomplishments in context. He led every player in his league in virtually every significant offensive category for twelve consecutive years. Even if you add in all of the National League players from the same era, Rice still leads in five categories and finishes second in three others.
First or second in eight different categories for a dozen years means that Rice is certainly well qualified for the Hall. If Kirby Puckett is deserving, Rice is more deserving.
Some say that if Rice had just hit 18 more homers and lifted his .298 career batting average a mere two points, that his election would be guaranteed. That's splitting hairs.
Rice dominated his era, finishing in the top five in the MVP voting six times in an eight-year span. He won the MVP award in 1978, when he collected a staggering 406 total bases, becoming the first American League player to crack 400 since Joe Dimaggio. He led the AL in homers three times, RBI twice, total bases four times, and was an All-Star eight times. He is the only player in major league history with three consecutive seasons of 35 homers and 200 hits. He led the AL in total bases for three straight seasons, tying a record held by Ted Williams and Ty Cobb. And Rice, Babe Ruth and Jimmy Foxx are the only players in AL history with three consecutive 39 homer, .315 average seasons. Enough said.
Lest anyone need more convincing, feel free to measure Rice against the all-time greats. Among all major leaguers, only nine players have compiled as high a career batting average (.298) and as many homers. They are: Ted Williams, Babe Ruth, Mel Ott, Hank Aaron, Jimmie Foxx, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and Stan Musial.
All of them are in the Hall of Fame, and Rice should finally join them -- where he rightfully belongs.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
AN INTERESTING TWIST MAY SIGNAL PENDING MOVE
The potential Manny Ramirez/Miguel Tejada swap took an interesting twist today when outfielder Jeromy Burnitz appeared close to finalizing terms on a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Less than a week ago it was reported that Burnitz's agent, Howard Simon, was discussing a $12 million, two-year contract with Baltimore, but that agreement was never finalized.
The Orioles need an outfielder after choosing not to re-sign Eric Byrnes, who agreed to a $2.25 million, one-year contract with Arizona last week. Burnitz appeared to be the O's man, and their pursuit of him was said to signal their lack of interest in a deal for Ramirez. But their sudden snubbing of Burnitz may indicate a recent change of heart.
Earlier today, Red Sox president Larry Lucchino said he had "no comment at this time" about any matters relating to a possible Ramirez trade. Yet a deal between the Red Sox and Orioles may be taking shape. It was reported that the Sox have asked the O's for a second player, 22-year-old outfield prospect Nick Markakis, in return for Ramirez and Matt Clement.
If the Pirates finalize the Burnitz contract, they must decide what to do with Craig Wilson, the 29-year-old outfielder-first baseman who missed most of last season with two hand injuries and was limited to 5 homers in 197 at-bats.
The Pirates offered Wilson a contract, but he is eligible for salary arbitration. Since Wilson made $3 million last year and would likely get about $4 million in arbitration, the low-budget Pirates must decided if they can afford to play him that much money to be a part-time player. They may conclude that it's best to trade him now.
Wilson could be a left field solution for the Sox should they indeed swap the unpredictable Ramirez for Tejada. A five-year veteran, Wilson's best season was 2004, not coincidentally the year he saw the most playing time. That year he hit a club-high 29 homers for the Pirates, while driving in 82 RBI and scoring 97 runs. He also had 35 doubles to along with a .354 OBP. The downside is that Wilson is only a lifetime .268 hitter.
And 2005 was a disastrous year for Wilson. He made two trips to the DL that caused him to miss nearly two thirds of the season. In May he tore tissue in the knuckle of his left middle finger while swinging the bat in a game against Arizona, and was subsequently placed on the 15-day disabled list. The following week he had surgery to repair the injury. To make matters worse, he was then hit by a Greg Maddux pitch in July and suffered a fractured fifth metacarpal on the same hand, which put him back on the DL once again.
A combination like Tejada and Wilson could help make up for the losses of Ramirez and Edgar Renteria, both offensively and defensively. The bridge between Manny and the Sox seems so badly burned at this point that the club appears absolutely determined to trade him. That would be an unfortunate end for one of the most productive players in Sox history, but in Tejada the Sox seem to have the best possible replacement for Ramirez's Hall of Fame-like production. Trading a player like that is never ideal, but in Tejada the Sox stand to get a genuine clubhouse leader, who not only plays everyday, but who plays hard and with great enthusiasm and determination.
If the deal is to go down, it should take place by the end of this week - at the latest. Stay tuned.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Orioles need an outfielder after choosing not to re-sign Eric Byrnes, who agreed to a $2.25 million, one-year contract with Arizona last week. Burnitz appeared to be the O's man, and their pursuit of him was said to signal their lack of interest in a deal for Ramirez. But their sudden snubbing of Burnitz may indicate a recent change of heart.
Earlier today, Red Sox president Larry Lucchino said he had "no comment at this time" about any matters relating to a possible Ramirez trade. Yet a deal between the Red Sox and Orioles may be taking shape. It was reported that the Sox have asked the O's for a second player, 22-year-old outfield prospect Nick Markakis, in return for Ramirez and Matt Clement.
If the Pirates finalize the Burnitz contract, they must decide what to do with Craig Wilson, the 29-year-old outfielder-first baseman who missed most of last season with two hand injuries and was limited to 5 homers in 197 at-bats.
The Pirates offered Wilson a contract, but he is eligible for salary arbitration. Since Wilson made $3 million last year and would likely get about $4 million in arbitration, the low-budget Pirates must decided if they can afford to play him that much money to be a part-time player. They may conclude that it's best to trade him now.
Wilson could be a left field solution for the Sox should they indeed swap the unpredictable Ramirez for Tejada. A five-year veteran, Wilson's best season was 2004, not coincidentally the year he saw the most playing time. That year he hit a club-high 29 homers for the Pirates, while driving in 82 RBI and scoring 97 runs. He also had 35 doubles to along with a .354 OBP. The downside is that Wilson is only a lifetime .268 hitter.
And 2005 was a disastrous year for Wilson. He made two trips to the DL that caused him to miss nearly two thirds of the season. In May he tore tissue in the knuckle of his left middle finger while swinging the bat in a game against Arizona, and was subsequently placed on the 15-day disabled list. The following week he had surgery to repair the injury. To make matters worse, he was then hit by a Greg Maddux pitch in July and suffered a fractured fifth metacarpal on the same hand, which put him back on the DL once again.
A combination like Tejada and Wilson could help make up for the losses of Ramirez and Edgar Renteria, both offensively and defensively. The bridge between Manny and the Sox seems so badly burned at this point that the club appears absolutely determined to trade him. That would be an unfortunate end for one of the most productive players in Sox history, but in Tejada the Sox seem to have the best possible replacement for Ramirez's Hall of Fame-like production. Trading a player like that is never ideal, but in Tejada the Sox stand to get a genuine clubhouse leader, who not only plays everyday, but who plays hard and with great enthusiasm and determination.
If the deal is to go down, it should take place by the end of this week - at the latest. Stay tuned.
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 28, 2005
IS ELLSBURY THE ANSWER?
Former Oregon State star Jacoby Ellsbury, who was the Red Sox first round pick in this year's draft, could be ready for this big leagues in 2006. That's according to Pat Casey, his coach at OSU.
With the Sox in need of a center fielder, Casey thinks the Sox should give Ellsbury a shot in Spring Training.
“If I were the Red Sox, I’d take Jacoby to (major league) training camp in February,” says Casey. “If he’d get 50 at-bats during spring training, they’d find he is a lot closer to being big-league ready than they thought. He’d probably hit .250 and steal some bases and play well defensively and they’d go, ‘Wow.’ ”
Playing in 35 games for the Lowell Spinners this season, the 21-year-old Ellsbury hit .317 with a .418 on-base percentage. He arrived in Lowell after leading OSU to the Pac-10 title and the College World Series. Even though he missed 14 games due to a hamstring injury, he still led the team with 23 stolen bases and was second on the team in hitting and on-base percentage.
But with just one season of pro baseball experience, it's more likely that the Sox have Ellsbury start the 2006 season with either Class A Wilmington or Double-A Portland.
Wherever he's assigned, Ellsbury felt good about his progress in Lowell, and is quite confident in his abilities.
“You always feel like you can play better, but I was pleased with how it went,” says Ellsbury. “I was pretty solid defensively. There wasn’t much of a transition to make from the college game.”
Ellsbury's speed and hitting prowess have led to comparison with Johnny Damon. Perhaps the Sox had this in mind when they refused to make a contract offer of more than four years to their former center fielder.
Hopefully it won't be long before Ellsbury is able to show his readiness in filling Damon's rather sizable footprints in Boston. The Sox may have a more immediate solution in mind, but Ellsbury could be the long term answer that Sox fans are waiting for.
With the Sox in need of a center fielder, Casey thinks the Sox should give Ellsbury a shot in Spring Training.
“If I were the Red Sox, I’d take Jacoby to (major league) training camp in February,” says Casey. “If he’d get 50 at-bats during spring training, they’d find he is a lot closer to being big-league ready than they thought. He’d probably hit .250 and steal some bases and play well defensively and they’d go, ‘Wow.’ ”
Playing in 35 games for the Lowell Spinners this season, the 21-year-old Ellsbury hit .317 with a .418 on-base percentage. He arrived in Lowell after leading OSU to the Pac-10 title and the College World Series. Even though he missed 14 games due to a hamstring injury, he still led the team with 23 stolen bases and was second on the team in hitting and on-base percentage.
But with just one season of pro baseball experience, it's more likely that the Sox have Ellsbury start the 2006 season with either Class A Wilmington or Double-A Portland.
Wherever he's assigned, Ellsbury felt good about his progress in Lowell, and is quite confident in his abilities.
“You always feel like you can play better, but I was pleased with how it went,” says Ellsbury. “I was pretty solid defensively. There wasn’t much of a transition to make from the college game.”
Ellsbury's speed and hitting prowess have led to comparison with Johnny Damon. Perhaps the Sox had this in mind when they refused to make a contract offer of more than four years to their former center fielder.
Hopefully it won't be long before Ellsbury is able to show his readiness in filling Damon's rather sizable footprints in Boston. The Sox may have a more immediate solution in mind, but Ellsbury could be the long term answer that Sox fans are waiting for.
Monday, December 26, 2005
FOILED AGAIN
The Red Sox efforts to make a big post-Christmas splash in the free agent and trade markets were dealt simultaneous blows today when it was revealed that free agent pitcher Kevin Milwood will sign a 5-year, $60 million deal with Texas, while Toronto will land Troy Glaus in a trade with Arizona. In the aftermath of the Johnny Damon defection, the Sox had set both players squarely in their sights in an attempt to soften the blow. But they've been foiled again.
Apparently the Rangers didn't learn their lesson the last time they overpaid for a No. 1 starter. In December 2001 they bound themselves to a five-year, $65 million disaster with Chan Ho Park. Park made five trips to the disabled list, going 22-23 with a 5.79 ERA in 64 starts, before being traded to the Padres in July - with cash - for Phil Nevin. So the Rangers are still paying some of Park's salary while he pitches in San Diego.
Sure, Texas can void the fifth year of the contract if Millwood doesn't pitch a minimum number of innings in the first couple of years. But that's a huge commitment to a guy who spent six weeks on the DL with acute tendonitis in his right elbow in 2004, winning only two games upon his return to the Philadelphia rotation. Milwood finished the year at 9-6 with a 4.85 ERA. And in 2001, Milwood was limited to just 21 starts and went 7-7 after spending 2 1/2 months on the DL with an inflamed right labrum.
Apparently the Sox’ showed some restraint in only offering Millwood a three-year, $30 million guaranteed contract with a vesting option for a fourth season. They may be desperate, but at least they haven't lost their minds over at Fenway.
And any day now, Toronto will announce the acquisition of the power hitting Glaus and a prospect in exchange for reliever Miguel Batista and Gold Glove second baseman Orlando Hudson. Glaus led Arizona with 37 homers and 97 RBI last year and will replace the punch that the Jays offense lost last year when Carlos Delgado left as a free agent.
As it stands now, the Sox look like a third place team in the AL East. Toronto has been one of baseball's most active teams this offseason, expanding their payroll from $45 million to around $80 million. Before acquiring Glaus, the Blue Jays had already added starter A.J. Burnett, first baseman Lyle Overbay and closer B.J. Ryan, rewarding him with the richest contract ever given to a reliever - five-years and $47 million. They may have overpaid for both pitchers, but they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2006.
The free agent pool keeps getting thinner and the Sox are running out of the best available options. They need a center fielder, a shortstop, a left-handed hitting first baseman with power, one more solid starter, plus another lefty in the bullpen. With 2006 just days away, Red Sox management has their work cut out for them, and no matter how they try to spin it, they're in a rather unenviable situation.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Apparently the Rangers didn't learn their lesson the last time they overpaid for a No. 1 starter. In December 2001 they bound themselves to a five-year, $65 million disaster with Chan Ho Park. Park made five trips to the disabled list, going 22-23 with a 5.79 ERA in 64 starts, before being traded to the Padres in July - with cash - for Phil Nevin. So the Rangers are still paying some of Park's salary while he pitches in San Diego.
Sure, Texas can void the fifth year of the contract if Millwood doesn't pitch a minimum number of innings in the first couple of years. But that's a huge commitment to a guy who spent six weeks on the DL with acute tendonitis in his right elbow in 2004, winning only two games upon his return to the Philadelphia rotation. Milwood finished the year at 9-6 with a 4.85 ERA. And in 2001, Milwood was limited to just 21 starts and went 7-7 after spending 2 1/2 months on the DL with an inflamed right labrum.
Apparently the Sox’ showed some restraint in only offering Millwood a three-year, $30 million guaranteed contract with a vesting option for a fourth season. They may be desperate, but at least they haven't lost their minds over at Fenway.
And any day now, Toronto will announce the acquisition of the power hitting Glaus and a prospect in exchange for reliever Miguel Batista and Gold Glove second baseman Orlando Hudson. Glaus led Arizona with 37 homers and 97 RBI last year and will replace the punch that the Jays offense lost last year when Carlos Delgado left as a free agent.
As it stands now, the Sox look like a third place team in the AL East. Toronto has been one of baseball's most active teams this offseason, expanding their payroll from $45 million to around $80 million. Before acquiring Glaus, the Blue Jays had already added starter A.J. Burnett, first baseman Lyle Overbay and closer B.J. Ryan, rewarding him with the richest contract ever given to a reliever - five-years and $47 million. They may have overpaid for both pitchers, but they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2006.
The free agent pool keeps getting thinner and the Sox are running out of the best available options. They need a center fielder, a shortstop, a left-handed hitting first baseman with power, one more solid starter, plus another lefty in the bullpen. With 2006 just days away, Red Sox management has their work cut out for them, and no matter how they try to spin it, they're in a rather unenviable situation.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
THE END OF AN ERA
What a turnaround Johnny Damon made in just a matter of months. In fact, you could call it a U-turn.
Damon's signing with the Yankees is a complete reversal from his position earlier in the season when he said he could never leave the Red Sox for New York.
"There's no way I can go play for the Yankees, but I know they're going to come after me hard," he told mlb.com last May. "It's definitely not the most important thing to go out there for the top dollar, which the Yankees are going to offer me. It's not what I need."
Well, that was then, this is now. Just seven months later, money seems to talk a lot louder than any sense of loyalty.
My, how times have changed. When the Brooklyn Dodgers traded Jackie Robinson to the New York Giants following the 1956 season, Robinson retired rather than put on the hated uniform of the team he'd been sworn to beat for a decade. Now that's the personification of loyalty.
But maybe it's more than just money. Apparently Damon believes that the Yankees, as currently structured, are more prepared to compete for another World Series title than the Red Sox are right now. He may be right. And Damon also seems to have been concerned about his legacy.
According to Damon's agent Scott Boras, the 32-year-old Damon, who has 1,789 hits in 11 major league seasons, also thought about career statistics in choosing the Yankees.
"He had a goal in this process, where he wanted to get to 3,000 hits. He'll be young enough."
So while Damon had his agenda, the Red Sox apparently had an agenda of their own.
Sources have indicated that, for various reasons, the Sox had a limit as to what they would offer Damon in terms of both length and value of contract. Among the Sox concerns: Damon's age (32), the wear his body has undergone due to his his all-out playing style, and particularly the deterioration of his right shoulder over the last few years. In fact, rumor has it that some in the Sox' hierarchy thought Damon's contract demands were unreasonable and therefore preferred simply letting him go in favor of pursuing a younger center fielder, such as Seattle's Jeremy Reed or Cleveland's Coco Crisp.
In a phone call to Red Sox owner John Henry on Tuesday evening, Boras told Henry that Damon had an offer on the table from another team, and that if the Red Sox had a five year offer to make, it was time to do it. Henry said he would have to "talk to his people," but Boras informed him that he was not calling to negotiate but simply to let him know that another deal was imminent.
Henry now says that the Red Sox weren't willing to make a five-year offer to Damon and figured that as long as one was available to him, there was no reason to increase the value of their four year offer. In the end, the Sox were surprised to learn that Damon had agreed to a four-year contract with New York.
For better or for worse, the fact that the Red Sox thought anything over $10 million was too high a price for Damon, while the Yankees didn't hesitate to make that offer, says a lot about the two organizations. The Yankees will have seven players in their everyday lineup making at least $10 million per year next season. As of now, the Red Sox have two - Jason Varitek and Manny Ramirez. And Damon will be the third lowest paid player in the Yankees lineup after Alex Rodriguez ($20.5m), Derek Jeter ($18.9m), and Jason Giambi ($17.1m), while Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield will match Damon's $13 million salary.
The end result is that the Sox could feel Damon's loss in multiple ways. He had great value as a patient hitter who usually sees a lot of pitches in each at bat. One of Damon's greatest strengths was his ability to make pitchers work, to foul off balls, and to really work the count.
Now that Damon is gone, the Sox will turn their attention to the considerable task of replacing him at the top of the batting order, as well as in the outfield. Their most likely bait will be either Matt Clement or, more likely, Bronson Arroyo. David Wells' trade request will surely be granted, so its reasonable to assume the Sox will lose two members of last season's rotation.
As a result, the Sox are said to be interested in signing free agent Kevin Milwood, the AL ERA leader (2.86) last season with Cleveland. Milwood, who will be 31 next season, owns a a career ERA of 3.76, to go along with a 107-75 career record. A.J. Burnett, who just signed a five year, $55 million deal with Toronto has an almost identical career ERA (3.73), but a significantly less impressive 49-50 career record. If Burnett warranted that type of deal, so will Milwood. The good news is that despite having an aversion to long term deals, the Sox can clearly afford Milwood now that Damon is gone. Let's hope they open the checkbook this time around.
And fortunately for the Sox, the leadoff hitter they now need may already be on their roster. New second baseman Mark Loretta has a higher career on-base percentage (.365) than Damon (.353), so they may not have to look very far after all.
That may be looking on the bright side, but right now we could use the view. As it stands, the 2006 Red Sox are going to have a very different look, and this is, indeed, the end of an era.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Damon's signing with the Yankees is a complete reversal from his position earlier in the season when he said he could never leave the Red Sox for New York.
"There's no way I can go play for the Yankees, but I know they're going to come after me hard," he told mlb.com last May. "It's definitely not the most important thing to go out there for the top dollar, which the Yankees are going to offer me. It's not what I need."
Well, that was then, this is now. Just seven months later, money seems to talk a lot louder than any sense of loyalty.
My, how times have changed. When the Brooklyn Dodgers traded Jackie Robinson to the New York Giants following the 1956 season, Robinson retired rather than put on the hated uniform of the team he'd been sworn to beat for a decade. Now that's the personification of loyalty.
But maybe it's more than just money. Apparently Damon believes that the Yankees, as currently structured, are more prepared to compete for another World Series title than the Red Sox are right now. He may be right. And Damon also seems to have been concerned about his legacy.
According to Damon's agent Scott Boras, the 32-year-old Damon, who has 1,789 hits in 11 major league seasons, also thought about career statistics in choosing the Yankees.
"He had a goal in this process, where he wanted to get to 3,000 hits. He'll be young enough."
So while Damon had his agenda, the Red Sox apparently had an agenda of their own.
Sources have indicated that, for various reasons, the Sox had a limit as to what they would offer Damon in terms of both length and value of contract. Among the Sox concerns: Damon's age (32), the wear his body has undergone due to his his all-out playing style, and particularly the deterioration of his right shoulder over the last few years. In fact, rumor has it that some in the Sox' hierarchy thought Damon's contract demands were unreasonable and therefore preferred simply letting him go in favor of pursuing a younger center fielder, such as Seattle's Jeremy Reed or Cleveland's Coco Crisp.
In a phone call to Red Sox owner John Henry on Tuesday evening, Boras told Henry that Damon had an offer on the table from another team, and that if the Red Sox had a five year offer to make, it was time to do it. Henry said he would have to "talk to his people," but Boras informed him that he was not calling to negotiate but simply to let him know that another deal was imminent.
Henry now says that the Red Sox weren't willing to make a five-year offer to Damon and figured that as long as one was available to him, there was no reason to increase the value of their four year offer. In the end, the Sox were surprised to learn that Damon had agreed to a four-year contract with New York.
For better or for worse, the fact that the Red Sox thought anything over $10 million was too high a price for Damon, while the Yankees didn't hesitate to make that offer, says a lot about the two organizations. The Yankees will have seven players in their everyday lineup making at least $10 million per year next season. As of now, the Red Sox have two - Jason Varitek and Manny Ramirez. And Damon will be the third lowest paid player in the Yankees lineup after Alex Rodriguez ($20.5m), Derek Jeter ($18.9m), and Jason Giambi ($17.1m), while Hideki Matsui and Gary Sheffield will match Damon's $13 million salary.
The end result is that the Sox could feel Damon's loss in multiple ways. He had great value as a patient hitter who usually sees a lot of pitches in each at bat. One of Damon's greatest strengths was his ability to make pitchers work, to foul off balls, and to really work the count.
Now that Damon is gone, the Sox will turn their attention to the considerable task of replacing him at the top of the batting order, as well as in the outfield. Their most likely bait will be either Matt Clement or, more likely, Bronson Arroyo. David Wells' trade request will surely be granted, so its reasonable to assume the Sox will lose two members of last season's rotation.
As a result, the Sox are said to be interested in signing free agent Kevin Milwood, the AL ERA leader (2.86) last season with Cleveland. Milwood, who will be 31 next season, owns a a career ERA of 3.76, to go along with a 107-75 career record. A.J. Burnett, who just signed a five year, $55 million deal with Toronto has an almost identical career ERA (3.73), but a significantly less impressive 49-50 career record. If Burnett warranted that type of deal, so will Milwood. The good news is that despite having an aversion to long term deals, the Sox can clearly afford Milwood now that Damon is gone. Let's hope they open the checkbook this time around.
And fortunately for the Sox, the leadoff hitter they now need may already be on their roster. New second baseman Mark Loretta has a higher career on-base percentage (.365) than Damon (.353), so they may not have to look very far after all.
That may be looking on the bright side, but right now we could use the view. As it stands, the 2006 Red Sox are going to have a very different look, and this is, indeed, the end of an era.
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 21, 2005
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
So now we have it. The truth has been revealed. The Red Sox really were caught off guard by Johnny Damon's defection to the Yankees last night. Well, as much as a team can be caught off guard when its free agent center fielder has been known to have had contact with their very determined, very capable, enemy.
The Red Sox did not learn of Damon's decision until they were contacted by reporters last night. CEO Larry Lucchino, who has been a bulls eye for Red Sox Nation since Theo Epstein's sudden departure on Oct. 31, is sure to be the focus of even more intense hatred and scorn now that the "face of the franchise" has been lost to their arch rival. Lucchino, who declared himself in charge of the Damon negotiations, said last night he had not been told of the deal by either Damon or his agent, Scott Boras.
''We have received no such notification. We have not been notified of any such deal." Lucchino said in an e-mail.
The Yankees' 4-year, $52 million offer eclipsed the four-year, $40 million proposal Lucchino made to Boras during the winter meetings in Dallas two weeks ago. There were no further negotiations, no counter proposals, and no subsequent counter offers. The Yanks made their stealth offer, hidden from the media, and Johnny quickly said, "Thanks, I'll take it!"
The Yankees set a deadline of Tuesday's midnight arbitration deadline, and Damon accepted without giving the Sox an opportunity to counter offer.
Damon blames the Red Sox for not pursuing him "aggressively enough", but the truth is that after each side made its initial proposal, only the Red Sox made a counter proposal -- the offer which remained on the table until last night. Damon and Boras never formally responded to that offer as is customarily done. That's not negotiating in good faith.
The startling revelation of Damon's abrupt exit begs the question, why?
In an interview with New York Newsday, Damon expressed his concerns about the instability in the Sox front office and the departure of some of his favorite teammates, like free agents Bill Mueller, who signed with the Dodgers, and the unsigned Kevin Millar. No one should be surprised if Millar ends up in New York platooning at first with Jason Giambi.
Meanwhile, the Yankees lineup looks ever stable, and with Damon's addition, increasingly menacing to opponents -- like the Red Sox.
The Sox management turmoil has never appeared more evident than at this moment. With Christmas just days away, the Red Sox have no center fielder, no shortstop, and no bona fide first baseman. The Sox can call Kevin Youkilis their first base candidate or designate, but that's hardly assuring considering that he's never been a first baseman in the Majors, and has never played a full season at any position. Simply put, a third of the 2006 lineup is in question with just eight weeks remaining until the opening of Spring Training in Fort Meyers.
With Damon's departure, the only regular position players still remaining from the 2004 championship team are outfielders Trot Nixon and Manny Ramírez, catcher Jason Varitek, and DH David Ortiz. And as we all know, Manny has made his wishes quite clear.
Where a team in such disarray goes from here is unclear, but what is clear is just how much work the organization has to do. Replacing a star like Damon, with all of the offensive and defensive attributes that he brought to the table, is not an easy task at this late stage in an already thin free agent market. And any trade partner will know that the Sox are bargaining from a position of desperation, and therefore weakness. Yes Damon had a famously weak arm, but he was a run scoring machine who was constantly on base, rarely hit into inning killing double plays, and perhaps most importantly could bat leadoff. His will big some mighty big shoes to fill.
Boston likes stars, and most of the candidates that have been mentioned as replacements are anything but. Almost all of them will come cheaper than Damon, but none can match his production or his intangible assets as a clubhouse leader.
Minnesota's Torri Hunter is an interesting possibility. Hunter is entering the final season of his contract with the Twins, and is known to be unhappy there. He becomes a free agent at the end of next season and will not resign with the Twins. Knowing this, the Twins are expected to try to move him by the July trade deadline to get some compensation in return. They might be persuaded to move him even sooner if the right offer is presented.
Hunter is a natural center fielder who had 100 hits in 98 games last season. His year was cut short when he broke his ankle while tracking a fly ball in center at Fenway, of all places. Playing in just 60% of the games on the 2005 schedule, Hunter still swatted 14 homers and 56 RBI while scoring 63 runs. The 30-year-old had 23 stolen bases, and his speed makes him one of the outstanding defensive outfielders in the game today. For four consecutive years leading up to last season, Hunter was awarded with the Gold Glove. The seven-year veteran made $8 million last season, and would likely accept a trade only with the guarantee of an extension in the range of $10 million annually.
Known as a enthusiastic player, Hunter would help soften the loss of Damon more than most of the other candidates, but as the Sox are likely to find out next season, Johnny Damon will be very difficult, if not impossible, to replace in the short term.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent
The Red Sox did not learn of Damon's decision until they were contacted by reporters last night. CEO Larry Lucchino, who has been a bulls eye for Red Sox Nation since Theo Epstein's sudden departure on Oct. 31, is sure to be the focus of even more intense hatred and scorn now that the "face of the franchise" has been lost to their arch rival. Lucchino, who declared himself in charge of the Damon negotiations, said last night he had not been told of the deal by either Damon or his agent, Scott Boras.
''We have received no such notification. We have not been notified of any such deal." Lucchino said in an e-mail.
The Yankees' 4-year, $52 million offer eclipsed the four-year, $40 million proposal Lucchino made to Boras during the winter meetings in Dallas two weeks ago. There were no further negotiations, no counter proposals, and no subsequent counter offers. The Yanks made their stealth offer, hidden from the media, and Johnny quickly said, "Thanks, I'll take it!"
The Yankees set a deadline of Tuesday's midnight arbitration deadline, and Damon accepted without giving the Sox an opportunity to counter offer.
Damon blames the Red Sox for not pursuing him "aggressively enough", but the truth is that after each side made its initial proposal, only the Red Sox made a counter proposal -- the offer which remained on the table until last night. Damon and Boras never formally responded to that offer as is customarily done. That's not negotiating in good faith.
The startling revelation of Damon's abrupt exit begs the question, why?
In an interview with New York Newsday, Damon expressed his concerns about the instability in the Sox front office and the departure of some of his favorite teammates, like free agents Bill Mueller, who signed with the Dodgers, and the unsigned Kevin Millar. No one should be surprised if Millar ends up in New York platooning at first with Jason Giambi.
Meanwhile, the Yankees lineup looks ever stable, and with Damon's addition, increasingly menacing to opponents -- like the Red Sox.
The Sox management turmoil has never appeared more evident than at this moment. With Christmas just days away, the Red Sox have no center fielder, no shortstop, and no bona fide first baseman. The Sox can call Kevin Youkilis their first base candidate or designate, but that's hardly assuring considering that he's never been a first baseman in the Majors, and has never played a full season at any position. Simply put, a third of the 2006 lineup is in question with just eight weeks remaining until the opening of Spring Training in Fort Meyers.
With Damon's departure, the only regular position players still remaining from the 2004 championship team are outfielders Trot Nixon and Manny Ramírez, catcher Jason Varitek, and DH David Ortiz. And as we all know, Manny has made his wishes quite clear.
Where a team in such disarray goes from here is unclear, but what is clear is just how much work the organization has to do. Replacing a star like Damon, with all of the offensive and defensive attributes that he brought to the table, is not an easy task at this late stage in an already thin free agent market. And any trade partner will know that the Sox are bargaining from a position of desperation, and therefore weakness. Yes Damon had a famously weak arm, but he was a run scoring machine who was constantly on base, rarely hit into inning killing double plays, and perhaps most importantly could bat leadoff. His will big some mighty big shoes to fill.
Boston likes stars, and most of the candidates that have been mentioned as replacements are anything but. Almost all of them will come cheaper than Damon, but none can match his production or his intangible assets as a clubhouse leader.
Minnesota's Torri Hunter is an interesting possibility. Hunter is entering the final season of his contract with the Twins, and is known to be unhappy there. He becomes a free agent at the end of next season and will not resign with the Twins. Knowing this, the Twins are expected to try to move him by the July trade deadline to get some compensation in return. They might be persuaded to move him even sooner if the right offer is presented.
Hunter is a natural center fielder who had 100 hits in 98 games last season. His year was cut short when he broke his ankle while tracking a fly ball in center at Fenway, of all places. Playing in just 60% of the games on the 2005 schedule, Hunter still swatted 14 homers and 56 RBI while scoring 63 runs. The 30-year-old had 23 stolen bases, and his speed makes him one of the outstanding defensive outfielders in the game today. For four consecutive years leading up to last season, Hunter was awarded with the Gold Glove. The seven-year veteran made $8 million last season, and would likely accept a trade only with the guarantee of an extension in the range of $10 million annually.
Known as a enthusiastic player, Hunter would help soften the loss of Damon more than most of the other candidates, but as the Sox are likely to find out next season, Johnny Damon will be very difficult, if not impossible, to replace in the short term.
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 20, 2005
JOHNNY B. GONE
So Johnny Damon has officially defected to the Evil Empire. A four-year $40 million offer just wasn't enough to get the deal done between Johnny and the Sox. The question I'm left asking - other than who will bat leadoff and who will play center - is whether the Sox were caught flat footed and were blind sided by this, or whether they were aware of the Yankees offer and made an organizational decision that four years and $52 million was just too much for Damon's services.
The Sox knew that the Yankees were interested. Heck, anyone who was paying even modest attention knew that the Yanks would pursue Damon. It was widely reported that Yankee manager Joe Torre called Damon to solicit him last week. As we all know, Torre's boss usually gets what he wants. And once again, he did,
Incredibly, it was only earlier in the day that Co-GM Jed Hoyer said. "Our absolute priority is to bring Johnny back."
So either the Sox were blind sided, or their "absolute priority" just wasn't that important after all.
Now the attention turns to other alternatives.
Jeremy Reed, while speedy and possessing decent defensive skills, was rather pathetic with a bat in his hands last season. In 141 games, Reed managed just 3 homers, 45 RBI, and a paltry .254 average. Reed's OBP was just .322, largely because he only recorded 124 hits. And his 61 runs will hardly make up for Damon's loss.
The Yankees shied away from Preston Wilson because of injury problems, so the Sox are likely to be equally wary. And Juan Pierre became a Cub while the Sox were trying to retain Damon.
One option could be Devil Rays speedster Joey Gathright since the D-Rays have a glut of outfielders at present. In limited action that allowed him just 76 games, Gathright stole 20 bases but didn't manage to hit a single home run. A left-handed hitter, Gathright hit .276 with a .316 OBP. It's hard to tell how well he'd perform as an everyday player, but his numbers don't look like they would even come close to softerning the blow of Damon's loss.
The Sox have spoken to free agent Juan Encarnacion's representative about possibly coming to Boston. Encarnacion's numbers are certainly better than Reed's, but hardly inspiring. Also appearing in 141 games, Encarnacion totaled 16 homers, 76 RBI and a .287 average. The former Marlin's OBP was .349, but he scored just 59 runs while striking out 104 times. His six stolen bases won't exactly intimidate AL pitchers either. If that's not bad enough, he's a career .268 hitter who owns a career OBP of just .316. By his standards, last year was a good year. Encarnacion will be 30 on Opening Day.
If the Sox can make it happen, acquiring Cleveland outfielder Coco Crisp appears to be the best available option. But like everyone else, the Indians now know that they Sox are desperate, and will try to exact the heaviest price for sending Crisp to Boston.
The 26-year-old Crisp hit .300 this past season, to go along with 16 home runs and 69 RBI. Crisp managed 178 hits and 44 walks for a .345 OBP. He also possesses good speed, hitting 43 doubles and stealing 15 bases. Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well.
Best of all, Crisp made just $365K last season and through arbitration will probably just double his salary, making him an incredibly affordable replacement. What will appeal to the Sox is that he won't be eligible for free agency for another four years. Incredibly, Crisp will likely cost about 6% of what Damon will cost the Yankees. That's very appealing indeed.
The Sox have important work to do. There's a gaping hole to make up for in the outfield, as well as in in the batting order. Let's just hope they have someone like Coco Crisp in mind, and not Jeremy Reed. God help us if that's the best they can do. If re-signing Damon was the Sox "absolute priority" leading up to today, that doesn't inspire confidence in any of us now that their new priority is to replace him.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
The Sox knew that the Yankees were interested. Heck, anyone who was paying even modest attention knew that the Yanks would pursue Damon. It was widely reported that Yankee manager Joe Torre called Damon to solicit him last week. As we all know, Torre's boss usually gets what he wants. And once again, he did,
Incredibly, it was only earlier in the day that Co-GM Jed Hoyer said. "Our absolute priority is to bring Johnny back."
So either the Sox were blind sided, or their "absolute priority" just wasn't that important after all.
Now the attention turns to other alternatives.
Jeremy Reed, while speedy and possessing decent defensive skills, was rather pathetic with a bat in his hands last season. In 141 games, Reed managed just 3 homers, 45 RBI, and a paltry .254 average. Reed's OBP was just .322, largely because he only recorded 124 hits. And his 61 runs will hardly make up for Damon's loss.
The Yankees shied away from Preston Wilson because of injury problems, so the Sox are likely to be equally wary. And Juan Pierre became a Cub while the Sox were trying to retain Damon.
One option could be Devil Rays speedster Joey Gathright since the D-Rays have a glut of outfielders at present. In limited action that allowed him just 76 games, Gathright stole 20 bases but didn't manage to hit a single home run. A left-handed hitter, Gathright hit .276 with a .316 OBP. It's hard to tell how well he'd perform as an everyday player, but his numbers don't look like they would even come close to softerning the blow of Damon's loss.
The Sox have spoken to free agent Juan Encarnacion's representative about possibly coming to Boston. Encarnacion's numbers are certainly better than Reed's, but hardly inspiring. Also appearing in 141 games, Encarnacion totaled 16 homers, 76 RBI and a .287 average. The former Marlin's OBP was .349, but he scored just 59 runs while striking out 104 times. His six stolen bases won't exactly intimidate AL pitchers either. If that's not bad enough, he's a career .268 hitter who owns a career OBP of just .316. By his standards, last year was a good year. Encarnacion will be 30 on Opening Day.
If the Sox can make it happen, acquiring Cleveland outfielder Coco Crisp appears to be the best available option. But like everyone else, the Indians now know that they Sox are desperate, and will try to exact the heaviest price for sending Crisp to Boston.
The 26-year-old Crisp hit .300 this past season, to go along with 16 home runs and 69 RBI. Crisp managed 178 hits and 44 walks for a .345 OBP. He also possesses good speed, hitting 43 doubles and stealing 15 bases. Crisp can play all three outfield positions and, perhaps most importantly, can bat leadoff. Compare his numbers to Damon's last season, and the results are surprisingly pleasing. The two match up quite well.
Best of all, Crisp made just $365K last season and through arbitration will probably just double his salary, making him an incredibly affordable replacement. What will appeal to the Sox is that he won't be eligible for free agency for another four years. Incredibly, Crisp will likely cost about 6% of what Damon will cost the Yankees. That's very appealing indeed.
The Sox have important work to do. There's a gaping hole to make up for in the outfield, as well as in in the batting order. Let's just hope they have someone like Coco Crisp in mind, and not Jeremy Reed. God help us if that's the best they can do. If re-signing Damon was the Sox "absolute priority" leading up to today, that doesn't inspire confidence in any of us now that their new priority is to replace him.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
GIVE TONY G. A SHOT AT SHORT
Free agent infielder Tony Graffanino, who was offered arbitration by the Red Sox earlier this month, has officially accepted it, making him a signed player for 2006.
Graffanino's decision likely surprised the Sox because he'd been seeking a multi-year deal, but found no takers in the free agent market. The Sox offered him arbitration with the expectation that they'd receive a compensatory draft pick when another team signed him. If the Sox had known that Graffanino was willing to accept arbitration, which means a one-year deal at a reasonable cost, it's unclear if they still would have made the deal for second baseman Mark Loretta.
The 33-year-old Graffanino made $1.1 million last season in the final year of a two-year, $2.2 million deal, and will likely see his salary double next season - to roughly $2 million - through the arbitration process.
Graffanino hit safely in 41 of 51 games, totaling 60 hits - many of them clutch - for the Red Sox. That resulted in a .319 average with the Sox and .309 overall, including his time in Kansas City. He also scored 39 runs for the Sox, showing strong base running instincts.
In the absence of a shortstop, since Error Renteria was traded to Atlanta, Graffanino would seem to be an ideal in house solution. The Sox don't have to commit to a long-term deal, and the cost would be quite affordable. Furthermore, Graffanino was immediately embraced by his teammates upon arrival in July and was popular with the fans as well. Good team chemistry and consistency are important, especially in a year in which there has been quite a bit of turnover.
In 83 career games at short, Graffanino owns a .962 fielding percentage, and that would likely improve with regular playing time.
In short, Graffanino seems to have earned a shot at short, and his numbers, his determination, and workman-like attitude seem to back that up.
Give Tony G. a shot.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Graffanino's decision likely surprised the Sox because he'd been seeking a multi-year deal, but found no takers in the free agent market. The Sox offered him arbitration with the expectation that they'd receive a compensatory draft pick when another team signed him. If the Sox had known that Graffanino was willing to accept arbitration, which means a one-year deal at a reasonable cost, it's unclear if they still would have made the deal for second baseman Mark Loretta.
The 33-year-old Graffanino made $1.1 million last season in the final year of a two-year, $2.2 million deal, and will likely see his salary double next season - to roughly $2 million - through the arbitration process.
Graffanino hit safely in 41 of 51 games, totaling 60 hits - many of them clutch - for the Red Sox. That resulted in a .319 average with the Sox and .309 overall, including his time in Kansas City. He also scored 39 runs for the Sox, showing strong base running instincts.
In the absence of a shortstop, since Error Renteria was traded to Atlanta, Graffanino would seem to be an ideal in house solution. The Sox don't have to commit to a long-term deal, and the cost would be quite affordable. Furthermore, Graffanino was immediately embraced by his teammates upon arrival in July and was popular with the fans as well. Good team chemistry and consistency are important, especially in a year in which there has been quite a bit of turnover.
In 83 career games at short, Graffanino owns a .962 fielding percentage, and that would likely improve with regular playing time.
In short, Graffanino seems to have earned a shot at short, and his numbers, his determination, and workman-like attitude seem to back that up.
Give Tony G. a shot.
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 18, 2005
SOX CONSIDER LIFE AFTER JOHNNY
Like most others in Red Sox Nation, I love Johnny Damon and all he's done for the Sox both on and off the field. Damon is the team's catalyst and gets on base with an impressive regularity. As a leadoff hitter, Damon's 197 hits and 53 walks resulted in a .316 average and a .366 on base percentage last season. And after he reaches base, Damon has a tremendous knack for scoring, as he did on 117 occasions in the 2005 campaign.
Damon is also an enthusiastic clubhouse leader who is well-liked by his teammates. His fondness for the camera and the microphone, coupled with his unique quotability, not only make him a perfect spokesman for the team, but also relieve some of that burden from his more reticent teammates.
But Johnny wants a lot of money to return all those attributes to Boston next season -- seven years and $84 million to be exact.
The Red Sox, being of sound mind and sound resources, have determined that Damon is no more valuable than team captain Jason Varitek. After an original three-year, $29 million offer to Damon, the Red Sox reportedly came up to a four-year offer in the $40 million range. So far, Damon and his agent, Scott Boras, aren't biting. They're playing hardball, and appear willing to drag these negotiations out for as long as possible -- well into the first week of 2006, if need be.
So, as would reasonably be expected, the Red Sox have started making contingency plans in the event that Damon sees greener pastures elsewhere. They've started looking at the rather limited list of potential leadoff hitters who can play center field and make up for some of Damon's production, should he be lost to free agency.
Cleveland's Covelli "Coco" Crisp would be just that sort of player, and the Red Sox seem to be well aware of that.
Believe it or not, Crisp's numbers match up quite nicely with Damon's, with one glaring exception. He's a whole lot cheaper.
Crisp made about $365,000 last season, and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years. So even if his salary is doubled through arbitration, he'll only cost about six percent of Damon's asking price - $12 million annually. And though no one has stepped up to the plate to make that kind of offer to Damon yet, he could still get one. It's been a crazy free agent period, with lots of absurd signings. Average, or even unproven, players have gotten long term contracts worth tens of millions. Anything, it appears, is possible.
So is Damon worth the money? At four years, $40 million it seems so. He's got to be as valuable as Varitek, and more so than Renteria, who the Sox remorsefully granted the same deal. Anything beyond that is asking for trouble. Just look at the Bernie Williams contract that had the Yankees paying him $15 million this past season when he was well past his prime. Good for Bernie, bad for the Yankees. Not that any Red Sox fan is bemoaning bloated, undeserved contracts given to Yankee players. But let that just be a lesson to the Sox.
Yet, after comparing Damon's numbers with those of Coco Crisp, even the Sox initial offer seems a bit high. Let's compare the two players:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
Surprisingly, the numbers match up quite evenly. At 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as it gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely go up. It's easy to imagine Crisp standing on second base quite frequently if he played 81 games a season at Fenway. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so he'd likely find hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway quite satisfactory and equally rewarding.
To be sure, the Red Sox are one of baseball's richest franchises, and as such one of the few who are truly capable of giving Damon the contract he desires. The question is whether the Sox think he deserves that contract, and whether they think they can find a suitable replacement if another team loses its collective mind and grants Damon the ridiculous deal he's demanding.
The point is, the Sox are rightfully exploring alternative options, and in the case of Crisp, there is at least one significantly cheaper possibility. Cleveland knows this, and will try to extract as much as possible in the deal if it's to happen. Both Matt Clement's and Bronson Arroyo's names have come up. But with Nomar Garciaparra having just shunned the Indians in favor of the Dodgers, Cleveland may not be able to part with their starting center fielder.
Until Damon looks around and sees how few suiters are courting him at his asking price, the Sox will surely continue weighing their options and considering life after Johnny. It's not only reasonable, but entirely plausible.
Copyright © 2005 Kennedy's Commentary. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without the author's consent.
Damon is also an enthusiastic clubhouse leader who is well-liked by his teammates. His fondness for the camera and the microphone, coupled with his unique quotability, not only make him a perfect spokesman for the team, but also relieve some of that burden from his more reticent teammates.
But Johnny wants a lot of money to return all those attributes to Boston next season -- seven years and $84 million to be exact.
The Red Sox, being of sound mind and sound resources, have determined that Damon is no more valuable than team captain Jason Varitek. After an original three-year, $29 million offer to Damon, the Red Sox reportedly came up to a four-year offer in the $40 million range. So far, Damon and his agent, Scott Boras, aren't biting. They're playing hardball, and appear willing to drag these negotiations out for as long as possible -- well into the first week of 2006, if need be.
So, as would reasonably be expected, the Red Sox have started making contingency plans in the event that Damon sees greener pastures elsewhere. They've started looking at the rather limited list of potential leadoff hitters who can play center field and make up for some of Damon's production, should he be lost to free agency.
Cleveland's Covelli "Coco" Crisp would be just that sort of player, and the Red Sox seem to be well aware of that.
Believe it or not, Crisp's numbers match up quite nicely with Damon's, with one glaring exception. He's a whole lot cheaper.
Crisp made about $365,000 last season, and won't be eligible for free agency for another four years. So even if his salary is doubled through arbitration, he'll only cost about six percent of Damon's asking price - $12 million annually. And though no one has stepped up to the plate to make that kind of offer to Damon yet, he could still get one. It's been a crazy free agent period, with lots of absurd signings. Average, or even unproven, players have gotten long term contracts worth tens of millions. Anything, it appears, is possible.
So is Damon worth the money? At four years, $40 million it seems so. He's got to be as valuable as Varitek, and more so than Renteria, who the Sox remorsefully granted the same deal. Anything beyond that is asking for trouble. Just look at the Bernie Williams contract that had the Yankees paying him $15 million this past season when he was well past his prime. Good for Bernie, bad for the Yankees. Not that any Red Sox fan is bemoaning bloated, undeserved contracts given to Yankee players. But let that just be a lesson to the Sox.
Yet, after comparing Damon's numbers with those of Coco Crisp, even the Sox initial offer seems a bit high. Let's compare the two players:
Damon - Crisp
Age: 32 26
AVG. .316 .300
OBP: .366 .345
HR: 10 16
RBI: 75 69
SB: 18 15
Hits: 197 178
BB: 53 44
2B: 35 43
Surprisingly, the numbers match up quite evenly. At 32, Damon is as good as he'll ever be. In other words, this is as good as it gets. However, at just 26, Crisp is still developing and likely has his best years still ahead of him. Damon also had the luxury of being a part of baseball's best offense the last three seasons. Plug Crisp into that lineup, and watch his numbers grow. And with a little more plate discipline, his average and on base percentage will surely go up. It's easy to imagine Crisp standing on second base quite frequently if he played 81 games a season at Fenway. Crisp also hit 48 points higher away from Jacobs Field, so he'd likely find hitting in the friendly confines of Fenway quite satisfactory and equally rewarding.
To be sure, the Red Sox are one of baseball's richest franchises, and as such one of the few who are truly capable of giving Damon the contract he desires. The question is whether the Sox think he deserves that contract, and whether they think they can find a suitable replacement if another team loses its collective mind and grants Damon the ridiculous deal he's demanding.
The point is, the Sox are rightfully exploring alternative options, and in the case of Crisp, there is at least one significantly cheaper possibility. Cleveland knows this, and will try to extract as much as possible in the deal if it's to happen. Both Matt Clement's and Bronson Arroyo's names have come up. But with Nomar Garciaparra having just shunned the Indians in favor of the Dodgers, Cleveland may not be able to part with their starting center fielder.
Until Damon looks around and sees how few suiters are courting him at his asking price, the Sox will surely continue weighing their options and considering life after Johnny. It's not only reasonable, but entirely plausible.
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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