I sit here, still slightly dazed by the huge numbers spent this winter. Things could not have gotten crazier. Then... there's a low, rumbling noise far off in the distance... something unfathomable... something monstrous. Way over the horizon there is a beast out there demanding to be fed...
This is the last year of Albert Pujols under contract. Now that we've seen what Mark Teixeira is paid...
Sorry...I just can't push the limits of my imagination any further to foresee where this is going to take baseball...
Considering that we got #6, #22, and #94 already, I'm hoping for #3 if possible. The folks are getting cheap for the holidays on this one! I'm getting a feeling that a #28 surprise will appear somewhere? It's not the best nor worst what I wanted for the holidays, but we'll see how it ends? I'm thinking about re-wrapping FAJ in hopes I can trade for another gift. Yea, I know it's alot of gift wrapping paper, maybe if I use the good looking paper, it'll look more appealing?
Mohawk--2 guys on the decline. They are definitely in the 50% off bin though. Not bad for the very-short term, but wouldn't want to go 2 years on either. Still, Abreu's .400 OBP seems like a lock; I just worry about his lack of power these days--if we're asking him to hit 3 or 4 in the lineup, which I assume would be the case.
That list reminds me how many decent back-end starters and mid-range relievers are out there. I am especially intrigued by the Japanese pitchers on there; we seem to do well on scouting and pricing the talent across the Pacific, so hopefully we are throughly vetting those particular fellas. Every million we save on Manny can be used to go higher on those pitchers lists.
Oh, and this guy hits in on the head with Dunn. 40 dingers and 100 walks minus bad D and mucho Ks = approx. $14 million. 28 years old, so you know what you're gonna get. I'm a broken record, but if Borass mucks up the 2-year, good-for-both-sides deal with Manny, then Dunn is a fine consolation prize.
Dodgers will let Manny go for the 2 draft picks, pick up some cheap FA's to avoid being the Seattle Mariners of the NL next year and start a several year youth and re-building process which will culiminate with McCourt being contractually able to have his own regional TV deal (i.e. Steinbrenner and YES) and be a powerhouse like the NYY. Fan's initially will leave in drives but in 5 years the LAD's will be strong and rich.
"There is no difference between good flan and bad flan"- from "Wag The Dog"
Merry Christmas Everyone!!
Va Blueblood,
Please make a resulution that there may be another option besides Dunn. I know you think he is a real bargain but the stench is making me ill. Even if the Dodgers don't get Manny, perhaps staying with the kids would be a better option. Even bringing up more kids would be better than Dunn. Uh oh, you loved that one didn't you Brooklyn Dodger? Dunn would be a waste of money and the Dodgers have plenty of wasted money in Schmidt and FAJ. At least say the Dodgers should make a run a Lowe or something, OK? Happy Holidays.
I agree that there is probably a long term plan to significantly increase revenues, and that part of that plan likely includes the establishment of a regional network. The move of spring training to a state-of-the-art complex in Glendale, Arizona and the modernization of Dodger Stadium are probably part of any such plan.
If there is a plan, hopefully it includes a a firm commitment to player development that will maintain a steady pipeline of young, inexpensive talent.
However, I would guess that any re-building program focused on winning years into the future, also includes a component that focuses on winning now as well. If management is confident in the growth of its revenue streams in the coming years, there will likely be spending to maintain a winning team to lead them into a more lucrative future. I don't know if the Dodgers will sign Manny, but it wouldn't surprise me if they did. Despite what Boras contends, Manny will not pay for his entire contract. However, his presence is likely to generate enough additional revenues to pay for the part of his salary that is in excess of what would have to be paid to another power hitter coming in at $10-15 million per year. Three years at $65 - $75 million is probably not out of the question. That would bring Manny to age 39 in his final season. Given that Manny keeps himself in excellent shape (I understand that he works out religiously at Athletes' Performance in Arizona) it's not unreasonable to expect him to still be producing at a high level in 2011. No guarantees, but certainly within reason.
I too would like the additional draft picks that Manny could generate. However, if Manny is signed, there is nothing stopping the Dodgers from delving more extensively into the international market. The money not spent on the extra draft picks could be utilized during the July international signing period to bring in some additional young players out of the Dominican, Venezuela, etc.
Package,
Not only did I love it, I'm still getting over the shock. Actually, despite my predilection for player development, I am also in favor of filling gaps with accomplished, and still productive veterans. Consequently, as noted above, I would welcome the addition of Manny. As for Adam Dunn, I'm not convinced either way. Fact is, I haven't seen enough of him to form a solid opinion. I know all the numbers, but that's not the same as seeing a player everyday. What makes me most nervous about him is his tendency to strike out a lot while also taking a lot of pitches. That sort of behavior brings back memories of J.D. Drew taking called third strike more often that I would lkie to remember. That sort of passive behavior drives me nuts, no matter how many bases on balls the hitter draws. Again, without seeing Dunn on a regular basis, I simply cannot come to a firm judgment. I'll have to leave that one to the Dodgers talent evaluators.
KT,
I didn't want to disappoint you, so I mustered plenty of verbiage for this post.
Master of the English language that you are, I'm certain that the end of my previous post caught your critical eye. Surely you looked disapprovingly at my writing that "J.D. Drew taking called third strike..." (instead of "strikes"), my misspelling of "like" as "lkie", and my opening two consecutive sentences with "that sort of...behavior". You're absolutely correct, Brooklyn Dodger is "ur dumb".
Why so little talk on this board and on ESPN about Ben Sheets? I know he's been injured a lot, but what would you rather take, 20-25 starts from Sheets and 10 from Eric Stults when Sheets goes on the DL; or 35 starts from Randy Wolf or Oliver Perez? He's a #1 on almost any staff, the Dodgers included. I don't see much else appealing to help us fill out the rotation.
Also, is Pettite definitely out of the mix? Do the Yankees really have enough money or even spots in the rotation for him? They already have CC, Burnett, Wang, Hughes, Chamberlin...
I'm a little tired of the Youth Movement talks too. I love the group of Martin, Kemp, Ethier, Loney, but none has proven he can carry the team yet. And with the exception of Ethier, each has started for over a year at their natural position (Loney and Martin more like 2 years each). They're great complimentary guys who were vital to the team's success. But do we win the NL West without Lowe and Ramirez (both 35+ years) last year? I don't think so.
You almost answered your own question about Sheets. He wants 200+ inning eater money but hasn't thrown 200 since 2004. You would need a dolly to wheel his medical records around.
The Rangers have been mentioned somewhat, but only because Sheets has a house in Highland Park (Dallas). Same neighborhood Clayton Kershaw's family lives in; very exclusive little enclave in the middle of Dallas. That would be nice though. The 2 of them could play catch together in the off-season, along w/ the Padres' Chris Young.
Regardless the Rangers are too cheap to pay & Sheets is too smart to pitch in that furnace in Texas. I guess it becomes another question of who'll take the medical risk? Maybe the more durable (but less talented) guys will be signed first?
I haven't figured out exactly why the Dodgers aren't pursuing Manny more aggressively. They certainly don't want to overpay but get real; the guys a goldmine having already brought in $10-15 million with zero outlay. Letting him go and gaining 2 draft picks does seem an excellent deal but the loss of goodwill is enormous. Many a diehard Dodger fan have said they'd boogie if the LAD don't sign him.
Newsday.com reports that a Mets source states Manny will not be signed by the Mets. It looks like the Dodgers have a good shot at Manny but it 's still hard to envision signing him for only 2 years. Maybe 2 years with some type of third year option at 64 million for the 3 years.
The Mets are seriously talking with Lowe. If they sign him, the Dodgers should look at Oliver Perez who is 8 years younger than Lowe with more upside although somewhat inconsistent.
David s,
re: Penny.... who cares?! ... no seriously, I'm curious too. No Penny talk AT ALL???? The guy was hurt this year but don't people remember that he was the Dodger ACE the prior 2 years!?.... my only guess is that his physical shows some sign of damage goods OR his reputation for quitting on his team (like Manny, when Penny left his team instead of staying to support during playoffs) has other teams reluctant to take a chance.
Scanner Darkly,
I think the Dodgers aren't pursuing Manny b/c either they really don't want to pay Manny that kind of money (McCourt conspiracy theory) OR they believe Boras is trying to play his game against them again and suck them dry... Boras' tactics is the same I've learned in my negotiation class. Let the other think you are not interested... make Boras come to them and they have the upper hand in negotiations.... they must feel they will have an advantage by waiting for Boras to come to them... the very worst, Manny get a legit offer from another team, Boras will still come to the Dodgers for a second chance at a higher offer....
The Dodgers KNOW that Boras will not just take an offer w/o coming back to them to see if the Dodgers can match or exceed an offer.
This is off the topic but, I guess Jeanne Zelasko wants to be Vinnny's replacement? Since FOX cut its pre-game show she does with Kevin Kennedy, she's out of a gig. FYI, she is married to Curt Sandoval of ABC Ch.7 sports.
Martin, Kemp, Ethier and Loney do NOT have to prove that they can carry the team. They each represent an important piece of a greater whole. The success of the Dodgers has nothing to do with any of them carrying the team, but instead is dependent their collective efforts.
Other than Martin, none of them played a full season prior to 2008. Loney was sent to Las Vegas to begin the 2007 season, and didn't return until June. Kemp and Ethier were both in and out of the lineup in 2007 (especially Ethier). Even early in 2008 they had to share time with Jones and Pierre. They are all at an age where experience and physical maturity could result in breakout numbers, which is not uncommon for young, talented players.
Manny's presence in the lineup would definitely help their production, but with or without him, these players will get better, and should begin to hit with more consistent power. Also, a healthy Furcal will add a dimension that was missing last year at a position that became a black hole for the Dodgers.
The loss of Lowe definitely has to be at least partially compensated for. McDonald looked as good as advertised, and may well be able to fill that role. Penny also has to be replaced, but certainly not by an ace. If anything, Penny's contribution last year hurt the Dodgers. Removing him, if anything, might turn out to be a plus. A growth in the performances of Kershaw, Billingsley, Broxton, Wade, etc., would not be a surprise.
Add to all of the above that the West is weak, and your "I don't think so" doesn't hold water.
Just to add a little to my previous post, let's not forget the addition of Mark Loretta. That was more than a minor move. It provides a solid veteran bat to help ease Blake DeWitt into the starting role at 2B. It also provides a good bat off the bench, or has anyone forgotten about Mark Sweeney. Also, although I wasn't excited by the re-signing of Casey Blake, his presence at the beginning of the year is certainly an improvement over last year. And let's not forget, what the team looks like in April is not likely to be the way it looks in September. Or haven't we learned?
Regarding the "Dunn as a consolation prize" discussion,
I'd agree with VAB that it would likely be the next best alternative among FA's, but we should not get confused that his productivity is comparable to Manny's - clearly it is not. Other than OBP, where they are sort of close (though Manny's is still better), Dunn trails Manny badly in any other comparison from Slugging % to OPS to how they hit with RISP.
I understand Manny is 36 and Dunn is 28 and that certainly should be considered. The funny part here is that I'm not aware that the Dodgers are even talking to Dunn, are they ?
Given that, I am not sure why they aren't trying a little harder to reach a compromise with Boras on Manny. They have taken the position that the next move is his, but if you think you can get him for 3 years, what do you have to lose by reaching out at this point ?
I'm also wondering why they are not chasing Fuentes at all ? Is there a good reason not to pursue him considering all the bullpen losses they've had to date ? What am I missing here ?
Andrew (right) and Brian Kamenetzky are hosts of the LA Times Lakers Blog, and contributing writers to ESPN The Magazine and ESPN.com. Additionally, they co-authored Fishing on the Edge, the autobiography of Mike Iaconelli, the bad boy of bass fishing and 2003 Bassmaster Classic champion. They grew up in St. Louis as Cardinals fans, but it doesn't impair their ability to Think Blue. After all, the Cards and Dodgers aren't even in the same division.
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would Livan even FIT in a stocking?
Posted by: benzojones | December 24, 2008 at 10:04 PM
I sit here, still slightly dazed by the huge numbers spent this winter. Things could not have gotten crazier. Then... there's a low, rumbling noise far off in the distance... something unfathomable... something monstrous. Way over the horizon there is a beast out there demanding to be fed...
This is the last year of Albert Pujols under contract. Now that we've seen what Mark Teixeira is paid...
Sorry...I just can't push the limits of my imagination any further to foresee where this is going to take baseball...
Posted by: Michael | December 25, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Considering that we got #6, #22, and #94 already, I'm hoping for #3 if possible. The folks are getting cheap for the holidays on this one! I'm getting a feeling that a #28 surprise will appear somewhere? It's not the best nor worst what I wanted for the holidays, but we'll see how it ends? I'm thinking about re-wrapping FAJ in hopes I can trade for another gift. Yea, I know it's alot of gift wrapping paper, maybe if I use the good looking paper, it'll look more appealing?
Posted by: Matsuda | December 25, 2008 at 10:40 AM
So Randy Johnson and Bob Abreu?
Posted by: SteelMohawk | December 25, 2008 at 10:49 AM
Chan Ho signed with the PHILLIES?! Where was I...
Posted by: zelator90004 | December 25, 2008 at 11:05 AM
Mohawk--2 guys on the decline. They are definitely in the 50% off bin though. Not bad for the very-short term, but wouldn't want to go 2 years on either. Still, Abreu's .400 OBP seems like a lock; I just worry about his lack of power these days--if we're asking him to hit 3 or 4 in the lineup, which I assume would be the case.
That list reminds me how many decent back-end starters and mid-range relievers are out there. I am especially intrigued by the Japanese pitchers on there; we seem to do well on scouting and pricing the talent across the Pacific, so hopefully we are throughly vetting those particular fellas. Every million we save on Manny can be used to go higher on those pitchers lists.
Oh, and this guy hits in on the head with Dunn. 40 dingers and 100 walks minus bad D and mucho Ks = approx. $14 million. 28 years old, so you know what you're gonna get. I'm a broken record, but if Borass mucks up the 2-year, good-for-both-sides deal with Manny, then Dunn is a fine consolation prize.
Merry Christmas, homies!
Posted by: VA Blueblood | December 25, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Dodgers will let Manny go for the 2 draft picks, pick up some cheap FA's to avoid being the Seattle Mariners of the NL next year and start a several year youth and re-building process which will culiminate with McCourt being contractually able to have his own regional TV deal (i.e. Steinbrenner and YES) and be a powerhouse like the NYY. Fan's initially will leave in drives but in 5 years the LAD's will be strong and rich.
"There is no difference between good flan and bad flan"- from "Wag The Dog"
Posted by: A Scanner Darkly | December 25, 2008 at 01:58 PM
Merry Christmas Everyone!!
Va Blueblood,
Please make a resulution that there may be another option besides Dunn. I know you think he is a real bargain but the stench is making me ill. Even if the Dodgers don't get Manny, perhaps staying with the kids would be a better option. Even bringing up more kids would be better than Dunn. Uh oh, you loved that one didn't you Brooklyn Dodger? Dunn would be a waste of money and the Dodgers have plenty of wasted money in Schmidt and FAJ. At least say the Dodgers should make a run a Lowe or something, OK? Happy Holidays.
Package
Posted by: Package | December 25, 2008 at 03:28 PM
Excellent Christmas day especially with the Lakers stpping Baaaston's win streak with defense.
Now let's hope for a good new year with a power hitter (manny), SP or two along with a RP or closer
Posted by: K T | December 25, 2008 at 08:04 PM
oh... I've had some bad flan.
Posted by: benzojones | December 25, 2008 at 08:33 PM
Scanner,
I agree that there is probably a long term plan to significantly increase revenues, and that part of that plan likely includes the establishment of a regional network. The move of spring training to a state-of-the-art complex in Glendale, Arizona and the modernization of Dodger Stadium are probably part of any such plan.
If there is a plan, hopefully it includes a a firm commitment to player development that will maintain a steady pipeline of young, inexpensive talent.
However, I would guess that any re-building program focused on winning years into the future, also includes a component that focuses on winning now as well. If management is confident in the growth of its revenue streams in the coming years, there will likely be spending to maintain a winning team to lead them into a more lucrative future. I don't know if the Dodgers will sign Manny, but it wouldn't surprise me if they did. Despite what Boras contends, Manny will not pay for his entire contract. However, his presence is likely to generate enough additional revenues to pay for the part of his salary that is in excess of what would have to be paid to another power hitter coming in at $10-15 million per year. Three years at $65 - $75 million is probably not out of the question. That would bring Manny to age 39 in his final season. Given that Manny keeps himself in excellent shape (I understand that he works out religiously at Athletes' Performance in Arizona) it's not unreasonable to expect him to still be producing at a high level in 2011. No guarantees, but certainly within reason.
I too would like the additional draft picks that Manny could generate. However, if Manny is signed, there is nothing stopping the Dodgers from delving more extensively into the international market. The money not spent on the extra draft picks could be utilized during the July international signing period to bring in some additional young players out of the Dominican, Venezuela, etc.
Package,
Not only did I love it, I'm still getting over the shock. Actually, despite my predilection for player development, I am also in favor of filling gaps with accomplished, and still productive veterans. Consequently, as noted above, I would welcome the addition of Manny. As for Adam Dunn, I'm not convinced either way. Fact is, I haven't seen enough of him to form a solid opinion. I know all the numbers, but that's not the same as seeing a player everyday. What makes me most nervous about him is his tendency to strike out a lot while also taking a lot of pitches. That sort of behavior brings back memories of J.D. Drew taking called third strike more often that I would lkie to remember. That sort of passive behavior drives me nuts, no matter how many bases on balls the hitter draws. Again, without seeing Dunn on a regular basis, I simply cannot come to a firm judgment. I'll have to leave that one to the Dodgers talent evaluators.
KT,
I didn't want to disappoint you, so I mustered plenty of verbiage for this post.
Posted by: Brooklyn Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 10:12 AM
Yeah, alot of starters out there. Before you reach Livan at 133 you scroll by the immortals:
Randy Wolf (34)
Odalis Perez (88)
Timberrrr (129)
A 2006-7 redux? Part Douche?
Posted by: tommex | December 26, 2008 at 10:28 AM
mayandodger,
Master of the English language that you are, I'm certain that the end of my previous post caught your critical eye. Surely you looked disapprovingly at my writing that "J.D. Drew taking called third strike..." (instead of "strikes"), my misspelling of "like" as "lkie", and my opening two consecutive sentences with "that sort of...behavior". You're absolutely correct, Brooklyn Dodger is "ur dumb".
Posted by: Brooklyn Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 11:14 AM
Why so little talk on this board and on ESPN about Ben Sheets? I know he's been injured a lot, but what would you rather take, 20-25 starts from Sheets and 10 from Eric Stults when Sheets goes on the DL; or 35 starts from Randy Wolf or Oliver Perez? He's a #1 on almost any staff, the Dodgers included. I don't see much else appealing to help us fill out the rotation.
Also, is Pettite definitely out of the mix? Do the Yankees really have enough money or even spots in the rotation for him? They already have CC, Burnett, Wang, Hughes, Chamberlin...
I'm a little tired of the Youth Movement talks too. I love the group of Martin, Kemp, Ethier, Loney, but none has proven he can carry the team yet. And with the exception of Ethier, each has started for over a year at their natural position (Loney and Martin more like 2 years each). They're great complimentary guys who were vital to the team's success. But do we win the NL West without Lowe and Ramirez (both 35+ years) last year? I don't think so.
Posted by: VA Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 11:15 AM
Va Dodger,
You almost answered your own question about Sheets. He wants 200+ inning eater money but hasn't thrown 200 since 2004. You would need a dolly to wheel his medical records around.
The Rangers have been mentioned somewhat, but only because Sheets has a house in Highland Park (Dallas). Same neighborhood Clayton Kershaw's family lives in; very exclusive little enclave in the middle of Dallas. That would be nice though. The 2 of them could play catch together in the off-season, along w/ the Padres' Chris Young.
Regardless the Rangers are too cheap to pay & Sheets is too smart to pitch in that furnace in Texas. I guess it becomes another question of who'll take the medical risk? Maybe the more durable (but less talented) guys will be signed first?
Posted by: tommex | December 26, 2008 at 12:36 PM
Hey. Where's Brad Penny?
David
Posted by: David s | December 26, 2008 at 01:51 PM
I haven't figured out exactly why the Dodgers aren't pursuing Manny more aggressively. They certainly don't want to overpay but get real; the guys a goldmine having already brought in $10-15 million with zero outlay. Letting him go and gaining 2 draft picks does seem an excellent deal but the loss of goodwill is enormous. Many a diehard Dodger fan have said they'd boogie if the LAD don't sign him.
Posted by: A Scanner Darkly | December 26, 2008 at 02:14 PM
Newsday.com reports that a Mets source states Manny will not be signed by the Mets. It looks like the Dodgers have a good shot at Manny but it 's still hard to envision signing him for only 2 years. Maybe 2 years with some type of third year option at 64 million for the 3 years.
The Mets are seriously talking with Lowe. If they sign him, the Dodgers should look at Oliver Perez who is 8 years younger than Lowe with more upside although somewhat inconsistent.
Happy Holidays to everyone!
Posted by: Joe the Plumber | December 26, 2008 at 02:17 PM
David s,
re: Penny.... who cares?! ... no seriously, I'm curious too. No Penny talk AT ALL???? The guy was hurt this year but don't people remember that he was the Dodger ACE the prior 2 years!?.... my only guess is that his physical shows some sign of damage goods OR his reputation for quitting on his team (like Manny, when Penny left his team instead of staying to support during playoffs) has other teams reluctant to take a chance.
Scanner Darkly,
I think the Dodgers aren't pursuing Manny b/c either they really don't want to pay Manny that kind of money (McCourt conspiracy theory) OR they believe Boras is trying to play his game against them again and suck them dry... Boras' tactics is the same I've learned in my negotiation class. Let the other think you are not interested... make Boras come to them and they have the upper hand in negotiations.... they must feel they will have an advantage by waiting for Boras to come to them... the very worst, Manny get a legit offer from another team, Boras will still come to the Dodgers for a second chance at a higher offer....
The Dodgers KNOW that Boras will not just take an offer w/o coming back to them to see if the Dodgers can match or exceed an offer.
Posted by: Rob | December 26, 2008 at 02:42 PM
This is off the topic but, I guess Jeanne Zelasko wants to be Vinnny's replacement? Since FOX cut its pre-game show she does with Kevin Kennedy, she's out of a gig. FYI, she is married to Curt Sandoval of ABC Ch.7 sports.
http://www.azcentral.com/sports/diamondbacks/articles/2008/12/25/20081225spt-mediacol.html
Posted by: Matsuda | December 26, 2008 at 03:03 PM
VA Dodger,
Martin, Kemp, Ethier and Loney do NOT have to prove that they can carry the team. They each represent an important piece of a greater whole. The success of the Dodgers has nothing to do with any of them carrying the team, but instead is dependent their collective efforts.
Other than Martin, none of them played a full season prior to 2008. Loney was sent to Las Vegas to begin the 2007 season, and didn't return until June. Kemp and Ethier were both in and out of the lineup in 2007 (especially Ethier). Even early in 2008 they had to share time with Jones and Pierre. They are all at an age where experience and physical maturity could result in breakout numbers, which is not uncommon for young, talented players.
Manny's presence in the lineup would definitely help their production, but with or without him, these players will get better, and should begin to hit with more consistent power. Also, a healthy Furcal will add a dimension that was missing last year at a position that became a black hole for the Dodgers.
The loss of Lowe definitely has to be at least partially compensated for. McDonald looked as good as advertised, and may well be able to fill that role. Penny also has to be replaced, but certainly not by an ace. If anything, Penny's contribution last year hurt the Dodgers. Removing him, if anything, might turn out to be a plus. A growth in the performances of Kershaw, Billingsley, Broxton, Wade, etc., would not be a surprise.
Add to all of the above that the West is weak, and your "I don't think so" doesn't hold water.
Posted by: Brooklyn Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 06:28 PM
David,
Brad Penny changed his name to Sasha Fierce, and if you want him you better put a ring on it.
It's on the youtubes.
Posted by: benzojones | December 26, 2008 at 06:34 PM
Just to add a little to my previous post, let's not forget the addition of Mark Loretta. That was more than a minor move. It provides a solid veteran bat to help ease Blake DeWitt into the starting role at 2B. It also provides a good bat off the bench, or has anyone forgotten about Mark Sweeney. Also, although I wasn't excited by the re-signing of Casey Blake, his presence at the beginning of the year is certainly an improvement over last year. And let's not forget, what the team looks like in April is not likely to be the way it looks in September. Or haven't we learned?
Posted by: Brooklyn Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 06:45 PM
Joe Beimel may be gone, but Troy from West Virginia is still with us. Like to know what he was sniffing in that bottle.
http://blogs.pe.com/prosports/mlb/dodgers/#a432812
Posted by: Brooklyn Dodger | December 26, 2008 at 06:59 PM
Regarding the "Dunn as a consolation prize" discussion,
I'd agree with VAB that it would likely be the next best alternative among FA's, but we should not get confused that his productivity is comparable to Manny's - clearly it is not. Other than OBP, where they are sort of close (though Manny's is still better), Dunn trails Manny badly in any other comparison from Slugging % to OPS to how they hit with RISP.
I understand Manny is 36 and Dunn is 28 and that certainly should be considered. The funny part here is that I'm not aware that the Dodgers are even talking to Dunn, are they ?
Given that, I am not sure why they aren't trying a little harder to reach a compromise with Boras on Manny. They have taken the position that the next move is his, but if you think you can get him for 3 years, what do you have to lose by reaching out at this point ?
I'm also wondering why they are not chasing Fuentes at all ? Is there a good reason not to pursue him considering all the bullpen losses they've had to date ? What am I missing here ?
Posted by: OhioVic | December 26, 2008 at 07:08 PM