FIRST PLACE! Reds win, 7-2.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 6:12 PM EDT
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Joe Nuxhall Memorial Honorary Star of the Game
Bronson Arroyo. It was a great day for pretty much all the Reds today, and none more than the Speedwagon. Bronson pitched a complete game, the third Reds pitcher in five games to do so, giving up only two runs and scattering seven hits and three walks. He also hit a bases loaded single to drive in two runs. Honorable mention goes to Scott Rolen.
Key Plays
- The first inning gave us an inkling that it would be a good day for the Reds. Jon Jay doubled with one out for the Cardinals, and then came a key decision. Rather than pitching to Albert Pujols, Arroyo intentionally walked him, and got Matt Holliday to ground into a double play. Then in the Reds half of the inning, Orlando Cabrera led off with a double, and Scott Rolen hit an opposite field home run. Reds lead, 2-0.
- Bronson got another double play to end an inning when two men were aboard in the second inning. This time, the goat was Brad Penny, bunting into a nicely turned 3-6-4 DP.
- Three straight singles from Brandon Phillips, Joey Votto, and Scott Rolen opened the third inning, with Phillips scoring on Rolen's hit. Jay Bruce then struck out, but Jonny Gomes hit a deep fly that allowed Votto to score. Drew Stubbs doubled to put runners on second and third, but Ryan Hanigan grounded out. Reds lead, 4-0.
- With rain falling in the third inning, it seemed like Bronson might suffer a lapse in concentration and let the Cardinals back into the game. Skip Schumaker singled, Jason LaRue walked, and Brad Penny singled to load the bases with no outs. Tyler Greene hit a slow roller to shortstop, and beat out the relay throw from Brandon Phillips when Penny went hard into second base to break up the double play. Schumaker scored. Colby Rasmus hit a chopper to first and a hard charging Joey Votto threw home to catch LaRue in a rundown. Finally, Arroyo got Jon Jay looking on a called third strike, which sure seemed like a generous call from home plate umpire Joe West who likely wanted to get out of the rain. Reds lead, 4-1.
- Despite the rain, the Reds came back out for the bottom of the fifth inning, and effectively put the game to bed. With one out, Jay Bruce singled and moved to third on Jonny Gomes's double. After Drew Stubbs struck out, Penny intentionally walked Ryan Hanigan, only to see Bronson Arroyo hit a bases loaded single that brought in Bruce and Gomes. Hanigan went from first to third, as the Reds are so good at doing, and then scored on Orlando Cabrera's single. Reds lead, 7-1.
- Jason LaRue homered in the seventh inning. Reds win, 7-2.
Other Notes
- This is the first time since July 31, 2009 that the Cardinals have not been in first place.
- The Reds haven't committed an error in the past eleven games, the best defensive streak since 1997. They have the highest fielding percentage in the NL.
- This is the first time Brad Penny has lost at GABP.
- Bronson Arroyo has two hits this season, both off Penny.
- Yovani Gallardo will be pitching for the Brewers tomorrow instead of Tuesday.
- Every Reds starter, including the pitcher, had a hit, except for Ryan Hanigan.
- The Reds did not use their bench or their bullpen at all. Probably just to spite Tony LaRussa.
- The Cincinnati Reds are now first place in the NL Central.
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First Place
is SWEET.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
by crolfer on May 16, 2010 6:14 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
That's a mighty pretty Fangraph
Reds are firing on all cylinders now.
Except maybe the bullpen. They haven’t been needed much…
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
That, my friend, is dominance in graph form
And apt too. Because the way the team is playing now, my win expectancy of them is very, very high.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 7:31 PM EDT up reply actions
It's one thing to beat the Pirates son handily
But to beat the Cardinals two out of three (and the with the one loss being so close)? I think we’re onto something.
Just keep an eye on ESPN or ESPN.com. The minute they call the Reds the “hottest team in baseball”, we’re fucked.
Needless to say, this didn't work and everybody died.
I'm sure the Reds feel bad for beating the Pirates son
I don’t think he did anything to them and it was probably uncalled for
Needless to say, this didn't work and everybody died.
by SullivanSmith on May 16, 2010 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
ESPN won't notice
They are more interested in NY, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles. They never notice anyone else.
by Jack Armstrong started an All Star Game on May 16, 2010 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Nope
The Reds always go unnoticed. If you look at the slate of games today, only the Twins-Yankees was as big of a game. Also, this was like the 4th or 5th game Baseball tonight talked about and after they did the highlights, all they talked about was the Cardinals sucking, not the Reds doing good…They dont talk about us…oh well…we dont need them.
Nobody did
"aaron harnann is so aweseom" - justin
by BK on May 16, 2010 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I told him he was staying down too long in the midnight sea
R.I.P., devil horns originator.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions
It's a Black Sabbath....well, kind of.
A Pete Rose by any other name would still smell of cheap hookers and pinetar.
by Pops Daniels on May 16, 2010 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm worried
Every time we have the machine running at full steam, we lose 4 of the next 6. How many Chickens do I need to sacrifice to keep the train rolling?
by Jack Armstrong started an All Star Game on May 16, 2010 6:32 PM EDT reply actions
19, I think
Needless to say, this didn't work and everybody died.
by SullivanSmith on May 16, 2010 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions
that is worrisome
But looking at the schedule, I think the momentum can be maintained for the rest of month. There’s series against the Pirates (again) and the Astros.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Here is my offering.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions
question i've always wondered
are there actually people that think KFC makes the best fried chicken? I don’t think it’s anywhere near the quality of Lee’s or Popeyes.
I find KFC to be too greasy...
Even for fried chicken. I like Popeye’s better.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions
i prefer free range, organic chicken
all other chicken has detrimental health effects if consumed
"then skip it"....
Watch out for dem hormones
Or you might find yourself with moobs.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Spicy or mild?
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Mmmm
Spicy.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Went to the game today.
Great to see the Redlegs put a whooping on the Cards and end up in first place.
Let’s hope they don’t give it back!
Watch it, ass blood.
Let's talk crazy for a second
Assume that we are in the race at the trade deadline; do you trade some young prospects (Alonso) and if so, who for?
by bobestes on May 16, 2010 7:02 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
I don't think they need to trade the top-top guys unless they're getting a superstar in return.
I mean guys like Alonso, Aroldis… you can probably part with some lesser talent to get what you want at the deadline. I’d think anyway.
Jake, unlike NYC and some others, there are doubts all over baseball about Alonso
He has yet to hit for power and, prior to this season, hasn’t hit lefties. He is an OBP machine and someone will take the gamble. The Reds have a first baseman. What they lack is one more bullpen pitcher and an OF
hasn't he been doing more power this past few weeks or so?
I mean, sure, it could just be a hot streak, but I’m sure that someone would want him.
But I agree with Jake, the Reds could probably just part with some lesser names. I think they’re real, real, high on Alonso in LF sometime soon.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
He had a good game last night and like NYC points out his power might return after he's completely over the hand/wrist injury
But, I think the only people high on Alonso in left are the people who want to believe he can play there.
I’ll put this way, Cy, you’ll have to give up someone to get someone, so get used to imagining Alonso and Frazier and Maloney/Wood going somewhere else.
Of those 4 names, only Alonso would I like to see on a "do not move" list
I think his OBP skills are too valuable and I think he will develop power and I think he can be a productive every day player in the majors. However, if trading him would win us a World Series this year, I can’t argue against that.
Alonso has 7 hits in 4 games at AAA
SSS, true, but Terry Reynolds claims that Alonso was being pitched around in AA.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
I've actually heard this more than once
There are a lot of people who wouldn’t be surprised to see Alonso to hit better in AAA.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
This is why it's ok for Mrs. Than to drink your beer.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
Permisson! Score!
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
so Mrs Than
i assume there is going to be a Mr Peach account opened here soon, no?
"then skip it"....
One can assume that if he is allowed to post again, it will be under such circumstances.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
That's not cool!
Am a really expected to be trusted with beer?
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
Since you've been speaking for me I should probably speak for myself.
Yes, his power may or may not show up in a month or two, and yes, he’s probably never going to be even an average LFer.
But to say many have questions about him is misleading. Everyone knows he’s an OBP machine, hits the ball hard, and is as safe a bet to do so in the majors as anyone. The questions are his power (which he has displayed consistently except for the time since the injury) and his defense.
And he would, and should, bring back a lot in a trade. A consensus top 100 prospect who’s bat is basically MLB ready is extremely valuable. If you figure a similar prospect in Brett Wallace netted Matt Holliday, that’s the kind of prospect I’d be looking for in any trade involving Alonso
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Agreed. LaPorta was a major part of CC and Wallace got Holliday
Did I misquote you, by the way? I thought I accurately reflected your thinking, which is the optimistic and more representative side of opinion
I don't trade anybody
Unless one of our starters is out for a long time. This team is working, slowly but surely. We need to just be tolerant of the reality that not everyone on the Reds is going to be admitted to the Hall of Fame, even on the second ballot.
We could find a bench player, maybe, but it’s hardly worth trading anybody to get one. You just hang around the waiver wire for that.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
I'm fine with trading Harang
I trust Walt to find a way to do it that will benefit the team.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 9:35 PM EDT up reply actions
or just wait till he clears DFA,
then kick him in the shins and give him a wedgie!
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
I've been beating that drum since about this time last year.
I wonder if Cliff Lee would like to return to the NL for another half season?
by Brian B on May 17, 2010 9:05 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
That thought has crossed my mind
Yes, it’s crazy at this point.
But if the Reds are in contention at the trade deadline…they will probably make a move. Chances like that don’t come along every day.
Not sure what to trade for, though. It might be obvious when the time comes. But right now…I dunno. The stats say the biggest team weakness is pitching, but lately it doesn’t feel that way. Defense is good, hitting is maybe a little below average.
We could make our move on Hanley Ramirez. :-) Or a rent a power pitcher, if one is available.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
If they go after anything, I don't think it'll be a pitcher.
In fact, I’m not sure what it’d be. Maybe a CF’er. The infield + Bruce and, right now anyway, Gomes jobs are all safe. Maybe if Rolen goes down for an extended period you go after a 3B bat. Otherwise I could only see a LF or CF bat, because Tubby isn’t replaceable to the Reds.
If I was GM
and the Reds were contention at the deadline, I would be thinking about what it takes to win in the postseason. Which means power pitching and defense. Defense is pretty good, but I think Slo-Cab is a big hole there. Plus we’ve only signed him for one year, which is probably a good thing. He’ll be turning 37 next year. I’m not expecting him to be back, at least not as a starting SS.
We’ve got some good gloves and good bats, but probably not enough players who good with both stick and bat.
I can’t think of a CFer I’d rather have than Stubbs, assuming he keeps developing. At least, one that’s likely to be available. If there’s a corner OFer with a power bat and good D, I’d go for that.
I know it seems like we have a wealth of starting pitching right now, but I don’t trust this rotation in the post-season.
And of course, the parts we need may be obvious by July. We may be lucky and not have any injuries, but I’m not counting on it.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
We could have Volquez back by the postseason
And it’s possible Chapman might be ready then too.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 8:03 PM EDT up reply actions
CF, SS, and LF
are probably the holes, in that order. Again, it really depends on how Stubbs progresses with the season, but this team does still need a leadoff hitter, and it would come from one of those 3 spots.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
Just remember that Cesar Geronimo batted 8th
Stubbs has value so long as he’s not batting leadoff. And who knows? Maybe this Cabrera thing will actually keep working.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Think Grady Sizemore would be available?
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
Only for a photo shoot.
A Pete Rose by any other name would still smell of cheap hookers and pinetar.
by Pops Daniels on May 16, 2010 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
You sure he wouldn't want to get a cup of coffee?
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Pretty sure it was a cup of tea
and he was steeping his tea bag
by Highlifeman21 on May 18, 2010 8:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't think I'd want to count on either of those
One year is kind of rushing it after TJ surgery, at least if you want them to be effective. And Chapman is still really, really raw. If he appears this year, it will be out of the bullpen, IMO.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
he'd be fun in the late innings of the NLCS, though
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
I think Volquez could be alright as a bullpen arm this year
but there is no reason, unless the starting staff is slammed by injuries, to even consider putting him in the rotation in 2010.
I hate Dusty Baker so goddamn much.
by justin007000 on May 16, 2010 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions
if we're talking playoffs
you only need 3 starters, 4 tops. So otherwise you can just throw some high-leverage arms in the bullpen (read: no Carlos Fisher)
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
yeah
I really don’t like it, but with the new scheduling, teams can get by with a couple of power pitchers in the post season.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
It is a bad decision on two levels
1. I really don’t want to the Reds to be riding a 26 year old a year out of TJ surgery in a playoff push.
2. How effective are starting pitchers when they immediatly return from TJ surgery?
I hate Dusty Baker so goddamn much.
by justin007000 on May 16, 2010 9:17 PM EDT up reply actions
especially ones that didn't have great command to begin with
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
no
Not pitching against minor leaguers.
(Yankees been there, done that, with Octavio Dotel. IMO, they rushed him. One year is not really enough. They can start throwing, but it’s probably more like 18 months before they’re effective.)
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
look at pitchers who have had TJ surgery's numbers
their first season back is usually a little rough, especially the first half of that season. Pitchers say it is like having to relearn how to pitch. Besides rebuilding arm strength, they have to re find their release poitns etc.
Hell I have a friend who had surgery on his throwing arm after a rugbe injury, and it is difficult for him to play catch right now, and the surgery was two years ago. He says his arm just feels different now.
Go Reds they are Petey's favorite team! (Mine too)
by justin007000 on May 17, 2010 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree that Cabrera isn't optimal for this lineup
But I don’t see the Reds management replacing him with a splashy trade.
Are you kidding? Who would be "optimal?"
He’s been great, hit where ever… done what ever asked of him… and now they’re in first place. Jesus. Lose the hate and let it go. Not like Jimmy Rollins is sitting on the bench or Derek Jeter. He brings this team together and delivers. Appreciate the effort. Be positive.
the question what what the Reds would trade for, if they were going to make a deadline deal
Everyone’s perfect, no need to trade really isn’t an answer to that question.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I'm talking about trade targets.
Get off your high horse about Cabrera. I think he’s doing a decent job as a hitter and a below average job in the field. I’m not saying he is a bad player and I even think his defense has improved or at least not been exposed lately. But, as a position to target for a trade, if you want to go after a big time SS, that might be something worth trading your top prospects for. I don’t buy into the “brings team together” or “effort”, but it’s not like I’m rooting against him. I’m just saying he is a hole in the lineup, just like Stubbs.
interestingly enough
Fangraphs has Stubbs at a -.3 WAR, mainly because he is -3.7 with the bat (makes sense) and a flummoxing -3.8 in the field.
They also have Lando with -4.0 at the plate, -.7 in the field. For a .2 WAR.
The lesson, I suppose? SSS
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
Well... that's not really good.
I don’t get how Stubbs is -3.8 in the field. Odd. And I’d think Lando would be worth slightly more at the plate for a SS.. But I admittedly don’t quite get how all this WAR stuff works.
You're not the only one who knows how all this war stuff works.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
Nobody reads the anything around here!
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
by Ash on May 16, 2010 9:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It is usually over water rights.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
there's a whole lot I don't understand to it
but yeah, I have no clue where that fielding number comes from. Unless ::gasp:: UZR is not a good measurment of fielding!
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
/already use'd
I hate Dusty Baker so goddamn much.
by justin007000 on May 16, 2010 9:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Stubbs is -3.8 in the field because UZR compares to the average.
One error in this kind of small sample can really skew his rating. It’s one reason UZR can fluctuate a lot from season to season.
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 7:21 AM EDT up reply actions
One and a half months of defensive data is not enough to say anything
they might as well not even publish it, because people will misread it.
Red Reporter or follow on Twitter: @redreporter
Look, of all the guys on the team you’d rather replace with a superstar… its just weird the so many people on this blog focus on OC as the enemy. Of course we’d rather replace everyone with an All-Star, but give guys credit for playing their best for this team. He’s not hot dogging or giving up, he looks like he’s doing his best. No, he’s not 25 anymore. No crap. But he isn’t giving up and Dusty keeps him in the line-up. Lets support him and everyone else. Reds are in 1st place!!
by sox1844 on May 16, 2010 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
um...no
I think it’s perfectly legitimate to criticize players, whether they’re doing their best or not.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
true,
and further, Cabrera is a definite weak link. He doesn’t play defense well. I don’t care about his effort if the results suck. Also, he’s not a good hitter. He doesn’t hit for power and never walks, so his OBP sucks. Some will point out that he’s better than our alternatives, which may be true, but if you are looking for both an offensive and defensive upgrade, SS is the most logical solution.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
It was one of the big areas we were looking to improve in the offseason
Cabrera was always a temporary solution anyway. No harm in seeing if something better is available.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions
LeBron?
Kinda tall for shortstop, but I guess he’s available right now. Also, “Cincinnati” would be a great answer for all of those breathless, “Where will LeBron end up?” handwringers.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 9:48 PM EDT up reply actions
this is the problem
Unless the Mets suck like they should, have a firesale, and shop Reyes, I don’t see anyone better being available. At least no one remarkably better. All the good shortstops play for contenders, and the good ones who play for bad teams are young, cheap, and not gettin’ traded.
Still, it’d be worth a look
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Hanley Ramirez!
They love Cubans in Miami, don’t they?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
certainly the solution does not rely within the organization
Cozart may never hit enough and certainly won’t this year. The Reds certainly don’t believe anyone else can do it this season. But, I’m afraid your crusade will come to naught, since Dusty and Walt seem committed to Cabrera.
With that said, LF or SS are the team’s needs.
I think you're grasping at straws.
Orlando Cabrera is one of the bottom 3 starters on the team, and if you wanted to find a superstar bat at the deadline, it is ONE of THREE positions you could target to find an improved bat (probably with improved defense, too). Cabrera was a fine player about 6 years ago and now he’s roughly average – not bad. I support him as a Reds player and I want him to help the Reds win, but the point I’m making – and most people are making I think – is that he is one of three potential positions that could be vastly improved upon.
Isn't it a great thought
that our league average shortstop is one of our three bottom starters?
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
.298 wOBA can't be league average
His defense surely doesn’t make up for it.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 10:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I would be shocked
But I don’t have the data at hand.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Where the heck is Slyde or Jinaz when you need them? They'd know right where to look.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
I think it's slightly below average.
His OPS ranks 13th of 20 eligible shortstops in the MLB at .672. The leader is Stephen Drew at .877. Cabrera, though, ranks better than Jason Bartlett, Jose Reyes, Alcides Escobar… Not saying he’s great, but you know.
How many PA's does a SS need to be eligible these days?
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
For wOBA
Cabrera is 17th out of 24 qualifying SS. Out of all players at SS – he is 30th (but that includes, e.g. Paul Janish and everyone else with not many AB)
This team wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for all the losing.
by andromache on May 16, 2010 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Any idea what replacement level wOBA is at SS?
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks, that's worse than I thought
Seems like more reason to play Janish though. .275 wOBA in ’09, 22.1 UZR/150.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I kinda feel like this question is moot
If they have no injuries, they won’t need anything. If they do have injuries, they’ll fall out of it and it won’t matter.
However, I think that Alex Rios would fit perfectly in LF.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
SS is, without a doubt, the biggest position of need right now
Gomes is holding it down OK in left, plus there are myriad candidates in AAA and on our own bench who could perform reasonably well too.
SS is the first need, and it will be in July too. CF would be second, especially if Stubbs is still struggling. With his defense, though, if he can even put up .240/.330/.370 I’d keep in in CF.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
That may be true, but can you really see them making a move there
after signing SloCab in the offseason?
Watch it, ass blood.
sure, it's a relatively cheap one year deal. Walt isn't Dusty. I think he more or less knows who sucks and who doesn't, and if the right situation presented itself, he'd do a deal
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
agreed
And Bob C. really wants to win. If there’s a chance, I think he’ll go for it.
If the Reds were not in contention, they’d probably be playing Cozart at SS by the end of the season. But if they are in contention, I don’t think they’d want to risk going with someone so young and untested.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I agree, if they are out of it in July, they are shopping Cabrera and even eating some of his contract to give Cozart a look
If they are in it, they are looking for a SS upgrade (although I doubt they find one)
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Still, there's something to be said for Cabrera
I’m no fan of his, but he’s playing pretty well in the leadoff slot, and he’s been a part of the Reds current winning streak. There’s something to be said for chemistry and intangibles. A lot of teams will win because the players happen to bring out the best in each other, not because it’s just an All-Star team. Even the Yankees went through most of the decade without winning. And, of course, Cabrera’s teams have gone to the playoffs wherever he goes.
Something to be said for chemistry and intangibles.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:07 PM EDT up reply actions
you're not seriously arguing
that “chemistry” is the reason the Yanks went so long without winning?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Just saying that when a team meshes, they can win in ways that an assembled team of "galacticos" don't
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't think I buy that
It’s the other way around. Winning creates chemistry.
The Yankees’ problem was that they got too old and slow.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Chemistry might not be the proper term
It’s just reasonable to not discount the fact that even though Cabrera isn’t the best shortstop, we are winning with him. For whatever reason.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions
on this point
a worthwhile look on the failures of statistics.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 16, 2010 10:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Baseball stats should be used to augment what you see.
Not substitute for it.
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 7:27 AM EDT up reply actions
The Yankees won, during all those years
They just weren’t built to win in the post-season.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
All due respect, 'nukkah (which is a lot of respect)
that argument just doesn’t hold water. No one talks about how he’s a great clubhouse leader, or how he makes guys around him better. BP isn’t going to the media saying how Cabrera is making him better like he did with Rolen.
So even if you buy into the chemistry thing (I don’t) it probably doesn’t apply to Cabrera. The Reds are winning primarily because the pitching has been pretty awesome. Offensively, I’ll give the credit to Gomes’ surge, Rolen’s steadiness, and Bruce’s improvements (not to mention, despite his struggles, Stubbs’ “clutch” hitting). I’ll concede he’s been playing better, but the guy still has a .270/.300/.372 slash line. That’s just bad, and it can’t be the reason the Reds are winning.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
He's not not a reason the Reds are winning
Cabrera deserves his credit, and right now, I am just all about not upsetting the winning formula.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:30 PM EDT up reply actions
In the offseason
SS looked to be a black hole that would keep the team from winning. He doesn’t have to be the reason they win, he just needs to not be the reason they don’t.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
.290/.313/.323 slash line in 7 games leading off
I realize that’s the epitome of SSS, but that’s decent. If his OBP keeps going up, he’ll definitely be part of the reason they win.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
do you really expect his OBP to keep going up?
He’s never been good in that department. The number you quoted is about his average.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Since it's uncomfortable to keep defending Lando, I will say this
His habit of bailing out on a pitch and stepping out of the box before the pitch has even crossed the plate is infuriating.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:46 PM EDT up reply actions
that's not decent
that’s worse than his season slash line, and his average is not going to be .290. Never has been, never will be. He doesn’t walk, doesn’t see many pitches, and doesn’t run fast. It’s worked well the last week mainly because of other guys, but I would be looking to upgrade SS the first chance I got if I’m Walt.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
I agree with creds.
I don’t think Cabrera’s unknown (but not necessarily nonexistent) contribution to team chemistry is a good enough reason not to upgrade at SS, especially when we have an undisputed leader in Scott Rolen.
This team wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for all the losing.
Who are you going to get that's better though?
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
I only said that chemistry is not much of a reason NOT to trade him.
Offhand, I can’t think of a trade that makes sense for the reds that any other team would make. But if such a trade opportunity did come around, I hope we wouldn’t hesitate too much, based solely on preserving team chemistry.
This team wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for all the losing.
I agree with that, with one caveat:
If I’m going to make a move, it would have to be someone markedly better.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
For me, it would just need to be a big enough difference
so that the difference would actually be somewhat reliable – and not just insignificant variation.
This team wouldn't be so bad if it weren't for all the losing.
ZJiff, that's true of any trade, esp. those made mid-season
And FTR, I’m doubtful there will be a significant upgrade available in July, but if there was (I floated the Jose Reyes possibility) that would be the first, best way to upgrade the team.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Here's a few shortstops who might be better and available
Reid Brignac or Jason Bartlett TB
Maicier Izturis LAA
Yunel Escobar ATL
Ryan Theriot CHI
One of Brignac and Bartlett is going to be traded in the near future, might as well see if Walt could make it sooner. Izturis and Escobar are on the DL, but Izturis lost his SS position to Aybar, and now 2B to Kendrick. Theriot is average defensively, but has the ability to lead off, though it would be tough to make a trade within the division. This list is just off the top of my head though.
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 7:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Dejesus would make a decent lead-off guy,
But he was marginal in CF, and I imagine he might be less than average there now that he’s a bit older. If Stubbs or Gomes struggle, he could be a good pickup as long as he isn’t too costly in terms of prospects, maybe KC’s GM might take END for DeJesus (since he ain’t down with the OBP).
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions
DP partners require a whole lot of practice and chemistry
FWIW. Not that Janish couldn’t slide into SS and do just as well, but there is something to chemistry.
And I don’t think Brendan (or me) are against the impending Hanley trade, one way or the other.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 16, 2010 10:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Chemistry
The folks who say chemistry is a myth and tend to dismiss anything connected to the concept.
There is every evidence that clubhouse chemistry exists and that disruptive people can create a negative atmosphere.
Just saying you don’t think it exists is not any form of proof that you are correct.
I have played ball with disruptive teammates and they have an impact. Players who have a positive leadership personality can’t help but improve the team’s attitude.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Reddy Kilowatt.
by johnu1 on May 16, 2010 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm not saying it doesn't exist, nor does it matter
BTW, what is this “every evidence” that it exists? And if so, is there evidence it is important? I could cite teams where players/coaches couldn’t stand each other, and yet they won, because they were talented.
Besides, even conceding the point that chemistry matters, I don’t think Lando adds one bit to that. By all accounts he’s standoffish and a bit selfish.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
yeah
He was the only one who didn’t high-five his teammates on opening day, wasn’t he?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Are there any other examples of his standoffishness and selfishness?
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:51 PM EDT up reply actions
I dunno about with the Reds
But with other teams, there have been complaints that he’s a malcontent and a clubhouse cancer.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
That's what I said
I said he was Rogers Hornsby.
I’m having trouble reconciling the guy with multiple hits to lead-off the game whose defense has been adequate (at best) and assigning unsourced C trent rumors to him.
“Not only does he suck, but he’s a meanie” is just not my cup of tea.
In what way are you quantifying his defense as adequate?
A -7.0 UZR/150 is certainly not adequate.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:32 PM EDT up reply actions
His team is winning, he's not committing and errors
and SSS.
Why do YOU want to move him from a winning team with no adequate replacement
Janish is a better defender
And we could afford to lose Cabrera’s bat if we moved a suitable OBP hitter to the lead-off spot. Hanigan or Rolen would be non-traditional, but fine lead-off hitters.
As for your bullshit SSS invocation, OCab was -12.4 UZR/150 last year.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:42 PM EDT up reply actions
You're right. i stand corrected. A .220 hitting SS would make them so mcuh better
you know, like last year when they dominated with Janish at SS
Janish hit .211 last year
And is hitting .250 this year. Last year’s .275 wOBA was not much worse than Tubby’s .297 this year. His wOBA this year (extremely SSS) is .350. Where does .220 come from?
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:48 PM EDT up reply actions
i never get tired of these debates on who should play more at SS
boobs’d. no offense meant to either one of you guys. But it’s refreshing that our biggest concern is which of our shittiest players should be the ninth guy trotted out there.
Retractions are for journalists! -Gray
by boobs on May 16, 2010 11:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Jeff Keppinger was comparable to and cheaper than Cabrera
We also have LF concerns that are probably more important.
It’s frustrating. We’re winning, but it doesn’t feel sustainable without a lot of luck.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
I can agree with that.
Didn’t like to see Kep leave.
Watch it, ass blood.
by -ManBearPig on May 17, 2010 12:00 AM EDT up reply actions
I don't know.
We’ve looked really good these last few games.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
I totally agree
We’ve looked awesome. But we’ve played PIT and a weak-hitting StL team. I fear the west coast road trip and the June Swoon. We’re a good team. Are we good enough? I’m not comfortable with what we have, and I fear short-term success is blinding us to our flaws.
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:02 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
it depends on how you look at it
i was thinking about our run differential today. Yeah, we’re the only team with a negative run dif. Then again, a week ago we were something like 25 or 30 runs below and now we’re only one below. So essentially we’re five games ahead of our pythag record and over the past week we’ve been playing like a team that would win 100 games. An optimistic view of the situation would be that if our run dif is even over the full season, we’d win 84 games. and regardless what happens, whether we get better or worse, we’ve got five games in our pocket that we weren’t supposed to have.
Retractions are for journalists! -Gray
What concerns me
in the overall W-L record that any of us can project is that it is shaping up that both Houston and Pittsburgh could lose upwards of 90-plus games. I am also seeing some suckitude in Milwaukee.
Doing some of the math here, if two or more teams are losing that much, somebody is beating them.
It could end up that 85 or 86 wins, which some folks once thought could contend for the NL-C title, could end up being no better than third best. As we observe this, the Reds and Birdos could be 1-2 in the division and the Cubs have just too much money to give it up without a fight.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Actually the Reds did play much better after Agon was traded
but it was a combination of Rolen, Stubbs, and Janish.
Go Reds they are Petey's favorite team! (Mine too)
by justin007000 on May 17, 2010 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions
it was reported by more than one source
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I vote we teach Orca
how to lead the group hug. It would mean a lot, I think.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
here
http://www.redreporter.com/2010/4/5/1406812/eyewitness-report-opening-day
You calling obc2 a liar?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I'm not calling ANYONE a liar
These stories tend to start as misinformation or a hunch or a “I think I saw” and before long you have brainless sportswriters saying the problem on the team is there are couches in the clubhouse.
yeah, well
That’s not the case this time.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
well, now that's a point
Cabrera might NOT contribute to chemistry and this is also not to say that teams which don’t have it can’t win. Talent will override a whole lot of good will. We all hear tales of the old A’s teams. I met a lot of their players and they were perfectly happy letting America believe that myth that they fought all the time.
But clubhouse chemistry does exist. Is it important? It can’t hurt.
My point was not to evaluate it other than to say that dismissing it as non-existent is rather one-sided as well.
I like to leave open the notion that there always are two sides to every issue. How they work inside a real world can be fairly complex.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
the rest of this got cut off inside this
absolutely absurd little 1-inch reply box that apparently is all that is left of any of the great viewpoints in world history.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Are you viewing Red Reporter in the widescreen setting?
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Nah, just the work computer
The reply box gets smaller with each reply on a long thread. I need to learn to keep my replies short. Fat chance, I am never likely to change my ways.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Bill James said it was a factor in Red Sox moves
He said the biggest thing mathematical analysis misses is chemistry.
The team is winning with Cabrera and his bat. There’s something to be said for that
it's a factor
I’m just not sure it helps.
They got rid of Manny because of team chemistry, and I don’t really blame them. But I don’t think it improved their team, either.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Do you think that one of the geniuses of Torre
getting everyone on the same page and keeping the press and front office away from his players (as much as a Yankee manager can)?
no
Torre’s genius is dealing with the press and the big egos in the Yankees clubhouse. He did not keep the press away. He understood that dealing with the press was part of the job description – not just for him, but for the players.
But that meant some players were favored, and some were not. Jeter was one of his favorites, and A-Rod suffered for it.
Torre was not able to get A-Rod accepted by the rest of the team. Winning is what did that.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I don't remember if they made any other big roster moves that year,
but their winning percentage jumped from .564 to .635 after they traded Manny.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
I did learn ....
… from talking to players that they generally work inside a confidence level. When a guy is doing well, they feed off it. When the guy is slumping, they tend to not talk about it, which means the slumping player really doesn’t get a lot of “help” from his buddies.
I think some teams would prefer they didn’t have distractions when they are playing well. The Reds should be lucky that ESPN doesn’t pay any attention.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Myriad of candidates?
Only Wlad and Frazier are healthy right now, and who knows how the gimp squad will do when they’re back.
There’s actually a lack of depth in OF, I would say.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
Wlad, Frazier, END, Alonso, CDick, Dorn (who would've been the better person to call up instead of Heisey)
Obviously some of those are injured, but if we’re talking about the July trading season, they should all be back. SS, OTOH, is Cozart or nobody. Now, I’m a personal believer in Cozart (OPSing around .850 right now) but if you want a proven player to improve your team you don’t go with a rookie.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
I say trade for ManRam and watch the HRs fly out of GABP
Watch it, ass blood.
by -ManBearPig on May 16, 2010 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
that would be awesome
BP might offer to pay part of his salary since the haters could complain about ManRam’s laziness and ignore BP’s lapses
Let's start the ManRam to Cincy 2010 campaign then!
Watch it, ass blood.
by -ManBearPig on May 16, 2010 11:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Here's why Rios won't happen
2011:$12M
2012:$12M
2013:$12.5M
2014:$12.5M
2015:$13.5M club option ($1M buyout)
No way they take on that contract.
Red Reporter or follow on Twitter: @redreporter
who in the heck decided that was a good idea?
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
The same guy who thought this contract was, J.P. Ricciardi.
Vernon Wells of
$25.5M signing bonus ($8.5M payment each March 1, 2008-10)
2008:$0.5M,
2009:$1.5M,
2010:$12.5M,
2011:$23M,
2012:$21M,
2013:$21M,
2014:$21M
o full no-trade clause
o Wells may opt out of contract after 2011
(Taken from Cot’s Baseball Contracts)
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 9:04 AM EDT up reply actions
That's like betting a Cubs fan will act like a douche.
Or a Cards player will whine.
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 9:06 AM EDT up reply actions
there's gotta be some ones missing there
surely wells wasnt making 500K in 2008
Retractions are for journalists! -Gray
I thought Toronto was still paying a whole healthy chunk of that contract?
Wouldn’t they keep paying it even if the Sox traded him again?
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 17, 2010 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions
Rios was claimed off waivers.
I think the White Sox are paying all of that.
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
An even more pressing question
IF, and that’s a big if, they are still in contention, do they try and find takers for Harang and Arroyo? I think Arroyo is essential to keep because he’s a veteran leader of a young staff who has a rubber arm. Does the duo that helped lead this resurgence get traded?
by Jack Armstrong started an All Star Game on May 16, 2010 7:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Carlos Lee
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
Yes
A true, RH power bat to put in the 4 spot.
But I really, really like the way they’re playing right now. Kinda don’t want to see anything changed.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
I like that and the Astros have NO farm system, so they would need the chaff the Reds have (plus Alsonso)
and maybe some salary help
terrible contract, no range, diminishing power
Pass.
by ken on May 16, 2010 9:19 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
exactly. He has negative trade value right now
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
you gonna cry when Walt makes this move.
Becoming way too attached to minor leaguers while finding no value in Carlos Lee is no way to go thru life
by timb116 on May 16, 2010 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Any trade (of anybody) for Carlos Lee would be a terrible move
he’s owed $37 million over the next 2 years, he turns 34 this year, and he’s never been good at defense. His numbers are trending in the wrong direction. He’d most likely be an upgrade this year, but then become a huge liability the next two.
Much as you want to pretend this is Monopoly money we’re dealing with, it matters, and Lee’s contract makes him have no trade value. It’s not that he’s a bad player (although I’m guessing he’ll be replacement level within the next 2 years) it’s that he’s nowhere near worth the money he’s owed.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
But does he have replacement value now?
That’s the question. Winning something now.
I agree with you in the main that he is not the greatest option, but if all they wanted was Travis Wood or Chris Heisy for him and all you had to do was pay part of his salary, then he’s worth it for this year. AAAA prospect for winning the division.
In the end, it probably doesn’t matter. Getting to a place where this matters takes talent, luck, and health and the Reds have been mostly blessed with all three. Luck and health can change pretty quickly.
Besides, I’m sad to note his OPS is .500 so far this season, rendering this discussion more moot than usual.
I really like the idea of keeping all of our MLB or close to MLB pitching talent in the organization
with Chapman, Wood, and Maloney, and Volquez in 2011, the Reds can afford to cut Arroyo and Harang at the end of the season, replace them with Volquez and the best of the Chapman/Wood/Maloney trio, and still have two MLB ready pitchers in AAA next year who can step up in the case of injury/under-performance. Pitchers are the most volunerable to injuries and the Reds have tons of depth. Teams need more than 5 starting pitchers to get through a 162 game season, right now the Reds have 8 guys who could probably get by in an MLB rotation.
Go Reds they are Petey's favorite team! (Mine too)
by justin007000 on May 17, 2010 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Justin, unsurprisingly, although I like the optimism, I doubt
that Wood or Maloney ever makes an impact in the majors. They’re good organizational depth to have around, but those two are junkballers without an out pitch.
I hope I’m wrong and you’re right.
with that said, i have always thought I could handle one more year of Arroyo and next season’s Arroyo, Chapman, Bailey, Leake, Cueto, Volquez staff makes me smile.
Lastly, almost major league pitching is the most valuable trade chip a team has at the deadline (if they are a buyer). Don’t get wedded to junkballing lefties (unless the LHP is named Glavine). They always let you down (I still cry into my CJ Nitkowski replica jersey)
I feel like Wood could be a 4 or 5 pitcher.
And Maloney, has a slight shot too. The fact that they’re lefties certainly helps. But yeah- if we have a shot down the stretch and they’re the asking price for that missing piece- send them away.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
You could have just stopped at "becoming way too attached to minor leaguers"
And you would be accurate.
Who misses Zach Stewart and wishes we didn’t have Scott Rolen?
by Highlifeman21 on May 18, 2010 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Lee has a no trade clause and no desire to leave Houston.
Oswalt or Berkman, however, could be just what this team needs. I’m not sure if Berkman can still handle LF or not, but if he can, he’d be a perfect choice.
/2005'd
Set the gearshift to the high gear of your soul.
by Kevin Mitchell is Batman on May 16, 2010 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah,
and then you three could go see Sex and the City 2 together and gab about it afterwards over Cosmos.
A Pete Rose by any other name would still smell of cheap hookers and pinetar.
by Pops Daniels on May 16, 2010 10:55 PM EDT up reply actions
would Berkman be any worse in lf than Gomes?
I hate Dusty Baker so goddamn much.
by justin007000 on May 16, 2010 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Pssh
Berkman in left would give up more than he creates. Adam Dunn on LSD.
by bobestes on May 16, 2010 9:32 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Gonzo Donkey
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
by poojols on May 16, 2010 9:33 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Berkman's played about 200 more games in the OF than at 1B in his career.
He was always a slightly above average defender in LF, CF, and RF. He hasn’t played out there in 3 years and he’s had some leg injuries that would hurt his range, but I think he’d manage to be only below average in LF instead of Adam Dunn terrible. What I want is Lance Berkman hitting for our team in GABP. I think a lineup of Phillips-Berkman-Votto-Rolen-Bruce-Stubbs-Hernanigans-SloCab would score a whole lot of runs, still play good defense overall, and really make this team a serious playoff contender.
If we got Berkman
Would it make more sense to try to move Votto to LF?
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Probably, but I think they've made it clear that they won't move Votto.
He’s also turning into quite the fine defender at 1B, and Berkman would only be around for a year or two (he has a $15 million club option after the season I believe). I think Votto would probably be able to play an average LF, but he had a 10+ UZR/150 in his rookie year as well as so far this year, and he was rated roughly average last year. I also think Votto’s defensive improvement has been pretty apparent on the field and I think the Reds are ready to let him have the position for a long time.
I don’t think there’s any chance Drayton McDumbass would let Berkman be dealt within the division, but the Astros aren’t going anywhere and Walt’s a tricky man.
Berkman has already asked to get traded to the AL
because he doesn’t want to have to play against the Astros. Not sure how adamant he is about this, but he has a full no-trade clause, so he gets to choose where he goes.
Red Reporter or follow on Twitter: @redreporter
Given Berkman's numbers
you would think he would LOVE to play half his games in Cincinnati.
Go Reds they are Petey's favorite team! (Mine too)
by justin007000 on May 17, 2010 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Lee has said he will not waive his no trade clause.
And regardless, I don’t think Walt would tie his own hands for the next two seasons by committing one quarter of the Reds payroll to an aging corner outfielder.
Carlos Lee of
6 years/$100M (2007-12)
* 6 years/$100M (2007-12)
o signed by Houston as a free agent 11/06
o $3M signing bonus
o 07:$11M, 08:$12M, 09:$18.5M, 10:$18.5M, 11:$18.5M, 12:$18.5M
o full no-trade clause, 2007-2010
(Taken from Cot’s Baseball Contracts)
by RedsMasochist on May 17, 2010 8:00 AM EDT up reply actions
They drafted him to trade him
and, if the Reds are in it, I’m hoping Walt pulls the trigger on a ML left fielder or SS
Orlando Cabrera got Saturday's best web gem on Baseball Tonight
the panel declared him one of the most underrated players in all of baseball.
Tubby Rules!
for making a throw up the line?
Hernandez should have gotten the credit for saving the game.
"I don't challenge Murphy, even if he's 0 for 20. Not him, not ever." - Mario Soto
I had the same thought.
He might have even been safe. An on-target throw nails him by five feet.
But we won anyway, so that’s cool, and he had a good day today.
Thus far, Clayton < SeaBass < Cabrera < Concepcion < Larkin.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions
he was out.. barely
"I don't challenge Murphy, even if he's 0 for 20. Not him, not ever." - Mario Soto
your retarded
Cabrera is crap. i don’t care what a panel of so called baseball experts say.
we know more than everyone in organized baseball. free janish!
"then skip it"....
hmmmmm....
I’m not a SloCab fan but even I can admit he’s been a significant offensive upgrade over Janish and has been better defensively lately…
by IndyReds on May 16, 2010 7:39 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don't mind Cabrera
I know his success at lead off won’t be this good all year (his OBP isn’t usually that high) but he has helped alot so far
by Red_Poodle on May 16, 2010 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think his weaknesses will be apparent
over the full season. And in the short post season, against good pitching.
Maybe what Dusty said is right, and it was the cold weather that was bothering his legs, and that’s why he was gawd-awful on defense. But it’s gonna be cold during the post-season. World Series could end in November year.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
If we lose in the WS because Tubby has cold legs
I’ll still be talking about how fucking awesome the 2010 Reds were in 2030.
Set the gearshift to the high gear of your soul.
by Kevin Mitchell is Batman on May 16, 2010 10:34 PM EDT up reply actions
We get to the W.S. and, trust me on this one ....
Tubby’s health at that point will be real frickin’ low on my worries list.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Lando's wOBA so far this season is .297
he is an upgrade over Janish’s .275 from last season, but it still makes me puke.
by Charlie Scrabbles on May 17, 2010 12:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Does 22 points of wOBA
Really justify the defensive difference? I don’t see it.
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:07 AM EDT up reply actions
i dont either
but frankly, neither is the SS on a playoff team.
by Charlie Scrabbles on May 17, 2010 12:08 AM EDT up reply actions
meh, so what
every playoff team has one or two guys that don’t belong on playoff teams
Retractions are for journalists! -Gray
certainly
and if this team makes the playoffs with Lando out there, i will love him forever.
by Charlie Scrabbles on May 17, 2010 12:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed but
Cabrera is old and done.
Janish is young and has shown flashes.
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:09 AM EDT up reply actions
he's also a .208 career hitter
I’m not saying, I’m just saying.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
His hitting sucks
It’s not lost on me. It’s really not.
I just don’t think it’s bad enough to account for his great defense versus Cabrera’s awful defense. And Janish could get better. We are talking about 408 MLB PAs versus 6,750.
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:17 AM EDT up reply actions
I think we can expect him to hit better than .208 if he plays regularly
And there’s a small chance he’ll prove to be a late bloomer and hit better than expected.
I’d like to see him a get a shot.
Though not batting first or second.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
would you rather see him or Stubbs batting first or second?
Because the way this lineup is constructed, its gotta be one of them.
Or Gomeisykerson
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 17, 2010 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
I wouldn't be worried about the defense right now
We’re 3rd in the league in fielding percentage and errors.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
But neither stat accounts for the reachable balls that get by OCab.
G’night RR. Yay first place!
by altctrlsdelete on May 17, 2010 12:24 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
reachable balls
Watch it, ass blood.
by -ManBearPig on May 17, 2010 12:25 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
rec'd because we're in first place!
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
27!
Somebody’s always trying to add that extra year to poor PJ.
by the finest muffins on May 17, 2010 8:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Funny
Calling someone retarded but spelling you’re wrong. Come on man, represent OU better than that.
I can confirm that I am drinking a Yuengling Lager I found in my car trunk.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
That is no way to get me to put out.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
Prayer won't help your case.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
Are you a creeper?
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
I can confirm this.
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
You're my new favorite.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
he said
He was gonna tell you to put out or shut up. Did that work?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
by BubbaFan on May 16, 2010 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That's how he proposed.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
aw
How romantic! Watching all those chick flicks, no doubt. ;-)
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I'm more into horror movies, but the occasional chick flick is alright.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
I wasn't gonna bring up the Sex and the City 2 conversation you and Ash had Friday night at the ballpark
"aaron harnann is so aweseom" - justin
by BK on May 16, 2010 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions
I almost posted a similar comment. Not gonna lie.
We should totally make this an RR outing, ’than!
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
Cool Ash what?
Cool Ash Ice?
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
My sources can confirm this.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
Ummm
Looks like I have the kiddies that night.
(That’s always an acceptable excuse to bail on RR outings, right? Just checkin’.)
"aaron harnann is so aweseom" - justin
by BK on May 16, 2010 9:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I am pretty much the awesome, however I have a fondness for one Than.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
I have no problem with that. obc might, but serves him right!
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
Shhhh......
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
Janish would have gotten that!
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
by BubbaFan on May 16, 2010 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
it's kind of a running joke here
He’s not serious about Janish, either.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Reds take 1st Despite Dusty
Other than injuriesonly Cairo, Dusty and Ji they are my favorite teamm Day stand in the wayof consistant success.
Go Reds
The 2010 Reds – "It could have been a lot worse"
by RedsMasochist on May 4, 2010 8:47 PM EDT
are you watching America's Funniest Home Videos with one eye
and proofreading what you post here with the other?
"then skip it"....
I think that's what happens when your chicken isn't free-range and organic.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
Ash!
How was your date with TV guy? Or were they making up stories about you?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Wait wait wait, tv guy? I missed that one!
Crap, was I drugged!?
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
The Hollywood Video Store?
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 8:08 PM EDT up reply actions
so he is unemployed?
I hate Dusty Baker so goddamn much.
by justin007000 on May 16, 2010 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions
didn't you say he was due on set the next morning?
I assumed he worked in TV.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I think it's a movie. I really have no clue because I didn't ask.
To answer your question, I had a great time. Although, I’m gonna be honest, Chandra had a wicked gleam in her eye the entire time. The big ol’ UK ring his dad was wearing caught her attention.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
married people always want to everyone else to be married, too
Misery loves company, I guess. ;-)
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I just saw a developing story....
If they fell madly in love and had millions of Hollywood babies, story. If he kept feeding sweet lines and made his way back to Ash’s mom’s couch, story. If he followed her home, drugged her, and corpse-raped her, I’d get my own part in a tv movie!
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
huh, what?
You set Ash up with Jim Day?
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
She was drooling over him pre-game.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
You forgot to add "the" in front of everything!
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
My the bad.
Alright, I'll kill a snitch. I'm not saying I have, I'm not saying I haven't. You know what I mean.
Most married women want other women to also be married
I found out about this peculiar oddity after my first wife and I divorced.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
He has teh Fya proofreading
And Justin is his editor.
What, me? Being negative? No. Never.
by Paul Householder on May 16, 2010 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions
"despite dusty"
Mads, you blame him when they lose (when you’re not blaming Ramon for hitting the ball too hard). Logic says you have to give him some credit when they win
after the game, my friend and i drank A LOT...
we figured it would be best to practice celebrating just in case we have to do it for real later this season.
"Now onto more important things: Punching Errorlando Cabrerror in the fucking tits." -Geki
Bronson was the man today
complete game, 2 runs and a 2 run single? It’s fun to be in first. It was great that Rolen played well against his former team also. I really am happy he is at 3B.
Sore losers
According to Colby Rasmus, he threw a bunch of slop and “doo-doo”
by bobestes on May 16, 2010 9:59 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
well, yeah. That's how Arroyo rolls
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 16, 2010 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Isn't that the point? I mean, the man got 27 outs throwing that slop, he did his job.
They are indeed sore losers.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
In other Cardinal news...
Albert Pujols has a name that is easily made fun of.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
I'd say roughly 90% of the conversation at Friday's game was based on this fact.
And I’m ok with that!
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
It was mostly based on me trying to get the Cardinals fan in front of us' attention by saying "PU-JAWLS? WHO THE HELL IS PU-JAWLS?!"
"aaron harnann is so aweseom" - justin
I read that article
If they lost on doo doo, what does that make them? That just seems like a stupid thing to say
Boxing After Dark recap from last night
Victor Diaz took a convincing 10 round decision vs Nate Campbell.
Paulie Malinaggi got TKO’d by Amir Khan. No surprise there at all.
"then skip it"....
I disagree
"aaron harnann is so aweseom" - justin
by BK on May 16, 2010 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions
When
I like to see roided-up meatheads beat on each other, I just search the yellow pages for the local tropically-themed dance club.
by bobestes on May 16, 2010 9:56 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Khan's hand speed is more impressive than I thought.
But, man 140 is loaded with punchers and skilled boxers. He’s got a tough road.
A Pete Rose by any other name would still smell of cheap hookers and pinetar.
by Pops Daniels on May 16, 2010 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I loved this thread
but I do need to remind everyone that “post-” season does not start the first week of June.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
true, but we can have at least one night of dreamy fun!
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
I remember driving back to Ohio in 2006, and listening to WLW
The station identification announced it as, “The Big One, 700, home of your first place Cincinnati Reds!” And I just started shouting in the car and pounding the roof. It was so great! Of course, that was the night of their west coast trip, and first place didn’t last much longer.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 9:51 PM EDT up reply actions
But Milwaukee is coming! And they suck!
(good story too, btw)
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
and Cleveland
(Holy cow, interleague already?)
Cleveland has been pretty sucktastic this year.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
hell, let's print them thar playoffs tickets.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
One of my favorite quotes about baseball (or anything, really)
In our beautiful memory, we were all handsome. We all could sing, we all had the heart of the prettiest girl in town. And we all hit .300.
—Buck O’Neil
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I love this quote
am I way to young to be nostalgic?
"And then there was the USAID guy in Kandahar who drove a giant pink Cadillac, which the locals set on fire one day. If you wanted to destroy something symbolic during a riot, you just could not do better than that. Good stuff." - Ghosts of Alexander
by Cy Schourek on May 16, 2010 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
MLB Trade Rumors reporting that the Reds are to sign Cuban outfielder Felix Perez...
Apparently agreed to a deal with the Yanks in spring ’09, lied about his age, and was banned by MLB for a year because of it…anybody know any more about him?
thanks for the heads up
not much info about him. He was supposed to be a raw, but very toolsy corner outfielder. At the time he was reporting his age as 20, but some believed it was closer to 24 or 25. If he’s really that old, this seems like a nothing move, but if he’s 22 or 23, it could be something.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Hi, yo soy Felix Perez,
your nuevo right fielder.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
He's Cuban
more likely to be a left fielder.
However, if he’s 26 now, as the Yanks suspected. I doubt we’ll be seeing him in the big leagues,
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I guess any other connection to Roy Hobbs
was lost in the translation.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Elizabeth
Hey, johnu1...
I’m honored to be quoted in your signature line, really and truly, but would you mind not using my real name? I know we did the whole “getting to know you” bit recently, but I don’t know… it’s kind of unsettling. k, thanks.
by the finest muffins on May 16, 2010 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Repaired with a pseudo.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — Reddy Kilowatt.
you should credit the name she's known by here
The Finest Muffins.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
I just wanted to see if anybody was paying attention.
I change the quote about once a week anyhow. Our words be etched on the wind.
You know, considering the Reds have players known as "BP" and "Leake," surprisingly few oil spill jokes have been made the last few days. — The Finest Muffins
Just curious...
Do you have a Facebook account? I find it amusing when people who do are concerned with privacy. If you don’t, kudos to you.
by altctrlsdelete on May 16, 2010 10:37 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't
For precisely that reason.
My parents e-mailed me tonight, and asked how to get on Facebook.
I suggested they use a custom e-mail addy, and fake names and birth dates, but they probably won’t.
All Things Bubba: Because how can you not love a baseball player named Bubba?
Nah, It's not a privacy thing.
It just gave me the weirdsies.
by the finest muffins on May 16, 2010 10:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I just love contrived grammatical errors
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
According to Jorge Arangure
He’ll start in AA and is 24…he has plus defense for CF
Bart: "Dad, what's a Muppet?"
Homer: "Well, it's not quite a mop, not quite a puppet, but man... (laughs, then pauses) So, to answer you question, I don't know."
Jorge's twitter feed
http://twitter.com/jorgearangure and his Insider story in Oct
Bart: "Dad, what's a Muppet?"
Homer: "Well, it's not quite a mop, not quite a puppet, but man... (laughs, then pauses) So, to answer you question, I don't know."
err...24 or 25
looks like he was 24 when he was reinstated back in Oct 09
Bart: "Dad, what's a Muppet?"
Homer: "Well, it's not quite a mop, not quite a puppet, but man... (laughs, then pauses) So, to answer you question, I don't know."
Looks like he's a good 4th-5th OF candidate for the relatively near future
if he’s a plus CF defender like they are saying, his bat wouldn’t need to be great for him to be a LIDR/Pinch runner/Pinch hitter
Or he’ll stall out in AA. Either way, another interesting name to watch!
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
Jonny Miller, Joe Mo, and the Bulldog
talking about the recent success of the Reds starters.
Gosh, I love being in first place.
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
Just win baby and everything will be fine.
Reds in first place. Prettier words have never been written. Enjoy today, and hope for tomorrow. Go Reds!
Has there ever been the need for a new recap thread?
This first place thing is fun!
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
Heh
You would be the one to ask for it.
by Brendanukkah on May 16, 2010 10:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Till it's funny
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
New thread?
Depends on how many of us are here
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Bake
Ew, what kind of creatures are these?
And is that one in the middle eating the other one’s hand?
by the finest muffins on May 16, 2010 11:02 PM EDT up reply actions
It would be very small puppies
inside a big plastic tub, put there for the purpose of photographing them. I should think Mamma Dog was somewhat befuddled by the activity.
Or it could be something else.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
the one in the middle was bad-mouthing Orca
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Bake
Man, I love being in first
just watch Chris Berman talk about us being in first place. AWESOME!
"Red Reporter - An elitist clique full of like-minded douchebags." - BK
Third time I have watched the Votto-BP double play
and BP was as close to second base as the umpire was when he called that runner out.
Neighborhood baseball, I suppose.
"You’ve got to enjoy the moment — enjoy May 16th." — Dusty Baker
Back to the subject of trading farmhands
I really think that the minor leaguer I’d least like to see traded at this point is Mesoraco. A catcher with the skills that he is diaplaying is valuble and hard to replace. Maybe they knew what they were doing when they drafted him afterall.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
Also, Doug says Thompson was hit in the leg by a batted ball.
When you come to the fork in the road, take it.
I'd be shocked if they traded him anytime this season
Most people are really down on him, and a half season or so of great play isn’t going to change that all that much, meaning they’d be selling low on him. If he has a great full season, I could maybe see it in the offseason. Then again, good young catchers are extremely difficult to come by, so if they believe in him at all, he’s not going anywhere.
see what I did there with uzr? it’s like a LOL cats saber-pun combo.--Verka Serduchka
I agree with NYC. With the state of catching if the Reds have one, they should keep one
catchers who can hit are extremely rare
The Reds control their own destiny
If they can just win out the rest of the way, no one can catch them! First place!
Red Reporter or follow on Twitter: @redreporter
So I let Ash attend the game without me and she ends up with a date with Jim Day?
I can’t believe that this action is anything more than a sidetrip into empirial surrealism,
or else she was really really really drunk.
The 2010 Reds – "It could have been a lot worse"
by RedsMasochist on May 4, 2010 8:47 PM EDT
There is no level of drunk that would allow me to date Jim Day.
"There is no such thing as an innocent Gatorade cooler."
if you get so drunk you die of alcohol poisoning you may not have a choice
Retractions are for journalists! -Gray
Jim Day-te rape.
Which is much different than Dayte Raype… that’s Laynce Nix’s thing.
"People don't kill people. Burning oreo packages kill people."
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