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Post by jumbo on May 23, 2007 12:00:05 GMT -5
O's discuss firing manager Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 04:17AM ET Orioles executives have declined to publicly talk about Sam Perlozzo's status, which has only added to the speculation that the manager's job is insecure. However, according to one club source, there has been significant discussion in the warehouse about whether Perlozzo is the right man for the job and about whether firing him will fix the Orioles' problems.--Baltimore Sun
Devil Ray barred from wife's school Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 08:40AM ET In late April, Tampa Bay Devil Rays outfielder Elijah Dukes barged into his wife's middle school classroom at lunchtime. He was so irate that she ran to get the principal and a deputy, who banned Dukes from the property, records show. Twice in the last month, the wife of the Tampa native has filed requests for protection against him.--St. Petersburg Times
Angels won't offer Percival contract Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 07:03AM ET The Angels have no interest in signing former closer Troy Percival, General Manager Bill Stoneman said Tuesday. Percival said his fastball is up to 91 and 92 mph -- "probably as good as it's going to get" -- and said he hopes to be "game-ready" in three to four weeks.--Los Angeles Times
Gregg to remain Marlins' closer Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 06:42AM ET The Marlins' ever-changing closer role belongs to Kevin Gregg these days, and when Henry Owens comes off the disabled list, the job will still belong to Gregg.--Miami Herald
Rangers manager learns to hold tongue Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 07:41AM ET Ron Washington has taken a step back in his managerial style. The Rangers manager said Tuesday that he has had to learn to hold his tongue when distributing opinions -- or at least to deliver those opinions with more tact. Washington credited batting coach Rudy Jaramillo with helping turn around the Rangers hitting attack in recent days, and said a key was that the manager had to allow the message to come from the coach.--Dallas Morning News
Halladay's rehab on schedule Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 07:19AM ET Roy Halladay, recovering from an appendectomy on May 11, pitched another bullpen session yesterday and is on track to return to the Blue Jays rotation by the end of May. Halladay threw 40 pitches on Sunday and felt no ill-effects.--Toronto Sun
Tigers not looking at Teixeira Posted: Wednesday May 23, 2007 09:55AM ET The Tigers haven't expressed any trade interest in Texas first baseman Mark Teixeira this season, a sign that they are content with Sean Casey's production.--Detroit Free Press
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Post by jumbo on May 24, 2007 9:49:43 GMT -5
Frontrunner to be MLB's next commish Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:25AM ET Andy MacPhail is expected to take a job in the commissioner's office later this year -- perhaps as soon as in a few weeks -- and if or when it happens, MacPhail will immediately be considered the frontrunner to succeed Bud Selig, whose contract expires in 2009.--Chicago Daily Herald
Is Zambrano pitching hurt? Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:14AM ET The Cubs emphatically deny that pitching ace Carlos Zambrano is favoring an injury despite outside speculation and amateur analysis.--Chicago Sun Times
Tigers to give Percival shot? Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:11AM ET While the Angels are not interested in signing 37-year old Troy Percival as a player, reports indicate that his most recent team, the Detroit Tigers, will take a look at him.--Los Angeles Daily News
No truth in Harden-to-Boston rumors Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:09AM ET Reports out of the Bay Area, indicating the Red Sox are pursuing Oakland A's starter Rich Harden, are erroneous.--The Providence Journal
Pirates won't drop struggling starters Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 07:03AM ET The Pirates have no apparent plan to remove either of their two struggling starters, Zach Duke and Paul Maholm, from the rotation. Nor are they considering a demotion to the minor leagues.--Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Rockies exec expects change Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:20AM ET Rockies president Keli McGregor addressed the team's disappointing start Wednesday, expressing confidence in both general manager Dan O'Dowd and manager Clint Hurdle but making it clear that the team's results must change.--Denver Post
Road woes hurt Angel's trade value? Posted: Thursday May 24, 2007 08:19AM ET The Angels have discussed Ervin Santana in trade talks over the last year, as a young starter who could bring a big bat in return, but the return could be limited if clubs aren't sure whether he can win consistently outside Anaheim.--Los Angeles Times
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Post by jumbo on May 25, 2007 12:46:03 GMT -5
Will Red Sox replace Coco? Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 08:03AM ET Could the Red Sox obtain someone at the deadline if Coco Crisp doesn't improve? A cheaper rental -- like Philadlephia's Aaron Rowand or San Diego's Mike Cameron -- is possible, but chances are the Sox will be patient with Crisp, if for no other reason than to restore his value for an off-season deal.--The Providence Journal
Lester takes big step toward return Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 06:22AM ET Lefthander Jon Lester took another significant step toward a return to Boston, allowing just one run on five hits in five innings in Pawtucket last night. The Sox have the option of recalling him at any time in that period, but are expected to use the full 30 days to let him build arm strength.--Boston Globe
Phillies ready to replace injured Myers Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 07:03AM ET Phillies closer Brett Myers said he is hopeful that his strained right shoulder won't put him on the disabled list, but a replacement is ready. Two sources confirmed yesterday that the Phillies had notified double-A Reading lefthander Michael Zagurski that he will join the team in Atlanta if Myers cannot pitch.--Philadelphia Inquirer
Marlins interested in Percival Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 09:39AM ET The Marlins' search for a closer has shifted back outside the organization. A source who has spoken with the club said Wednesday the Marlins are closely monitoring Troy Percival's comeback bid.--South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Zambrano won't lose big contract Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 09:29AM ET Carlos Zambrano won't lose a penny this year, because even if the Cubs don't come back and present him with an offer in the $80 million range, he's still going to get that monster contract offer in free agency.--Daily Herald
Bartlett's neck injury may be worse Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 07:55AM ET Pssst: Twins shortstop Jason Bartlett's neck injury could be more serious than most people know.--St. Paul Pioneer Press
Padres may trade reliever for big bat Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 10:02AM ET The Padres rebuffed inquiries from teams about reliever Scott Linebrink in spring training. Now general manager Kevin Towers says he needs to add a productive bat to his lineup, but still isn't inclined to trade any of his major league pitchers to get it.--Philadelphia Daily News
White Sox to move Buerhle? Posted: Friday May 25, 2007 09:45AM ET White Sox GM Kenny Williams is not a July 31, dump-and-chase kind of guy. He's always more likely to be a buyer than a seller. But when it comes to Mark Buehrle, you have to think Williams will look to move him for a bundle if the two sides don't have a serious conversation about the future prior to the trade deadline.--Daily Herald
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Post by jumbo on May 26, 2007 12:22:36 GMT -5
Struggling prospect blames Twins Posted: Saturday May 26, 2007 07:38AM ET Twins pitching prospect Matt Garza said he has struggled in 2007 largely because of pressure to throw more off-speed pitches and because of lingering disappointment over not making the big-league team out of spring training. The Twins sent Garza back to Class AAA in March, saying the right-hander, who has a dominant fastball, needed to throw all of his pitches for strikes. Now, Garza said, he's going back to throwing the way he wants to.--St. Paul Pioneer Press
Pedro predicts great comeback Posted: Saturday May 26, 2007 06:43AM ET Pedro Martinez proclaimed that he is in the best shape of his life, vowed that he will return to his outstanding late-1990s form with Boston and boldly remarked that he could pitch better than Roger Clemens. He is throwing regularly from 230 feet on flat ground, plans to throw from a mound for the first time next month and is still on pace to rejoin the team in mid-August, General Manager Omar Minaya said.--New York Times
Shaky Clemens needs more work Posted: Saturday May 26, 2007 06:38AM ET Roger Clemens will start for Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Monday, General Manager Brian Cashman said yesterday. There had been talk of Clemens's making his season debut Tuesday in Toronto. But that died down after Clemens appeared shaky Wednesday. If Clemens pitches well Monday, he would be on track to pitch against the Red Sox on June 2.--New York Times
Why Schilling is struggling Posted: Saturday May 26, 2007 06:25AM ET Though Curt Schilling is well aware of "little bitty things," some of them mechanical, that have crept into his pitching, that doesn't mean that correcting them will immediately follow. As Schilling continues to criticize himself harshly, Red Sox manager Terry Francona maintains that command of his fastball, as with most every pitcher this side of Tim Wakefield, will take Schilling back to success.--Boston Globe
Missed communication angers Mora Posted: Saturday May 26, 2007 06:22AM ET Orioles manager Sam Perlozzo tries to make the rounds in the clubhouse each afternoon to notify certain veteran players that they'll be out of the lineup the next day. It's more of a courtesy than a requirement. It also can become an issue if he accidentally skips someone. Melvin Mora grew agitated yesterday upon learning from a reporter that he wasn't starting against Oakland right-hander Dan Haren. Mora criticized Perlozzo for a general lack of communication, and they engaged in an animated conversation near third during batting practice.--Baltimore Sun
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Post by jumbo on May 27, 2007 7:30:20 GMT -5
Book: Andruw Jones overrated Posted: Sunday May 27, 2007 08:16AM ET The way Andruw Jones is going, he might not be beyond the Braves' price range this winter. Then again ... The way he's going, the Braves might not consider him indispensable anymore. June will see publication of a book by the justifiably esteemed Jayson Stark that identifies Jones as "the most overrated center fielder of all time."--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Griffey waiving no-trade clause? Posted: Sunday May 27, 2007 08:13AM ET There surely will be the annual discussion of Ken Griffey Jr. possibly waiving his no-trade right. Prediction: He won't.--New York Newsday
Orioles consider bringing Johnson back Posted: Sunday May 27, 2007 06:34AM ET Although the Orioles still haven't decided whether they will fire embattled manager Sam Perlozzo, they have discussed some potential replacements if they do, including one name that harks back to their winning past. According to two club sources, the Orioles will give serious consideration to bringing back Davey Johnson if Perlozzo is let go.--Baltimore Sun
Will teams line up for Gagne? Posted: Sunday May 27, 2007 08:10AM ET With closer Eric Gagne and outfielders Kenny Lofton and Brad Wilkerson potentially available, the Rangers could drive the trade market. Philadelphia, Cleveland, Arizona and San Francisco would be natural suitors for Gagne.--New York Newsday
Rays try to harness Dukes Posted: Sunday May 27, 2007 06:48AM ET Devil Rays manager Joe Maddon, who is trying to be father, mentor, and amateur psychologist to Elijah Dukes, told his young outfielder that he can't stare down an umpire in a threatening way after a close call. Maddon and the Devil Rays organization are trying to change the thinking of the talented Dukes, who grew up in chaos in the tough streets of Tampa.--Boston Globe
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Post by jumbo on May 29, 2007 16:11:01 GMT -5
White Sox Buehrle, Dye on the block? Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 07:51AM ET Without depth in the farm system, the White Sox may consider trading Mark Buehrle and Jermaine Dye in an attempt to rebuild on the fly.--Chicago Tribune
Heated words between skipper, player Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 08:00AM ET With the return of 3B Akinori Iwamura from the disabled list Monday, it was clear that one of the Devil Rays' position players was heading to the minors. When DH/OF Jonny Gomes found out it was him, he did not go quietly. The 26-year-old had some heated words for manager Joe Maddon before reporters were allowed to enter the clubhouse.--Tampa Tribune
Percival to throw for Tigers Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 07:55AM ET The Tigers are expected to watch former Detroit closer Troy Percival throw a bullpen session today. Agent Paul Cohen said as many as eight or nine teams have expressed interest in signing Percival, who has not pitched in the majors since 2005.--Detroit Free Press
Zambrano talks on hold until July? Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 07:53AM ET Though sources say there has been no movement for weeks on contract talks with potential free-agent pitcher Carlos Zambrano, general manager Jim Hendry reiterated that if the Cubs are in contention near the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, he has the green light to deal.--Chicago Sun Times
Angels to replace Figgins? Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 07:16AM ET Erick Aybar, who filled in capably for injured second baseman Howie Kendrick, began taking live grounders at third Monday, an indication Chone Figgins' hold on the third base job might be tenuous. Figgins, who missed all but one game in April because of fractures on the tips of two fingers on his right hand, entered Monday with a .138 average (12 for 87) and has had trouble with his throwing accuracy.--Los Angeles Times
Orioles name new setup man Posted: Tuesday May 29, 2007 06:47AM ET Chad Bradford received a new role in the Orioles bullpen when Manager Sam Perlozzo took Danys Baez out of the setup role. Bradford went from usually pitching the seventh inning, to sharing eighth-inning duties with Jamie Walker.--Washington Post
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Post by jumbo on May 30, 2007 8:27:28 GMT -5
Will Cooper replace Astros' Garner? Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 08:24AM ET If Phil Garner is fired, Cecil Cooper will be the next manager. There's no indication Garner is close to losing his job, but if the club continues to lose, anything is possible--Houston Chronicle
Tigers, Phillies considering Percival Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 08:21AM ET The Tigers had a scout at the University of California-Riverside on Tuesday, as former Detroit closer Troy Percival threw a bullpen session there. "I've seen him throw recently, and he appears to be healthy," said Doug Smith, the school's head baseball coach. Those who know Percival say his loyalty to the Tigers could be a significant factor in his decision, but the Phillies have also been active in their pursuit.--Detroit Free Press
Controversial exit worries A.J. Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 07:52AM ET A.J. Pierzynski is one of the most durable catchers in baseball. But he's concerned that the controversy surrounding him could shorten his tenure with the White Sox. "Of course, I'd love to stay here," Pierzynski said Tuesday, one day after he was accused of spiking Minnesota's Justin Morneau. But Pierzynski has become increasingly irritated that his teammates are asked about him constantly.--Chicago Tribune
Fay: Marlins should pay for stadium Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 07:36AM ET MLB officials would be more likely to approve steroid use than suggest publicly that the Marlins should pay for their own stadium. But Fay Vincent, who was commissioner when the franchise was awarded in 1991, said it's time for owner Jeffrey Loria to do that or find other private financing: ``I don't think there's much choice. People don't want to subsidize rich owners.''--Miami Herald
Angels' Colon headed for DL? Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 07:00AM ET Bartolo Colon appears headed to the disabled list after admitting the triceps tightness that slowed him in early May bothered him throughout Monday's 12-5 loss to the Seattle Mariners, in which he gave up nine runs and 11 hits in 6 1/3 innings. Manager Mike Scioscia said Colon is dealing with "a little dead arm," which is more of a short-term than long-term concern. If Colon alters his mechanics to compensate for his triceps tightness, he could risk re-injuring his shoulder.--Los Angeles Times
Dehydrated Papi due back tonight Posted: Wednesday May 30, 2007 06:11AM ET David Ortiz took batting practice again yesterday but was held out a third straight game because of tightness in his hamstrings. Ortiz, who Terry Francona said will be back in the lineup tonight, blamed the condition on a recent bout of dehydration. He was put on IVs last weekend in Texas.--Boston Globe
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Post by jumbo on May 31, 2007 8:20:46 GMT -5
Angry Jays claim A-Rod interference Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 05:34AM ET The Blue Jays were incensed after Alex Rodriguez interfered with a play at third base in the ninth inning. Jorge Posada lifted a lazy fly ball to third base with two outs in the top of the ninth inning. Third baseman Howie Clark camped under it, but he backed off just after Rodriguez ran slowly past him. Rodriguez said he shouted "Ha" as he passed Clark, who was fooled into thinking that the shortstop, John McDonald, had called for the ball. When Clark backed away, the ball dropped safely onto the turf for a run-scoring single. The Blue Jays were incensed, with umpires restraining McDonald from charging at Rodriguez. John Gibbons, the Blue Jays manager, had words with Rodriguez, who smiled as he stood on third base.--New York Times
Bonds won't diss Aaron, Selig Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 06:36AM ET If Barry Bonds is disturbed that neither commissioner Bud Selig nor Hank Aaron has committed to following the record chase (the latter has flat out stated he won't be in attendance), he is concealing his anger. Bonds' youngest brother, Bobby Jr., recently made it known he's upset that neither Selig nor Aaron plan to be present.--New York Post
Schmidt closer to Dodgers return Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 06:21AM ET Pitcher Jason Schmidt took a giant step Wednesday toward returning to the Dodgers rotation, throwing six shutout innings in a rehab start for Class-A Inland Empire in San Bernardino. Pitching for the first time since April 14, the right-hander gave up only two hits and struck out seven, fanning a rehabbing Garret Anderson of the Angels twice on six pitches. Most important, however, is that Schmidt said he "felt great" after throwing 71 pitches, 51 for strikes. And he averaged 88 mph with a fastball that reached 91 on occasion.--Los Angeles Times
Ozzie threatens Sox changes Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 08:08AM ET Changes, they are a comin'. At least that's what White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen threatened after Wednesday's 7-6 loss to the Twins. Rumors, which have been vehemently denied by Guillen and general manager Ken Williams, have continued to spread that the Sox will have a fire sale if they fall out of contention in the American League Central and/or AL wild-card race.--Daily Southtown
No fire sale for disappointing Cubs Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 08:06AM ET General manager Jim Hendry said Wednesday the Cubs won't be going into fire-sale mode anytime soon despite their poor record and $100 million payroll. But Hendry did allow some tinkering of the roster may be necessary in the near future. Manager Lou Piniella said he had not asked Hendry for more pitching.--Chicago Tribune
Percival to sign comeback deal soon Posted: Thursday May 31, 2007 08:03AM ET Former Tigers closer Troy Percival is expected to sign with a team within the next 10 days. He has thrown 88 to 89 m.p.h. during recent bullpen sessions.--Detroit Free Press
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Post by jumbo on Jun 1, 2007 8:30:57 GMT -5
Did Sheff throw bat at ump? Posted: Friday June 01, 2007 07:42AM ET Did Gary Sheffield deliberately throw the stub of his broken bat in the vicinity of plate umpire Greg Gibson on Thursday night? Gibson ruled he did, and he ejected Sheffield. It remains unclear what consequences Sheffield may face, such as a suspension.--Detroit Free Press
Braves can't afford Zambrano Posted: Friday June 01, 2007 08:39AM ET Don't expect Jarrod Saltalamacchia to be sent to Chicago for Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano is scheduled to be a free agent, and the Braves' new world doesn't have space for pricey imports.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
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Post by jumbo on Jun 2, 2007 12:34:48 GMT -5
Cubs fight tops embarrassing season Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 08:27AM ET While manager Lou Piniella pledged there would be disciplinary action after he meets with both Michael Barrett and Carlos Zambrano before Saturday's game, several teammates said they were "embarrassed" by this season spiraling into insignificance. Emotions had been building the entire game, as Zambrano became frustrated by sloppy play. Then he approached Barrett in the dugout and pointed to his head while yelling. Barrett pointed toward the outfield or scoreboard and said something back. Zambrano then took a swipe at Barrett's head and the two exchanged brief blows before being separated. --Chicago Tribune
Ozzie luring A-Rod to White Sox? Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 09:45AM ET Ozzie Guillen's support of Alex Rodriguez after his pop-up incident in Toronto makes it seem even more likely the White Sox will make a play to sign Rodriguez once he reaches free agency, if not before.--Chicago Tribune
Angels owner: No A-Rod & K-Rod Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 09:43AM ET A-Rod and K-Rod in matching Angels uniforms? Don't hold your breath. That pairing of the AL's home run leader with the league's saves leader doesn't seem likely, according to owner Arte Moreno.--Riverside Press-Enterprise
Sox exec can't make Guillen shut up Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 07:54AM ET Obviously Ozzie Guillen doesn't do well with gag orders. After receiving a call from Jerry Reinsdorf on Friday morning and the White Sox board chairman asking Guillen to stop talking about how he should be fired, Guillen not only felt the need to discuss the subject further, but also sent a message to his critics.--Chicago Tribune
Will Hillenbrand revolt over demotion? Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 08:55AM ET Garret Anderson is expected to be activated from the disabled list as early as Monday, and Shea Hillenbrand doesn't have to be hit in the head with his .238 average to know he's about to lose his everyday designated hitter job. Hillenbrand has clashed with previous managers over playing time, but it appears he will take this demotion in stride.--Los Angeles Times
Glaus will cost L.A. left prospect Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 09:48AM ET The price for Troy Glaus -- or another similarly proven power hitter -- would be steep for the Dodgers. The Blue Jays would want one of the young third basemen, but the cornerstone of the deal probably would be pitching. The Dodgers might have to give up one of their touted left-handers -- Greg Miller, Scott Elbert or Clayton Kershaw.--Los Angeles Times
Brewers want to keep Cordero Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 12:06PM ET General manager Doug Melvin said Friday that the team had not begun contract discussions with closer Francisco Cordero, whose is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the season. "We talked about it in spring and then we decided we just would wait," Melvin said. "We'd like to keep him."--Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
Twins rethink Mauer's rehab Posted: Saturday June 02, 2007 10:28AM ET Joe Mauer's rehab got moving in the right direction again Friday, but the past three days might have added a detour to his path back to the Twins' lineup. A short minor league assignment might be a good idea for the batting champion after all, manager Ron Gardenhire suggested as Mauer's absence reached the four-week mark. That wasn't the Twins' or Mauer's plan a couple of days ago. But the catcher's condition worsened after several days of intense rehab, and Mauer had to back off from his workouts for three days.--St. Paul Pioneer Press
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Post by jumbo on Jun 3, 2007 11:23:24 GMT -5
Did Cubs' Piniella kick umpire? Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 08:09AM ET Lou Piniella might have earned a suspension with his crowd-pleasing, dirt-kicking tirade in the eighth inning of Saturday's Cubs loss to Atlanta. Crew chief Bruce Froemming claimed the Cubs manager actually kicked third-base umpire Mark Wegner during his lengthy argument, which occurred after Angel Pagan had been called out at third while trying to advance after a pitch got away from Braves catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia.--Chicago Tribune
Barrett won't catch Zambrano Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 08:07AM ET Lingering effects from Friday's fight include more than Michael Barrett's stitched lip and black eye because, despite the proclamation of peace, the two will be kept separated on the field. When Carlos Zambrano pitches, Koyie Hill will catch. Barrett will watch.--Chicago Tribune
Lidge would welcome trade Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 09:37AM ET Brad Lidge is too classy to demand a trade, but even when he tap dances around the question it's clear that he'd welcome it. Moreover, it's clear that he's confident enough now to assure you that he can go close for the Red Sox, Phillies, Braves or anybody else interested in a premier closer who has seemingly regained the form that made him an All-Star in 2005.--Houston Chronicle
Homeboy Hunter headed for Texas? Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 10:25AM ET People who know say it could take a five-year contract worth at least $75 million for the Twins to re-sign Torii Hunter, who can become a free agent at season's end. Best bet is that Hunter will end up with the Rangers in Texas, where he resides.--St. Paul Pioneer Press
Rangers fire sale coming soon Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 09:44AM ET The Rangers' sale of players is coming, with Mark Teixeira the top item up for bid, and Teixeira's hometown Orioles "want him bad," according to one official familiar with negotiations. Sammy Sosa has slowed down after an impressive hot streak, but he has shown enough to interest other clubs. The Rangers are big fans of the Yankees' Phil Hughes and Detroit's Cameron Maybin and Andrew Miller, yet they probably won't land any of those players.--Newsday
Story upsets Rockies' Holliday Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 08:24AM ET Matt Holliday arrived Saturday at Coors Field angry and frustrated over an inaccurate portrayal of anger and frustration. Holliday left Friday's game after four innings with a sizable bump on his head sustained in a dugout accident, not a fit of rage as depicted in a local published report. The story said that Holliday injured himself out of frustration, banging his head with his batting helmet and creating a laceration with the sharp bill after popping up in the third inning. Holliday took umbrage with not only the inaccuracy - there was no cut - but that it cast him as a selfish player.--Denver Post
Why Marlins acquired Benitez Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 07:55AM ET Although the Marlins like closer Kevin Gregg, the belief internally was that the bullpen needed more experience. And though a Marlins person noted Armando Benitez doesn't throw as hard as when he was here in '04, his past success here convinced them to make the deal. The Marlins considered free agent Troy Percival, who's coming out of retirement, but don't believe he's ready.--Miami Herald
Tigers tempted by Bosox relievers Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 07:17AM ET The Tigers would love to pull the trigger on a lefty reliever and might even consider J.C. Romero or Javier Lopez.--Boston Globe
Red Sox passed on Percival Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 07:14AM ET The Red Sox looked into Troy Percival, who is hoping for a comeback, but decided against him.--Boston Globe
Mulder returns to rehab mound Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 07:11AM ET According to his agent, Mark Mulder has thrown from 230 feet and will get back on a mound next week in St. Louis. From there he will slowly work his way back, likely making a few rehab starts in June.--Boston Globe
Phillies interested in Rockies' closer Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 09:50AM ET The Phillies would be in the front of the line if the Rockies try to trade closer Brian Fuentes this season or this winter.--Denver Post
Phillies, White Sox to deal? Posted: Sunday June 03, 2007 09:48AM ET If the Phillies are willing to try to get Mike MacDougal straightened out, the reliever could be a centerpiece in a White Sox deal for Aaron Rowand. The Phillies desperately need bullpen help and are letting teams know Rowand could be available in the right deal.--Chicago Tribune
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Post by jumbo on Jun 4, 2007 11:15:11 GMT -5
Trade partners watching Zambrano Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 06:31AM ET Carlos Zambrano's next start on Wednesday in Milwaukee is expected to draw intense interest from baseball's high rollers. The Cubs may not be shopping their emotional ace, as general manager Jim Hendry reiterated on Sunday, but that won't stop general managers of selected high-revenue teams from letting Hendry know they're only a speed-dial away.--Chicago Tribune
What if Cubs let Barrett leave? Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 07:27AM ET Unless the Cubs go the trade route, the top free-agent catchers in November are Jason Kendall, Jorge Posada and Paul LoDuca, all of whom are in their mid-30s, and possibly 36-year-old Ivan Rodriguez, if the Tigers don't pick up his $13 million option.--Chicago Tribune
Salty's future with Braves at 1B? Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 06:17AM ET The Braves got a possible glimpse at their first-base future when catching prospect Jarrod Saltalamacchia moved to first in the seventh inning Sunday. He showed promise and nervousness in two defensive chances Sunday. The Braves already have a 23-year-old All-Star catcher, Brian McCann, who signed a six-year contract extension during spring training. So they will seemingly have to move Saltalamacchia to another position or trade him.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Pedro to pitch from mound Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 05:58AM ET As he nears a targeted return date of mid-August, Pedro Martinez plans to take his surgically repaired right shoulder out for a test drive. The right-hander will throw off the mound tomorrow at the Mets' minor-league complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla., for the first time since he underwent surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff on Oct. 5.--Newark Star-Ledger
Giants eyeing White Sox talent Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 10:31AM ET If the White Sox decide to sell, the Giants might be interested. Two of general manager Brian Sabean's top talent evaluators, Paul Turco and Ted Uhlaender, scouted the Sox in Chicago and Toronto last week. Outfielder Jermaine Dye is a free agent after the season and could be on the block.--San Francisco Chronicle
Dodgers prime target for A-Rod trade? Posted: Monday June 04, 2007 10:26AM ET Alex Rodriguez needs to be traded for the only reason that matters -- the Yankees have a chance to be a better team without him. The Dodgers represent an especially tempting target. They have a ready third base prospect in Andy LaRoche, a potentially useful, Lyle Overbay style first baseman in James Loney, the power-hitting outfielder Matt Kemp, and one of the best pitching prospects in the minors in Low-A lefty Clayton Kershaw.--New York Sun
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Post by jumbo on Jun 5, 2007 10:43:34 GMT -5
Is Lou losing Cubs clubhouse? Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 07:42AM ET It's too early and too much of an overstatement to suggest Lou Piniella is losing the clubhouse a mere two months into his first season as Cubs manager. But his managing style has worn on some veteran players, many of whom spent most of the first two months trying to figure out his lineup patterns and some of whom bristle at his willingness to publicly criticize mistakes.--Chicago Sun Times
White Sox won't deal prospects Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 06:56AM ET Ken Williams agrees with White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen that it's still too early to pull the trigger on a trade. That doesn't mean the always- active general manager hasn't started the process by working the phone like a teenage girl. And while Williams wouldn't go into specifics about which clubs he has been in contact with, he did go into detail regarding what type of return he would be looking for if the Sox were to make a trade. In doing so, he continued to rule out any ideas that it would be for prospects.--Chicago Tribune
Astros to let Jennings go? Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 07:49AM ET The Rockies are strafed daily for trading Jason Jennings rather than paying him. Now comes word Houston probably won't sign him, either, believing his $12 million-a-year price tag too high.--Rocky Mountain News
Phillies, Tigers hot for Percival Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 07:51AM ET The Phillies remain interested in retired closer Troy Percival, whose workout they attended last week. Reports say the Phils and the Tigers are hottest for him.--Philadelphia Daily News
Dodgers closer to miss series Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 07:32AM ET It's unlikely that closer Takashi Saito will be available during the Dodgers' three-game series in San Diego, which begins tonight. But neither the team nor Saito was sure of much more than that a day after the record-setting reliever took himself out of Sunday's game because of a tight left hamstring.--Los Angeles Times
A's seeking relief with Harden? Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 10:13AM ET Bob Geren said it's possible the A's would turn Rich Harden into a reliever. Geren and assistant general manager David Forst soon backtracked, with Forst suggesting the team still views Harden as a starter. That has been the A's stance in the past, and it's a position Harden strongly endorses. But the A's plan is to initially use Harden in the bullpen, rather than send him on a minor-league rehabilitation assignment and wait for him to rebuild arm strength.--San Francisco Chronicle
Tigers interested in Gagne? Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 10:10AM ET One intriguing trade partner for the Tigers could be the Rangers. The Tigers pursued Texas left-hander C.J. Wilson during the off-season, but right-handers Akinori Otsuka and Eric Gagne could be even more appealing now. However, the teams have yet to engage in any substantive talks.--Detroit Free Press
Did Sheffield rip Latin players? Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 09:21AM ET Gary Sheffield is playing for his seventh team. The thinking is, he keeps running out of shrinks and has to move on to a new city. He is alternately one of the game's greatest talents and biggest headaches. When asked in the current issue of GQ about the decline of African-American players in Major League Baseball, Sheffield said: "I called it years ago. What I called is that you're going to see more black faces, and there ain't no English going to be coming out. [It's about] being able to tell [Latin players] what to do -- being able to control them." He just demeaned all Latin players, suggesting they're only here because they're easy to handle.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Inside Teixeira, Washington feud Posted: Tuesday June 05, 2007 08:04AM ET Mark Teixeira's disagreement with first-year manager Ron Washington stemmed from Washington giving Teixeira hitting tips that Teixeira believed conflicted with what well-respected Rangers hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo told him. Washington, who was beloved as the A's third-base coach but is off to a rocky start with the Rangers, told Teixeira he needs to take a lot more pitches late in games (a la Washington's old team, Oakland). While Teixeira complied, he found the instruction offputting, especially since he's been working well for years with Jaramillo, who never suggested such a thing.--SI.com
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Post by jumbo on Jun 6, 2007 13:22:10 GMT -5
Mets to make run at Zambrano? Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 06:19AM ET If the Cubs end up putting ace pitcher Carlos Zambrano on the trading block, the Mets will go after him. According to one MLB team executive, the Mets would be "heavily involved" if the Cubs look to trade Zambrano. The Cubs could potentially deal him prior to the July 31 deadline.--New York Post
Ichiro's agent talks to Dodgers GM Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 09:57AM ET Before last night's game, Dodgers GM Ned Colletti and Tony Attanasio, the agent for Ichiro Suzuki, chatted for more than an hour. Suzuki, the Mariners' leadoff man and center fielder, is eligible for free agency in November. The Padres are among the teams that covet him.--San Diego Union-Tribune
Latin Tigers support Sheffield Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 07:32AM ET Did the Latin players on the Tigers rise up against Gary Sheffield on Tuesday for saying what he said about them? Hardly. Carlos Guillen agreed with him -- said he was telling the truth.--Detroit News
Do Pirates have new center fielder? Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 07:20AM ET Do the Pirates have a new center fielder? They did for one game, at least, as Rajai Davis filled the role last night immediately upon being recalled from Class AAA Indianapolis. Beyond that? Manager Jim Tracy did not say, which seemed to be telling, was how long he might stick with Davis.--Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Phillies' closer targets return Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 07:01AM ET Brett Myers is throwing again. The Phillies' closer made 60 throws from 60 feet on flat ground yesterday at Shea Stadium. He reported no problems, and said June 18 was his target date to return from a strained right shoulder.--Philadelphia Inquirer
Will Orioles draft Boras client? Posted: Wednesday June 06, 2007 05:56AM ET The Orioles - like some other teams - do their best to avoid Scott Boras, baseball's most formidable agent, even though the scars from the contentious Ben McDonald negotiations in 1989 have faded. At No. 5, the Orioles might have their pick of the Boras litter if others pass on his clients because of signability fears. The Orioles most covet Georgia Tech catcher Matt Wieters, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound switch-hitter with perhaps the best bat in the draft. His defense and rocket arm are already ready for the major leagues, one scout said.--Baltimore Sun
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Post by jumbo on Jun 7, 2007 0:57:23 GMT -5
Red Sox irate over season-high 4th straight loss Francona ejected for arguing balls and strikes in 3-2 loss to Oakland The Associated Press Updated: 12:40 a.m. ET June 7, 2007 OAKLAND, Calif. - Joe Kennedy shut down Boston for seven innings, Bobby Crosby drove in two runs and the Oakland Athletics handed the Red Sox their season-high fourth straight loss, 3-2 on Wednesday night. The A’s have ridden their strong starting staff to win the first three games of this four-game series, extending their home winning streak over Boston to seven. The games this week have all been close, an extra-inning win Monday, a 2-0 decision Tuesday, followed by the one-run game Wednesday. Kennedy (2-4) followed up the performances by Dan Haren and Lenny DiNardo, holding Boston scoreless until the seventh inning to win for just the second time in 11 starts this season. He has allowed more than three runs only once all season but has rarely gotten the support he needed to win. But with RBI hits by two slumping players — Crosby and Jack Cust — in a three-run fourth inning against Tim Wakefield (5-7), Kennedy had enough runs to get the win. Kennedy allowed two runs and seven hits and was also helped by three double plays started by third baseman Eric Chavez, giving Boston eight in the previous two games. Boston finally broke through in the seventh when Kevin Youkilis hit an RBI triple and scored on Wily Mo Pena’s groundout to cut Oakland’s lead to 3-2. Kennedy got out of the inning and three relievers finished it, with Santiago Casilla getting four outs for his first career save. Boston, which still has the best record in the majors at 37-21, is now on its longest skid since dropping six straight last August, the final three in Oakland. The frustration boiled over in the eighth inning when manager Terry Francona was ejected by home plate umpire Dan Iassogna for arguing balls and strikes. Oakland has its starting pitchers to thank for a season-high five-game winning streak. A’s starters are now 6-1 with a 1.30 ERA in the first nine games of this 10-game homestand, helping Oakland move a season-best four games over .500. This is the time of year the A’s traditionally have picked up the level of their play. They are now 5-1 in June after playing .500 ball the opening two months, following a similar pattern that helped them earn five playoff berths the previous seven seasons. The A’s took advantage of a lucky bounce to score three times in the fourth inning. Chavez’s one-out grounder hit first base and bounced over Youkilis into right field for a double. Cust, who had only one RBI in his last 13 games, scored Chavez on a two-out double. Crosby, who had six hits in his previous 40 at-bats, added a two-run single to make it 3-0. Wakefield’s knuckleball had Oakland fooled most of the rest of the night. He struck out a season-high eight batters in 6 2-3 innings, allowing three runs and seven hits. Wakefield has lost four of his last five starts with a 7.98 ERA. Notes: Evan O’Dorney, the 13-year-old from Danville, Calif., who won the Scripps National Spelling Bee last week, threw out the ceremonial first pitch. ... The A’s, who rank second-to-last in the AL in steals, stole four bases against Wakefield and backup C Doug Mirabelli — their most in a game since May 4, 2001, also against Boston. ... The Red Sox have hit into at least three double plays in a game four times in six games this month. ... Kennedy’s six strikeouts were one more than he had in his previous four starts combined. www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19082822/
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Post by jumbo on Jun 7, 2007 10:00:08 GMT -5
Ozzie: Latin players unfairly labeled Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 06:54AM ET White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen said unfair labeling of Latin American players during George Mitchell's investigation caused him to participate in a Spanish-speaking video on the dangers of using performance-enhancing substances.--Chicago Tribune
Cabrera good fit for Dodgers? Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 08:04AM ET The Dodgers could use some power, though, so you'll probably continue to hear names such as Troy Glaus and Mark Teixeira mentioned as possible trade targets. A better fit for the Dodgers, however, might be Miguel Cabrera of the Marlins.--Los Angeles Times
Orioles lead Teixeira trade rumors Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 08:02AM ET Trade talk surrounding Mark Teixeira continues to build as the Rangers continue to struggle. His connection to Baltimore (Teixeira went to high school there) makes that an obvious rumored destination.--Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Pirates spring training in China? Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 06:30AM ET The Pirates are interested in having part of their 2008 spring training in China, CEO Kevin McClatchy said yesterday, shortly after returning from a tour of that nation with three other Major League Baseball executives.--Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Mesa may rejoin Phillies bullpen Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 08:10AM ET There is a chance that Jose Mesa could rejoin the Phillies. The Tigers released Mesa on Sunday after he went 1-1 with a 12.34 ERA in 16 appearances, but The Inquirer has learned that the Phillies will work him out to see whether he can help their struggling bullpen.--Philadelphia Inquirer
Tigers to make Maroth available? Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 08:06AM ET If Kenny Rogers is fine, the Tigers can plan on trading Mike Maroth at some point in advance of the July 30 interleague deadline. If Nate Robertson makes it back and pitches with his old zest, somebody will move to the bullpen -- perhaps Robertson.--Detroit News
Cubs consider drafting Calif. 3B Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 07:02AM ET The Cubs have their eyes on four players for their top pick: two pitchers and two hitters, with a college and high school player on each side. The Cubs are rumored to be very high on California high school third baseman Josh Vitters, a right-handed hitter with exceptional power to all fields. Two other possibilities are third baseman Beau Mills of Lewis-Clark State in Idaho and right-hander Rick Porcello of Seton Hall Prep in New Jersey.--Chicago Sun Times
White Sox to draft pitcher? Posted: Thursday June 07, 2007 06:56AM ET The White Sox appear to be leaning toward a pitcher with the 25th overall selection in Thursday's amateur draft. Their short list includes high school pitchers Madison Bumgarner of Hudson, N.C.; Phillippe Aumonte of Gasteau, Quebec; Chris Withrow of Midland, Texas; and Nevin Griffith of Tampa and University of San Francisco left-hander Aaron Poreda or Casey Weathers of Vanderbilt. The Sox also are considering shortstop Justin Jackson of Roberson High in Asheville, N.C., with their first pick.--Chicago Tribune
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Post by jumbo on Jun 8, 2007 9:50:30 GMT -5
Andruw's market value falling fast Posted: Friday June 08, 2007 08:21AM ET Not what anyone, including Andruw Jones or agent Scott Boras, could possibly have envisioned from Jones in the final year of his contract. He's eligible for free agency after the season, and Boras has hinted Jones could command a long contract with an annual salary in excess of $20 million. The way he's going now, that seems unlikely.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Fergie applied for Cubs job Posted: Friday June 08, 2007 07:12AM ET Hall of Fame pitcher Ferguson Jenkins says he applied for the position of Cubs manager after Dusty Baker was fired last fall. Cubs Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg also applied and interviewed for the managerial position that went to Lou Piniella. Sandberg was told he needed experience and he now is managing the Cubs' Class A Peoria Chiefs.--Chicago Tribune
Texas GM denies shopping Teixeira Posted: Friday June 08, 2007 10:27AM ET Texas general manager Jon Daniels denies the team is looking to move first baseman Mark Teixeira, who is of special interest to Baltimore, but Daniels admitted the Rangers figure to be among the sellers when teams start making moves.--Rocky Mountain News
Cubs, White Sox compete for trades? Posted: Friday June 08, 2007 10:25AM ET According to scouts who keep voluminous files on all major-league players, Chicago could be a popular spot before the July 31 interleague trading deadline, even to the point where the Cubs and White Sox could be in "competition" with each other for teams looking for second-half help.--Chicago Tribune
Phillies scouting Rangers relievers? Posted: Friday June 08, 2007 10:24AM ET Phillies special assistant Charley Kerfeld was in Seattle last weekend for the Rangers-Mariners series. Could he have been scouting Texas relievers Eric Gagne, Joaquin Benoit and Akinori Otsuka?--Philadelphia Daily News
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Post by jumbo on Jun 9, 2007 15:54:36 GMT -5
Trial to interrupt Bonds' HR chase? Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 07:26AM ET The attorney for Barry Bonds said yesterday he has been corresponding with the acting U.S. Attorney overseeing the federal grand jury investigating perjury charges against Bonds and hopes the proceedings will be dismissed in the coming weeks. If the U.S. Attorney instead decides to seek an indictment against Bonds before the current grand jury term expires next month, it would come at a time when Bonds is closing in on Hank Aaron's home run record.--Washington Post
Exec wanted Bonds return to Bay Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 11:38AM ET It's common knowledge that Giants executive Larry Baer powered the decision to re-sign Barry Bonds while Peter Magowan, after some initial (and very public) second thoughts, caved in. Mortified by the thought of shrinking attendance and grumpy investors, Baer simply threw all other considerations out the window.--San Francisco Chronicle
Percival signs with Cardinals Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 08:14AM ET Troy Percival's comeback after two years away from the game is nearly complete. The former Angels closer has agreed to terms on a minor league contract with St. Louis. After a number of workouts, he received offers from about 10 teams before settling on St. Louis, where he will probably serve as a set-up man for closer Jason Isringhausen.--Los Angeles Times
Former Phillie making comeback? Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:26AM ET Don't be shocked to see former Phillie David Bell get a workout or two late in the season from teams seeking some infield help - not that his father, Royals manager Buddy Bell, approves.--Delaware County Times
Tigers 50-50 signing Boras client? Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:23AM ET Will the Tigers sign Rick Porcello, the high school superstar right-hander they drafted 27th overall Thursday -- 20-some spots after he should have been selected? At best, it's 50-50. Uber-agent Scott Boras properly wants Porcello to be treated as a rare pitcher, which he is, as much as high school pitchers can be projected.--Detroit News
Rays' top pick remains unsigned Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:20AM ET The Devil Rays began to negotiate Friday with the representative of No. 1 draft pick David Price, but executive vice president Andrew Friedman didn't have much progress to report. Most top picks, especially college players, sign major-league contracts when they're drafted. Friedman said a major-league deal for Price remains a possibility, although a more traditional minor-league contract also is possible.--Tampa Tribune
No help for White Sox bullpen Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:18AM ET The White Sox will have to continue searching for in-house cures for their ailing bullpen and offense. Help from the trade market won't be coming anytime soon. Ozzie Guillen has no plans to pitch closer Bobby Jenks for more than one inning to keep him fresh.--Chicago Sun Times
Indians in market for relievers Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:16AM ET Indians General Manager Mark Shapiro has been keeping a wary eye on the bullpen. The GM already has looked for bullpen help, even checking out Troy Percival, who was forced to leave the game two years ago with a serious elbow injury. Tribe operatives watched him throw about 10 days ago. Rangers closer Eric Gagne, also much injured, has been reported as another pitcher drawing interest from Shapiro.--Akron Beacon Journal
Big Papi OKs Schilling pay day Posted: Saturday June 09, 2007 09:11AM ET The question was asked of David Ortiz: Should the Red Sox give Curt Schilling the $13 million he had been asking for? "Oh yeah," the Sox slugger said last night. "There are guys who are out there making way more money who aren't close to Curt, so why not?"--Boston Herald
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Post by jumbo on Jun 10, 2007 12:46:50 GMT -5
Rangers owner may not trust GM Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 10:05AM ET Can there possibly be a bigger mess than the Texas Rangers, who figure to the biggest sellers, starting with Scott Boras clients Mark Teixeira and Eric Gagne? Perhaps a better question is: Does Texas owner Tom Hicks really want to trust his overmatched GM Jon Daniels with making those trades?--New York Daily News
Boras could hold up Gagne trade Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 09:59AM ET If the Rangers trade closer Eric Gagne -- the Tigers would love to get him as a setup man -- the most interesting negotiation could be the one with Gagne's agent, Scott Boras. Gagne has the leverage of a no-trade clause and could demand to restructure a contract that features $5 million in incentive bonuses -- all based on the number of games finished.--Los Angeles Times
Samardzija failing in MLB bid? Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 09:54AM ET As Cubs prospect and former Notre Dame star receiver Jeff Samardzija warmed up for his season debut in April, the Brevard County (Fla.) Manatees blasted the USC fight song over the sound system. Samardzija is 0-5 this season. The Cubs bought him out of a possible NFL career in January, guaranteeing him $10 million. He has started 11 games this season, winning none, with a 5.75 ERA, a .349 opponents' batting average and only 20 strikeouts in 52 innings. The Cubs moved him to the bullpen last week.--Los Angeles Times
Dodgers, Padres have eye on Dye Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 09:48AM ET The Dodgers and Padres, fighting in the tightly contested National League West, could use a slugger. The Dodgers have asked the White Sox about outfielder Jermaine Dye, according to a source familiar with the talks. The Padres are intrigued by Dye as well, particularly because he would bring a right-handed bat to a stadium with a 357-foot alley in left-center.--Los Angeles Times
Red Sox won't revisit Helton deal Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 09:47AM ET Don't waste much time wondering if the Red Sox are going to revisit trade talks for Todd Helton. Mike Lowell has been tremendous and Kevin Youkilis has continued to stage a surprising power display. Lowell would have been included in the winter deal to the Rockies, with Youkilis moving to third base to make room for Helton.--Denver Post
Devil Rays want pitcher for Dukes Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 07:21AM ET The Devil Rays would consider moving troubled outfielder Elijah Dukes just to get him out of the Tampa environment. He grew up in Tampa, where there seem to be many influences tugging at him. Dukes is very talented and the Devil Rays aren't going to give him away; they hope to get a serviceable pitcher for him.--Boston Globe
White Sox GM seeking trades Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 07:17AM ET White Sox general manager Ken Williams has been burning up the phone lines, and even took a call from Yankees GM Brian Cashman last week on a possible Bobby Abreu-Dye swap, which Williams felt wouldn't do anything for his offense. Ozzie Guillen does his best to keep his players loose, but there's an uptight feeling to this team, a feeling general manager Williams knows has to change.--Boston Globe
Cubs rooting for Cuban buy? Posted: Sunday June 10, 2007 10:10AM ET There may not be a more player-friendly owner in professional sports than Mark Cuban, so it comes as little surprise the ultimate Dallas Maverick has the makings of a rooting section in the Cubs' clubhouse. Ask Derrek Lee, for instance, if he has any thoughts on who might purchase the franchise in the coming months, and the Cubs' first baseman won't hesitate.--South Florida Sun-Sentinel
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Post by jumbo on Jun 11, 2007 19:23:23 GMT -5
Phillies may offer Rowand for starter Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 07:49AM ET If J.D. Durbin or one of his pitching peers doesn't work out, it probably means the Phillies will have to make a trade, one that possibly includes centerfielder Aaron Rowand, their most valuable trade piece and, on paper, their most replaceable.--Philadelphia Daily News
Barrett won't catch Zambrano tonight Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 07:27AM ET So much for that brotherly family reunion of Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano and battery mate Michael Barrett tonight against the Astros. Manager Lou Piniella said the team's scheduled middle-of-the-night arrival into Chicago prompted him to give Barrett tonight off.--Chicago Tribune
Tigers face tough relief market Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 07:47AM ET If the Tigers want to get Eric Gagne of the Rangers or Brad Lidge of the Astros, they are going to have to get in line and make a push. It'll probably take an offer of an established player and a prospect. A lot of contending teams -- including the division-leading Indians -- are looking for bullpen help.--Detroit News
Chipper hopes to return Tuesday Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 06:22AM ET Chipper Jones took batting practice Sunday night and said afterward he could return from the disabled list as soon as Tuesday, when the Braves open a series against the Minnesota Twins. Even if he has to take it slower than that, Jones said he hopes to come off the DL no later than the weekend series in Cleveland.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Dodgers pitcher will test market Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 09:32AM ET Derek Lowe is telling pals that he won't be re-upping with the Dodgers when his $36 million, four-year deal runs out in 2008 - that he wants to test the free-agent market.--Boston Herald
Angels unlikely trade partners Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 09:28AM ET While no one has ever counted on Angels general manager Bill Stoneman to make a mid-summer trade, it seems very doubtful as of now that he will be making any deals by the July 31 trading deadline.--Riverside Press-Enterprise
Twins want switch-hitting DH Posted: Monday June 11, 2007 09:23AM ET If Twins General Manager Terry Ryan is looking for a switch-hitting DH with power, one possibility is Dmitri Young, who is hitting .342 for Washington with 33 RBI and six home runs.--Minneapolis Star Tribune
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Post by jumbo on Jun 12, 2007 16:10:55 GMT -5
Torii to Braves if Andruw leaves? Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:37AM ET Ideally, Andruw Jones stays with the Braves. Not only after this season as a free agent, but forever. Still, if he decides to bolt to the highest bidder with his mighty bat and magic glove, his replacement makes too much sense. Torii Hunter.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Reds dangle Dunn on market Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:32AM ET Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky on Monday declined to comment on an SI.com report saying the Reds have put outfielder Adam Dunn on the market.--Cincinnati Enquirer
Possible relief help for Mets Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:44AM ET The Mets may need to make a deal for relief help before the trade deadline. One NL team executive said he believes the Nationals duo of Chad Cordero and Jon Rauch as well as the Rangers' Eric Gagne and the Pirates' Salomon Torres would be among those eventually on the market. The Rangers' Akinori Otsuka also could be moved, the exec said, though the person speculated that if Gagne were traded, Otsuka would stick with the Rangers.--New York Post
Rowand to Padres or White Sox? Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:38AM ET He's still in Philadelphia, and he has been rumored to be headed to San Diego in a trade. But one can't help but think that somehow, some way, Aaron Rowand will be wearing a White Sox uniform on Opening Day next season -- if not sooner.--Chicago Sun Times
Nats inquire about D-Rays' Dukes Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:46AM ET Several teams have inquired about trading for Devil Rays outfielder Elijah Dukes, with the Nationals reportedly among them, but no deal is imminent.--Tampa Tribune
Teams to call about Trachsel Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 06:28AM ET The Orioles are prepared for the phone calls to come as the nonwaiver trade deadline approaches in late July. Teams in contention for a playoff berth and trying to strengthen their rotation will inquire about pitcher Steve Trachsel. They'll gauge his availability and make an offer.--Baltimore Sun
Lester takes step toward return Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 06:20AM ET Jon Lester had what was described as a "strong side session" yesterday at Fenway in front of pitching coach John Farrell and manager Terry Francona. The Red Sox wanted to watch him throw and then map out a plan for the foreseeable future. It was decided to option Lester to Pawtucket, The plan is to get him up to the majors as soon as he shows he's ready, which could be after as few as two more starts.--Boston Globe
Milton likely done in Cincy Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:48AM ET Eric Milton's career with the Reds is likely finished. The club announced Monday night that Milton will have Tommy John surgery Friday to repair his left elbow. The normal recovery time is nine months to a year.--Cincinnati Enquirer
Garcia's days in Philly over? Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 09:41AM ET Freddy Garcia's season is probably over. His Phillies career likely is, too. Garcia will seek a second opinion on an MRI of his shoulder. As a rule, players don't do that if they're told they have a chance to pitch again soon. They do it when they're told they face surgery. Recovery time following operations to repair such injuries is usually at least a year.--Philadelphia Daily News
Thome apologizes to singer Posted: Tuesday June 12, 2007 10:21AM ET Jim Thome proved to be a better man than some of his White Sox teammates Sunday night at the Capital Grille. The former Phillie came over to the table where Patti LaBelle and several friends were dining to apologize for the behavior of two Sox players who were cursing a blue streak just a few tables away from the LaBelle party. LaBelle's manager says he politely asked the table to talk with more respect for the ladies with whom he was enjoying dinner. An argument ensued, which was ultimately defused by restaurant staff.--Philadelphia Daily News
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Post by jumbo on Jun 12, 2007 17:28:47 GMT -5
June 12, 2007 Milestone Marks What Phillies Fans Already Knew By JERÉ LONGMAN
PHILADELPHIA, June 11 — During the 1920s and ’30s, when the Phillies inhabited a park called the Baker Bowl, the fence in right field was adorned by a giant advertisement for soap that read: “The Phillies Use Lifebuoy.”
This only encouraged fans to add a sour retort: “And they still stink.”
In fact, no team has ever stunk so often as the Phillies, who, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, have lost more games than any professional franchise in any sport. The Phillies are 14 losses from a particular threshold of ignominy — the 10,000th defeat for a club that has won one lonely World Series title (in 1980) during its 125 years of often dreadful existence.
“I didn’t know this until a week ago,” Manager Charlie Manuel said before the Phillies defeated the White Sox, 3-0, on Monday. “It means they’ve had a team here a long time. I don’t think we need to celebrate it, though.”
Defeat has been as spectacular and excruciating as it has been regular. On May 1, 1883, the team lost its inaugural game; by the end of that miserable season, a pitcher named John Coleman had lost 48 times. From 1938 through 1942, the Phillies lost at least 103 games each year.
The franchise has set awful records for futility — with a collective earned-run average of 6.71 in 1930 and 23 consecutive defeats in 1961. And, of course, 1964 brought one of baseball’s most infamous collapses, when the Phillies held a 6 ½-game lead in the National League with 12 games to play and blew the pennant after losing 10 in a row.
“It was like someone sticking a nail in your head and hammering it once a day,” said Tom McCarthy, 70, an actor who plays the title role in the one-man play “The Philly Fan.”
Penurious and indifferent owners, poor trades, suspect managers and some truly bad teams have conspired through decades to influence Philadelphia’s gloomy faith. Here, victory is fleeting and ephemeral, not an encouraging sign that further success is ahead but a taunting hint that disaster is just around the corner in a city where defeat has become the natural order.
No city with teams in the four major professional sports has gone longer without a title — 24 years, since the 76ers hoisted the N.B.A. trophy in 1983. And no team in Philadelphia has come to represent heartbreak as thoroughly as the Phillies, who lost in the World Series in 1983 and have returned to the playoffs only once.
That last postseason appearance came in 1993, when expectation was slain yet again in the most operatic and distressing manner as reliever Mitch Williams, knowingly called the Wild Thing, gave up a three-run homer to Toronto’s Joe Carter in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 6 of the World Series.
“You keep rubbing that lamp, ‘Please, genie, make the dream come true,’ but the genie never comes out,” said Joe Coyne, 55, a produce manager from Havertown, Pa. “It’s always just a puff of smoke.”
Some players learned early to accept, even embrace, that there would be as little joy in Philadelphia as in Mudville. Dan Casey, a left-handed pitcher for the Phillies in the late 1880s, maintained until his death in 1943 that he was the doomed hitter portrayed in the poem “Casey at the Bat.”
Some fans, on the other hand, have been driven to the breaking point. In January 2005, a 41-year-old man was convicted of 79 charges related to fraud, identity theft and computer hacking after pirating and clogging the e-mail addresses of Philadelphia sportswriters. His lawyer admitted in court that his client was obsessive, perhaps even psychotic, but not an intentional lawbreaker. The man had meant only to say the Phillies stunk.
As the team’s 10,000th defeat approaches, it is being anticipated as a way for fans to commemorate their long-suffering fealty. A Web site, celebrate10000.com, is offering a T-shirt and a pint glass embossed with the box score from the milestone. WIP-AM, the city’s roiling sports-talk station, is considering a parade.
“We might be first to 10,000, but we’re first in something,” said Glen Macnow, a host at WIP and the co-author of “The Great Philadelphia Fan Book.”
No stretch was more miserable for the franchise than the wretched period from the end of World War I through World War II. In the 27 seasons from 1919 through 1945, Philadelphia finished last in the National League 16 times and second to last 7 times.
From 1938 through 1942, the team lost between 103 and 111 games each season. The manager during much of that stretch, Doc Prothro, had been a practicing dentist, which seemed appropriate if only because watching the Phillies was as painful as pulling teeth. The staff ace in those inglorious days, Hugh Mulcahy, was nicknamed Losing Pitcher, because those words so often attended his name in the box score.
“They weren’t just finishing last; those were some truly down-and-out teams,” said Bob Waterman, a researcher for the Elias Sports Bureau. “People talk about the financial disparity now, but even in the eight-team league era, there were big differences between the top and bottom. The Phillies were about as bad as you get.”
Ownership failings were, and are, a constant source of blame for the Phillies’ shortcomings. In 1917, the Phillies’ president, William Baker, ruined the team by trading pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander to the Cubs after three consecutive 30-win seasons on the mound, fearing Alexander would not return to the club after being drafted into the Army.
The Phillies also have the dishonorable distinction of having had two owners banned from baseball for life. Horace Fogel was barred after the 1912 season, when he complained that umpires favored the New York Giants and called the pennant race “crooked.”
In 1943, William Cox was banned after betting on his team, which reflected not only on Cox’s lack of integrity, but also on his lack of gambling acumen, considering the Phillies lost 90 games that season, after losing more than 100 games in each of the previous five seasons.
“Everybody hates George Steinbrenner, but Phillies fans would gnaw off their right arms to have an owner like Steinbrenner,” Macnow, the radio host, said.
While the Yankees have won 26 World Series titles, the Phillies’ lone championship came in 1980. Troubling to fans here is that stars like Scott Rolen (St. Louis) and Curt Schilling (Boston) have left to win rings elsewhere. And victory has sometimes brought tepid satisfaction even to those stars who remained. Mike Schmidt, perhaps the game’s greatest third baseman, once complained about the thrill of victory and the agony of reading about it in the scrutinizing Philadelphia newspapers the next day.
Here, not only the Phillies fail. Sometimes, the entertainment tanks, too. On April 17, 1972, a hang-gliding daredevil named Kiteman was hired to ski down a ramp at Veterans Stadium and soar to home plate, where he would deliver the first ball of the home season. First, Kiteman panicked and froze. Then he caught a gust of unfortunate wind, clipped rows of seats, crashed into the railing of the upper deck and tossed the ball into the Phillies’ bullpen — about 400 feet from its intended destination.
“I was just relieved that he was alive,” Bill Giles, the Phillies’ chairman, wrote in his autobiography, “Pouring Six Beers at a Time.” “Generally speaking, a dead body is not a good omen for the start of a baseball season.”
It is not the start of the 1972 season, but rather the end of the 1964 season, that still leaves fans of a certain age feeling gut-punched. There was such encouragement that year — a perfect game by Jim Bunning on Father’s Day, a home run by Johnny Callison to win the All-Star Game, the 6 ½-game lead with 12 to play.
The twins Lloyd and Pete Adams, now 60 and living in Marlton, N.J., were entering their freshman year at Notre Dame, confident the Phillies would prevail. Then, on Sept. 21, Cincinnati’s Chico Ruiz stole home with the great Frank Robinson at bat, and the Phillies lost, 1-0.
“My dad said, ‘They may not win again,’ ” Lloyd Adams said.
Nine more defeats followed as the lead stunningly, achingly disappeared. The brothers, like many, contend that Manager Gene Mauch panicked, repeatedly using Bunning and Chris Short on insufficient rest.
“You were like a zombie,” Lloyd Adams, a retired financial analyst, said. “There was nothing to live for. The whole city was in mourning. A year in Vietnam was not as bad as those two weeks.”
For Irish-Catholics here, there were two defining moments of the early 1960s, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the collapse of the Phillies, said Pete Adams, a comptroller for a boiler company.
“Except with the Phillies, it hurt longer,” Adams said. “Even now, when Gene Mauch’s name comes up, I get the shakes.”
Copyright 2007 The New York Times Company
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Post by jumbo on Jun 13, 2007 10:17:23 GMT -5
La Russa to snub Barry Bonds? Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 11:05AM ET Barry Bonds could become the home run king and fail to appear in an All-Star game in his own home park in the same season. Although he's slowly closing in on Hank Aaron's career record, Bonds dropped into fourth place this week among NL outfielders in voting by fans, who will select the eight starters. And Tony La Russa isn't saying what he might do if Bonds, a 13-time All-Star, is left out by players and fans.--AP
Red Sox relievers don't interest Phillies Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 08:14AM ET Pat Gillick indicated that the Phillies do not expect to bolster their bullpen or their rotation via trade any time soon; one team source indicated the Phillies simply aren't interested in Red Sox lefty reliever J.C. Romero or righthander Joel Pineiro.--Philadelphia Daily News
Jones, Braves not talking contract Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 08:08AM ET Agent Scott Boras told me there's been no negotiations, not contract talks whatsoever between him and the Braves regarding Andruw Jones. And they don't plan to have any until after the season.--Atlanta Journal Constitution
Another argument for Cubs catcher Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 07:23AM ET Another dugout drama with his starting pitcher and another defensive letdown on a crucial play added up to another frustrating night for Michael Barrett. After an animated argument with left-hander Rich Hill early in Tuesday night's interleague game against Seattle, Barrett mishandled a throw from right fielder Jacque Jones in the 13th inning, leading to a 5-3 loss. Manager Lou Piniella didn't address the media after the loss, stewing in his office.--Chicago Tribune
Garcia shows Chicago love Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 08:11AM ET Asked if he'd consider a return trip to Chicago and the club managed by good friend Ozzie Guillen, Freddy Garcia responded: "I don't mind. I like Chicago. I love Chicago, I had great times there, nice city and I know I performed when they traded me. I know I performed."--Daily Southtown
Teen names Dukes baby's daddy Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 07:45AM ET A teen girl who lived in the foster care of a relative of Elijah Dukes has told police the Devil Rays outfielder got her pregnant. Detectives believe the sex was consensual and no crime was committed, but according to the police report the incident has prompted a state review of the foster home.--St. Petersburg Times
Fired analyst joins MLB.com Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 10:56AM ET Harold Reynolds went to work yesterday as an analyst for MLB.com, almost 11 months after being fired by ESPN in a disputed sexual-harassment case. He is suing ESPN for wrongful termination and damages. Reynolds said he had had early talks about joining the MLB Channel when it starts operations in 2009, but that is not part of his contract.--New York Times
Did Padres steal D-Ray's next closer? Posted: Wednesday June 13, 2007 09:55AM ET When Padres General Manager Kevin Towers acquired Heath Bell early last offseason, he also apparently burned the Devil Rays. "From what I understand, the Devil Rays wanted to get me and I probably could have become their closer," Bell said yesterday.--San Diego Union Tribune
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Post by jumbo on Jun 14, 2007 11:28:13 GMT -5
Angels want Orioles' Tejada Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 08:24AM ET Who needs a shortstop? The Angels reportedly have been trying to pry Miguel Tejada away from Baltimore, but they covet Tejada's bat much more than his defense. Boston, Minnesota and the Chicago Cubs also might be looking.--Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Pirates to trade shortstop? Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 08:25AM ET Is there a trade looming for Jack Wilson? The shortstop was not in the Pirates' lineup Wednesday, the third straight game he's started on the bench. "I don't know what's going on," Wilson said, with a shrug.--Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Tigers continue to offer pitcher Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 08:30AM ET As a result of the potential surplus of starters -- given Kenny Rogers' potential return and Andrew Miller's emergence -- the Tigers have continued to make left-hander Mike Maroth available on the trade market, according to multiple baseball executives--Detroit Free Press
Trade window opens for Rangers Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 08:27AM ET On Friday, the Rangers can officially start dealing players who signed as major league free agents -- CF Kenny Lofton and RHP Eric Gagne -- this winter. There is no restriction on Sammy Sosa since he signed as a minor league free agent. The Rangers, however, are not close on any deals.--Dallas Morning News
New Rangers manager in trouble Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 10:43AM ET In baseball circles there are already rumblings that first-year manager Ron Washington, who had an early run-in with star first baseman Mark Teixeira, doesn't have the job security he had at the start of his managerial career -- which happened to be only 64 games ago. There are also rumblings that their smart young general manager, Jon Daniels, who's had three notable trades work against him, has something to prove to Hicks, maybe even by the end of the year.--SI.com
Dodger contemplating retirement Posted: Thursday June 14, 2007 09:41AM ET Dodgers 2B Jeff Kent, who will be 40 before the start of next season, is nearing the end of his career. "I know this," Kent said upon his arrival in the clubhouse, "I won't play beyond 40. That makes next year my last year. As for coming back next year, that will probably come down to how the team finishes this year. "--Los Angeles Times
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Post by jumbo on Jun 15, 2007 8:24:20 GMT -5
Schilling flip-flops on new contract Posted: Friday June 15, 2007 08:19AM ET During spring training, Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling said he would not negotiate a new contract once the season began. Yet during a radio show on WEEI yesterday morning, the veteran right-hander said he would accept a one-year, $13 million extension if it were offered right now.--Boston Herald
Why the Dodgers fired Murray Posted: Friday June 15, 2007 07:31AM ET In announcing the dismissal of Eddie Murray on Thursday, the Dodgers essentially said they believe in their hitters more than their Hall of Fame hitting coach. "We're under-hitting," Manager Grady Little said. "Our expectations with this offense are much greater. Hopefully, a change will get it going." The Dodgers appointed Bill Mueller, who retired after last season, as interim hitting coach. General Manager Ned Colletti said the search for a permanent replacement could take "a day, a week or a month." They could consider Ron Jackson, Little's hitting coach when he managed the Red Sox.--Los Angeles Times
Cubs players stand behind Barrett Posted: Friday June 15, 2007 07:01AM ET Michael Barrett's struggles have had an unexpected effect on the Cubs' clubhouse. While the prevalent theory is Barrett has lost the confidence of the pitching staff with his recent slump and dugout incidents involving Carlos Zambrano and Rich Hill, the harsh criticism of Barrett from the media and fans has caused some teammates to circle the wagons around the catcher.--Chicago Tribune
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Post by jumbo on Jun 16, 2007 10:12:52 GMT -5
Trade talk buzzing around White Sox Posted: Saturday June 16, 2007 09:39AM ET If general manager Ken Williams is poised to break up the 2007 version of the White Sox, it would be news to manager Ozzie Guillen. Meanwhile, the rumor mill is running, with pitcher Mark Buehrle going anywhere from Atlanta to Arizona, and Jermaine Dye off to Texas to play for his good friend, manager Ron Washington -- if not by trade this year, then as a free agent after the season.--Chicago Sun Times
Rays no closer to signing top pick Posted: Saturday June 16, 2007 11:02AM ET The Rays continue to have discussions with Bo McKinnis, the agent for top draft pick David Price, but no deal is imminent.--Tampa Tribune
Will La Russa manage next year? Posted: Saturday June 16, 2007 11:01AM ET It remains to be seen how much longer Tony La Russa, 62, will be on a club. He's in the final year of his contract with the Cardinals.--Contra Costa Times
Will Nationals trade Cordero? Posted: Saturday June 16, 2007 10:59AM ET The question that looms over Chad Cordero, though, is will he be able to be as important to the Nationals for so many years as Trevor Hoffman was to the Padres? Or will Cordero, who likely will be a very valuable commodity, be dealt away at the trading deadline in the Nationals' quest to build up their farm system?--Washington Times
Mets in market for pitcher, closer Posted: Saturday June 16, 2007 10:57AM ET The Mets have inquired about Mark Buehrle, according to an official with one of the teams, but that's nothing new. To that end, the Mets have asked the Astros about the availability of Brad Lidge.--Newark Star-Ledger
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Post by jumbo on Jun 17, 2007 13:22:19 GMT -5
Dunn thinks he's done in Cincy Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:27AM ET Adam Dunn has heard it before -- the Reds are shopping him for a possible trade. But there's a difference this time around. "Unofficially," Dunn told the Dayton Daily News. "I think it'll happen." Count the White Sox in the group of teams believed to have been scouting the left fielder last week. The Dodgers, Angels, Atlanta, Houston and Detroit also appear to have at least a passing interest in Dunn, who has hit 40-plus home runs in each of the last three seasons.--Chicago Tribune
What Phillies can offer for Lidge Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:30AM ET Do the Phillies have enough to get Astros reliever Brad Lidge? Houston native Michael Bourn might be enticing, but it would take a lot more than that to swing a deal, and there's no way the Phils would part with pitcher Kyle Drabek, another Houston-area guy.--Philadelphia Inquirer
Rangers will trade reliever Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:49AM ET Texas will absolutely trade Eric Gagne, although Gagne has the right to try and get something out of it. He has no-trade protection to 18 teams, and by design, that list of 18 features virtually all of the clubs who would want and need him.--New York Newsday
Teams leery of Cubs catcher Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:46AM ET The Cubs have been looking to trade catcher Michael Barrett, but teams have not been very interested, in part because of Barrett's recent altercations with Chicago pitchers Carlos Zambrano and Rich Hill.--Newark Star-Ledger
Scouts flocking to Rangers Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:33AM ET In addition to Mark Teixeira, who's likely to miss three weeks with a strained quad, scouts are watching Rangers Sammy Sosa and Kenny Lofton as well as a trio of relievers -- Eric Gagne, Akinori Otsuka and Joaquin Benoit.--Chicago Tribune
Pitcher steamed at Scioscia? Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 10:16AM ET As Mike Scioscia strode to the mound to remove Jered Weaver with one out in the sixth inning Saturday at Dodger Stadium, the Angels right-hander stood motionless, glaring at his manager with a look that seemed equal parts bewilderment and defiance. Was Weaver steamed about being pulled? Was the 24-year-old going to show up his manager by creating a scene on national television? Nah. The kid was just playing. "It was more of a joke because he told me he wanted me to get two outs in the inning, and he pulled me after one," Weaver said. "I said, 'I thought you wanted me to get two outs,' and he said, 'You're good.' I wasn't mad or anything."--Los Angeles Times
Hunter 'at peace' with Twins future Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 10:00AM ET It's unclear whether the Twins will try to trade Torii Hunter during the season rather than lose him to free agency after the season. But whatever happens, said Hunter, who wants to remain in Minnesota, "I'm at peace with it."--St. Paul Pioneer Press
Smoltz picks Senior Tour caddie Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 09:46AM ET Scratch golfer John Smoltz, 40, of the Braves said he plans to have former teammate catcher Greg Olson as his caddie when he tries the senior tour after baseball.--St. Paul Pioneer Press
Brewers decline puts Yost on hot seat Posted: Sunday June 17, 2007 08:53AM ET While the present Brewers were stumbling from mid-May to mid-June with a 10-20 record, some were beginning to wonder if Ned Yost had overstayed his usefulness.--Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
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Post by pemoco on Jun 17, 2007 20:27:44 GMT -5
Mocking birdsOnce a proud franchise, the Baltimore Orioles; owners of nine straight losing seasons; have become a league laughingstock UNION-TRIBUNE June 17, 2007 Possibly as a way of keeping up with those darn Yankees, a few major league clubs choose not to place players' last names on the back of their uniforms. When the Baltimore Orioles play for the first time in San Diego this week, though, note what's missing from their road uni. Their first name on the front. For decades, the Orioles were successfully vying for fans from not only Maryland, but also Northern Virginia and inside the Beltway in Washington, D.C. Now that our nation's capital again has a franchise, such as it is, the Orioles have talked about perhaps restitching “Baltimore” on front of their away shirts. Might be too late for that. Baltimore doesn't seem to want to have much to do with the Orioles, either. Given the deep love of baseball around the Chesapeake and the romantic allure of Camden Yards, a club would have to work bloody hard to drive fans away from wondrous Oriole Park. That, seemingly, is about all the Birds have accomplished since their last winning season in 1997. That year, the Birds took the division title and drew 3.7 million fans, and even four straight years of fourth-place finishes couldn't drop Baltimore's attendance under 3 million. Not since 2000 have the Orioles even posted a winning record at their shrine of a ballpark, where Baltimore currently ranks 11th among 14 clubs in American League attendance. Baltimore plays in the baseball's most celebrated, star-studded division, but Orioles home games now have all the atmosphere of funerals. The O's dugout, too, is nearly as lifeless as the empty stands. The city's had it. Once among the most respected uniforms in the game, the Orioles have became more associated with mismanagement and scandal. Stinking from the head, the Orioles have wallowed under the ownership of Peter Angelos and their co-VP system of Jim Duquette and Jim Flanagan. The only boast left to them is that, well, the Pittsbugh Pirates have gone longer without a winning season. Every time the subject of performance-enhancing drugs is rekindled by the BALCO case or Mitchell investigation or merely the media hounds, the name of somebody who wore an Orioles uniform will be invoked, be it Rafael Palmeiro, Sammy Sosa or Jason Grimsley. Current star Miguel Tejada has been sucked into the allegations, but repeatedly cleared, even as his home-run totals continue to plummet. If anything, the three games between the last-place Orioles and last-place Nationals last week only served to emphasize just how pathetic things have gotten in Birdland. In a matchup that Major League Baseball would like to think is a budding archrivalry, an interleague series between clubs just 30 miles apart, “announced” crowd counts barely exceeded 20,000. Think of this. More people used to take the train from the D.C. area, or travel the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, to see the Orioles play anybody than went to see a game between both the O's and Nats. Unlike most geographic matchups, the wonder at Camden Yards wasn't which club was better, but which was the worst of the worst. There's little doubt about that now. “We just lost three straight to the Nationals,” said Orioles manager Sam Perlozzo. “What would you like me to say?” Goodbye, maybe? The ax, its blade sharpened by the Nats' sweep, is sure to fall soon. Some wouldn't be surprised if Perlozzo – who was the early runaway leader in speculation over which manager would be fired first, only to be spared such talk by a modest win streak – doesn't make it to San Diego. If he does, awaiting his club Tuesday is Jake Peavy, provided he isn't suspended for entering yesterday's fray at Chicago. Baltimore's own Peavy-like hopeful, right-hander Adam Loewen, is out for the year after surgery for a stress fracture in his arm. Ramon Hernandez, the catcher wooed away from San Diego for awesome bucks, is again on the DL with a bruised groin and unlikely to return until after the Padres series. Injuries don't nearly explain everything, though, and neither does residence in the almighty AL East. Teams elsewhere are doing far better with far less than Baltimore's $93 million payroll, with no fewer than 11 players making $4 million or more. And giving little in return. In the process of losing 12 of 14, the Orioles extended their streak of 20 games in which they'd held the lead. The Orioles actually scored a run off Chad Cordero in the ninth to tie the middle game with Washington, positioning the O's to break an 0-for-29 record in games wherein they trailed after eight innings. The Nats, naturally, scored three in the 11th to win. “Its been frustrating, this whole stretch we've been on,” first baseman Kevin Millar told reporters after the sweep by Washington. “We've lost a lot of one-run games. We haven't gotten a big hit in the right situation. But we can't feel sorry for ourselves. Nobody's going to feel sorry for us.” The truly sorry part is that it's happened to the Orioles. And Baltimore. www.signonsandiego.com/sports/baseball/cjenkins/20070617-9999-lz1s17jenkcol.html
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Post by jumbo on Jun 18, 2007 14:40:27 GMT -5
Giants don't rule out trading Bonds Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 05:50AM ET The Giants have not been sellers at the July 31 trade deadline during Brian Sabean's decade-long tenure, but with the club 10 games out and firmly in last place, the general manager conceded that he could be forced into that mode. While it's unlikely the Giants will take the extraordinary step of trading Barry Bonds, Sabean wouldn't dismiss that possibility, either.--San Jose Mercury News
Bonds: 'They can trade me' Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 07:26AM ET Before Sunday's game, Barry Bonds gave the impression that he would consider waiving his no-trade provision. "They can trade me," Bonds said. "They can do that. I don't think they will, though. It's not like I want to be traded, man. I'm a Giant. I'm stuck here till the end."--San Jose Mercury News
O's want Girardi to replace Perlozzo? Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 11:59AM ET Sam Perlozzo was fired as manager of the Orioles this morning, according to a club source. A report says the Orioles are attempting to set up a meeting with former Marlins manager Joe Girardi to replace Perlozzo. Bullpen coach Dave Trembley, a longtime minor league skipper who has occasionally subbed for bench coach Tom Trebelhorn this season, has been named interim manager while club executives begin the search for a long-term replacement.--Baltimore Sun
Ozzie sounds ready to deal Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 08:01AM ET White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen and GM Ken Williams will have their usual state-of-the-team sit-down this afternoon. Guillen sounded like a manager ready to say goodbye to a few of them. Disappointed enough to ship out free agents-to-be Jermaine Dye, Mark Buehrle and Tadahito Iguchi?--Chicago Sun Times
Devil Ray on Twins' wish list Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 07:47AM ET Minnesota is eager to add a bat, ideally a designated hitter or a third baseman. Tampa Bay's Ty Wigginton is reportedly high on GM Terry Ryan's list.--Chicago Tribune
Cubs eyeing Rangers closer Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 07:44AM ET With the Cubs headed to Texas, rumors are out in full force, claiming the Cubs are eyeing a Rangers reliever. The New York Daily News speculated Sunday that manager Lou Piniella will urge general manager Jim Hendry to pick up a "power relief arm a la' Eric Gagne" before the July 31 trading deadline.--Daily Southtown
Tension in Orioles clubhouse Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 05:23AM ET The usual comedic routine was missing from Kevin Millar 's act yesterday. He was nothing but serious, an appropriate tone when a team has lost 13 of its past 15 games and its manager must read about his job security almost on a daily basis. Better to hold the laughter. Millar chastised reporters for being too jovial in an otherwise-quiet clubhouse and revealed his plans to call a players-only meeting tomorrow in San Diego.--Baltimore Sun
Early return for Cardinals' ace? Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 10:55AM ET Chris Carpenter will meet today with Cardinals medical supervisor Dr. George Paletta after throwing 30 pitches from a bullpen mound Sunday, his first such session since undergoing May 9 elbow surgery for removal of bone spurs. All parties described Sunday's session as an encouraging step. Carpenter said that he might be ahead of the team's initial timetable that set his return at three months after surgery, but emphasized he remains early in rehab.--St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Reds to trade Griffey or Dunn? Posted: Monday June 18, 2007 09:42AM ET So who goes? Adam Dunn's recent hot streak can only abet Reds GM Wayne Krivsky's reported efforts to trade him to a contender in pursuit of big hitting, but his contract is large and problematic - larger, by next year, and more problematic than Ken Griffey's.--Cincinnati Post
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Post by jumbo on Jun 18, 2007 16:10:59 GMT -5
BASEBALLS TRADE RUMOR MILL MSNBC.com PITCHERS Dontrelle Willis SP, Florida Marlins It’s ridiculous, really, that the Fish would even think about trading one of their two, young cornerstones. But so is pocketing revenue-sharing money, and putting only $30 million into your payroll when you have a talented enough nucleus to contend. So if the Fish don’t stay in the playoff chase, some contender could get themselves an impact left-hander for now and the near future. Mark Buehrle SP, Chicago White Sox The veteran left-hander is in the same position as teammate Dye – nearing free agency on a supposed contender whose season is turning in the wrong direction. The White Sox could use some young help in several areas, particularly the bullpen and the outfield. Eric Gagne/Akinori Otsuka RPs, Texas Rangers The last thing a last-place team needs is a closer, and the Rangers find themselves with not one, but two, of them. After an early stint on the disabled list, Gagne has been as effective as ever, and Otsuka quietly and efficiently steps in when needed. Brad Lidge RP, Houston Astros There are a lot of things wrong with the Astros, and the muddled closer situation is near the top of the list. Lidge still sees himself as a closer, but the Astros still think they are in the NL Central mix, so this one may have to wait for awhile, if it happens at all. Al Reyes RP, Tampa Bay Devil Rays You’d hate to think what the Rays bullpen would be like without him, as he has been Joe Maddon’s only reliable late-inning option. But they got him for next-to-nothing, and could choose to deal him while his value is high. Josh Towers SP, Toronto Blue Jays It’s no secret that he’s no favorite of manager John Gibbons, and at $2.9 million, he is a costly fifth starter/middle man on a team that has spent a lot of money to finish no better than third. Odalis Perez/Scott Elarton SPs, Kansas City Royals These two veterans are expendable from the Royals rotation that needs to clear space for young arms on the way, including Luke Hochevar. Joaquin Benoit/Frank Francisco RPs, Texas Rangers If Gagne or Otsuka is too expensive for your budget, here are two more members of the Rangers bullpen who fit better financially. HITTERS Mark Teixeira 1B, Texas Rangers He will stay on the disabled list for the next couple of weeks, but with the Rangers’ 2007 hopes already dashed, now is the time to explore a major, long-term-impact decision. Teixeira has all but said he expects to move elsewhere through free agency after the 2008 season, so his trade value will only decrease between now and then. Adam Dunn OF, Cincinnati Reds Scouts from a handful of teams including the Braves, Astros, Dodgers, Tigers and White Sox have tailed the Reds recently, and there have been no denials from the Reds about Dunn’s availability. Todd Helton 1B, Colorado Rockies Don’t count on Helton approving a mid-season deal, but he did OK one to Boston last winter, only to see it collapse. He’s not really needed there now, and isn’t likely to approve a deal to the Yankees. But the Rockies do need to clear his money ($80 million remaining) to keep their young core of sluggers, namely Matt Holliday. Jermaine Dye OF, Chicago White Sox The White Sox have a big decision here – commit more than double Dye’s current $7-million salary in a new long-term deal, or if they’re not going to go that route, then deal him to any of the handful of teams looking for a big bat or outfielder. Torii Hunter OF, Minnesota Twins It’s highly unlikely the Twins will be able to offer him enough to keep him this winter, so if they aren’t close to a possible playoff spot around the July 31 deadline, he could go. But that decision is likely to be delayed until the last minute, as the Twins are within striking distance at this point. Mike Sweeney DH, Kansas City Royals The Royals’ long-suffering DH is in the last year of his contract, and that makes it much more likely he will get a chance to play for a contender later this season. Aaron Rowand OF, Philadelphia Phillies The Phillies ought to re-think this one, as it says here they should be adding an outfielder, not subtracting. But then again, who else can bring them some of the pitching they need? Ty Wigginton INF, Tampa Bay Devil Rays He can play three infield positions, hit most anywhere in a lineup including cleanup, and is a solid veteran presence that can fit in anywhere. And when Rocco Baldelli and B.J. Upton get back from the disabled list, the perpetually building Rays could make do without him. Dmitri Young 1B, Washington Nationals Given another chance by Nationals GM Jim Bowden after being derailed by personal problems, Young is making the best of it. If he’ll be content with a part-time role, his bat could be a valuable weapon for a contender. Jacque Jones OF, Chicago Cubs So what else is new? He has been rumored to be on the block since spring training. Morgan Ensberg 3B, Houston Astros He has played his way out of a regular job, and doesn’t really fit as a part-time player. A change of scene can only do him good. Jose Castillo 2B, Pittsburgh Pirates Stuck in a backup role after losing regular playing time to Jose Bautista, he has asked to be dealt. Kenny Lofton/Brad Wilkerson OFs, Texas Rangers More spare parts from the wreckage in Arlington. Updated: 8:43 p.m. ET June 17, 2007 www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5218746/
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