Washington D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams signed the funding bill that'll allow the city to build a new 41,000 seat stadium for their new club, the Washington Nationals. The park should be ready for the 2008 season; the team will play within the "lovely confines" of RFK stadium until then. Fortunately, the bill will provide additional funding to help renovate RFK before the 2005 season begins.
I bet those former Expos will be shocked by their initial Washington fan base: 15,000 season tickets have already been reserved for 2005. That number probably surpasses their 2004 admission total for the year.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
Wright officially a Yankee
The New York Yankee$ and SP Jaret Wright got all the x-rays, MRIs, and paperwork sorted out today and officially announced his signing-- on his 29th birthday, no less. The three-year contract will pay Wright seven mil annually, although management can opt out of the deal if he spends a combined 75 days on the DL (the first two years) due to shoulder problems, which is the issue that had the Yankee$ concerned.
Quote of the day
I don't have anything baseball-related to share with you this morning-- so I give you my favorite quote of the day, found in a "Strange News" story:
"I turn it to Channel 15 and there's this naked lady on the screen — I mean full-frontal, get-the-hell-out-of-here pornography," said David Umana.
You can read all about Mr. Umana's adventures here.
"I turn it to Channel 15 and there's this naked lady on the screen — I mean full-frontal, get-the-hell-out-of-here pornography," said David Umana.
You can read all about Mr. Umana's adventures here.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Millwood talking to Indians
It appears as though the Cleveland Indians are interested in former Braves and Phillies SP Kevin Millwood. Although no specifics have been released, the offer is believed to be in the area of $7 million a year. That may be more to Millwood's liking, as he recently turned down a one-year deal from Atlanta that was worth considerably less.
Monday, December 27, 2004
Murphy on ballet for final time?
I ran across this article on MLB's official site and thought I'd pass it along to youse guys, just in case you hadn't run across it. Like I did. Because I spend my time looking at porn for baseball news to share with youse guys.
Personally, I'd like to see Dale Murphy in Cooperstown. He was the one saving grace for Atlanta during the '80s (damn, they were a horrible club); he was a pretty darn good ball player-- and a classy guy, as well. He won back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1982 and 1983 and compiled more total bases than any other player during the decade. He was second only to Mike Schmidt in HR and Eddie Murray in RBI-- and both those guys are in the Hall. I suppose his career .265 lifetime batting average is the primary hindrance to his being elected by the voters. What do you think?
Personally, I'd like to see Dale Murphy in Cooperstown. He was the one saving grace for Atlanta during the '80s (damn, they were a horrible club); he was a pretty darn good ball player-- and a classy guy, as well. He won back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1982 and 1983 and compiled more total bases than any other player during the decade. He was second only to Mike Schmidt in HR and Eddie Murray in RBI-- and both those guys are in the Hall. I suppose his career .265 lifetime batting average is the primary hindrance to his being elected by the voters. What do you think?
Sunday, December 26, 2004
Will Eisner has bypass surgery
For those of you who don't know me personally, I'm going to let you in on a little secret: I'm not just a baseball geek. I'm also a card-carrying member of the Secret Society of Comic Book Geeks. Okay-- there isn't really a secret society; I did have a membership card to the JLA at one time, but we won't get into that right now...
The point of my early morning confessional is to share the news about Will Eisner's quadruple bypass surgery last week. The details can be found at The Comics Reporter.
For those of you not familiar with Eisner's work-- he's both a pioneer and a living legend in the comic book genre. I met him a few years back at DragonCon; he was a very gracious man and happily signed the few items I'd brought along with me.
Here's wishing Mr. Eisner a speedy and successful recovery!
The point of my early morning confessional is to share the news about Will Eisner's quadruple bypass surgery last week. The details can be found at The Comics Reporter.
For those of you not familiar with Eisner's work-- he's both a pioneer and a living legend in the comic book genre. I met him a few years back at DragonCon; he was a very gracious man and happily signed the few items I'd brought along with me.
Here's wishing Mr. Eisner a speedy and successful recovery!
PlayStation 2
I've finally entered the 20th Century: I got a PlayStation 2 for Christmas (probably only scant seconds before PS 3 comes out). I'm not much of a gaming junkie; actually, this is the first game console I've owned since my Atari 2600. (It still works, by the way. C'mon over and we'll play Missile Command).
Anyhoo, I really wanted it so's I could play baseball games. The hope is it'll occupy my mind during the offseason. Along with the console, my wife got me a copy of MVP Baseball 2004. I played it a bit last night: pretty darn cool.
So I pose the question: is there a 2005 version for the MVP Baseball series and what other baseball games would you guys recommend?
Anyhoo, I really wanted it so's I could play baseball games. The hope is it'll occupy my mind during the offseason. Along with the console, my wife got me a copy of MVP Baseball 2004. I played it a bit last night: pretty darn cool.
So I pose the question: is there a 2005 version for the MVP Baseball series and what other baseball games would you guys recommend?
Saturday, December 25, 2004
Merry Christmas
No real posts today-- just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and to remind you that it's never too late to buy me a gift.
I've got to go clean up the pretzel bags and empty beer cans some fat guy in a red suit left in the living room last night...
I've got to go clean up the pretzel bags and empty beer cans some fat guy in a red suit left in the living room last night...
Friday, December 24, 2004
Festivus for the rest of us
Festivus really snuck up on me this year. I was hardly even prepared for it.
Bill, Tommy, and I got together for our annual celebration of this joyous holiday. We began the day with the Airing of Grievances. This took some seven-and-a-half hours and we were mighty hungry afterwards. After a lovely dinner at Applebee's, the Feats of Strength began. As usual, Tommy crushed Bill and myself rather handily. (He never gloats about it though, and for that, I thank him.) As the F.O.S only took about a half-hour, we decided to bowl a few games. Bill won two; I was the victor in one. Tommy, well...lets just say it's a good thing he's smart and looks real pretty in his bowling mini-skirt and leave it at that, shall we?
The one traditional Christmas activity we still hold onto is the exchanging of gifts: Bill gave me a couple of Simpsons figures and a Menudo video from 1986 (I think it came from his own personal Menudo collection); Tommy gave me a Julius Schwartz autobiography and a sweet Roberto Clemente card for my 1959 Topps baseball card set.
I think I'll now go and watch the first season of Wonder Woman that my sister and brother-in-law gave me last night...
Bill, Tommy, and I got together for our annual celebration of this joyous holiday. We began the day with the Airing of Grievances. This took some seven-and-a-half hours and we were mighty hungry afterwards. After a lovely dinner at Applebee's, the Feats of Strength began. As usual, Tommy crushed Bill and myself rather handily. (He never gloats about it though, and for that, I thank him.) As the F.O.S only took about a half-hour, we decided to bowl a few games. Bill won two; I was the victor in one. Tommy, well...lets just say it's a good thing he's smart and looks real pretty in his bowling mini-skirt and leave it at that, shall we?
The one traditional Christmas activity we still hold onto is the exchanging of gifts: Bill gave me a couple of Simpsons figures and a Menudo video from 1986 (I think it came from his own personal Menudo collection); Tommy gave me a Julius Schwartz autobiography and a sweet Roberto Clemente card for my 1959 Topps baseball card set.
I think I'll now go and watch the first season of Wonder Woman that my sister and brother-in-law gave me last night...
Former Brave updates
Things may get interesting in Los Angeles during Spring Training:
"Not to start a controversy," Drew told a Thursday press conference to announce his five-year contract, "but I'd like to start in center field. Playing behind Jim Edmonds [in St. Louis] and Andruw Jones [in Atlanta], there was no opportunity. You tip your cap and carry their Gold Gloves home for them. If the opportunity presents itself, I'd like to give it a shot."
I wonder what a certain feller already occupying center field for the Dodgers thinks about this? Has anyone pointed out to J.D. that Milton Bradley is CRAZY? As in fightin', spittin', yellin', throwing-beer-bottles-at-your-head kee-ray-zee?
In other former Brave news, Andres Galarraga has signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets and will be invited to Spring Training. Andres is currently third on the list of oldest players in the MLB; he's 42. Only Julio Franco (46) and John Franco (44) are older. (No relation between those Franco boys, by the way.)
"Not to start a controversy," Drew told a Thursday press conference to announce his five-year contract, "but I'd like to start in center field. Playing behind Jim Edmonds [in St. Louis] and Andruw Jones [in Atlanta], there was no opportunity. You tip your cap and carry their Gold Gloves home for them. If the opportunity presents itself, I'd like to give it a shot."
I wonder what a certain feller already occupying center field for the Dodgers thinks about this? Has anyone pointed out to J.D. that Milton Bradley is CRAZY? As in fightin', spittin', yellin', throwing-beer-bottles-at-your-head kee-ray-zee?
In other former Brave news, Andres Galarraga has signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets and will be invited to Spring Training. Andres is currently third on the list of oldest players in the MLB; he's 42. Only Julio Franco (46) and John Franco (44) are older. (No relation between those Franco boys, by the way.)
Thursday, December 23, 2004
The Ted goes Hi-Def
Braves management recently began a $15 million operation to improve the park: the most notable improvement (and a large chunk of that fifteen mil), will be the addition of the world's largest high-definition video display to the center field scoreboard. Mitsubishi Electric Power Products (the manufacturers and installers of the screen) say it'll be 80 feet by 72 feet. Wow-- that's a big screen.
I wonder if Braves management will let me come over in a few weeks and give the screen a test drive with the LOTR trilogy? I promise not to make a mess while I'm there.
I wonder if Braves management will let me come over in a few weeks and give the screen a test drive with the LOTR trilogy? I promise not to make a mess while I'm there.
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Drew in Dodger blue?
The Los Angeles Dodgers and OF J.D. Drew have agreed in principle on a five-year, $55 million contract. The $11 million annual salary is about a million bucks more per year than what the Dodgers were offering 3B Adrian Beltre.
I'll be honest: the entire thing perplexes me. Granted, I am easily confused, but I cannot understand WHY the Dodgers were willing to let Beltre walk-- and don't give me any of that "Jeff Kent is gonna play third base" nonsense; he's padded his career stats with the protection Barry Bonds provided in the San Fran line-up. (Color me not impressed.) I do realize that Beltre had a career year in 2004 and that those numbers could have been a fluke. However, many persons (myself included) believe Beltre's finally put it all together and should be a great third baseman for many years to come. And I'd much rather take a gamble with a 25-year-old guy with a lot of promise and potential, rather than some 37-year-old feller on the back-side of his career.
J.D. Drew is a guy I'd love to have on my club if I were a GM. He is a legitimate five-tool kind of player; his 2004 numbers prove it. What I question is giving someone a five-year deal for that kind of money when he's had a major problem staying healthy. Drew played in 145 games this year (career best); he's averaged less than 117 during five previous MLB seasons. Were I a GM, I would have liked to see J.D. have a similar season in 2005 and prove he's healthy and worth that type of deal BEFORE I offered it.
I'll be honest: the entire thing perplexes me. Granted, I am easily confused, but I cannot understand WHY the Dodgers were willing to let Beltre walk-- and don't give me any of that "Jeff Kent is gonna play third base" nonsense; he's padded his career stats with the protection Barry Bonds provided in the San Fran line-up. (Color me not impressed.) I do realize that Beltre had a career year in 2004 and that those numbers could have been a fluke. However, many persons (myself included) believe Beltre's finally put it all together and should be a great third baseman for many years to come. And I'd much rather take a gamble with a 25-year-old guy with a lot of promise and potential, rather than some 37-year-old feller on the back-side of his career.
J.D. Drew is a guy I'd love to have on my club if I were a GM. He is a legitimate five-tool kind of player; his 2004 numbers prove it. What I question is giving someone a five-year deal for that kind of money when he's had a major problem staying healthy. Drew played in 145 games this year (career best); he's averaged less than 117 during five previous MLB seasons. Were I a GM, I would have liked to see J.D. have a similar season in 2005 and prove he's healthy and worth that type of deal BEFORE I offered it.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
NL East: Expos will move to D.C.
After a lot of wheeling and dealing, Major League Baseball and the politicos of the District of Columbia have finally got all their ducks in a row, so baseball will be returning to Washington. The legislation, which passed by a 7-6 margin, needs only to be signed by D.C. Mayor Anthony A. Williams to complete the deal.
And there was much rejoicing...
And there was much rejoicing...
Monday, December 20, 2004
DeRosa, Hessman non-tendered
The Braves decided before the Monday deadline to not tender contracts to IF Mark DeRosa and IF Mike Hessman, although they do have some interest in retaining their services.
DeRosa had enough success during the past few seasons to earn a shot as the starting third-baseman in 2004. Not only did he struggle (.239, 31 RBI, 3 HR), he also lost his starting position and later tore his right ACL. Still, he is a versatile utility/bench player and is popular in the clubhouse. He'll look at options with other clubs before deciding whether or not to re-sign with the Braves.
Mike Hessman had a brief stint in the Bigs this year- and it wasn't good (.131 in 69 at-bats). His 2004 Triple-A numbers weren't too shabby (.287, 54 RBI, 19 HR) and the Braves have enough interest in him to offer a minor league contract for next year.
DeRosa had enough success during the past few seasons to earn a shot as the starting third-baseman in 2004. Not only did he struggle (.239, 31 RBI, 3 HR), he also lost his starting position and later tore his right ACL. Still, he is a versatile utility/bench player and is popular in the clubhouse. He'll look at options with other clubs before deciding whether or not to re-sign with the Braves.
Mike Hessman had a brief stint in the Bigs this year- and it wasn't good (.131 in 69 at-bats). His 2004 Triple-A numbers weren't too shabby (.287, 54 RBI, 19 HR) and the Braves have enough interest in him to offer a minor league contract for next year.
Sunday, December 19, 2004
New links added
I haven't stumbled across anything newsworthy to mention today (nor is my brain alert enough to string together coherent sentences), so I thought I'd mention a couple of new additions to my "Recommended Reads" list:
Baseball Musings
Braves News World
Both are really good sites and you should check 'em out.
Baseball Musings
Braves News World
Both are really good sites and you should check 'em out.
Saturday, December 18, 2004
Dan Meyer interview
With all the discussions surrounding the recent Tim Hudson trade, I found it interesting that someone took the time to talk to one of the "other guys" involved.
Here's an interview with newly acquired A's pitcher Dan Meyer, by Todd Morgan.
Here's an interview with newly acquired A's pitcher Dan Meyer, by Todd Morgan.
Friday, December 17, 2004
Former Braves sign contracts
SP Jaret Wright signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the New York Yankee$ today. He has a third-year player option worth $7 million.
As a follow-up to my post from this morning, The Florida Marlins reworked Antonio Alfonseca's offer into a one-year deal, with a team option for 2006. The financial specifics weren't released.
As a follow-up to my post from this morning, The Florida Marlins reworked Antonio Alfonseca's offer into a one-year deal, with a team option for 2006. The financial specifics weren't released.
Hudson formally introduced
Newly acquired SP Tim Hudson was formally introduced to the media at Turner Field this afternoon.
The more I look at the trade that brought Hudson to Atlanta, the more I like it. Hudson's a bona fide ace. (I'm not sure if he's a suiter). With Smoltz, Hampton, Thomson, and Ramirez behind him, you've got one of the best rotations in all of baseball. Even though Dan Meyer is a top pitching prospect who some project as a potenial All-Star pitcher- he's still a prospect. MLB history is littered with "can't miss" guys who never lived up to their hype or expectations. If a GM has the opportunity to trade a highly touted minor leaguer for an already established star of Hudson's caliber- he has to take it. If Meyer does pan out- well, that's the farm system serving its purpose. And as much as I like Thomas and Cruz, maybe they'll do bigger and better things in Oakland; I wish them well.
Another important factor to consider is Hudson's "local" ties to the Braves. He grew up two hours south of Atlanta and rooted for the Braves as a kid. He's made comments that he'd like to get any contract business taken care of before Spring Training begins. Hopefully that'll include a contract extention.
The more I look at the trade that brought Hudson to Atlanta, the more I like it. Hudson's a bona fide ace. (I'm not sure if he's a suiter). With Smoltz, Hampton, Thomson, and Ramirez behind him, you've got one of the best rotations in all of baseball. Even though Dan Meyer is a top pitching prospect who some project as a potenial All-Star pitcher- he's still a prospect. MLB history is littered with "can't miss" guys who never lived up to their hype or expectations. If a GM has the opportunity to trade a highly touted minor leaguer for an already established star of Hudson's caliber- he has to take it. If Meyer does pan out- well, that's the farm system serving its purpose. And as much as I like Thomas and Cruz, maybe they'll do bigger and better things in Oakland; I wish them well.
Another important factor to consider is Hudson's "local" ties to the Braves. He grew up two hours south of Atlanta and rooted for the Braves as a kid. He's made comments that he'd like to get any contract business taken care of before Spring Training begins. Hopefully that'll include a contract extention.
NL East: Alfonseca's bad back
A "significant herniation" in Antonio Alfonseca's lower back, found during a recent physical, has put his status with the Marlins in jeopardy. Although a two-year, $4.75 million contract had been agreed upon last week, Florida has a policy of only announcing signings after a player has passed his physical.
Supposedly the Marlins are looking to rework the offer into an incentive-laden, one-year contract.
Supposedly the Marlins are looking to rework the offer into an incentive-laden, one-year contract.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Braves Trading Extravaganza
So...what'd you do today? Me? I tried to sleep. That didn't work out too well, by the way. (Just in case you were wondering about my sleeping habits.) John Schuerholz had a much more productive day. He struck a deal with the Oakland A's that's bringing SP Tim Hudson to Atlanta, in exchange for OF Charles Thomas, RH Juan Cruz, and pitching prospect Dan Meyer.
I'm pretty excited about Hudson joining the Braves, even if a bit disappointed to see Thomas going elswhere. He quickly became my favorite Brave last year; his hustle and excellent defensive play won me over.
In other trade news, OF Eli Marrero (and some guy named Cash?) were traded to Kansas City for minor league pitcher Jorge Vasquez. I must admit I'm not familiar with Vasquez but he posted a 4-5 record with 18 saves and a 4.68 ERA with Double-A Wichita last year.
J.D. Drew's departure and the trading of Thomas and Marrero leave Andruw Jones the sole man left in the outfield. I can't imagine JS not having specific plans to fill those voids, so it'll be interesting to see how this plays out in the upcoming weeks ahead.
And finally- John Smoltz received a contract extension today that'll keep him in Atlanta through the 2006 season, with an option for 2007.
I'm pretty excited about Hudson joining the Braves, even if a bit disappointed to see Thomas going elswhere. He quickly became my favorite Brave last year; his hustle and excellent defensive play won me over.
In other trade news, OF Eli Marrero (and some guy named Cash?) were traded to Kansas City for minor league pitcher Jorge Vasquez. I must admit I'm not familiar with Vasquez but he posted a 4-5 record with 18 saves and a 4.68 ERA with Double-A Wichita last year.
J.D. Drew's departure and the trading of Thomas and Marrero leave Andruw Jones the sole man left in the outfield. I can't imagine JS not having specific plans to fill those voids, so it'll be interesting to see how this plays out in the upcoming weeks ahead.
And finally- John Smoltz received a contract extension today that'll keep him in Atlanta through the 2006 season, with an option for 2007.
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Byrd heading to Anaheim
The Angels and SP Paul Byrd agreed to terms one a one-year deal today. (I'm not sure if financial terms have been disclosed yet.)
I've not posted anything regarding the Braves/Tim Hudson rumors because my mama taught me that it's bad to go 'round telling stories about others- BUT Byrd's departure does leave a void in the rotation. Mayhaps Mr. Hudson would like to fill that spot?
I've not posted anything regarding the Braves/Tim Hudson rumors because my mama taught me that it's bad to go 'round telling stories about others- BUT Byrd's departure does leave a void in the rotation. Mayhaps Mr. Hudson would like to fill that spot?
Monday, December 13, 2004
Is Millwood returning?
The Braves are awaiting word from SP Kevin Millwood whether or not he'll be a Brave in 2005. He and his agent are mulling over an offer, believed to be for one year and worth three to four million bucks. If no deal is in place by Monday afternoon, Atlanta will look elswhere for trades to bring in another starter.
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Kolb in, Capellan out
The Braves have been looking for a top-notch ace for the starting rotation: turns out he's been in the bullpen the whole time.
GM John Schuerholz made news Saturday by trading highly touted pitching prospect Jose Capellan and a player to be named later to the Brewers for Dan Kolb. The move will allow John Smoltz to return to the starting rotation.
I'm not going to delve into the numbers of each guy involved; lots of other sites have already done a fine job of it. (Other than the stats listed on the backs of bubble-gum cards, I'm not much of a numbers guy, anyway). I'm very much a realist and as such, I look at life in a rather pragmatic fashion:
The Braves needed a legitimate ace of the staff. The guy who's name kept creeping up was Oakland's Tim Hudson. Billy Beane is no dummy; he wanted Marcus Giles in return. Do you give up a great position player for a starting pitcher you'll probably only be able to keep for one year? Not if you want to keep your GM job for very long. Smoltz has been a dominant starter in the not-so-distant past, is practically being paid like one now, and he wants to return to the starting rotation. Why not try to get 200 innings from him, rather than just 80? Many folks question whether his arm can hold up to the rigors of starting over the course of a season. Well, in my neighborhood we don't live with could haves, should haves, and would haves. You just do it, dammit- and deal with the fall-out, if and when it occurs. Smoltz says the arm will hold up: the doctors agree. I'll buy that for a dollar.
A lot of folks are down on Kolb. Was 2004 a fluke, or was it his break-out season? I can't answer that, but I do know he converted 39 of 44 save opportunities with a 2.98 ERA this year. And that was with the Brewers, for crying out loud.
Who knows if the Braves made a mistake trading away Capellan? He's one of the most highly regarded prospects in all of baseball. He's a strike-out machine that can chuck it 100 mph. Hey- so can Kyle Farnsworth. (I got two words for ya: Bull Durham.) The Braves are well known for being able to recognize pitching talent. They've also got a pretty sharp eye when it comes to evaluating said talent. They think Cappy is expendable? Fine by me.
What it all boils down to is the Braves now have an ace, they've still got Marcus Giles, and they've got a pretty good closer locked in through the 2006 season. What else have you got up your sleeve, Mr. Schuerholz?
GM John Schuerholz made news Saturday by trading highly touted pitching prospect Jose Capellan and a player to be named later to the Brewers for Dan Kolb. The move will allow John Smoltz to return to the starting rotation.
I'm not going to delve into the numbers of each guy involved; lots of other sites have already done a fine job of it. (Other than the stats listed on the backs of bubble-gum cards, I'm not much of a numbers guy, anyway). I'm very much a realist and as such, I look at life in a rather pragmatic fashion:
The Braves needed a legitimate ace of the staff. The guy who's name kept creeping up was Oakland's Tim Hudson. Billy Beane is no dummy; he wanted Marcus Giles in return. Do you give up a great position player for a starting pitcher you'll probably only be able to keep for one year? Not if you want to keep your GM job for very long. Smoltz has been a dominant starter in the not-so-distant past, is practically being paid like one now, and he wants to return to the starting rotation. Why not try to get 200 innings from him, rather than just 80? Many folks question whether his arm can hold up to the rigors of starting over the course of a season. Well, in my neighborhood we don't live with could haves, should haves, and would haves. You just do it, dammit- and deal with the fall-out, if and when it occurs. Smoltz says the arm will hold up: the doctors agree. I'll buy that for a dollar.
A lot of folks are down on Kolb. Was 2004 a fluke, or was it his break-out season? I can't answer that, but I do know he converted 39 of 44 save opportunities with a 2.98 ERA this year. And that was with the Brewers, for crying out loud.
Who knows if the Braves made a mistake trading away Capellan? He's one of the most highly regarded prospects in all of baseball. He's a strike-out machine that can chuck it 100 mph. Hey- so can Kyle Farnsworth. (I got two words for ya: Bull Durham.) The Braves are well known for being able to recognize pitching talent. They've also got a pretty sharp eye when it comes to evaluating said talent. They think Cappy is expendable? Fine by me.
What it all boils down to is the Braves now have an ace, they've still got Marcus Giles, and they've got a pretty good closer locked in through the 2006 season. What else have you got up your sleeve, Mr. Schuerholz?
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Arizona signs Ortiz
Former Braves pitcher Russ Ortiz signed a four-year, $33 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday.
Friday, December 10, 2004
Brazelton wins Conigliaro Award
I just wanted to point out Dewon Brazelton won the Tony Conigliaro Award today. (You can read about it here).
What does Dewon have to do with the Atlanta Braves, or the National League East, for that matter? Not a damn thing. I just wanted to single him out because he's an alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University- as are myself, Tommy, and the Hippy.
I like to tell people that the four of us used to get together at Fuddrucker's on the weekends. But it's not true.
What does Dewon have to do with the Atlanta Braves, or the National League East, for that matter? Not a damn thing. I just wanted to single him out because he's an alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University- as are myself, Tommy, and the Hippy.
I like to tell people that the four of us used to get together at Fuddrucker's on the weekends. But it's not true.
Franco remains a Brave
Julio Franco came to camp the past two seasons a non-roster invitee, with assurances from management that he'd be with the club when Spring Training ended. Due to recent interest in Julio's services by a couple of other teams (including the Marlins), management quickly signed him to a one-year, $1 million dollar contract yesterday. Although Franco is the oldest player in the Bigs (he's 46), his 2004 numbers weren't too shabby: .309, 57 RBI, 6 HR. He'll continue to platoon at first base with Adam LaRoche during the 2005 season.
I'm a bit surprised by the amount of the contract; I'm not surprised that the Braves wanted him back enough to offer it. Even at the ridiculous age of 46, he's in incredible physical condition and still a productive player. With a club house filled with young guys, it's important to have solid, veteran leadership- and you can't get much more "veteran" than Julio. Besides- it's nice for Bobby Cox to have someone close in age to chat the time away on those long road trips...
I'm a bit surprised by the amount of the contract; I'm not surprised that the Braves wanted him back enough to offer it. Even at the ridiculous age of 46, he's in incredible physical condition and still a productive player. With a club house filled with young guys, it's important to have solid, veteran leadership- and you can't get much more "veteran" than Julio. Besides- it's nice for Bobby Cox to have someone close in age to chat the time away on those long road trips...
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Theater Thursday
And in a suprise turn of events, I'm actually posting it on Thursday...Theater Thursday.
Week 29 - Merry Christmas.
It's the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas.
1) Which holiday movie/special do you have to watch every single year?
I have the Holy Trinity of Christmas movies that must be viewed each year: White Christmas, A Christmas Story, and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. It simply isn't Christmas until I've seen each and every one of these nuggets of Yuletide gold.
2) Which holiday movie/special could you live without every year?
Man, I am not a fan of It's a Wonderful Life. Heartwarming, my ass. It makes ME want to jump off a bridge...
3) Do you have any special traditions that you do while watching the holiday films? (i.e - decorating the tree, drinking eggnog, opening gifts)
My family likes to decorate the Festivus pole and air our grievances during TNT's twenty-four hour marathon of A Christmas Story; otherwise, you keep your mouth shut and watch the movie, dammit!
BONUS) Is there any holiday classic that you would like to see remade? If so, what is it, and who would you like to see play the parts?
No. See, that's why it's called a "classic". The very name implies perfection. If a movie is perfect, you don't need to remake it. Live-action Grinchs and Whos? Yeesh...
Week 29 - Merry Christmas.
It's the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas.
1) Which holiday movie/special do you have to watch every single year?
I have the Holy Trinity of Christmas movies that must be viewed each year: White Christmas, A Christmas Story, and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. It simply isn't Christmas until I've seen each and every one of these nuggets of Yuletide gold.
2) Which holiday movie/special could you live without every year?
Man, I am not a fan of It's a Wonderful Life. Heartwarming, my ass. It makes ME want to jump off a bridge...
3) Do you have any special traditions that you do while watching the holiday films? (i.e - decorating the tree, drinking eggnog, opening gifts)
My family likes to decorate the Festivus pole and air our grievances during TNT's twenty-four hour marathon of A Christmas Story; otherwise, you keep your mouth shut and watch the movie, dammit!
BONUS) Is there any holiday classic that you would like to see remade? If so, what is it, and who would you like to see play the parts?
No. See, that's why it's called a "classic". The very name implies perfection. If a movie is perfect, you don't need to remake it. Live-action Grinchs and Whos? Yeesh...
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Phillies, Marlins sign pitchers
SP Jon Lieber signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the Phillies today. Jon posted a 14-8 record with a 4.33 ERA in New York this year. This is a great signing for the Phils; I watched Lieber when he was with the Cubbies, and he's an excellent pitcher when healthy. You have to figure his being a couple of years removed from Tommy John surgery means next year's numbers should be even better.
In other NL East news, the Marlins signed SP Al Leiter to a one-year, $8 million contract. I liken this deal to Chicago bringing Greg Maddux back: a solid, (even if past his prime) veteran pitcher who'll eat some innings and mentor a young rotation.
In other NL East news, the Marlins signed SP Al Leiter to a one-year, $8 million contract. I liken this deal to Chicago bringing Greg Maddux back: a solid, (even if past his prime) veteran pitcher who'll eat some innings and mentor a young rotation.
Arbitration aftermath
I hated J.D. Drew when he played for St. Looie. I'm talking 'bout a deep-down, soul-searing, Rage O' Hatred- the likes of which I reserve for few persons on this planet. (Don't ask me why I hated the man so much, because I don't understand it myself: it simply was the way it was.) I actually heckled the man at a Sounds/Red Birds game a few years ago- and I don't heckle at ball games. Ever.
I got over my hatred when he came to Atlanta; I wasn't neccessarily a fan of his, but I learned to respect him in his role as a productive member of the team. Well, those days are officially over, as the Braves did not offer Drew arbitration. Scott (the Devil) Boras has tagged J.D. out of Atlanta's price range and he'll be looking for bigger payouts elsewhere. So long, Mr. Drew.
The Braves also declined to offer arbitration to SP Russ Ortiz and RP Antonio Alfonseca. Ortiz's departure likely paves the way for John Smoltz's return to the starting rotation. Alfonseca's departure simply puts a smile on my face; I'm not a fan of the six-fingered man.
Management did offer arbitration to three players they'd like to keep: SP Paul Byrd, 1B Julio Franco, and SP Jaret Wright, although it looks as though Wright is very close to signing a three-year, $20 million contract with the Yankee$. (Has anyone bothered to tell Yankee$' management they can scout, sign, and develop their own talent, rather than signing every hot free-agent during the offseason?)
I got over my hatred when he came to Atlanta; I wasn't neccessarily a fan of his, but I learned to respect him in his role as a productive member of the team. Well, those days are officially over, as the Braves did not offer Drew arbitration. Scott (the Devil) Boras has tagged J.D. out of Atlanta's price range and he'll be looking for bigger payouts elsewhere. So long, Mr. Drew.
The Braves also declined to offer arbitration to SP Russ Ortiz and RP Antonio Alfonseca. Ortiz's departure likely paves the way for John Smoltz's return to the starting rotation. Alfonseca's departure simply puts a smile on my face; I'm not a fan of the six-fingered man.
Management did offer arbitration to three players they'd like to keep: SP Paul Byrd, 1B Julio Franco, and SP Jaret Wright, although it looks as though Wright is very close to signing a three-year, $20 million contract with the Yankee$. (Has anyone bothered to tell Yankee$' management they can scout, sign, and develop their own talent, rather than signing every hot free-agent during the offseason?)
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Subtraction by addition
Last week I said to myself, "Self, don't get involved in the Bonds steriod mess." There are many others on the 'net who will do a far better job discussing this topic than I ever could. I suppose part of me likes to bury my head in the sand regarding this subject matter, because it makes me angry. And a little sad.
With that being said, I wanted to link to an article by Jacob Luft that I found rather interesting.
With that being said, I wanted to link to an article by Jacob Luft that I found rather interesting.
Monday, December 06, 2004
NL East: Pratt stays put
C Todd Pratt signed a one-year, $750,000 contract to continue his back-up back-stop duties with the Phillies.
Sunday, December 05, 2004
Paul Byrd
The Braves have made a "modest" offer to SP Paul Byrd, although he and GM John Schuerholz aren't providing any specifics. Needless to say, it'll be a significant pay cut from the $7 million he earned in 2004. Byrd went 8-7 with a 3.94 ERA in Atlanta this year.
Resigning Byrd to an inexpensive contract makes sense: he's a solid bottom of the rotation guy; nothing spectacular, but he won't embarrass your club, either. If he can return to his pre-surgery form (17 wins with Kansas City in 2002), so much the better. Possible John Smoltz/starting rotation news aside, I'd really like to see the Braves pursue a top-notch ace for the starting rotation. John Thomson, Mike Hampton, and Horacio Ramirez are all under contract through 2005, but none of them really fit the "ace of the staff" mold.
Resigning Byrd to an inexpensive contract makes sense: he's a solid bottom of the rotation guy; nothing spectacular, but he won't embarrass your club, either. If he can return to his pre-surgery form (17 wins with Kansas City in 2002), so much the better. Possible John Smoltz/starting rotation news aside, I'd really like to see the Braves pursue a top-notch ace for the starting rotation. John Thomson, Mike Hampton, and Horacio Ramirez are all under contract through 2005, but none of them really fit the "ace of the staff" mold.
Saturday, December 04, 2004
NL East news
The Phillies have acquired outfielder Kenny Lofton via trade with the New York Yankee$. The Phils sent RP Felix Rodriguez and just over $1 million in cash to complete the trade. Even though Kenny can be a bit of an egocentric ass at times, he's still a productive player- not to mention being money during the post-season. (And he always seems to wind up on a playoff team, doesn't he?)
RP Felix Heredia will ply his trade on the other side of town next season. The Yankee$ sent him and an unspecified amount of cash to the Mets for RP Mike Stanton. Heredia's 2004 season was less than stellar (1-1, 6.28 ERA), but he's eight years younger and a good deal cheaper than Stanton.
MLB owners voted 29-1 to approve the Montreal move to Washington. Who cast the one vote, you ask? Why, none other than Baltimore Orioles owner, Peter Angelos. He feels another ball club playing 35 miles away from his club will cut into the fan base and ultimately, his profits. Note to Mr. Angelos: put a quality product on the field and you'll deserve a fan base. It absolutely amazes me that MLB has to compensate this guy because another team in a different league will be playing nearby. Two teams in Chicago. Two teams in New York. Three teams in the LA area. I don't hear any of those owners complaining about a bit of geographic competition.
RP Felix Heredia will ply his trade on the other side of town next season. The Yankee$ sent him and an unspecified amount of cash to the Mets for RP Mike Stanton. Heredia's 2004 season was less than stellar (1-1, 6.28 ERA), but he's eight years younger and a good deal cheaper than Stanton.
MLB owners voted 29-1 to approve the Montreal move to Washington. Who cast the one vote, you ask? Why, none other than Baltimore Orioles owner, Peter Angelos. He feels another ball club playing 35 miles away from his club will cut into the fan base and ultimately, his profits. Note to Mr. Angelos: put a quality product on the field and you'll deserve a fan base. It absolutely amazes me that MLB has to compensate this guy because another team in a different league will be playing nearby. Two teams in Chicago. Two teams in New York. Three teams in the LA area. I don't hear any of those owners complaining about a bit of geographic competition.
Friday, December 03, 2004
Theater Thursday
It's once again time for Theater Thursday.
The past couple of weeks saw the opening of several big-budget and high-concept films: The Polar Express, Alexander, and National Treasure. These movies starred Tom Hanks, Colin Farrell and Nicholas Cage, respectively.
Only one question this week. Which of these three is the better actor, and why?
This is a no-brainer: Tom Hanks is hands down the best actor of the three. His versatility and range are his two biggest assets and what make him one of the finest actors currently working, in my humble opinion. Throw out Turner and Hooch and you've got one jim dandy of a filmography- not to mention some of the finest films made in the past twenty years.
I've only seen a couple of pictures with Colin Farrell, so I may be a bit uninformed about his talent. I've liked his performances in the few movies I have seen him in, but nothing he's done has really made me sit up and say, "...damn".
I'll be honest with you: I don't think Nicolas Cage is all that great an actor. He doesn't have a lot of range; sometimes he does a credible job portraying a character and sometimes he seems horribly miscast for a role (see: Keanu Reeves). However, I loved his performance in my favorite movie of all time, Raising Arizona, so I can't be too hard on the guy.
The past couple of weeks saw the opening of several big-budget and high-concept films: The Polar Express, Alexander, and National Treasure. These movies starred Tom Hanks, Colin Farrell and Nicholas Cage, respectively.
Only one question this week. Which of these three is the better actor, and why?
This is a no-brainer: Tom Hanks is hands down the best actor of the three. His versatility and range are his two biggest assets and what make him one of the finest actors currently working, in my humble opinion. Throw out Turner and Hooch and you've got one jim dandy of a filmography- not to mention some of the finest films made in the past twenty years.
I've only seen a couple of pictures with Colin Farrell, so I may be a bit uninformed about his talent. I've liked his performances in the few movies I have seen him in, but nothing he's done has really made me sit up and say, "...damn".
I'll be honest with you: I don't think Nicolas Cage is all that great an actor. He doesn't have a lot of range; sometimes he does a credible job portraying a character and sometimes he seems horribly miscast for a role (see: Keanu Reeves). However, I loved his performance in my favorite movie of all time, Raising Arizona, so I can't be too hard on the guy.
Free agent news
The Arizona Diamondbacks have apparently offered Russ Ortiz a three-year, $24 million contract; he's looking for something closer to ten mil per year. I'm not sure how many other teams are interested in his services- but I know the Braves aren't.
I've been a bit curious about exactly what kind of numbers Scott (the Devil) Boras is seeking for J.D. Drew: have you? (Of course you have.) Well, ol' Scotty figures J.D. is worth something in the area of five years and $50 million. He "stupposedly" -to quote the great wordsmith, Latrell Spreewell- has several teams interested and willing to give it up. I've said it once, and I'll probably say it at least six more times- one good season in a career filled with injuries does not qualify you for the Big Fat Contract. If J.D. can squeeze this out of some team with more salary cap space than common sense, bully for him and the Devil, but it seems logical to me for someone like Drew (or Nomar, for that matter) to sign a one-year deal with their respective teams, prove they're healthy and worthy of the big money, and then shop their services to the highest bidder. But hey, I'm just Joe Blow (not JoeBo) writing a crummy blog about baseball and not a hotshot agent fleecing MLB teams for gazillions of dollars...
Jermaine Dye's name keeps coming up as a possible replacement for Drew, if he does go elsewhere.
I've been a bit curious about exactly what kind of numbers Scott (the Devil) Boras is seeking for J.D. Drew: have you? (Of course you have.) Well, ol' Scotty figures J.D. is worth something in the area of five years and $50 million. He "stupposedly" -to quote the great wordsmith, Latrell Spreewell- has several teams interested and willing to give it up. I've said it once, and I'll probably say it at least six more times- one good season in a career filled with injuries does not qualify you for the Big Fat Contract. If J.D. can squeeze this out of some team with more salary cap space than common sense, bully for him and the Devil, but it seems logical to me for someone like Drew (or Nomar, for that matter) to sign a one-year deal with their respective teams, prove they're healthy and worthy of the big money, and then shop their services to the highest bidder. But hey, I'm just Joe Blow (not JoeBo) writing a crummy blog about baseball and not a hotshot agent fleecing MLB teams for gazillions of dollars...
Jermaine Dye's name keeps coming up as a possible replacement for Drew, if he does go elsewhere.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
TV Tuesday
It's time for TV Tuesday:
Week 34 - What'd you watch?
ACK! It can't be Tuesday can it? *checks calendar* Oops! Sure is! Since I took a week off let's find out what you were watching!
1. What's your favorite thing you've watched in the past week?
Although I didn't watch a lot of tele during the past week, I most enjoyed the couple of Abbott and Costello pictures TCM aired Thanksgiving afternoon. (I rank Bud and Lou second only to the Marx Brothers for best comedy team ever.)
2. Have you found anything new you liked?(You can use disliked or any other adjective you want.)
I can't say as though I found anything new I liked or disliked.
3. For those who had access to them, did you see any really cool parades on TV?
Nope- I'm not much for parades.
~Bonus~ Holiday dinner: TV on or off?
Off
Remember to leave your link or answers in the comments!! :)
Week 34 - What'd you watch?
ACK! It can't be Tuesday can it? *checks calendar* Oops! Sure is! Since I took a week off let's find out what you were watching!
1. What's your favorite thing you've watched in the past week?
Although I didn't watch a lot of tele during the past week, I most enjoyed the couple of Abbott and Costello pictures TCM aired Thanksgiving afternoon. (I rank Bud and Lou second only to the Marx Brothers for best comedy team ever.)
2. Have you found anything new you liked?(You can use disliked or any other adjective you want.)
I can't say as though I found anything new I liked or disliked.
3. For those who had access to them, did you see any really cool parades on TV?
Nope- I'm not much for parades.
~Bonus~ Holiday dinner: TV on or off?
Off
Remember to leave your link or answers in the comments!! :)
Wright offers
The Seattle Mariners have offered Jaret Wright a three year, $15 mil contract. I'd like to see him stay with Atlanta, but I think they've made the right decision in not offering him a big contract. Wright had a solid year with the Braves in 2004, but they claimed him from the scrap heap that is the waiver wire before the season began. One good season in a career of mediocrity does not earn you the big money: a couple of good seasons does. (I hope J.D. Drew is reading this...)
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