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***Official 2009-2010 Offseaon Boston Red Sox Thread*** (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Balco
- Start date
Balco
Footballguy
Done.
Balco
Footballguy
Looks like Billy Wagner might retire. I think he might change his mind when teams start throwing decent money at him.
From The New York Post:
Ex-Met Wagner eyes retirement, not 400th career save
By MIKE PUMA
Last Updated: 11:06 AM, October 13, 2009
Posted: 3:33 AM, October 13, 2009
Billy Wagner may have thrown his last pitch in the major leagues.
The former Mets pitcher told The Post yesterday he's planning to retire rather than pursue a closer's job -- and 400 career saves -- next season.
Wagner allowed two runs in two-thirds of an inning for the Red Sox on Sunday in Game 3 of the ALDS before closer Jonathan Papelbon surrendered three runs in the ninth. The Red Sox season ended with a 7-6 loss to the Angels.
"I don't plan on talking to nobody," Wagner said, when asked where he might pitch next season.
Does that mean retirement?
"Why wouldn't I?" he said. "I've got nothing else to [accomplish]."
That's a different picture than Wagner painted before leaving the Mets for the Red Sox in August as part of a waiver deal. The 38-year-old lefty, who returned from an 11-month hiatus after undergoing Tommy John surgery, had said his plan for next year was to pursue a closer's job near his Virginia home -- perhaps Washington, Baltimore or Cincinnati -- and make a run at the 15 saves he needs to reach 400 for his career.
The Red Sox have agreed not to pick up Wagner's $8.8 million option for next year, allowing him to become a free agent and pursue his goal.
But yesterday, Wagner indicated the saves milestone is not relevant to his decision.
"That's just dust in the wind," he said.
A source close to the situation said Wagner might just need a cooling period before deciding to pitch in 2010, but also cautioned that the lefty is making his family a priority and could very well be serious about rettirement. In 15 regular-season appearances for the Red Sox, Wagner went 1-1 with a 1.98 ERA. Wagner got two outs in the eighth inning on Sunday but then surrendered two hits, and Juan Rivera's two-run single against Papelbon pulled the Angels within 5-4.
From The New York Post:
Ex-Met Wagner eyes retirement, not 400th career save
By MIKE PUMA
Last Updated: 11:06 AM, October 13, 2009
Posted: 3:33 AM, October 13, 2009
Billy Wagner may have thrown his last pitch in the major leagues.
The former Mets pitcher told The Post yesterday he's planning to retire rather than pursue a closer's job -- and 400 career saves -- next season.
Wagner allowed two runs in two-thirds of an inning for the Red Sox on Sunday in Game 3 of the ALDS before closer Jonathan Papelbon surrendered three runs in the ninth. The Red Sox season ended with a 7-6 loss to the Angels.
"I don't plan on talking to nobody," Wagner said, when asked where he might pitch next season.
Does that mean retirement?
"Why wouldn't I?" he said. "I've got nothing else to [accomplish]."
That's a different picture than Wagner painted before leaving the Mets for the Red Sox in August as part of a waiver deal. The 38-year-old lefty, who returned from an 11-month hiatus after undergoing Tommy John surgery, had said his plan for next year was to pursue a closer's job near his Virginia home -- perhaps Washington, Baltimore or Cincinnati -- and make a run at the 15 saves he needs to reach 400 for his career.
The Red Sox have agreed not to pick up Wagner's $8.8 million option for next year, allowing him to become a free agent and pursue his goal.
But yesterday, Wagner indicated the saves milestone is not relevant to his decision.
"That's just dust in the wind," he said.
A source close to the situation said Wagner might just need a cooling period before deciding to pitch in 2010, but also cautioned that the lefty is making his family a priority and could very well be serious about rettirement. In 15 regular-season appearances for the Red Sox, Wagner went 1-1 with a 1.98 ERA. Wagner got two outs in the eighth inning on Sunday but then surrendered two hits, and Juan Rivera's two-run single against Papelbon pulled the Angels within 5-4.
Balco
Footballguy
Here are a couple issues as I see it:
LEFT FIELD
I think resigning Jason Bay should be a priority. His .921 OPS was 4th best among left fielders last year. I really like Matt Holliday as well, but he is 2 years younger, and will likely command a lot more $$$ and longer term deal.
SHORTSTOP
Ugh. Several options here, not necessarily good ones. They could resign Alex Gonzalez, who offers fantastic D, and abyssmal offense. We could go with Jed Lawrie, who is young, but hasn't really shown anything. Or they can sign a free agent like Orlando Cabrera, who offers good hitting with nice fielding, but who is 35 years old. Not really sure what the other options are here.
1B/3B/DH
The only guy I feel good about here is Kevin Youklis. I like Lowell, but he is old, and creaky. Not sure if he can be counted on for 125 games. The Sox have said Victor Martinez is strictly a catcher, so I don't see him playing much first at all. I would love a guy like Nick Johnson, but there ar ehealth issues there as well. Solid fielding first baseman, and very solid, patient hitter. Ortiz should be a part time player and should pat far down in the lineup when he does play.
LEFT FIELD
I think resigning Jason Bay should be a priority. His .921 OPS was 4th best among left fielders last year. I really like Matt Holliday as well, but he is 2 years younger, and will likely command a lot more $$$ and longer term deal.
SHORTSTOP
Ugh. Several options here, not necessarily good ones. They could resign Alex Gonzalez, who offers fantastic D, and abyssmal offense. We could go with Jed Lawrie, who is young, but hasn't really shown anything. Or they can sign a free agent like Orlando Cabrera, who offers good hitting with nice fielding, but who is 35 years old. Not really sure what the other options are here.
1B/3B/DH
The only guy I feel good about here is Kevin Youklis. I like Lowell, but he is old, and creaky. Not sure if he can be counted on for 125 games. The Sox have said Victor Martinez is strictly a catcher, so I don't see him playing much first at all. I would love a guy like Nick Johnson, but there ar ehealth issues there as well. Solid fielding first baseman, and very solid, patient hitter. Ortiz should be a part time player and should pat far down in the lineup when he does play.
Balco
Footballguy
I agree that this team, as configured is not going to the World Series. I also don't think there are any great free agents out there. Matt Holliday would be great, but I would rather them sign Jason Bay to a shorter contract for less money.I think Varitek is gone no matter what. Martinez is the catcher here. As far as pitching, I think right now it's Lester, Becket, Buckholtz, Dice K and a vacancy, Can't do much with Dice K, no one will want him, so hopefully he takes his rehab more seriously and comes into spring training in shape. Buckholtz can be a valuable chip in a trade, but unless the SOx can get a young starter in return, they might as well keep him. I am sure Halladay talks will start back up again in the offseason.Is it worth dumping Lowell and Ortiz outright? Obviously no one will want them in a trade, so that is the only option.
Darth Cheney
Footballguy
If it were me.....
the pitching staff is fine..... Lester, Beckett, Dice-K, Bucholz and Wakefield are fine.
the bullpen is fine............. MDC, Papelblown, Bard, etc. etc.
Youklis, Pedroia, Elsburry, Martinez are a solid, good core.
The big problem with this team is that for whatever reason, the lineup isn't that fearsome. I know stat nerds will point to all these numbers that say that JD Drew is better than Mickey Mantle and Jason Bay is Willie Mays only white. But when you watch this lineup.....they never instilled the same type of dread that ones in the past did.
Drew is 34, Bay is 31, Ortiz is 34, Lowell is 35. That's not good.
Push prospects for Fielder. Overpay if you have to. Play him at first for a year, Youk at third. Ortiz at DH. Keep Gonzalez as your SS. I guess Tek has an option....so he's still there.
the pitching staff is fine..... Lester, Beckett, Dice-K, Bucholz and Wakefield are fine.
the bullpen is fine............. MDC, Papelblown, Bard, etc. etc.
Youklis, Pedroia, Elsburry, Martinez are a solid, good core.
The big problem with this team is that for whatever reason, the lineup isn't that fearsome. I know stat nerds will point to all these numbers that say that JD Drew is better than Mickey Mantle and Jason Bay is Willie Mays only white. But when you watch this lineup.....they never instilled the same type of dread that ones in the past did.
Drew is 34, Bay is 31, Ortiz is 34, Lowell is 35. That's not good.
Push prospects for Fielder. Overpay if you have to. Play him at first for a year, Youk at third. Ortiz at DH. Keep Gonzalez as your SS. I guess Tek has an option....so he's still there.
Balco
Footballguy
There are two players on my wish list in 2 years. The first is Fielder, who might be available by trade due to $$$ in Milwaukee, and they can slide Gamel over there. The other is Joe Mauer, who I believe is a free agent after next year, the same year Victor Martinez' contract is up. That is why I don't want the Sox to spend just to spend this year. Build up the farm system, make a couple signings, and wait for the aforementioned to become free agents or available in a trade. Theo has done a good job rebuilding the farm, and there are some very good trade chips to offer up.
Balco
Footballguy
Positions next year:
Catcher
This is Victor Martinez' spot. I thank Varitek for all he has done in the franchise, but it was painfully obvious he is done. Martinez brings above average offense at the position.
First Base
This is where I would like to see them sign a guy for a 1 or 2 year deal. Due to his injury history, Nick Johnson might find that teams are only willing to go 1 year. He is Theo's type of player, and a good defender as well. Obviously the guy is extremely brittle. But for a short term contract, he is worth it. They could also put Youklis here full time.
Second Base
Dustin Pedroia. No problems here.
Shortstop
Uh Oh. Seriously not a lot of good options. I hear Toronto is willing to deal Marcus Scutaro, but he had a career year, and isn't very young, so might not be worth giving up any prospects. COuld fill it in house with Jed Lawrie but he was a disaster this year. Gonzalez offers a steady glove, if nothing else. And Orlando Cabrera is a free agent. Not feeling good about this spot at all.
Third Base
Lowell is just breaking down. Can't count on more than 100 healthy games, IMO. Obviously Youklis gets moved there if Lowell misses time.
Left Field
Resign Jason Bay. Solid first full year in Fenway. Matt Holliday might be way to expensive.
Centerfield
Jacoby Elsbury. No problems here.
Right FIeld
JD Drew is what he is. He is a solid player when healthy, which is hardly ever, who has an albatross of a contract. He is not going anywhere. He is so inconsistent it drives me crazy. When he slumps, it is a long slump, but then he catches fire and hits everything. He will always be criticized (and rightfully so) because of his horrible contract, but he is actually a very solid player.
DH
I feel like it would just be best to release David Ortiz. I don't think he would handle a significantly reduced role very well. So many times he would come up with runners in scoring position and just fail miserably. To save his fragile health, Nick Johnson could also be signed to DH.
Catcher
This is Victor Martinez' spot. I thank Varitek for all he has done in the franchise, but it was painfully obvious he is done. Martinez brings above average offense at the position.
First Base
This is where I would like to see them sign a guy for a 1 or 2 year deal. Due to his injury history, Nick Johnson might find that teams are only willing to go 1 year. He is Theo's type of player, and a good defender as well. Obviously the guy is extremely brittle. But for a short term contract, he is worth it. They could also put Youklis here full time.
Second Base
Dustin Pedroia. No problems here.
Shortstop
Uh Oh. Seriously not a lot of good options. I hear Toronto is willing to deal Marcus Scutaro, but he had a career year, and isn't very young, so might not be worth giving up any prospects. COuld fill it in house with Jed Lawrie but he was a disaster this year. Gonzalez offers a steady glove, if nothing else. And Orlando Cabrera is a free agent. Not feeling good about this spot at all.
Third Base
Lowell is just breaking down. Can't count on more than 100 healthy games, IMO. Obviously Youklis gets moved there if Lowell misses time.
Left Field
Resign Jason Bay. Solid first full year in Fenway. Matt Holliday might be way to expensive.
Centerfield
Jacoby Elsbury. No problems here.
Right FIeld
JD Drew is what he is. He is a solid player when healthy, which is hardly ever, who has an albatross of a contract. He is not going anywhere. He is so inconsistent it drives me crazy. When he slumps, it is a long slump, but then he catches fire and hits everything. He will always be criticized (and rightfully so) because of his horrible contract, but he is actually a very solid player.
DH
I feel like it would just be best to release David Ortiz. I don't think he would handle a significantly reduced role very well. So many times he would come up with runners in scoring position and just fail miserably. To save his fragile health, Nick Johnson could also be signed to DH.
Balco
Footballguy
Can't think of many closers better than him.
gutting the team? seriously?
Come on.
The starting rotation is very solid. The bullpen is very solid.
There are questions on offense, sure, but this is a team that scored the third most runs in the league. Ortiz started off miserably and kind of came on later on, but I don't think he can be penciled in for more 45 hr, 125 rbi years. They have quite a few prospects that aren't too far from being major league ready.
I think you're pipe dreaming if you think Mauer or Fielder are possibilities. Hell, why not try for Ryan Braun who may want to go back to third base?
I think a more real possibility is picking up a Garret Atkins on the cheap to play third. Lowell is about done and I think he knows it too.
Definitely need to resign Bay. If not, we will need to actively pickup another power bat for the heart of the lineup. This team is built for a ton of guys to get on base, take a ton of pitches, get into bullpens and wear other teams down. We have a great lineup for that now. Adding Nick Johnson may be another solid possibility, guy has a great obp and a good glove.
No reason this team needs to be close to blown up anytime soon. A team like the Astros needs to be blown up. The Red Sox are still a very competitive team.
Come on.
The starting rotation is very solid. The bullpen is very solid.
There are questions on offense, sure, but this is a team that scored the third most runs in the league. Ortiz started off miserably and kind of came on later on, but I don't think he can be penciled in for more 45 hr, 125 rbi years. They have quite a few prospects that aren't too far from being major league ready.
I think you're pipe dreaming if you think Mauer or Fielder are possibilities. Hell, why not try for Ryan Braun who may want to go back to third base?
I think a more real possibility is picking up a Garret Atkins on the cheap to play third. Lowell is about done and I think he knows it too.
Definitely need to resign Bay. If not, we will need to actively pickup another power bat for the heart of the lineup. This team is built for a ton of guys to get on base, take a ton of pitches, get into bullpens and wear other teams down. We have a great lineup for that now. Adding Nick Johnson may be another solid possibility, guy has a great obp and a good glove.
No reason this team needs to be close to blown up anytime soon. A team like the Astros needs to be blown up. The Red Sox are still a very competitive team.
Balco
Footballguy
I don't think the Twins are trading Mauer before his contract is up. They are a good team, and will likely be in the playoff hunt next year. But he is going to command a huge salary, which I don't think the Twins can afford. That is why I said in 2 years. The Sox have a chance in free agency, just like other big market clubs (I am sure the Yankees will be salivating at the thought of signing Mauer as well).I think the Brewers have very good, smart management for a small market team. They can decide to keep Fielder and get picks when he leaves as a free agent. Or they can, and I suspect they will, trade him before he becomes a free agent. They can get a King's ransom for him, and I think the Sox have the minor league pieces to get him. I am not 100 % sure of his contract status, though. I thought he signed a short term deal (2 years, maybe?). So yes, I think he will be made available in a trade. I think a couple tweaks this year will obviously be enough to get them to the playoffs again. Resigning Bay is the priority, and signing Nick Johnson would be my pick # 2. How is Atkins in the field? I kind of remember him being shaky, but I could be wrong. I think shortstop should be priority # 3.
Balco
Footballguy
And I also agree on the starters. Sox need a number 5, but should be all set with Becket, Lester, Buckholtz, and Dice K, assuming Dice K gets his act together. I hope they don't overpay for one of the many older pitchers on the market. Lackey is the only really good pitcher on the market, and he is going to command alot of money.
Michael Brown
Footballguy
I think between allowing Hunter to walk and trading Johan + moving into a new stadium next year, there is no way in the world that Mauer doesn't re-sign with the Twinkies. They'd have to seriously lowball him beyond belief for him to even consider leaving. I wouldn't be at all surprised if he is locked up before he even hits the market.
Balco
Footballguy
Good point. Did they sign Morneau long term? I forget.
Adebisi
Footballguy
I strongly disagree. The Twins can't possibly give him Yankee money and still put a competitive team around him. He'll be a Yankee; I am almost positive.
Michael Brown
Footballguy
I don't think the Twins will be a competitive team without him. Plus he's not a Boras guy and a native Minnesota--- Minnesotan, Minnesotian? He's from St. Paul.And the Twins play in one of the larger markets in America. For years Pohlad was unwilling to spend because his team wasn't pulling in revenue due to the crap stadium. Now that they'll have a brand-new pad, wouldn't it seem that their payroll will increase? I admittedly don't know the ins-and-outs of the organization, but it would seem to be the case, no?
BoulderBob
Footballguy
Maybe when he is 35, but on this one, there is no question...he is staying in Minnesota, and he will give the Twins a discount(not a huge one, but one that will allow them to compete a playoff spot). I see the RedSox targeting Rich Harden, and I don't think it would be wise to over-pay Holliday when they have Bay.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Quick review of things at the end of this year/heading into next year:
LF
I hope they try to keep Bay but I think he's gone. The talking heads have made it sound like he could get a 5-year deal in the $75-$80 million range. The Sox thought they were being generous offering like a 2 year extension for a total of $20-25 million. Those numbers are WAY off.
Options that I have heard include Matt Holliday and trading for Carl Crawford (one year left on his contract in TB).
CF
Set with Ellsbury.
RF
Probably stuck with Drew. He isn't terrible, but he gets paid too much for someone to want him.
1B
Sox are said to covet Adrian Gonzalez and will do a lot to acquire him. He has 2 years left on his contract in SD at low dollars. Don't kid yourself into thinking that the Sox can get him by trading has beens and low level prospects. There will have to be a piece that will sting if that guy leaves.
2B
Set with Pedroia.
SS
Not many options out there. Probably best to re-sign Gonzalez. Lowrie doesn't seem like he's all that great.
3B
If the Sox get Gonzalez, that would slot Youk at 3rd, which is fine by me.
DH
Probably would have to go righty/lefty with Ortiz and Lowell unless they can unload one of them and pay some of their salary.
C
Martinez would start most of the time, meaning they need a backup catcher as Varitek shouldn't be back (even if he takes his option).
SP
Lester
Beckett
Dice-K
Wakefield
???
I'm guessing Buchholz will be involved in the trade to SD, so that leaves questions in the middle and end of the rotation. Theo will probably do his usual, bringing in a handful of lower priced free agents post injury or guys on short deals to see who sticks. I'm beginning to think that usually doesn't work. With the $11+ million they paid Penny and Smoltz, they could have brought in a good #2 or #3 starter instead of two guys that did very little for the Sox.
RP
Paps
Oki
Bard
Ramirez
Delcarmen
Wagner is likely gone, which is too bad. He pitched well. There has been speculation that the Sox would consider trading Paps, but I'm not sure how many teams would give up much to get him. The Sox hold his rights for 2 more years, so I think he'll stick around.
Bowden and Delcarmen were both pieces of trade talks at mid season, but their performances were so lackluster that now teams won't want them and Boston will have to figure out what to do with them. That's part of the problem for Boston. Their minor league prospects in AA and AAA are pretty much all pitchers, so they don't have many position players that they could bring up. They apparently have some young guys that down the road could turn into something, but they are all several years away.
Theo the other day on the radio expressed that at some point fans will have to live with a time where the team awaits help from the minors or until other players on other teams hit free agency, as he said he's not going to make bad trades just to plug a hole for a year. We'll see what happens this off season, as it doesn't sound like there are a ton of good free agents this time around.
LF
I hope they try to keep Bay but I think he's gone. The talking heads have made it sound like he could get a 5-year deal in the $75-$80 million range. The Sox thought they were being generous offering like a 2 year extension for a total of $20-25 million. Those numbers are WAY off.
Options that I have heard include Matt Holliday and trading for Carl Crawford (one year left on his contract in TB).
CF
Set with Ellsbury.
RF
Probably stuck with Drew. He isn't terrible, but he gets paid too much for someone to want him.
1B
Sox are said to covet Adrian Gonzalez and will do a lot to acquire him. He has 2 years left on his contract in SD at low dollars. Don't kid yourself into thinking that the Sox can get him by trading has beens and low level prospects. There will have to be a piece that will sting if that guy leaves.
2B
Set with Pedroia.
SS
Not many options out there. Probably best to re-sign Gonzalez. Lowrie doesn't seem like he's all that great.
3B
If the Sox get Gonzalez, that would slot Youk at 3rd, which is fine by me.
DH
Probably would have to go righty/lefty with Ortiz and Lowell unless they can unload one of them and pay some of their salary.
C
Martinez would start most of the time, meaning they need a backup catcher as Varitek shouldn't be back (even if he takes his option).
SP
Lester
Beckett
Dice-K
Wakefield
???
I'm guessing Buchholz will be involved in the trade to SD, so that leaves questions in the middle and end of the rotation. Theo will probably do his usual, bringing in a handful of lower priced free agents post injury or guys on short deals to see who sticks. I'm beginning to think that usually doesn't work. With the $11+ million they paid Penny and Smoltz, they could have brought in a good #2 or #3 starter instead of two guys that did very little for the Sox.
RP
Paps
Oki
Bard
Ramirez
Delcarmen
Wagner is likely gone, which is too bad. He pitched well. There has been speculation that the Sox would consider trading Paps, but I'm not sure how many teams would give up much to get him. The Sox hold his rights for 2 more years, so I think he'll stick around.
Bowden and Delcarmen were both pieces of trade talks at mid season, but their performances were so lackluster that now teams won't want them and Boston will have to figure out what to do with them. That's part of the problem for Boston. Their minor league prospects in AA and AAA are pretty much all pitchers, so they don't have many position players that they could bring up. They apparently have some young guys that down the road could turn into something, but they are all several years away.
Theo the other day on the radio expressed that at some point fans will have to live with a time where the team awaits help from the minors or until other players on other teams hit free agency, as he said he's not going to make bad trades just to plug a hole for a year. We'll see what happens this off season, as it doesn't sound like there are a ton of good free agents this time around.
Balco
Footballguy
Gonzalez is going to cost a ton. Steal of a salary for a guy that is a good defender and puts up monster hitting stats in a cavernous park while also playing in a division with two other ridiculous pitcher parks. I can't even imagine a deal that could get it done, although I am sure it would involve the Sox taking back a Padre who has a high salary with performance that doesn't really match (there payroll is so small, I don't even know if they have a player like that).
Obviously Buckholtz at the major league level and Lars Anderson. But also a couple more big prospects. And maybe a cheap major leaguer.
Obviously Buckholtz at the major league level and Lars Anderson. But also a couple more big prospects. And maybe a cheap major leaguer.
Capella
Footballguy
You're trippin' if you think the Rays would trade Crawford to the Red Sox.
They have built a nice farm system, yet have some aging holes in the bigs. They can do whatever they want via free agency, but I wouldn't be willing to trade any of our prospects. I'm fine if we take some lumps the next couple of seasons as long as we keep the youth together. They should wait for the prospects to develop and then make trades to fill in the gaps. If Bay walking equates to draft choices I would choose to let him go.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
I'm not saying it . . . the talking heads are. If Crawford wasn't interested in staying in TB, would the Rays just keep him or unload him for some prospects? Obviously where they were in the standings would hugely impact the answer.
The Kansas Comet
Footballguy
The Padres really don't have a player in that category now that Peavy is gone. Chris Young earns $6.3 million, but that's about it. It will require a talent-heavy package for Gonzalez.
SofaKings
Footballguy
Big Blue Wrecking Crew
downsized
Big Blue Wrecking Crew
downsized
Just a tweet, but was listed on MLB Trade Rumors
If true, what say ye???
ETA: now on ESPN
http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/news/story?id=4627147
If true, what say ye???
ETA: now on ESPN
http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/news/story?id=4627147
Balco
Footballguy
Not sure how much I like this. I think he was signed to be a bench player, but he is a bench player who can't hit lefties. The Sox already have plenty of regulars who can't hit lefties. They need to go after a bench player who can hit lefties and play the field when Drew gets his days off.
I'm not sure why you wouldn't like this. Red Sox need some outfield bench/spot start players. Hermida is only 25 years old, and the price tag for him was fair. Let's see what he can do with a lineup around him, as his protection used to be the likes of Cody Ross or Jeff Baker.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
One probably has nothing to do with the other. But Bay likely won't be back. The Herald mentioned he will be looking for 5 years at $16-18M per year. The Sox are offering 3 years and a lot less per year, so the odds of him returning are slim IMO.
Darth Cheney
Footballguy
Meh. Nothing that the World Champs should get worried about.
Balco
Footballguy
Wow. Brewers wanted Bard or Buckholtz for Hardy.
The Boston Globe Article:
"Before you ask the obvious question, here’s the answer: yes, the Red Sox were in on discussions for shortstop J.J. Hardy, who was traded from the Milwaukee Brewers to the Minnesota Twins earlier today.
According to a baseball source, the Sox had been engaging with the Brewers in on-and-off discussions involving Hardy since the trading deadline, roughly two weeks before Milwaukee sent the struggling shortstop to the minor leagues. Talks continued up until recently, when the Brewers agreed to send Hardy to the Twins for outfielder Carlos Gomez.
According to the same source, Milwaukee wanted either starter Clay Buchholz or reliever Daniel Bard for Hardy. The Sox were not willing to offer either pitcher. Milwaukee was not interested in righthander Michael Bowden, whom the Sox would have been willing to part with, and the Sox did not have a center field prospect who could match Gomez’s skill set.
Hardy, 27, batted just .227 with 11 home runs, 47 RBIs, and a .659 OPS for Milwaukee last season but batted a combined .280 while averaging 25 home runs and 77 RBI over the previous two seasons. Regarded as a good defensive player, he earned $4.65 million this year and is eligible for salary arbitration. Hardy is not eligible for free agency until after the 2011 campaign.
Hardy has been rumored to be on the trade market for some time because the Brewers intend for highly-regarded prospect Alcides Escobar to take over next season.
The Sox’ interest in Hardy certainly suggests that the club is not committed to Alex Gonzalez, on whom the Sox hold a $6 million option for next season. The Sox have until later this month to determine whether they will exercise that option. The club also could try to re-sign Gonzalez for a lesser amount."
The Boston Globe Article:
"Before you ask the obvious question, here’s the answer: yes, the Red Sox were in on discussions for shortstop J.J. Hardy, who was traded from the Milwaukee Brewers to the Minnesota Twins earlier today.
According to a baseball source, the Sox had been engaging with the Brewers in on-and-off discussions involving Hardy since the trading deadline, roughly two weeks before Milwaukee sent the struggling shortstop to the minor leagues. Talks continued up until recently, when the Brewers agreed to send Hardy to the Twins for outfielder Carlos Gomez.
According to the same source, Milwaukee wanted either starter Clay Buchholz or reliever Daniel Bard for Hardy. The Sox were not willing to offer either pitcher. Milwaukee was not interested in righthander Michael Bowden, whom the Sox would have been willing to part with, and the Sox did not have a center field prospect who could match Gomez’s skill set.
Hardy, 27, batted just .227 with 11 home runs, 47 RBIs, and a .659 OPS for Milwaukee last season but batted a combined .280 while averaging 25 home runs and 77 RBI over the previous two seasons. Regarded as a good defensive player, he earned $4.65 million this year and is eligible for salary arbitration. Hardy is not eligible for free agency until after the 2011 campaign.
Hardy has been rumored to be on the trade market for some time because the Brewers intend for highly-regarded prospect Alcides Escobar to take over next season.
The Sox’ interest in Hardy certainly suggests that the club is not committed to Alex Gonzalez, on whom the Sox hold a $6 million option for next season. The Sox have until later this month to determine whether they will exercise that option. The club also could try to re-sign Gonzalez for a lesser amount."
ublic "red sox hot stove"
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Sox declined the option on Alex Gonzalez. Doesn't mean he won't be back, he just won't be getting $6 million to play for the Sox next year.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Updated: November 25, 2009, 3:10 AM ET
Report: Red Sox after Halladay
ESPN.com news services
The Boston Red Sox are ready to deal and they want to see an ace.
Citing an unnamed source, the New York Daily News reported on Tuesday that the team is "putting on a full-court press" to acquire Roy Halladay from the Toronto Blue Jays.
"They would love to get it wrapped up before the winter meetings [beginning Dec. 7]," the source said, according to the newspaper.
Halladay's name was mentioned prominently in relation to the Red Sox at the trade deadline last summer when the Jays said they were shopping the right-hander, but no deal could be worked out and he stayed put.
The six-time All-Star went 17-10 with a 2.79 ERA and 208 strikeouts in 2009, but the Jays finished 75-87 and a whopping 28 games behind the first-place Yankees.
Halladay, who has pitched his entire 12-year career with Toronto, has expressed a desire to win. The Red Sox, Yankees, and Angels have all been mentioned prominently as possible suitors for the 2003 Cy Young winner.
Report: Red Sox after Halladay
ESPN.com news services
The Boston Red Sox are ready to deal and they want to see an ace.
Citing an unnamed source, the New York Daily News reported on Tuesday that the team is "putting on a full-court press" to acquire Roy Halladay from the Toronto Blue Jays.
"They would love to get it wrapped up before the winter meetings [beginning Dec. 7]," the source said, according to the newspaper.
Halladay's name was mentioned prominently in relation to the Red Sox at the trade deadline last summer when the Jays said they were shopping the right-hander, but no deal could be worked out and he stayed put.
The six-time All-Star went 17-10 with a 2.79 ERA and 208 strikeouts in 2009, but the Jays finished 75-87 and a whopping 28 games behind the first-place Yankees.
Halladay, who has pitched his entire 12-year career with Toronto, has expressed a desire to win. The Red Sox, Yankees, and Angels have all been mentioned prominently as possible suitors for the 2003 Cy Young winner.
Michael Brown
Footballguy
I think the Sox land Halladay. It'll cost them a couple of young arms, but it'll be worthwhile for them because you guys have arms to spare. Any word on him agreeing to an extension as part of the trade? I remember hearing that he said he wasn't going to sign an extension with anyone who trades for him and that he'll go to free agency after 2010 regardless.
I'd have to think though that if Boston comes through with a trade and an offer of $100 million for 5 years that he'll sign it.
I'd have to think though that if Boston comes through with a trade and an offer of $100 million for 5 years that he'll sign it.
Balco
Footballguy
He is 33, I believe. I can't see him getting 20 per for 5. I can see him getting the length, but not the $$$. Probably could get 20 per if he shortens it to 3 years.He is an ace. If the Sox have to give up Buckholtz and a top prospect, so be it. I also think if this deal is done, Scutaro will be coming over as well, as the Blue Jays have been shopping him, too. Would give some offensive pop that the Six have been lacking at the position, but not sure about his defensive skills.LF has to be solved, I would love to get Holliday, if Bay is no re signed. Other than that, a right handed bat to spell Drew against lefties would be nice.
Scutaro and offensive pop do not belong in the same sentence. Sure, he had a nice year last year....but let's face it, the guys a .265 career hitter with 50 career homers in > 3000 ab's. And will be 34 next year.
It would be nice to land Halladay, but I believe offense is a much larger problem than pitching right now. Ortiz is not getting any younger, and taking his and Bay's production out of the lineup would be not good. I think the Sox may be better suited finding some punch to their offense, and again using a stop gap such as resigning Alex Gonzalez or pickup an Orlando Cabrera.
It would be nice to land Halladay, but I believe offense is a much larger problem than pitching right now. Ortiz is not getting any younger, and taking his and Bay's production out of the lineup would be not good. I think the Sox may be better suited finding some punch to their offense, and again using a stop gap such as resigning Alex Gonzalez or pickup an Orlando Cabrera.
Balco
Footballguy
I am pretty confident they will have either Bay or Holliday on opening day. I am very concerned with Ortiz and Lowell. Lowell is too brittle to play 3B even 3 times a week, IMO. Sounds like a platoon situation at DH between Ortiz and Lowell. Don't have a huge problem with that. Youklis to 3rd, and a new face at 1st. And like I said, they need a righty bat who can hit lefties well to replace Drew in the OF on his numerous days off.C: Martinez1B: ???? I really would love for them to sign Nick Johnson. Solid glove, and although he is a lefty, he hits lefties well. I know he has injury risk, but he is a solid player when healthy and is a Theo player (.426 OBP last year)2B: PedroiaSS: ???? The pickings are very slim. Orlando Cabrera is 35, but is probably the best of the bunch. Might command a 2 year deal.3B: YouklisLF: Bay/Holliday I have to think one of them will be patrolling the outfield. This has to be the # 1 priority.CF: EllsburyRF: Drew - Gives 120 above average games. Needs a RH platoon partner. Xavier Nady? DH: Lowell/Ortizguru_007 said:
I wish I was as confident as you with LF......I don't think Holliday is an option. I think he's staying in St Louis. If they don't resign Bay, I think they are effed.I love the Johnson idea at first. If they can pull it off, that is a great fit, imo. Between Johnson/Youk/Martinez/Lowell you should be able to field a solid lineup every night while filling 1B/3B and DH.But....if they don't resign Bay, I'd like to see how they fill in the 480 games with Drew/Hermida/Ellsbury may having to play ~ 350 of these and someone else. If the Sox trade for Halladay, they will have very little to offer in terms of trade for a premium corner OF'er. Plus, the coffers will be a bit lighter, and they have a bunch of guys coming up for bigger contracts (Papelbon, Pedroia, Lester, Ellsbury)
the moops
Footballguy
You are missing Ortiz from this equation.
Balco
Footballguy
Should be part of a platoon. Lowell should be the DH v. lefties, and some righties, while playing 3rd 1 to 2 times a week (never on back to back days). Martinez should DH when he is not catching, and Ortiz should get the rest, IMO. I still think Lowell can be a solid offensive contributor, and an occasional defensive one.
