While the free-agent market is turning into a small time vending station, the trade market is bracing for a blockbuster of "King Kong" proportions. For the moment, all things Manny go through Baltimore. The latest Manny  trade winds are blowing east with heavy gusts towards Shea Stadium. The NY Daily News is reporting a possible four-team deal with Miguel Tejada and Manny Ramirez acting as the center pieces. The Mets, Orioles, Red Sox and Devil Rays are the ones stirring the pot.

First, remember to take anything the sensationalist Daily News says with restraint. While it's almost a given that Manny is moving on, their are too many pieces to this puzzle to hone in on exactly what players would be involved as part of such a mega-deal. Further complicating a possible four-team deal are the on-going talks between the Orioles and Cubs in a deal that would send Tejada to Chi-town for Mark Prior or Carlos Zambrano. The Mets are also talking to the Rays about a separate deal for Danys Baez to beef up their bullpen. Four-team deals are extremely complicated--- for this trade to occur creating the perfect alchemy is the major challenge. According to the News, this is how the trade could shape up:

Mets Get
RF-Manny Ramirez (Red Sox)
P-Danys Baez (Devil Rays)

Red Sox Get
SS-Miguel Tejada (Orioles)
OF-Joey Gathright (Devil Rays)

Orioles Get
SS-Julio Lugo (Devil Rays)
P-Matt Clement (Red Sox)
P-Kris Benson (Mets)

Devil Rays Get
3B-Andy Marte (Red Sox)
P-Aaron Heilman (Mets)
P-Jae Seo (Mets)
2B-Kaz Matsui (Mets)

Cabbie Analysis

This deal almost makes sense. I still don't think Tampa Bay or anybody else will alleviate the Mets of their Kaz Matsui burden, but maybe getting Marte would make it worth it for them. The problem with this whole scenario is that I cannot imagine that Orioles' general manager Mike Flanagan would be willing to part with Tejada for two average starters, who are owed a ton of money, and a shortstop who is a free-agent next season. I'm also dubious of the idea that the Red Sox would part with Marte in any deal involving Manny.

If this trade really does come to fruition, the Mets would probably have to make another deal because they would then be short two starting pitchers. My Cabbie gut tells me that Manny is more likely to end up in New York in a straight deal or a less complicated three-team deal. Also, don't be surprised  if the Angels resurface as a player in the Manny sweepstakes. The Halos need line-up protection badly for Vladimar Guerrero and they are stocked with high-level prospects and bullpen stalwarts. A Kelvim Escobar, Casey Kotchman, Garret Anderson package might be enticing to the Bosox. Furthermore, Arturo Moreno (Angels' owner) has shown that he is willing to spend for star power, especially if the player is latin. Marketing-wise, the surrounding area of Santa Ana contains the largest per-capita latin community in the Country- a community that would most likely embrace Manny Ramirez as fervently as they did Vlad. Manny would probably feel very comfortable as he would be the 15th latin-born (6th player from the Dominican Republic) player on th Angels roster.

 

 

 

 

 

         
            Carl the Cabbie

I apologize for "Inside Pitch's" little X-Mas hiatus, but I have been in the midst of heavy drama in my first Strat-O-Matic baseball league draft. To understand the title of this blog I will have to... well just keep reading. I'm sure there are a couple of baseball wack-a-doos like myself who know what I'm talking about, but for the casual fan who has never heard of Strat-O-Matic, let me explain.

Myself and five friends are presently drafting six 26-man teams (with a hypothetical $26 budget) from the 1948 National League Season. The draft is a nine-round secret bid e-mail auction. Once the teams are drafted we play against each other in an abbreviated version of the 1948 season (31 Games). While there is now computerized Strat-O-Matic, my friends and I are playing the traditional way--- a mixture of special dice and detailed player-rated cards decide the outcome of each at bat. The rest of the game is managed normally and managers are posed with the same Strato-scratching questions as real Major League managers:

"Seventh inning, all tied up with the bases loaded and two-outs---Do I pinch hit Spider Jorgenson for Sheldon Jones even though my bullpen is trash? I wonder if I should hold Preacher Roe back a day and pitch him on 5 days rest since Musial and Mize are coming to town?  Maybe this would be a good time to pull a hit and run with Pee Wee and Stanky? etc...".

Strat-O-Matic is the father of Fantasy baseball. It was invented by a guy named Hal Richman and he offered his first set of player-cards in 1961. The first set contained 80 cards. After losing money his first two years, Richman borrowed $5000 from his dad with the understanding that if his idea didn't catch on this time, he would go work in the family business. Richman made a few changes---the main one being the realization that partial sets weren't the way to go. So, he offered his first full-set in 1963 and sales soon took off. Strat-O-Matic baseball has been here to stay ever since.

Well, last night my Strato league completed round-two of our draft and one of the managers, a fella named Amado, decided he just had to have certain ballplayers- JUST HAD TO HAVE THEM, 13 of them to be exact for a ******** $23.95! And he would have had 14 except his $4.70 bid for third-base slugger Andy Pafko was rejected because it put him over his entire team budget. Including the $1 Amado spent for two players in round one, he now has only $1.05 to spend for the 11 Players it will take to fill out his roster--- not even Jim Bowden would want that job. This type of Strato-chaos occurs because of the dangerous and extremely exciting secret-bid auction mechanism. Since no one knows what the others are going to bid, it is very easy to overbid or underbid on a player. I learned this lesson quickly, when in round one I payed $3.10 for pitcher Sheldon Jones when the next highest bid was $1.25---YIKES!

The "Amado Blitz" is one of those events that completely changes everyone elses strategy.  Imagine if the NY Yankees had come out of the gates this off-season and immediately signed Johnny Damon, B.J. Ryan, A.J Burnett, Nomar Garciaparra, Kevin Millwood and eight mid-level guys. The chain reaction on the Blue Jays, Dodgers, Red Sox, Rangers, and the entire league would be awesome. A movement like the "Amado Blitz" is akin to a Strato earthquake! Here now is a glimpse of how round-two went down (E-mail communications with our commissioner, Adam Janeiro).

High Noon

I send my Strato-wish list to Commish just before bed on Tuesday night, Dec. 27th. The deadline for second-round bids is Wednesday at Noon. As I lay my Baseball Encyclopedia down and hit the lights, my thoughts are filled with the names and stats of the guys I hope to get in the draft. Strato-Santa is coming to town! Eventually I drift off to sleep with a helpful mantra--- Hermanski, Branca, Elliot, Hermanski, Brancaaaa...  On Wednesday morning I awake pleasently from a dream I am having of Brooklyn Dodger outfielder Gene Hermanski low-fiving teammate Carl Furillo and Braves' slugger Bob Elliot at home plate after hitting a game winning home run. I'm the home-plate umpire and I'm laughing, 'What the heck is a Brave doing congratulating a Bum?'  My eyes open and first thing out of bed I reach for my American Spirits (Cigs), but can't find them. 'To heck with my morning smoke, I need to check on everyone's bidding status. Santa remember, all I want for X-Mas is Bob Elliot, Gene Hermanski, Ralph Branca, Walker Cooper and a partridge in a pear tree.'  I plop into my chair and nudge my sleeping I-Mac awake. Inbox is flashing.

A message from our Commish at 10:36 AM

"Bill's bids are in, waiting only on Amado."

Commish at 11:23 AM

"I'm going to the post office, hopefully Amado's bids will be in when I return."

Our Commish is all business and is ready to enforce the Noon Deadline with or without Amado's bids. I hate the fact that the round will get decided wthout one of the managers, so at 11:24 I send out an urgent e-mail asking for more time on Amado's behalf.

"Adam,

I think you should give Amado to the end
of the day. I agree with you, it's more fun
if everyone's bids come in. Maybe another warning like
Bloomberg to the Transit Union. It took about three
warnings before Toussaint succumbed to the threat of
penalties. But, if you enforce the noon deadline
I understand.

                                                                     Carl"

The next 30 minutes are uneasy. I smoke three American Spirits and down two cups of Colombian Hazelnut. It's now six minutes before high noon and no word from Commish. Then at 11:55 I get this E-mail, titled, "round two part 1 of 5". Amado had made it just in the nick-of-time.

1. Tommy Holmes
Carl: no bid
Adam: .15
Peter&Mark: .90
Bill: $1.50
Chris&Eric: $1.90
Amado: $2.50

2. Nippy Jones
Chris&Eric: no bid
Adam: .15
Bill: .25
Carl: .40
Peter&Mark: .45
Amado: $1.00

3. Eddie Miksis
Amado: no bid
Bill: no bid
Peter&Mark: no bid
Carl: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Adam: no bid

4. Ralph Branca
Bill: $1.65
Peter&Mark: $1.65
Carl: $1.75
Eric&Chris: $2.25
Adam: $2.30
Amado: $3.50

5. Dixie Walker
Eric&Chris: .85
Adam: $1.00
Peter&Mark: $1.10
Bill: $1.15
Carl: $1.30
Amado: $2.00

Wow, Amado, Amado, no bid, Amado gets Branca, Amadooooooo!

 

Next E-Mail came at 12:06

Part 2/Round 2

6. Dutch McCall
No bids

7. Hank Borowy
No bids

8. Andy Pafko
Peter& Mark: no bid
Carl: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Adam: $2.15
Bill: $2.55
Amado $4.70

9. Joe Hatten
Bill: .40
Peter&Mark: .55
Carl: $1.00
Adam: $1.00
Eric&Chris: $2.25
Amado: $2.70

10. Ewell Blackwell
Amado: no bid
Peter&Mark: no bid
Carl: .30
Bill: .35
Eric&Chris: .50
Adam: .55

Amado---Pafko-$4.70!!!!!! Holy **it!

E-Mail 12:21

Part 3/Round 2

11. Bama Rowell
Adam: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Peter&Mark: no bid
Bill: no bid
Carl: no bid
Amado: .60

12. Claude Corbitt
Bill: no bid
Adam: no bid
Carl: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Peter&Mark: .30
Amado: $1.00

13. Grady Hatton
Bill: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Adam: .20
Carl: .30
Peter&Mark: .45
Amado: .80

14. Walker Cooper
Peter&Mark: no bid
Eric&Chris: no bid
Adam: .60
Amado: .65
Bill: $1.35
Carl: $1.45

15. Bob Elliott
Peter&Mark: $1.45
Amado: $1.80
Bill: $2.05
Adam: $2.95
Eric&Chris: $3.25
Carl: $3.40

Amado, Amado, Amado, YES, Cooper and Elliot are mine! Unbelievable, finally Amado goes low. Thank you Amado!

The rest of round two was mostly Amado, but I did get Hermanski (Thanks Santa) and for a reasonable $2.25. After two rounds I now have pitchers Preacher Roe, Sheldon Jones and Ken Heitzelman. Bob Elliot is my third baseman, Walker Cooper is my catcher and Gene Hermanski is my right fielder. I have $11.90 left for the 20 players to fill out my roster.

To be fair to Amado, he did fill most of his positions and put together quite a fearsome four for his Starting Rotation. Take a Look!

                                                           

                             Amado's Fearsome Foursome   
         

                                   1. Warren Spahn ($3.30)
                                   2. Johnny Vander Meer ($3.60)
                                   3. Ralph Branca ($3.50)
                                   4. Joe Hatten ($2.70)

 

 

 

 

 

 

    
     Carl the Cabbie

Good to their word, Major league Baseball (MLB) has reapplied for a permit with the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). The permit is necessary for Cuba to play in the World Baseball Classic (WBC)scheduled for this March. Baseball spokesman, Paul Courtney spoke on Thursday and assured that the application would try to allay any concerns the OFAC has about any monetary proceeds going from U.S. entities to Cuba.

Each team involved in the WBC is scheduled to receive 1 percent of the tournament's proceeds with the winner receiving up to 5 percent. The conflict between MLB and the U.S. government has developed because of  strict embargos on Cuba that do not allow for them to profit from any business venture involving a U.S. entity. The international community has not reacted well to the news of Cuba's possible exclusion from the WBC. Puerto Rican baseball officials have threatened to have San Juan removed as one of the host cities in protest of Cuba's potential non-participation. Israel Rolden, president of the Baseball Federation of Puerto Rico sent a letter on Wednesday to the International Baseball Federation (IBF) stating that the island would decline to be a venue because of the U.S. government's decison. On Thursday, he reinforced Puerto Rico's intention when he said,

"What we are saying is that we should renounce our position as host if Cuba is not permitted to compete".

On another front, Hector Cardona, president of the Puerto Rican Olympic Committee has been talking with other Latin American athletic officials trying to enlist their support. The exclusion of Cuba would actually help Puerto Rico competitively because Cuba is set to play in a first round bracket that includes Panama, Puerto Rico and the Netherlands. However, Puerto Rico has a lot of pride in their baseball and only want play the best.

Puerto Rico and Cuba are separated by only 150 miles of water. Historically, Puerto Rico has always been a step-brother to Cuba. During their long fights for independence- both were colonized by Spain; both agreed to Charters of Autonomy with Spain in 1897; and both were invaded by the United States during the Spanish-American War. A weakened Spain ceded both to the U.S in 1898 (Treaty of Paris) ending the War. Of course, Cuba eventually did gain it's independence while Puerto Rico became a U.S. Commonwealth as well as the launch site for the U.S. military during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Adding to the building drama is a team of Cuban-born Americans that Florida congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart is forming as an alternative to the national team of Cuba. The group is not recognized by the IBF as an official federation. The team already includes former MLB players, Rene Arocha, Osvaldo Fernandez, and Eddie Oropesa and plans on trying to lure Jose Contreras, Livan Hernandez and Orlando Hernandez as well. Through their spokesmen the present group said,

"We would like to represent the team of free Cuba...our lineup is ready"

Baseball spokesman Paul Courtney said MLB is dealing only with groups recognized by the IBF.

Meanwhile, the Cuban Baseball Federation applied some international pressure of their own through a statement on Cuban government television,

"Although we have never competed for money, in order to offer options the Cuban Baseball Federation would be willing for the money associated with participation in the classic to go to those displaced by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans."

The OFAC has not said when they will come to a decision as they begin deliberating on the new permit application.

 

                                  Click On Flags To See Them Wave!
   

The New York Yankees came to the shores of free-agency, but had yet to make a splash. Yesterday, was D-Day in the Bronx and they jumped into the water full-force! In a New York minute, the splash caused a ripple that will affect not only the American League (AL) East, but the entire junior circuit. Johnny Damon is one of the top three leadoff men in the AL (along with Ichiro Suzuki and Grady Sizemore). By adding him to an already potent line-up, the Bronx Bombers are as dangerous as ever. Bombers' general manager (GM) Brian Cashman was banking that Damon and his agent, Scott Boras would come down in their demands from seven to four-guaranteed years. At 32 years of age, four years is about what Damon has left as a dominant player. Once the Los Angeles Dodgers dropped out, there was no team willing to go past four years (The Baltimore Orioles discussed offering Damon five or six years, but never got into serious discussions with Boras). It came down to the Boys in Beantown versus the Bronx Bombers. After the Yankees $52 million offer was tendered, the Red Sox had a chance to match. But, the new young guns in Boston's front office (Ben Cherington and Jed Hoyer) blinked in the end and decided to pass, making Johnny Damon the new center fielder for the New York Yankees.

The Yankees were busy on another front while they were winding up the Damon negotiations. Early yesterday, they signed former Met and injured closer, Octavio Dotel to reinforce their bullpen. Dotel is the latest former fire-baller coming off of Tommy John surgery. The Yankees guaranteed Dotel $2 million for the season and gave him the chance to earn another $3 million to $4 million in incentives. Like Damon, Dotel is 32 years old. He has been a closer or dominant set-up man for most of his seven-year career. The progress of his rehabilitation has the Yankees targeting June or July for his return, just in time for the second half of the season. Last year, Dotel had 7 saves and a 3.52 earned run average in 15 games before opting for surgery. Before getting hurt, Dotel was one of the premier strike-out relievers in the game. In 2001 he struck-out 145 men in only 105 innings and has never had fewer strikeouts than innings pitched in any of his seven seasons in the bigs.

Damon will be joining his fourth team in his 11-year career. Not only has Johnny been one of the most effective lead-off men in the game for the past eight years, but he has also been incredibly durable- not counting his rookie year, Damon has avoided major injuries and has never played in fewer than 145 games in a season. With Derek Jeter, Gary Sheffield, Alex Rodriguez, Hideki Matsui and Jason Giambi hitting behind him, Damon should have no problem extending his streak (8 consecutive years) of scoring at least 100 runs in a season. Heck, with Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams, and Robinson Cano hitting at the bottom of the order Damon could drive in 100 runs for the first time in his career. The Yankees hitters' resumes are so impressive that Damon will sport the second lowest career average in the starting line-up, even though he is a lifetime .290 hitter and has hit over .300 in four different seasons.

While the Yankees starting nine is top-shelf, their bench is mostly driftwood. The present group should see very little playing time. The sprited and hustling Bubba Crosby is presently their fourth outfielder. He is 29, and a lifetime .221 hitter in 163 career at bats (ABs). Long-time minor leaguer Felix Escalona, 26, is their utility infielder. He is a career .209 hitter in 206 ABs. Andy Phillips is another guy who has seemingly laid down roots in Columbus over the last couple of years. Phillips, 29, is the backup first baseman and has a .167 average in 48 major league ABs. Kelly Stinnett  is Randy Johnson's new personal catcher and has the most experience of all the spare parts. Stinnett is 35 years old and a .239 career hitter in 1860 ABs. With the Yanks having cut ties with Ruben Sierra, expect the Bombers to add an experienced and versatile veteran who can play some first-base and outfield. Eduardo Perez and Daryl Ward are two options that Cashman might explore. Another player Cashman has been interested in before, former Oakland A's outfielder, Eric Byrnes is also available now that the Orioles have non-tendered him.

 

                   

 

 

                     

               

 

                

                !!!!!!!!!!!Strike Contingency Plan!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

 

 

 

                                               

 

                                        

On Saturday, thanks to my brother Tony (a longtime-diehard Giants fan), I was able to attend the Giants' final home game of the season- a must-win tussle with the Kansas City Chiefs. Tony was pumped, I was pumped, our friend Loris was pumped, everyone was pumped! Giants' fans stormed through the tunnel confidently, chattering enthusiastically about the importance of this game. Every fan had a 'we have to have it' look on their face. We all knew it was 'win or die', we were going to beat the Chiefs, no two ways about it. The buzz inside was busy and building, KC was going to have to deal with a pumped up 12th man on the field. A guy next to us was so pumped he led a section of fans in booing the lady singing the Star Spangled Banner because there wasn't enough excitement in her voice. "Sing the ****ing song lady this is the Giants' for godssake! Show some ****ing enthusiasm!". This was playoff atmosphere, as a crowd we were good for at least 20-25 yards in false start penalties. Before the Star Spangled Banner, Giants' PA announcer Bob Sheppard roused the crowd with his pre-game introductions. When he introduced Tiki Barber, Giants' fans gave him a long thunderous standing ovation. The crowd would eventually sit, but they might as well have stayed standing because Tiki Barber put on a show of shows late yesterday afternoon. Tiki cut, swiveled, bumped and dragged himself into the Giants' record books by rushing for a dazzling single-game high 220 yards and two touchdowns. The diesel engined Larry Johnson did some shaking and baking of his own (167 yards and two touchdowns), twice leading the Chiefs back into the game, but in the end Tiki was too much.

In the second quarter, Tiki was a one-man highlight film, eluding five would be tacklers--- with fakes and breaks, jukes and dips and just plain determination he skated 41 yards along the left sideline to score the Giants first touchdown. In the third, he broke through the right side and galloped 55 yards deep into Chiefs territory to set up a Jay Feely field goal. Early in the final quarter he continued his record setting dance through the Chiefs' defense and helped set up an Amani Toomer touchdown. He put the game away a little later when from the Chiefs' twenty he took an Eli Manning' handoff around right tackle, rammed the Chiefs on-coming secondary as if they were blocking sleds, added a few dipsy-doos and grinded his way into the end zone for his second touchdown and only five yards short of Gene Robert's record 218 yards (1950).

With under two minutes to go, and the Giants up 27-17, the chances of the Giants' getting the ball back were dubious, but a team inspired to get their leader into the record books rose to the occasion. Rookie cornerback Corey Webster jostled the ball free from wide receiver Eddie Kennison with a jarring hit in the middle of the field and linebacker Nick Greisen jumped on it to give Tiki a final shot at the record. An uneasy crowd murmurred mild discontent that Barber, risking injury, was still in a game that was all but over. But, when the scoreboard flashed how many yards away Barber was from Gene Robert's record, the crowd rose to their feet to cheer the history-making event. On first down, Barber ran up the middle for a yard. The Giants repeated the play on second down for no gain. It was now third down and Barber's last chance. Running behind 14-year grizzled veteran tackle Bob Whitfield and left guard Rich Seubert (first game in three years because of a serious leg injury), Barber hit the hole hard, made a quick cut and tumbled his way into the Giants' record book. The scoreboard flashed and Bob Sheppard's low baritone voice resounded throughout the stadium for the last time, 'Your attention please, ladies and gentleman, Tiki Barber has just set the Giants' single game record for yards rushing in a game with 220 yards...'

Not only was I in attendance for a Giants' victory that will most likely lead them into the playoffs; not only was I in attendance for Tiki Barber's dramatic record setting day; I was in attendance to hear Bob Sheppard's final words as the Giants' long time PA announcer. After 49 years as the MC for Giants' fans, Bob Sheppard and his noble voice have laid down the microphone. Bob, you will be missed by Giants' fans everywhere. Thanks for the memories!

*Bob Sheppard is 95 years old and has been the New York Yankees' PA announcer since 1951 and will continue in his role  as the "Voice of Yankee Stadium". Sheppard will also still work the PA should the Giants' have any home playoff games this season.

Tiki Barber actually set four team records yesterday:

Most rushing yards in a game (220)
Most rushing yards in a season (1577)
Most consecutive 100-yard rushing games (5)
Most career rushing attempts (1846)

Scratch Carl Everett off the free-agent list. Everett agreed this week to a one-year deal to become the Seattle Mariners new designated hitter. While the free-agent market is thin, there are still some freebirds out there who can make an indent on their future team's destiny... but, BEWARE--- after the next storm of signings which is about to occur, the pickings will become even slimmer! This is a good time to forecast the impending storm and take a closer look at the top remaining free-agents.

Outfield

Johnny Damon
The Yankees and Red Sox continue to be the lead dogs in the Johnny Damon sweepstakes, waiting patiently for agent Scott Boras to nod his implacable head and say yes to a four-year deal. Well, the Yanks and Sox are about to get some more competition. Dodgers' general manager (GM) Ned Colletti has pushed the envelope- first by hiring Grady Little (Damon's old manager), then by signing former Damon teammate, Bill Mueller, and now by reportedly offering five guaranteed years and about $50 Million more reasons for Johnny to choose La La Land. However, if Los Angeles signs Nomar Garciaparra their interest in Damon could vanish. The key to the Damon negotiations seems to be the length of the contract. Damon is 32 years old and this is most likely his final big money contract, so Boras in his attempt to increase Damon's negotiating leverage to its highest potential started the bidding at an unreachable seven-year minimum length contract. The Yankees and Red Sox have both been willing to guarantee up to four years, but the Dodgers might be willing to offer five years. The Orioles also might become players in the Damon derby. After a quiet offseason and a Miguel Tejada tirade, GM Mike Flanagan might feel pressure to sign a big fish in Baltimore.  The wheel continues to spin and where Damon ends up is anybody's guess. 

Reggie Sanders
The Blue Jays, Cubs, Twins, Orioles, Pirates and Dodgers have shown the most interest in Reggie Sanders. Since spending the first eight years of his career in Cincinnati, Sanders has become the poster boy for veteran nomads. Keeping with his pattern of a team a year- whoever Reggie signs with will be his seventh team in the last seven seasons. Sanders has never been a durable player, playing at least 140 games only once in his career, but he has always been a consistent run-producer and a good defensive outfielder when he is in the line up.  Keep in mind that Reggie has always played in the National League (NL), so the Cubs, Dodgers and Pirates might have the edge in signing him.

Juan Encarnacion
The biggest wild-card of the bunch is Juan Encarnacion, as he is likely to sign with one of the teams that misses out on Johnny Damon and Reggie Sanders. Encarnacion is a small notch below Sanders as a hitter, but he is 8 years younger and more durable. One of the advantages of signing Juan is his versatility- Encarnacion has seen extensive playing time at all three outfield positions. He's cheaper than Damon, more useful than Sanders and would be a nice bargain buy for the Yankees or Cubs, who are both in desperate need of outfield depth. On the heels of trading two outfielders in the Alfonso Soriano deal, GM Jim Bowden and the Nationals have interest and could become a strong contender for Encarnacion's services.

The Rest
Jacque Jones, Jeremy Burnitz, Preston Wilson and Rondell White represent the final solutions for teams seeking a starting outfielder through free-agency. All have big swings; all have big holes in their swings; and all are over thirty.

Jacque has the biggest upside because he's the youngest, and has a smaller hole in his bat than  Burnitz or Wilson. Jacque is also the fastest and best baserunner of the three (39 stolen bases over the past 3 years). The Cubs and Royals have been zeroing in on Jones while the Pirates and Cardinals have been monitoring the bidding. The Orioles have also expressed interest recently.

Jeremy Burnitz is only a year removed from his best season ever, unfortunately that was during his one season in Colorado. Teams are wary of signing the 36 year old lefty slugger as a full-timer. Burnitz is a .242 lifetime hitter against lefthanders and is usually good for 120-130 strikeouts a year. Allard Baird the GM for the Royals has had the most contact with the Burnitz camp, while the Pirates have also been mentioned in rumors.

Preston Wilson's knees are failing him and he is beginning to enter into Rondell White country in terms of reliability. Both are free and both wield strong righthanded sticks when they're healthy. The Cubs like the fact that Wilson will sign a one-year deal with them while their other favorite, Jacque Jones, will require two to three years. Wilson has also let it be known that the Cubbies are his first choice. Rondell is being looked at by the Astros as a backup if they can't convince Nomar Garciaparra to come play left-field for them. The Twins and Orioles are also in play as possible destinations for White.

Nomar
Garciaparra is on just about every teams radar to play just about every position. As for the outfield- the Indians, Astros and Dodgers are all pursuing him for a corner outfield spot. The Astros have moved leftfielder Lance Berkman to first creating an opening in their outfield. The Indians would put Garcy into right if they sign him and platoon Ben Broussard and Casey Blake at first next season. Should the Dodgers sign him, they would use Nomar in left and occasionally at first-base.

 

                Stay tuned! Next blog we'll look at
            the free-agent infielders on the Market.

 

                                                                                                                  

                                                                                                                        
                                                                                                                               Baseball drawing
                                                                                                                               by John Overmyer

Some obscure wing in the Treasury Department of the U.S. government known as the Office Of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has decided that Cuba cannot play in the World Baseball Classic(WBC) this coming March. The permit wagging OFAC has refused to issue permission under its strict rules regarding any commercial transactions with Fidel Castro and his communist regime in Cuba.

Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) Chief, Gene Orza, and Paul Archey, the senior vice-president of Major League Baseball International (MLBI) signaled that they were not giving up on Cuba's participation when they issued a statement following the OFAC's decision,

"We are very dissapointed with the government's decision to deny the participation of a team from Cuba in the World Baseball Classic. We will continue to work within appropriate channels in an attempt to address the government's concerns and will not announce a replacement unless and until that effort fails."

Cuba has been at the apex of international baseball for a long time. Since the International Baseball Federation' s (IBF) first World Championship in 1938, Cuba has won 10 out of the total 36 World Championships (The U.S. with top college and minor league talent has won once). Even if Orza and Archey do convince the OFAC to grant permission for Cuba to participate in the WBC, they could face another obstacle- Now that they've been rejected by the U.S., it would not be out of character for Fidel's famous pride to flare and for Cuba to refuse its invitation.  If Cuba does eventually join the Classic, it will be a testament to the diplomacy skills of Gene Orza and Paul Archey.

Note

Fidel drawing by John Overmyer

As Bob Sheppard's voice rings out on opening day at Yankee Stadium, "Now playing first-base for the New York Yankees, Nomar Garciaparra", the Bleacher Creatures' echoes erupt, "No-Mar Garci-a-Parra...",  Nomar tips his cap and Yankee fans cheer deliriously and delightfully. Welcome to the future. Yesterday Joe Torre made his Bronx Bomber pitch to Nomar Garciaparra from his red phone, a rare call that usually signals the gift wrapping is under way. It looks like the Yankees might have three potential hall-of-fame shortstops starting in their infield next year.

Garciaparra's agent Arn Tellem is one of Steinbrenner's favorites. He is also Jason Giambi's agent, which means that if Nomar does sign to play first-base, the Giambino's move to designated hitter will be assuaged. Now that Blue Jays' general manager J.P. Ricciardi has said 'No More' to Nomar, it appears that the four finalists for Garcy's services are the Yankees, the Astros, the Dodgers and the Indians. Along with the Tellem angle, the Yankees are the only team of the four willing to keep Garciaparra in the infield. The media attention in New York also creates the perfect market for a great hitter trying to re-establish his value. If Nomar signs a one-year deal for about $4 or $5 million and has a successful season, he will command double that on next year's free-agent market. The Astros are moving Lance Berkman to first-base and are looking at Garciaparra as a left-fielder, while the Indians and Dodgers are trying to upgrade in right-field. Since all four teams are looking at one-year deals, the Yankees should be able to outbid the others.

Because of two serious injuries (achilles and groin) over the last couple of seasons, many baseball observers perceive Garciaparra as an older ballplayer in decline. But take heart Yankee fans, Nomar is still only 32 years old and would be moving to first base at about the same age as another great former shortstop, Ernie Banks. Banks played another solid eight years and hit 214 of his 512 career home-runs after his positional switch in 1962 at age 31.

If the Yankees do come to terms with the former Bostonian, it would add the latest fire cracker to the fabled Red Sox-Yankees rivalry. Garciaparra would probably hit second in the lineup behind Derek Jeter. He could also slide into the seventh or eighth slot if the Yankees keep second baseman, Robinson Cano in the two-hole. Garciaparra is a lifetime .320 hitter and has the 48th all-time highest career batting average in major league history. He led the American League in hitting in 1999 (.357) and 2000 (.372) and has hit over .300 in eight different seasons.

                                                            

                                           

 

                            

 

                            

                            Miggy For Manny

                            Miggy For Manny

                            Manny For Miggy

  
                            Manny For Miggy 

                                       
                   

                 Say this 20 times fast

              and it might just happen!

The Winter Meetings have officially ended, but the lava continues to flow from Wednesday's and Thursday's eruption (see yesterday's blog entry for all the transactions). Earlier today, The Mets completed the Paul Lo Duca deal by sending A-Ball outfielder Dante Brinkley to the Florida Marlins. Brinkley, 24 years old, batted .364 in 214 at bats (ABs) for the Mets' A-Ball Hagerstown affiliate last season. he doesn't project as more than a fourth outfielder. Mets' general manager (GM) Omar Minaya made two other moves--- Last night he drafted righthanded pitcher Mitch Wylie (Giants organization) in the Rule 5 draft and today he agreed to a two-year deal with old-timer and pinch-hitter extraordinaire Julio Franco. Wylie is 28 years old and a nine-year vet of the minor leagues. The Mets will have to keep him on the roster all season, otherwise they will have to offer him back to the Giants for $25,000. Because of Wylie's age and mediocre repetoire the Giants probably wouldn't want him back, allowing the Mets' to send him to AAA at some point. Franco is the oldest player in the league (47 years old) and is the only player that has been in the majors longer than Roger Clemens (He broke into the Bigs in 1982 as a member of the Phillies). Even at his advanced age, Franco continues to be a solid hitter. In 2005 for the Atlanta Braves, he hit .275 with 9 home runs (HRs) and 42 runs batted in (RBIs) in 233 ABs. He is a lifetime .299 hitter and should be one of the Mets' top pinch-hitters this coming season. He will also get an occasional start at first-base and possibly be used as a designated-hitter during interleague games. After signing Jose Valentin yesterday, the Mets'  now have two new utility infielders that are a combined 83 years old.

More Moves Around The League

The Baltimore Orioles are not only having a hard time attracting free-agents, their lone star player has now asked for a ticket out of town. Miguel Tejada is tired of losing and has demanded a trade. Tejada is owed quite a bit of money on his current contract and there are only a few teams that would be able to afford him. The Red Sox could inquire about a possible Tejada/Manny deal. Stay tuned! The O's did complete one signing when they signed yet another past-their-prime player by inking 1B/OF Jeff Conine to a 1-Year/$1.5 Million contract. Conine was previously an Oriole between 1999-2003.

Former Mets' set-up man, 41 year old Roberto Hernandez has agreed to a one year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, who might give him a shot at their closer's role. The Indians signed utility man and former Red Sox' player, Lou Merloni to a minor league deal.

The Anaheim Angels great bullpen just got greater! Early Friday, they completed the one trade of the day thus far when they acquired premier lefty set-up man J.C. Romero from the Minnesota Twins for infield prospect Alexi Casilla. The Halos are loaded with young infield talent and Casilla was only their 4th or 5th best infield prospect. With the price for good lefthanded relievers always high, it seems like Twins GM Terry Ryan got very little in return here while saving only a little more than $2 million dollars. Romero is 29 years old and was 4-3 with a 3.47 earned run average (ERA) last year. Romero's best season was in 2002 when he went 9-2 with a 1.89 ERA in 81 innings pitched. To make room for J.C. on the 40-man roster the Angels designated catcher Josh Paul for assignment.

The volcanic rumblings from Tuesday's rumor mill erupted and blew the top off of the "Hot Stove" yesterday. Like lava streaming down Mount Saint Helens, transactions flowed continuously into today, the final day of the Winter Meetings. Early Wednesday, during the afternoon sessions, winter madness began its descent upon baseball with a furious flurry of free-agent activity. As evening set in, a gust of trades and arbitration decisions added to the chaos. By early morning Thursday, general managers (GMs) were all over the radar in the midst of a full-out frenzy. The dizzying player movement has left fans reeling. The words "Hot Stove" have filled computer caches all over baseball cyberspace. Judge Mountain Landis can be heard from his bench in the sky yelling, "Order, Order in the MEETINGS pleeeeeease!". After a storm like this I think we should all take a deep collective breath.............. AAaaaahhhh! That feels better. Now let's get to work before the next storm surge. Here's the quick and dirty breakdown of yesterday's and today's manic maneuvering.

Breakdown

15  Trades
26  Free-Agent Signings 
13  Free-Agents Re-Signed *
  ?  Arbitration Offers
42  Players Traded
55  Players With New Address
  6  Catchers Changed Teams
26  Pitchers Changed Teams

 

 

 

Free Agent Signings

              Pitchers

RP  Trevor Hoffman (Padres)*
RP  Bob Wickman (Indians)*
RP  Todd Jones (Tigers)
RP  Jose Mesa (Rockies)
SP  Kenny Rogers (Tigers)
SP  Elmer Dessens (Royals)
RP  Mike Myers (Yankees)
SP  Tony Armas Jr. (Nationals)*
RP  Joey Eischen (Nationals)*
SP  Jamie Moyer (Mariners)*
SP  Brian Moehler (Marlins)*
RP  John Wasdin (Rangers)*

             
                Hitters

SS   Rafael Furcal (Dodgers)
C     Ramon Hernandez (Orioles)
3B   Bill Mueller (Dodgers)
OF   John Mabry (Cubs)
3B   Olmedo Saenz (Dodgers)*
OF   Mark Sweeney (Giants)
Util  Lenny Harris (Marlins)*
Util  Joe McEwing (Royals)*
Util  Jose Valentin (Mets)
OF   Jacob Cruz (Reds)*
OF   Reed Johnson (Blue Jays)*
OF   Orlando Palmeiro (Astros)*
C     Todd Pratt (Braves)
C     Paul Bako (Royals)

                                       Trades

Nationals Get                                 Rangers Get    

2B  Alfonso Soriano                     OF   Brad Wilkerson
                                                           OF  Terrmel Sledge
                                                            P    Armando Galarraga    

 

Pirates Get                             Reds Get

1B  Sean Casey                              P  Dave Williams
-    $1 Million Cash 

Cubs Get                               Marlins Get

OF Juan Pierre                                P  Sergio Mitre
                                                            P  Ricky Nolasco
                                                            P  Renyel Pinto

Blue Jays Get                       Brewers Get

1B  Lyle Overbay                            P   David Bush
  P  Ty Taubenheim                         P   Zach Jackson
                                                            OF  Gabe Gross

Red Sox Get                          Padres Get

2B  Mark Loretta                             C  Doug Mirabelli

Braves Get                            Red Sox Get

SS  Edgar Renteria                         3B  Andy Marte
-     $11 Million Cash                                                   

Diamondbacks Get                Braves Get

C  Johnny Estrada                           P  Lance Cormier
                                                              P  Oscar Villareal

Pirates Get                            White Sox Get

P  Damaso Marte                            Util  Rob Mackowiak

 

Reds Get                               Yankees Get

2B  Tony Womack                           2B  Kevin Howard
                                                             OF  Ben Himes

Rockies Get                          Cardinals Get

P  Ray King                                       OF  Larry Bigbie
                                                             2B  Aaron Miles

Rockies Get                           Mariners Get

C Yorvit Torrealba                           P  Marcos Carvajal

Brewers Get                           Braves Get

P  Dan Kolb                                       P  Wes Obermueller

 

Devil Rays Get                       Padres Get

3B Sean Burroughs                        P  Dewon Brazelton
                                                             P  Steve Andrade (# 3 pick Rule V)

Royals Get                              Pirates Get

P  Mark Redman                              P  Jonah Bayliss
                                                             P  Chad Blackwell

Royals Get                             Rangers Get

2B  Esteban German                      P  Fabio Castro (# 1 pick Rule V)

                               
               
           Click On Photos To Enlarge

 

    Carl the Cabbie

 

Now that Omar Minaya has filled the Mets three biggest needs: a power lefty bat to protect David Wright and Carlos Beltran; a starting catcher; and a big time closer, there are three smaller parts he will focus on.

The Mets could use a new second baseman and Mark Grudzelanek might still be targeted, but they could just as well stand pat and play a mixture of Kaz Matsui and the two kids, Jeff Keppinger and Anderson Hernandez. More pressing are the Mets needs for a good lefty bat off the bench and a solid southpaw in the bullpen. Minaya might want to hit his redial button again and get Marlins' general manager (GM) Larry Beinfest on the other end and start talking about what it would take to get lefty reliever, Ron Villone. Otherwise, I think Minaya should go head to head with the Yankees and Red Sox and try to sway free agent southpaw Mike Myers or snag Joey Eischen. I think I can speak for most Mets' fans when I say we would rather not go into the season with Royce Ring as our only option.

Moving more to the left, let's discuss for a moment the Mets' need for a lefthanded pinch-hitter. Now that Marlon Anderson has left for Washington, the Mets have a hole in their bench. Veteran Mark Sweeney is free as a Bird or a Blue Jay or a Padre or any of the other clubs that are interested in him. I would like to see Sweeney be free as a Met. He might be the best lefty pinch-hitter on the market and his agent has already been negotiating with Minaya. All-Time great pinch-hitter and twice former Met, Lenny Harris is also free. He may be 41 years of age but he is still one of the best at what he does. Last season for the Marlins he hit .314 with 22 hits in 70 at bats exclusively as a pinch-hitter.

   

                        

              Cabbie's X-Mas Wish

                         Joy with

        A dash of Villone and Sweeney
                               or
           A dab of Harris and Myers.

  
         
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             
      "You Got It!"                                                                                                                       

                      

 

                                                                                                                           
   
   "Merry X-Mas!"                                                 
    

There is Big News developing in Flushing. The New York Post is reporting that the Mets' are closing in on another deal with the Florida Marlins. According to the Post, the Mets' could wrap up one more deal before the start of the Winter Meetings. The deal reportedly would involve a minor leaguer or two for catcher, Paul LoDuca. The Marlins want youth eveywhere and are probably interested in second basemen Jeff Keppinger and Anderson Hernandez to replace the recently traded Luis Castillo. I'm sure Aaron Heilman and Jae Seo have been brought up in discussion, but I doubt Omar Minaya would include either in this deal. Floyd Bannister's kid, Brian Bannister could also be a part of this deal---but I hope not! Last thing we need to do is part with another good young pitcher. There's always the possibility that Minaya is pushing this deal as a ploy to force Benji Molina or Ramon Hernanadez into signing quickly.

LoDuca will cost a bit less than Molina or Hernandez, but is the oldest of the three. He will be 34 years old this spring. He is owed $12.5 millions over the next two years. Benji or Ramon would cost about $7 or $8 million and would require a three year committment. 

Cabbie Analysis
Hernandez and Molina have much more pop in their bats than LoDuca. Both are also younger and better at gunning down runners. LoDuca threw out only 25% of the runners trying to steal on him last year. If they sign Molina, he could struggle early with his stick while learning the new pitchers in a new league. Hernandez, if healthy would be the best option for the Mets. He is the youngest, is the better hitter, is familiar with the league and has worked intimately with pitching coach Rick Peterson in Oakland where he helped develop the Bayside Big Three (Tim Hudson, Mark Mulder and Barry Zito). I rather see the Mets'  go get readily available Toby Hall (41% throwing out basestealers) than LoDuca. If Minaya goes through with this deal expect Ramon Castro to get more playing time than he would have with Hernandez or Molina around.

Javier Vasquez

The Arizona Diamondbacks are doing their best to acquiesce with Javier Vazquez's trade demand. The Washington Nationals, the Texas Rangers and the Mets have shown the most interest so far. One rumor I heard through the CabbieVine was that the Mets would give the 'Backs Kris Benson and Brian Bannister. Now that is a deal I could endorse!

Colletti Strikes

Well, Ned Colletti has made his first big move as the new Dodgers' general manager (GM). Shortstop Rafael Furcal has agreed to a three year/$39 million contract with Los Angeles. With top third base prospect Joel Guzman almost ready for the big time and Jeff Kent over at second base, this is shaping up into a pretty nice looking infield. It will be interesting to see how the Cubs upgrade their middle infield now that Furcal is off the board.

In The Cards

GM Walt Jocketty and the St. Louis Cardinals are about to get busy. They are closing in on A.J. Burnett (offering a 5th year would clinch it). They are also in close negotaitions with closer Todd Jones. And just today, they were mentioned to be having discussions with the Cincinnati Reds about outfielders Wily Mo Pena and Austin Kearns. The Cards could be willing to part with young pitchers Adam Wainwright or Brad Thompson in any deal. In another move, the Indians signed pitcher Paul Byrd.

 

                                                   Just In!

                                   Mets complete LoDuca deal... 

                               Minaya trades Gaby Hernandez...

                            Mets lose another Pitching Gem...Ugh!!!
                                                                                                                                                                                                           Carl the Cabbie

Firemen Falling Fast

Land lines are ringing, cell phones are singing, e-mail boxes are full! Can you smell it? The delectable aroma of the Winter Meetings is wafting towards us. Monday, is the first official day of the grand pow-wow in Dallas and with another bottle of beer falling off the wall seemingly every other day, one of the main questions for general managers (GMs) is, will there be any closers left on the market by then? While front offices all around the league continue to engage in chess matches, poker faces are starting to crack and the game of the week is Dominoes. Over the past seven days we have seen four firemen vanish from the "available" list. The Mets' signing of Billy Wagner and the Jays' signing of B.J. Ryan has established the top end of the closer market. On the heels of those two mega-deals, the Yankees pounced on Kyle Farnsworth after the Phillies pursuaded Tom Gordon to leave the Big Apple for Cheesesteak Land. That leaves four teams in dire need of an end-game solution and only three established firemen to choose from.

The Atlanta Braves, the Cleveland Indians, the Baltimore Orioles and the San Diego Padres are playing the part of the Missing Closers Bureau. Trevor Hoffman, Todd Jones and Bob Wickman are the last three solid closer options available and all of them are now overvalued. The options after those three are not particularly appetizing---Jose Mesa's days as a closer are near the end and he seems to have crossed into Uggie Urbina territory, a set-up man who is still considered a closer only because of past deeds. Speaking of Ugueth Urbina, he is available again but there is a reason for that. His perennial free-agent status speaks volumes about his reliability. Being charged with attempted murder doesn't help his marketability. Braden Looper can be had, but as any Mets' fan can tell you, he's only a closer because of attrition. No, the closer market is rail thin and extremely expensive. Small market teams like the Pirates, Reds and Royals will most likely fill their closer role from within because of the sky rocketing prices. Making matters more dire is the great lack of set-up men on the market. The Yankees have already given Farnsworth almost $18 million to set-up for Mariano. A lot of teams who missed out on him might fill their set-up roles with the remaining closers. The Rangers, Tigers, Mariners, Cardinals, Rockies, Red Sox and Giants are all looking for substantial set-up options and will compete with the Missing Closers Bureau for their services. Let's take a look now at the possible destinations of the remaining firemen and where some teams might place down the stretch in the 2006 Closer Derby.

Trevor Hoffman

Hoffman is by far the best of the remaining fireman. Tough he is 38 years old, Trevor has shown no signs of diminishing skills (thanks to the best changeup in baseball). He actually tied his career high for saves (43) last year and has saved over 40 games in five of his last six full seasons. San Diego has been virtually the only home Hoffman has known in his illustrious career, but it will be difficult for the Pads to hold onto him unless they add a third year to their latest offer. The Indians have been San Diego's main competitor so far and GM Mark Shapiro has shown he wants to add veteran leadership to his young Tribes' roster. The Atlanta Braves have also kept an eye on Hoffman and would probably intensify their interest if they fail to re-sign Rafael Furcal.

Cabbie Pick
Cleveland Indians
I think Shapiro knows how close his Indians are to winning the American League (AL) Central. He also knows that Trevor is not a power pitcher, so age shouldn't be a deterrent. Then there is the extra allure of Hoffman's pursuit to pass Lee Smith as the all-time saves leader (only 42 saves behind). Cleveland's attendance figures would spike as Hoffman approaches the record. So, I predict Shapiro outbids San Diego in a move that could make the Cleveland Indians the favorites in their division.

Todd Jones

Last season Jones revisited his Detroit days and was one of the top closers in baseball. Though he saved 40 games, many teams are looking at him for a set-up role. The Tigers, Rangers and Cardinals have shown the most interest and all have established closers. The Orioles, Reds, Braves, Yankees and Indians have also inquired about his services. So, the chances of Jones closing next year are about 60/40. The problem with Jones is he doesn't have a dominating pitch, he will be 38 years old when the season begins and until last season he hadn't had an earned run average (ERA) under four since 2000. He is probably going to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the exploding closer market.

Cabbie Pick
Atlanta Braves
Tough call! He probably won't sign until after Hoffman and  he should have the spotlight on him at the Winter Meetings. I'm going to make the Braves the frontrunners here. Since I think they'll miss out on Trevor, I'm guessing that GM John Schuerholz gets aggressive and makes sure the Atlanta  Braves cover one of their biggest needs. The Cardinals are committed to upgrading their bullpen and have been in close contact with Jones' agent, so don't be surprised if they snag him to set-up for Jason Isringhausen. The Reds, Tigers and Orioles are also very much in play as destinations for Mr. Jones.

Bob Wickman

Just when you think the flame is going out on Wick, he reemerges. Wickman had his best season ever and led the AL with 45 saves in 2005 (tied with Francico Rodriquez). He is two years younger than Hoffman and Jones and has been one of the best ground ball specialists in the game for the past 13 seasons. Some teams are skeptical of Wickman's health, but he is now over two years removed from Tommy John surgery and his elbow certainly held up well last season. There has been very little Wickman banter through the grapevine, but that should change in Dallas this week. The Indians are still interested in bringing him back, but their interest seems to wane with every new Hoffman rumor.

Cabbie Pick
Baltimore Orioles
Other than some talks with the Indians, there is really very little insight into where Wickman could go. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Yankees turn nostalgic and make a go at him---they have shown a penchant for bringing relievers back before (Mike Stanton, Jeff Nelson...). The Cardinals should enter the fray, and Texas is seemingly interested in every reliever out there. But, my pick is that he signs with the Baltimore Orioles. This seems like a perfect fit. Wickman's sinking fastball would help temper the threat of late-inning homeruns in the Baltimore bandbox, Camden Yards.

Jose Mesa, Ugueth Urbina, Braden Looper

Personally, I don't think any of them will end up as a closer this season. Urbina has the most talent of the three and is still only 31 years old, but I doubt a team is willing to hand over the closer job to him until his legal problems are straightened out and by that time it might be too late. Mesa and Looper are two names that continually show up on the Rangers' radar. Both will probably be signed as middle relievers and should be the last two of the potential closers to sign.

Cabbie Pick
Who Knows!
Someone will sign Urbina in the Spring if he is not convicted, but as of now it's impossible to say who. I say the Rangers sign Mesa if they don't get Jones. As for Looper, I'm just hoping Omar Minaya doesn't bring him back to Flushing.

Top Free Agent Closers

                                                                 W        L      SV        ERA        SO        BB        H         IP
1. Trevor Hoffman (Padres 2005)     1        6       43       2.97          54        12        52      57.2      
2. Todd Jones (Marlins 2005)             1        5       40       2.10          62        14        61      73.0
3. Bob Wickman (Indians 2005)         0        4       45       2.47          41         21       57      62.0

W=wins
L=losses
SV=saves
ERA=earned run average
SO=strikeouts
BB=walks
H=hits
IP=innings pitched

 

           Carl the Cabbie

 

Bruce Sutter is the only player on this year's hall of fame ballot who deserves to be inducted into the hallowed shrine. Rich "Goose" Gossage, the other closer who has a shot was a great reliever, but does not deserve induction.

Sutter saved only ten (300 Saves) fewer games than Gossage (310 Saves) in ten fewer seasons. He was the dominant National League Fireman between 1977-1984. Gossage was arguably the best in his league for only two seasons. Sutter was also only the second man in baseball history to save 40 or more games in a season (45 Saves in 1984). But, one of his greatest achievements was his invention of the revolutionary split-fingered fastball.

Reliever Mike Stanton recently intimated that curtailing amphetamines use this season will be more of a challenge than curtailing steroids. Some insiders have speculated that 70% to 80% of all baseball players use a pre-game stimulant of some kind. Now that Major League baseball is testing for amphetamine use, how many players do you think will get suspended for this infraction? Do you think it will be a bigger problem than steroids? Personally, I think middle relievers will be hardest hit. I wouldn't be surprised to see at least 10 to 20 guys take a seat because of "Greenie" abuse. Let me know what you think in the "Comments" section.