Dodgers Sign Josh Towers To Minor League Deal
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 7:25 PM PST
in Roster
223 comments
After the Yankees acquired someone, in Jamie Hoffmann, the Dodgers did not want on their 40-man roster, the Dodgers returned the favor, in a way.
The Dodgers have signed pitcher Josh Towers to a minor league deal, according to the Associated Press. Towers, who turns 33 in February, put up a 2.74 ERA in 19 appearances (18 starts) with the Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Yankees in 2009. He started 2009 in the Nationals' system, but was released after just one appearance with Triple A Syracuse. The Yankees called up Towers twice during the season, but he appeared in just two September games in mop-up duty. He is a low walk, low strikeout pitcher, averaging 1.5 walks and 4.8 strikeouts per nine innings in his major league career.
Towers has a split contract that will pay him $700,000 in the major leagues, and $100,000 while in the minor leagues.
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Dodgers to Towers
“My amount is little, but my support is sincere.”
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 7:28 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Fun Josh Towers facts
In 112 career starts, Towers has walked two or less an amazing 104 times.
Of course, opposing batters also have a .490 slugging percentage against him in his career.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 8:14 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Josh Towers has walked just 1.51 batters per 9 IP in his career. Since 2001, only ones better are Radke, Lieber, Schilling, Maddux, & Wells
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 8:17 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Josh Towers facts
As good as he is on limiting walks, he also has the 3rd most hits/9 (10.92) & 12th worst K/9 (4.79) from 2001-09
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 8:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
2006-2009 in the majors
(he didn’t play in the majors in 2008)
Towers was 7-20 with a 6.40 ERA (70 ERA+). He made 27 starts, and only five were quality starts
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 8:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
His FIP over that period was ~5.27
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 8:52 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, I was going for the record for commenting on myself
But you already beat me to it!
by Cool Dudes on Dec 11, 2009 11:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Based on your stats, he can now take over your pitching nickname, “The Human Tee”.
by KellyStephen on Dec 12, 2009 6:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Is it his golf nickname too?
Now here’s a very willing female:
The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
by David Young on Dec 12, 2009 8:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Looking at his stats
His 2005 with Toronto really stands out. What made his ERA so good that year?
I think the answer is, literally, luck: he was lucky that the official scorer marked down so many of his runs as unearned. 15 unearned runs. ERA 3.71; RA of 4.35.
The Ultimate Ned's Kind of Guy
by Humma Kavula on Dec 11, 2009 8:57 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Some luck, yep
His FIP in 2005 was 3.94 and his x-FIP was 4.18
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmm
Well, that’s still considerably better than his performance that followed. His homer and walk rates jumped — waay jumped — in ‘06, but both were back to normal (or, at least, much closer to normal) in ’07… he just couldn’t keep runs off the board. In ‘09 he couldn’t strike anybody out, but walk/homer rates look OK.
What made 2005 different? Is there any reason to believe that he can get some of that back?
The Ultimate Ned's Kind of Guy
by Humma Kavula on Dec 11, 2009 9:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I haven’t seen any scouting reports or anything, but he has fringe stuff. He relies on pinpoint control, so when he’s on he can be serviceable. But he just gives up too many homers to be effective for any sustained period.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Towers did end his AAA season
with 28 straight scoreless innings. So he’s got that going for him.
But he was a bit lucky there too (~3.26 FIP). Over that time, he gave up 14 hits, 11 walks, and had 15 Ks (well that was over the final 27 IP…the other inning was his final inning of his July 28 start, but I don’t have the play-by-play data for that game).
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:05 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
BA Top 10 for the Decade:
1. Eric Gagne
2. Matt Kemp
3. Russell Martin
4. Chad Billingsley
5. Clayton Kershaw
6. Jonathan Broxton
7. Edwin Jackson
8. Franklin Gutierrez
9. James Loney
10. Willy Aybar
Um, where is Ethier??? And Martin is way too high.
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 9:14 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Ethier
He was never ranked as a Dodger, but was #4 for the A’s in the 2006 book (which was published in December or January)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
yet A's fans seems perfectly content with the trade
well, not PERFECTLY, but I saw a post on their blog one time discussing it, and the consensus view was, “Yeah, Ethier’s really good, but I wouldn’t trade 2006 for anything.” Is this just the magic of Billy Beane at play here? Can you imagine if Carlos Santana becomes the next Tony Pena+ (and I know you can!), Dodger fans saying, “Yeah, but I wouldn’t trade 2008 for anything.” Heck- we’re not saying that NOW!
by sarcastro9 on Dec 11, 2009 9:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
on the A's list, no doubt
And Juan Pierre is #6 on the Rockies, FYI.
(Whatever measurement they’re using here, it’s clearly not success reached AFTER they hit the bigs. Maybe it’s based on how they were projected at the height of their minor league careers?)
by sarcastro9 on Dec 11, 2009 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No, I thought it was after they reached the majors. If we’re talking minor league peak, Greg Miller might be #1.
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 9:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The point is Ethier was never really a Dodger prospect, at least in terms of Baseball America’s publishing deadlines. If Ethier was acquired in mid-2005 or something, and had time to appear in the 2006 book as a Dodger, we would probably have a different outcome today.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's fine
I didn’t start buying the books until 2007, so I was just going by the website. And the website ranked the A’s after the Bradley trade.
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 9:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
The Dodgers were the #1 ranked system in the 2006 book, but Justin Upton hadn’t yet signed. Once he signed, the D-Backs moved up, and the Dodgers moved to #2.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ethier
Ethier went from being an A’s prospect to being a major-league Dodger, so no point in ranking him on that list.
What is interesting to is Billingsley over Kershaw. In fact, I would like to know exactly what criteria were used for making the list.
by CanuckDodger on Dec 11, 2009 9:17 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Hoffman
I read on MOKM that Hoffman’s agent put a clause in his contract that if he wasnt in the majors at a certain point/for a certain amount of time, he couldnt be put on the roster until after the Rule 5 draft… basically so that he could get another shot with another organization… Smart by his agent, but it isnt the Dodgers fault that we didnt protect him, we legally couldnt
by lakersdodgersyankees4life on Dec 11, 2009 9:29 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
It certainly is the Dodgers fault
because in order for Hoffman to be a free agent (for two days) in the first place, to be able to sign that contract with that clause, they designated him for assignment in September. They could have chosen Repko to DFA instead — to keep Hoffmann on the 40-man — but for some reason decided to keep the inferior player.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 9:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I believe they kept Repko over Hoffmann due to pinch running ability. Sad but true.
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 9:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Colletti puts a lot of value on major-league experience. Repko has a fair amount. As does the subject of this article.
The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
by David Young on Dec 12, 2009 8:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
James had a great night for Licey again.
7IP 1 ER. Fastball was good on the corners(sitting around 93), curve in the dirt, change got some ground outs. That is 12IP/2ER in last 2 starts. Announcers were saying that Licey told him before his last start that if he did not start producing he was getting sent out. Ronnie Belliard looks like he put on 10 pounds if you an believe that. I had no idea that they call Eric Byrnes Captain America.
The last week of DR baseball is always good. This is when the stars start to come out.
by delias man on Dec 11, 2009 10:03 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
What channel are those games on? I always forget about them.
I can’t find the article right now, but a few years back there was a great article on Eric Byrnes and his legendary status in the Dominican winter leagues. Apparently the DR enjoys fake hustle :)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 10:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I found it on ESPN Deportes
but I don’t subscribe to that channel. Alas.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 11, 2009 10:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I bought the Spanish package years ago to watch more football. They used to be the only channel to watch champions league games
by delias man on Dec 11, 2009 10:32 PM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
C,mon … put another log in the hot stove
by 68elcamino427 on Dec 11, 2009 10:11 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Finally
I can stop hanging my hopes on Miller the Tattooed Lady being the team’s biggest free-agent pickup
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 11, 2009 10:12 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Does anyone think Towers even has a legitimate shot cracking the rotation. His numbers reflect that he pitches to contact and maybe Dodger Stadium is big enough to limit the homeruns given up. I don’t want him to be oir answer. We wouid be better with Elbert/McDonald as our #4 & #5 respectively.
by VeroJoe on Dec 11, 2009 10:13 PM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Nope
He’ll likely be in the Isotopes rotation.
by silverwidow on Dec 11, 2009 10:22 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Making 90,000 for 6 months of baseball isn’t bad. Of course guys like Josh Wall are the exception, not the typical guy playing in Triple-A.
by Tripon on Dec 11, 2009 10:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
As a Rockies fan, and as someone somewhat familiar with Towers' abilities,
I can only hope this happens. If Towers does appear in your rotation this year, it means some very bad stuff has gone down for you.
by Rox Girl on Dec 12, 2009 7:23 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dodgers. Last in draftee bonuses. Last in International bonuses. 23rd in Farm systems.
by Tripon on Dec 11, 2009 10:22 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
1st in signing washed up major leaguers
AKA “Dumpster Diving” – DH
by Cool Dudes on Dec 11, 2009 11:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Weird that there's more than 30
comments on the Josh Tower signs with the Dodgers thread on MLBTR. I understand us having a good number of comments here on a Dodger blog, but are people really that bored over there? It doesn’t seem worth quite that much discussion… ;-)
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Dec 11, 2009 11:35 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if letting Wolf go will be the same “huge mistake” people claimed it was with Lowe.
As the saying goes, a year early is better than a year late.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 12:15 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
33 vs 36 years old
BIG Difference, especially when you consider baseball player years in their prime are like dog years.
by Cool Dudes on Dec 12, 2009 12:37 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
2009 Stats:
Jeff Weaver (32) 3.65 ERA 0.81 SO/IP
Derek Lowe (36) 4.64 ERA 0.57 SO/IP
by Cool Dudes on Dec 12, 2009 12:44 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
raygu1 (Burlington, NJ): Kevin-you’ve been pretty vocal about Dee Gordon. Who has the better career, Gordon or Starlin Castro? Who is a good comp for Gordon? I’ve read someone say Jose Reyes and another say Jimmy Rollins-accurate or no?
Kevin Goldstein: I like Gordon better, but he’s way more risky. Castro has a way better shot at a big league career, while Gordon has a better chance of being in All-Star games. I think I through out the Rollins comp. It’s a Rollins tool set, but he’s not there yet, and when Rollins was the same age as Gordon, he was nearly big league ready.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 12:17 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Tom (Chicago): Please further explain your pick of Dee Gordon over Starlin Castro when Castro performed better, at a higher level, and at a younger age in 2009.
Kevin Goldstein: It’s really an upside versus certainty bet. Gordon just CRUSHES Castro on a tools level overall. I think Castro might really be a .300 hitter, but it’s pretty empty with little power and few walks, and while he’s a good fundamental defender, his range and speed are both average to a tick below, and I wonder how long he can stay there.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 12:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Rhys26 (Kansas City): A debate’s been raging on another site, as to who is the better prospect, Chris Withrow or Jenry Mejia? I say both may wind-up in the pen, if they don’t develop better secondary offerings. Care to weigh in?
Kevin Goldstein: I think you’re first comment there is VERY accurate. I like them both quite a bit — there’s no slam dunk obviously better one.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 12:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That commenter is talking out of his ass.
Better secondary offerings? You mean, like this at 1:31?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4L32qiplAg
Or how about this at 1:04:
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 12:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
seriously
withrow throws a great curve.. they no nothing of withrow over in that site..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 1:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand this guy's comment
Castro did do his work at a younger age, and at higher levels, but in no way that I can see did he perform better than Gordon…
by BFDC on Dec 12, 2009 11:59 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He is a low walk, low strikeout pitcher, averaging 1.5 walks and 4.8 walks per nine innings in his major league career.
i think it meant to say 1.5 walks and 4.8 Strikeouts
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 1:45 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of minor leaguers
In addition to the list of 2010 NRI on the left side of the front page, I added a page will all the minor league signings.
I found this 2008 video of Prentice Redman (and Josh Womack) doing some crazy bat spinning tricks. Womack’s is much cooler, but both are awesome.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 8:28 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Here’s another video of Redman in an interview last year during winter leagues.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 8:31 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If the Dodgers want a 4th OF who can mash lefties
Jonny Gomes might be available by tonight. The Reds are undecided as to whether to tender him a contract.
Career .274/.369/.517 against LHP. Yes please.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:06 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Another candidate
is Ryan Garko, for backup 1B.
.313/.392/.495 career against LHP, would be great backup at 1B for James Loney
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
“Kills” is not the adjective to use. .278/.345/.410 career
His first two seasons (.850 OPS and .866 OPS against LHP) were fueled by BABIP of .389 and .359
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:15 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
still the problem last year wasn’t Loney with lefties. It was Loney with right handers.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 9:17 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Garko is still a very nice option off the bench to PH
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:18 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He fits the requirement of likely being cheap (probably $1.5m or less), young, and reasonably productive (at least against RHP)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:19 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why would he settle for a bench job then there’s other teams like the Mariners or Mets who need a 1B?
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 9:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s certainly possible, but not probable, considering how Garko struggled overall the last two seasons. He wouldn’t make more than $3m in arbitration, and if there was a demand for him the Giants would just tender him a contract and try to trade him.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
and yes, I’m aware that Garko is basically the RH Loney.
2008-2009
Loney: 104 OPS+
Garko: 102 OPS+
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:28 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Loney is of course 3 years younger though :)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be a verb, my friend. Your middle-school grammar teacher just gagged.
The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
by David Young on Dec 12, 2009 8:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
One thing to note
My Gomes and Garko plan wouldn’t work if the Dodgers decide to carry 13 pitchers, which might be a viable option (a deep pen) with the proposed pitching staff.
With 13 pitchers, you only have a 4-man bench. You gotta have a backup catcher, and a backup middle infielder, so that leaves just two spots. On the proposed setup (assuming Pierre is traded), only Kemp can play CF (Gomes can barely play the corner spots, so no chance in CF) so we would need another OF who can play CF. In this case I would go with Paul over Repko to give a LHB option.
Consider also that the Dodgers will likely sign a veteran backup infielder to team with DeWitt at 2B, so really three spots on the bench are already taken:
Ausmus / backup C
Hu / backup SS/MI
Belliard / backup 2B/3B
Repko/Paul / backup OF
In this case, Blake can be the backup 1B (with DeWitt/Belliard at 3B) if needed, so Garko is not likely. There is still room for Gomes, though, especially if Pierre is traded for an innings-eater type like Arroyo or Harang, alleviating the “need” for a 13th pitcher.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:41 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
The most likely non-tender candidate the Dodgers might sign anyway is Kelly Johnson, whose 2009 was hurt by a .247 BABIP.
Braves are trying to trade him, though, so who knows?
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Fun fact about Kelly Johnson
if his BABIP in 2009 was .300 (NL BABIP was .299) instead of .247, turning 13 outs into singles, his 2009 batting line would be .267/.341/.432
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:06 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
13 pitchers!!!!!!!!!!!
Yikes
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 12, 2009 10:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I would much rather use 11, but we know that will never happen. Twelve is most likely, but if the rotation is shaping up as it appears to be, Torre might want the crutch of the extra pitcher, like last season.
Then again, he also might feel the need for an extra bat with DeWitt in the lineup rather than Hudson/Belliard.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
From Will Carroll:
Hear that the Holliday offer from STL is 5 or 6 yrs, value “north of $80m.” Sounds like 5 with some sort of option
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:45 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Eric Stults just turned 30
Not exactly a “young” player anymore. In fact, he’s the 3rd oldest pitcher on the roster (behind Kuroda and Sherrill).
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 9:50 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Heh
The “born in the 70s” crowd is slowly dwindling…
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 9:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Nice to see Jimmy Mac turning it around in the DWL.
Towers should ply his trade in Petco
I’d be very happy to see Kelly Johnson become our 2nd baseman even it requires a trade but can the Dodgers afford him?
Garko or Gomes would be solid RH bench parts. Or the Dodgers could just go even cheaper and give the job to the future Kevin Miller (Russell Mitchell).
If Stults or Haeger were to make the rotation, and it is very conceivable that they’d be better then the flotsam that might be available and affordable for us then I could easily see the Dodgers going with a rotation of
Billz, Kershaw, Kuroda, Stults/Haeger, McDonald or Elbert since that would still only be one rookie in the rotation. The Dodgers must still have hope for Stults since they turned down the option to sell him to Japan.
That may dismay the normal Dodger fan or the fan who aspires for this team to compete for the World Championship but it would be fine to start the year with to see how it goes.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 12, 2009 10:06 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
I think it would be entirely possible for the trio of Johnson, Garko, and Gomes to be had for $6 million or under. Add in $1 million or so for Ausmus or another backup, plus a few million for the difference in the Pierre for pitcher trade, and I think the offseason is pretty much complete.
Note: no way they get all three of Johnson, Garko, and Gomes. But it would be interesting.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:09 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m utterly shocked Ned hasn’t been connected to Marquis yet. I guess that means we’re signing him once his price goes down.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:18 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I think his market needs to slip a bit first before he starts to be connected to LA.
No reason for Marquis not to ask for (and maybe get) more than Penny on a multi-year deal, which as we know is out of our price range.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:20 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, just because Ned was saying he’s going to tender all of his players doesn’t mean there won’t be a trade tonight. That could have just been smoke and mirrors.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:20 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
There’s no reason for the trade to happen tonight though
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Other teams know we’re in a crunch; maybe they’re waiting to see if there’s a bluff involved or something.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Kevin Correia
per Rosenthal:
Padres’ Correia will either be signed to a new contract by midnight or traded to another club
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:42 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
How much could he make if a contract is tendered?
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 11:03 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Good question
He was let go after his first arb year by SF (2008), and signed with SD last year, and earned $1.1m.
He had a decent year, 33 starts, 3.91 ERA (only a 94 ERA+ in Petco) and was 12-11 on a 75-win team.
He has five years service time, and also had two good years out of the pen in 2006-2007. He would probably get something like $4m in arbitration, but that’s just a guess.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
5 years service time
Todd Wellemeyer turned a 13-9, 3.71 season (115 ERA+) into a $4.05m contract last season
career up to that point: 433.2 IP, 4.42 ERA, 99 ERA+, 22-19, 64 career starts
Correia was 12-11, 3.91 (94 ERA+, but depends on how the arbitrator values advanced stats) in 2009
career: 596 IP, 4.36 ERA, 95 ERA+, 26-33, 79 career starts
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:18 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Completely unrelated to baseball but since this site will need all the good cheer it can get this offseason
The Sacramento Kings are having a dollar beer night. A televised dollar beer night.I’m going to go out on a limb and say this is a disaster waiting to happen
It's always darkest just before dawn
by Sordid on Dec 12, 2009 11:06 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Can you say
Indians/Rangers?
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 11:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh boy. Any police officers short of their ticket quota will be able to make it up in one night!
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I saw that yesterday…TBLA RoadTrip, anyone???
by KellyStephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Kelly johnson
Has been nontendered let’s sign him
by SeanMillerSavior on Dec 12, 2009 11:18 AM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
how much would it take to sign him?
1 year 2 mill? it would defintly not be more then 4 mill correct?
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 11:21 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed part deux
I would think it could be done for something in the $2-3m range, possibly with some incentives mixed in.
by EMDarrow on Dec 12, 2009 11:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He will probably have some demand
something like $2-3m probably gets him
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:22 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He probably would have been in the $4m range (somewhere around there) in arbitration (made $2.825m in 2009). I figure the Braves probably asked around to see if there was interest to trade for him, but it was limited.
It’s possible that a team might want to pay Johnson $4m, but just didn’t want to do so and give up anything to trade for him, but I don’t think he will cost that much.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:26 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ryan Church
How can he be non-tendered if he was previously DFA’d by the Braves (removed from 40 man)?
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 11:34 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s still within the 10-day period they had to trade or release him. This just makes Church a free agent immediately (more of a procedural/technicality move).
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 12:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
not much guys. I’ve actually been lurking for a while. My work recently blocked latimes.com so i cant even go on dodger thoughts anymore…This site still works there.
Been following the dodgers behind a veil of silence lately.
by npurcell on Dec 12, 2009 11:36 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Possible benefit, apprently Johnson is a good corner outfield glove.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 11:33 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
I like it
Good semi-regular to have
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Eh, Kelley Johnson doesn’t really excite me in any way. If anything, we might just need a right handed compliment to Dewitt.
by npurcell on Dec 12, 2009 11:38 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
wang
available now too. Might be worth it. Him and Kuo are friends right?
by npurcell on Dec 12, 2009 11:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
If he’s healthy, I would take Wang over Garland. Wang would be cheaper too.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And you can hold up your Wang in the air.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 12:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Scott Olsen too
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2009/12/nats_will_non-tender_lhp_olsen.html
I use to really like Olsen as a pitcher. He’s a fucking douchebag though.
by npurcell on Dec 12, 2009 11:50 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
But he hates the Phillies!
We have common ground!
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
z
I’d like Seth McClung for a possible bullpen role. The Brewers just fucked him up when they tried to start him. As a 6th inning/multiple innings guy out of the bullpen? He’d be good at that role.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 12:03 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
He had a pretty big drop in K/9 even out of the pen in 2009:
Relief K/9
2006 – 8.5
2007 – 8.3
2008 – 8.0
2009 – 5.9
Was he hurt? Besides, I don’t think the Dodgers are much in need of a reliever anyway. Would I sign him over Weaver though? Yeah. :)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 12:12 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It would be fun to see him sprint to the pitching mound
by SeanMillerSavior on Dec 12, 2009 12:34 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
An homage to the master, Craig Lefferts! :)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 12:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Per Ken Rosenthal
Alfredo Amezega is non-tendered
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 12:16 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I would love to have Amezaga if the Dodgers could afford a roster spot on a guy for defensive replacements only (at just about every position), and one who was never allowed to bat. :)
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 12:19 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Let me get this straight
We have a non-tender Wang and a dangling Johnson? I blame Tiger Woods.
by kinbote on Dec 12, 2009 12:46 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
I'd take a flier on him
Biggest problem (especially if the team is going with a four-man bench) is that he’s so limited defensively.
by EMDarrow on Dec 12, 2009 1:54 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Is the PrOPS stat available anywhere
with the Hardball Times stats transition to Fangraphs? Or has that gone into the ether with X-FIP?
by Sam PHL on Dec 12, 2009 2:12 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
dylanohernandez
Dodgers still planning to tender contracts to all of the arbitration-eligible players under their control, a team spokesman said today.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 2:22 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
MWhite and Silverwidow’s reign of terror is finally over as Russell Martin is probably going to be tendered a contract.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 2:57 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Martin really needs to have a good year because I can’t see Ned going through this process again if he’s not worth it.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 3:23 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Going though what again? Not having to sign Jason Kendall or Ivan Rodriquez to a two year contract?
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 3:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No, paying Martin somewhere close to 9 million bucks in 2011 if he’s still a sub 700 OPS guy.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 3:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I think this is a make or break season for Martin
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 3:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He’s not going to get another $4 million raise after this season if he posts another 700 OPS
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 3:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
But will be if his salary is only $5 million in 2010. :)
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 3:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dodgers should petition the NL to add the DH
Jack Cust just got non-tendered
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 3:23 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
in the loosest sense of the word
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 3:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Baseball Purist"Your DH is vastly inferior to the complex strategic moves of the N.L, Now SAC BUNT"
If we yield now, all is over; but if we fight, there is yet a hope that we may stand upright
by Sordid on Dec 12, 2009 3:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Pure speculation.
Not saying it couldn’t happen, but there’s no news there.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 3:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe no news
but if it is between the Cardinals and Dodgers we know who is going to win that deal. The only real chance we have of signing Johnson is if very very few teams are interested.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 12, 2009 7:54 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
very very few teams?
i think it would have to be NO teams.. cause we arent going to outbid anyone..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 9:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like Kevin Correia is staying put
From Marty Caswell, a producer for XX 1090 sports radio in SD:
According to sources, Padres have agreed to terms w/Kevin Correia- it’s in the neighborhood of $3.5 mil- more than they initially offered
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 4:42 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
3.5 million more?
so if its a 5 million dollar deal, they only initially offered him 1.5 million?
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 5:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No. The $3.5 is a bigger offer they initially made.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 5:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No
$3.5 million
pause
more than than they initially offered
Corey Brock of MLB.com confirms…deal is about $3.6m
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 5:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I see an attempt at a dash
after “mil”. Poor spacing, but I think that translates to the new contract is about $3.5 mil, which is more than the initial offer (how much more is not discussed, could be just a little bit more).
by berkowit28 on Dec 12, 2009 5:07 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Such is the life of Twitter…140 characters or less
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 5:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Cross one 2B off the list
RT @Haudricourt: Brewers basically have deal in place for INF Craig Counsell to return. It will be announced on Monday.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 5:49 PM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
lol at tim tebow being invited to attend the ceremony...
5th place finish for him… and 4th to 5th place was a big disparity.. they only invited him cause hes Tim tebone
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 6:04 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
did anyone notice how dominate amarando zerpa our rule 5 pick was in A ball this year.
45 innings and only 19 hits.. yes i know it was a babip of .200 but he struck out over 1 per inning had a pretty good walk rate. with a baa of .130..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 6:11 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I believe he has a pretty funky dropdown delivery; I’m sure that contributed
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 6:21 PM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
badd news
the mets non tendered tim redding..
might ned be stupid and sign him as a 5th starter. hes horrible
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 6:13 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I'm on the sign
Johnson, Wang and/or Gomes bandwagon. All worth taking a relatively inexpensive flyer on. All would add depth to bench and/or rotation.
Anyone know the latest on Wang’s health?
(Yeah, yeah, insert more “your wang is healthy” jokes here)
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Dec 12, 2009 7:41 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Wang had surgery on July 29 to repair a tear in his shoulder capsule. He missed the rest of the season and said in October that he would probably not pitch until May. His agent, Alan Nero, said at the winter meetings that Wang might return by opening day. Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman said it could be anywhere from April to June. So May sounds about right.
by BFDC on Dec 12, 2009 7:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks. Sounds like
he may not really get signed til at least Spring Training, when he’ll have a chance to show where he’s at, if not later.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Dec 12, 2009 8:41 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Wang Warmers
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 12, 2009 7:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Tampa Bay has come to terms with Dioner Navarro on a one-year, $2.1MM agreement, tweets Marc Topkin of the St. Petersburg Times.
The soon-to-be 26-year-old struggled in 2009, posting a career worst OPS of .583.
by Tripon on Dec 12, 2009 7:54 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Garko non-tendered
Lots of cheap options out there
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 8:58 PM PST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
garko is non news for dodger fans
he only hits lefties and unless he can play second, pitcher or left field,(spots on roster that cant hit lefties or are unoccupied) there is no room for him on our team..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 9:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He hits LHP better than Loney and is an option at the very least as PH off the bench. I admit though he doesn’t provide much flexibility unless he can somehow fill in on the corner OF if needed.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:07 PM PST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
dodgers should sign mat maps
if we can get him for the minimum, he would be great pitching in mop up duty..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 9:53 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Ned will have interest in him
Also, DJ Carrasco
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Were any Dodgers on the tender list?
Or did Ned and the gang luck out?
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 9:59 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
No, they decided to keep everyone.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:07 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hooray!
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 10:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
All I ask is that Wang's sinker is still good
Your Wang won’t be fully effective if his balls don’t drop.
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 10:12 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
jose arrendondo
horrible year for the guy… first he sucks during the season.. then he gets tommy john and he now gets non tendered…
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 10:23 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
It does suck for him. Another reminder that baseball is a business. That’s why when players have the hammer in any type of negotiations, they pretty much have to use it.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ex-Braves that went from great to terrible
Marcus Giles had a great 2003, an ok 2004-2005, struggled in 2006, was non-tendered, and played poorly for the Pads in 2007. Hasn’t played in the majors since.
Andruw Jones was once a premium centerfielder, and now he’s improved from where he was in 2008 to become Olmedo Saenz.
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 10:24 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Giles could have played in the bigs for us in '08
but he had a “change of heart” as Wikipedia describes on his way to Vegas to play with the 51s.
Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.
by Mr. LA Sports Fan on Dec 12, 2009 10:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
What about Atkins
Should we pick him up after a down year? Or is he going somewhere to start?
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 10:33 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I would imagine he would find a starting or semi-regular role somewhere.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
no way
he was a product of the thin air in colorado.. and then he sucked big time last year.. the guy is in a decline and has lost his bat sppeed..
by matthewmafa on Dec 12, 2009 10:40 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
However, the most important story of the night
Palm Springs High School won the CIF Southern Section Eastern Division Title.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 10:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I Just realized how much I miss Olmedo Saenz
From 2004-2006, he hit .276/.341/.509 with 34 homers and 40 doubles. Granted, he was out of gas in 2007 when he hit .191/.241/.345, but to have a guy off the bench who can contribute that kind of power was nice.
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 10:55 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Better chance of happening?
.400 batting average (full season)
OR
400 strikeouts (starting pitcher)
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 10:55 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I’ll go with the rate stat that has actually happened, rather than the counting stat that has never happened.
Leading candidates are Joe Mauer, Ichiro and Albert Pujols.
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 10:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Correction
That has not happened since 1890
In the live ball era, the record is Nolan Ryan in 1973 with 383, followed by Koufax in 1965 with 382.
Still, the .400 average last happened in 1941 with Ted Williams. Tony Gwynn got pretty close at .394 in 1994.
by StolenMonkey86 on Dec 12, 2009 11:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If Strasburg is as good as advertised, he might flirt with 400 Ks one day.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 11:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
C’mon man. I can’t even tell if you are serious sometimes.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 12, 2009 11:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
You think a Randy Johnson 2001 season is impossible for Strasburg?
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 11:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He'd have to better Johnson's total that year by 28 Ks
to hit 400, not to mention in this day and age, 250 IP in a season is near as improbable as 350+ Ks.
by EMDarrow on Dec 12, 2009 11:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Let us see if he can hold up for 250 innings. Pedro did the best modern day era when he K’d 313 in 213 innings. Next was Schilling. I’d say the odds are incredibly high that Strasburg never reaches 300 K’s given the pitch limitations these days.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 13, 2009 9:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Since 383 K's is pretty much impossible to beat
Wouldn’t a more appropriate stat to beat is SO/9?
by Julio Nievas on Dec 13, 2009 11:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If baseball makes a complete 180
and goes back to 4-man rotations where Strasburg ends up pitching 350 innings in a season… sure he could do 400.
by EMDarrow on Dec 12, 2009 11:08 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
You guys are killing me!!
Your asking if a guy who yet to throw one major league inning can K 400 guys in a season. Let’s just find out if his arm can even hold up for a full major league season. This ain’t San Diego State.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 13, 2009 1:27 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
well the guy does have a 100 mph fastball
and he does have a plus plus curve and a plus change and a plus slider
by matthewmafa on Dec 13, 2009 2:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And if he’s still throwing a 100 MPH fastball in the sixth inning after facing the Phillie lineup a few times color me impressed but until then I think this hype is whack. He may be good enough to be a major league pitcher right now but to think this guy is ready for the HOF just seems premature.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 13, 2009 6:47 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
But that is the way some of you guys talk about Santana!!!
ok ok… just kidding.
by delias man on Dec 13, 2009 9:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I expect Santana
to be better then Martin by the end of the 2011 season, that is all I expect and that expectation would have saved the Dodgers about 6-8 Million by then and possibly 30 Million from 2012-2015. Compare that to the 2 Million they saved on Casey Blake’s salary.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 14, 2009 7:15 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
To me (especially as someone who long avoided the Santana discussion because I was annoyed by it), it doesn’t matter what Santana does going forward. Even if he never has a major league at-bat, the Dodgers still made an awful decision.
At the time he was traded, Santana was regarded enough as a prospect that just based on probability he was worth far more than $2 million. Now, if Santana ends up as good as many fear he will be, the trade moves into the catastrophic level. But, it’s already awful.
by Eric Stephen on Dec 14, 2009 9:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If Ben McDonald had been as good as advertised, he would've flirted with 500 Ks! LOL
Remember all the hype surrounding him? I lived close enough to Baltimore during the dawn of the 90’s, and as far as everyone was concerned, nothing short of him losing his arm in some sort of bizarre gardening accident was going to stop him from going to the Hall of Fame. The only question was whether it would be first ballot, or second.
by sarcastro9 on Dec 13, 2009 8:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ben McDonald
is an excellent comp at the moment. I think those who are overly excited about Strasburgh are younger then 30, the rest of us have seen so many can’t miss pitching phenoms miss over the long term we hold our breath. Prior actually lived upto the hype before his arm exploded. For every pitcher that grenade going off will always temper my expectations.
Patience is for those who die waiting for something to happen
by Phil Gurnee on Dec 14, 2009 9:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Traded from MIL to CLE and back in the same offseason!
by delias man on Dec 14, 2009 10:53 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
This week's Sarah Morris Whopper
I would be happy to give the Blue Jays Chad Billingsley and Hong-Chih Kuo for Halladay and then sign Halladay to a three-year contract. This week Colletti restated his belief in Billingsley. Billingsley can be terrific at times, but he hasn’t shown that he has the gumption to be the super pitcher that the Dodgers think he can be. In the big games, he has fallen apart. Kuo freely admits that every pitch can be his last. He has had two Tommy John elbow surgeries and still has an arthritic condition in his elbow. I think the Blue Jays would take these pitchers for Halladay.
Thanks, Sarah. That really helps our team a lot.
by silverwidow on Dec 12, 2009 11:27 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
You go Ms. Morris!
Actually makes about as much sense as not …
by 68elcamino427 on Dec 12, 2009 11:45 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
So the Blue Jays would take two pitchers the Dodgers don’t even want.
by Tripon on Dec 13, 2009 12:27 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
it doesn't make much sense for either team
for the Blue Jays, they’re giving up one of the best pitchers of our time for two question marks, albeit very talented ones. For the Dodgers, they’re giving up two key pitchers on their current roster who are under team control for three more years, for a much more expensive pitcher for ONE year. There are other points, I’m sure, but those ought to be enough for both teams to say no thanks.
This is all moot, of course, because there’s no way this is seriously being considered by anyone who can make this happen on either side…
by sarcastro9 on Dec 13, 2009 5:49 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I like reading Sarah
Seriously- it’s like having a probe into the mind of the “fan on the street” at any given moment- or at the very least, any time she writes a new article.
by sarcastro9 on Dec 13, 2009 5:43 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
She has a special
“Gumption Quotient Meter” that you guys just aren’t privy to.
Y’all are just jealous. :-/
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Dec 13, 2009 7:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t’ know gumption was a quotient! I wonder what the divisor and dividends are? Ounces of dirt / square inches of uniform material? (Gumption must be traditional units; it could never be metric!)
The commenter formerly known as El Lay Dave.
by David Young on Dec 14, 2009 2:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
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