Billy Beane and the Holy Grail: Part II

I love this move

He was very good the last year he was healthy, and he is worth a chance that his Mexican League resurgence portends a healthy 2007.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 9:06 AM PST reply actions

whoa!

that is quite the surprise!

by gotgreen on Dec 21, 2006 9:08 AM PST reply actions

AAARRRGGGGGG!!!!!

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! I hate Durazo. (It was my mantra all of '05.)

by thefatman on Dec 21, 2006 9:10 AM PST reply actions

OK. I'm better now.

I know he's put up some very respectable numbers in '04 and has a .988 or something fielding % at first.

Healthy there is potential here.

But deep down, I got "that" feeling upon reading the article. You know that same "feeling" I got every time I just knew T-Long was gonna ground to second. And the same "feeling" I got every time I just knew Kendall was gonna get doubled up. Durazo gave me that feeling every at bat in '05. It only got worse when runners were on base.

But, ya know, new year, new possibilities, and all that stuff, ya know.

by thefatman on Dec 21, 2006 9:18 AM PST up reply actions

I know that feeling

I have felt it many times about certain A's players. Durazo's 2005 was hopefully an outlier. He did play the entire season with a mangled elbow.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 9:23 AM PST up reply actions

Actually

Mangled isn't a word I would use. I've had players go through an entire college season with a torn elbow ligament and hit just fine. It isn't an injury that always affects a hitter. A torn ligament in the elbow won't keep someone from doing many things, and you can live with it quite easily.

by IndianaAsfan on Dec 21, 2006 9:52 AM PST up reply actions

This is an excellent idea

For the past few months, I've been wondering why Ruby wasn't given another chance. His last full season, 2004, was excellent.

"[Frank's] a big battler. He's the mother of battleships."

-Nick Swisher

by kaweahkaweah on Dec 21, 2006 9:17 AM PST reply actions

yes

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I loved ruby!

remember the game in tampa bay when he hit two dingers in the face of the heckler. good times.

Of course, what are the odds that he will return to his excelent 136 OPS+ form of 2004?
And, while I know that defense at 1B is not that hufe a factor relative to offense, but seeing who is a worse 1b between Piazza and Durazo might be an act that conjures the ghost of Dick Stuart. http://www.baseball-reference.com/s/stuardi01.shtml

How is it possible for a 1B to make 29 erros in a season?

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:20 AM PST reply actions

metonomy of the offseason, right there

you corrupt bitches @('.')@

by monkeyball on Dec 21, 2006 9:23 AM PST up reply actions

29 erros

Wouldn't you love to see what that looks like?

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:32 AM PST up reply actions

22

You must have never a full season of Byrnes playing the outfield.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 9:35 AM PST up reply actions

For all the Byrnes-Haters...

Scott Oslter from the Chronicle had this to say...

-- A's: Forget the obvious big fish that got away, the type of big-money stars the A's won't be able to afford until the franchise moves to New York City. The one affordable player I think they miss is Eric Byrnes.

Playing regularly, Byrnes has settled into being what he is -- a 25-homer, 75-RBI hitter, a mostly beneficial and never dull circus act in the outfield, and a great guy to have in your clubhouse to keep the loooong season from dragging your team down. Byrnes might be the No. 1 spirit player in the game, and the A's are a team that relies on spirit.

"Show me a good loser, and I'll show you a loser"

by HugeAthleticSupporter on Dec 21, 2006 10:20 AM PST up reply actions

Not a Byrnes hater

He is one my favorite baseball players ever. Just a joke, so please don't go all FoolishGame22 on me :)

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 10:35 AM PST up reply actions

all...

FoolshGame22!

"When I got injured, I felt disrespected. Waaannnh!" - Mark Kotsay

by FoolshGame22 on Dec 21, 2006 11:31 AM PST up reply actions

Wow

I never noticed that, learn something new everday.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 11:37 AM PST up reply actions

Yeah, don't you feel foolsh...

What a fun "word" to say...foolsh, foolsh, foolsh...Want to play a game of foolshball?

"So, whatever, Ozzie." -- Nick Swisher

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Dec 21, 2006 5:21 PM PST up reply actions

Deffense

Can be tought, and especially first base. Its not really the most challenging position if u know what i mean. Scott was a perfect example of this, he went to first and played solid deffense till his last year with the A's

"SLAMALAMMA DING-DONG!" -Joe Buck

by smartkidfromcarmel on Dec 27, 2006 4:03 PM PST up reply actions

the great thing about this move

is that the A's could possibly bring back the taco tuesdays commercial (but change it to taquitos) with ruby teaching kielty how to order tacos/ taquitos in spanish.

http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/oak/fan_forum/commercials_2004.jsp

by gotgreen on Dec 21, 2006 9:21 AM PST reply actions

Con extra girafa!

bwaha! I love that one :-D

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 9:25 AM PST up reply actions

Might as well bring back T-Long while you're at it

I hate this... just as I was starting to love the A's again, they go and do something like this. Durazo beats up on awful pitchers and strikes out whenever it counts. I can imagine that 1st annoying K with RISP that I'll curse the name DURAZO. He was awful, although the numbers at times appeared marginally good, he's worthless. PH at best. And just to remind me the last 2 months was the clip on ESPN of D-mat striking Durazo out in the WBC... gosh I hated that swing. They played it Once or Twice a day on ESPNews to show D-mats dominance, but I was realizing that he can't be that good if they only have pics of him striking out Durazo. We could get Arthur Rhodes to do that. He was caught looking TOO much and somehow SWINGING as well, no UPSIDE.

"I see Milton Bradley being the Oaktown player that breaks out this year." breaks out... breaks out of where? jail?

by gdub171 on Dec 21, 2006 9:22 AM PST reply actions

He raked in 2004

What is so horrible about this idea, if he is cheap?

"[Frank's] a big battler. He's the mother of battleships."

-Nick Swisher

by kaweahkaweah on Dec 21, 2006 9:26 AM PST up reply actions

Hate to let facts get in the way of your opinion

But Durazo's career OPS is 868. That is better than marginal. His last healthy year was 2004, and he put up a 919 OPS. He is not Terrence Long.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 9:28 AM PST up reply actions

his career OPS+ is 125

ummm, I might be astounded to see what you think is good.

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:29 AM PST up reply actions

Wow... only a few comments, but...

...really interesting range of love-hate already!

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 9:26 AM PST reply actions

Hey I loved Durazo

and I still have his player tee. I can bust out that bad boy again. Well, at least for spring training.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Dec 21, 2006 9:30 AM PST up reply actions

Count me as pro-Durazo

Might make an interesting poll topic, Blez.

"[Frank's] a big battler. He's the mother of battleships."

-Nick Swisher

by kaweahkaweah on Dec 21, 2006 10:00 AM PST up reply actions

I love this move as well...very smart

"I hate the Angels"

by Vegas A's Fan on Dec 21, 2006 9:27 AM PST reply actions

I still have a durazo jersey

And I got it after the 2005 season so I have yet to wear it to a game. It will be worn again during spring training!

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:27 AM PST reply actions

LOL

We were writing that at the same time.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Dec 21, 2006 9:30 AM PST up reply actions

two hearts

kindred spirits!

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:31 AM PST up reply actions

One of the funniest things I ever saw...

...at the Coliseum, a few years ago: Three guys standing in a row behind the dugout before a game (momentarily standing together, but not at the game together)... one wearing a Koch T-shirt, one wearing Isringhausen, one wearing Durazo. (all 44)

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 9:40 AM PST up reply actions

It would be fun

to go to a game as a group and wear nothing but former A's shirts.

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:45 AM PST up reply actions

I'm still too new.

For now, I've only got a very ragged Hudson shirt.

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 9:48 AM PST up reply actions

sans retired players

I could lend out a few. We could call it, "former A's day".... it would be fun. I just wish I had a hatteberg jersey or shirt.

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:49 AM PST up reply actions

I have one and I wear it all the time!

"I hate the Angels"

by Vegas A's Fan on Dec 21, 2006 12:14 PM PST up reply actions

My dog ate my Hudson shirt...

My next one will say

Beane
11

"I ain't ever had a job. I just always played baseball."- former A's pitcher Satchel Paige

by The Pilots Dared Me To Die on Dec 22, 2006 10:18 AM PST up reply actions

Or not wear any shirts at all!

"[Frank's] a big battler. He's the mother of battleships."

-Nick Swisher

by kaweahkaweah on Dec 21, 2006 10:01 AM PST up reply actions

We could just paint

the names and numbers of former Athletics on our naked backs.

"I ain't ever had a job. I just always played baseball."- former A's pitcher Satchel Paige

by The Pilots Dared Me To Die on Dec 22, 2006 10:21 AM PST up reply actions

knitting

I think its better to have that aunt that knits those useless slippers to knit an A's shirt for us.

by apilgrim on Dec 24, 2006 5:18 PM PST up reply actions

Great idea

I'll break out my Tony Armas jersey for that one.

by billyball1981 on Dec 21, 2006 1:47 PM PST up reply actions

I saw that too!

The three former 44's in parallel formation, a great scene.

Poppy, you don't even own a #14 jersey tee?

"Ever get the feeling you've been cheated?" --Johnny Rotten

by FreeSeatUpgrade on Dec 21, 2006 9:57 AM PST up reply actions

What, Ben Grieve? ;)

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 9:59 AM PST up reply actions

woooo

I <3 Chewwy!

"We've never been in that position. We wouldn't know how to operate, I mean, do we get him a corsage?"-Beane on Big name free agents

by pbruins92 on Dec 21, 2006 9:34 AM PST reply actions

LONG LIVE T-REX ARMS!!!!

AAAAaRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!11

http://www.aldiatx.com/img/03-06/13/erubieldurazo.jpg

http://www.terra.com.mx/galeria_de_fotos/images/118/235139.jpg

http://www.sfgate.com/c/pictures/2004/03/04/sp_durazo.jpg

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:38 AM PST reply actions

the last of those photos...

he resembles rocky balboa, errh that is sylvester stalone

rip 2006, it was nice while it lasted.

by ak_A on Dec 21, 2006 9:48 AM PST up reply actions

so what are you saying?

Drago had better look out?

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:50 AM PST up reply actions

funniest thing

I heard asbout Durazo.. He can't even reach the quarters in his pockets!!

I like the move..puts the pressure on DJ. One of them will perform.

by elephantman on Dec 21, 2006 8:04 PM PST up reply actions

Remember that game in Tampa Bay

When the heckler chose him as his designated target and he hit 2 home runs..one grand slam and one 2 run homer? We won 6-0...it was awesome..and all Ruby

by wordfromthewise on Dec 21, 2006 9:39 AM PST reply actions

4-2

http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/TBA/TBA200404300.shtml

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:46 AM PST up reply actions

Why do

I always remember things being better than they really were?

by wordfromthewise on Dec 22, 2006 9:17 AM PST up reply actions

if he's healthy, great

if not, whatever, doesn't cost us much. a lot of people point out how bad he was in '05, but i've got to believe his elbow was pretty messed up the whole season, up to the time he got the TJ surgery. 2004 was his last healthy season, and he was pretty damn good then. the dude could certainly hit when healthy.

"welcome to ME, motherf*^*er!" - tim hudson

by guy incognito on Dec 21, 2006 9:46 AM PST reply actions

i agree

its a great move because first of all its low-risk...hes signed to a minor league contract which means we're not gonna pay him much and if he doesn't work out we didn't waste money..plus he is great at getting on base and always has a great OPS, his D at 1st base wont be gold glove caliber...but it may be better than Swisher's or not far off from DJ's...i hope he has a resurgence is our starting 1st baseman, and putts up #s close to 04...anything near that will be more than DJ can put up.

by AthleticsFanatic4ever on Dec 21, 2006 6:18 PM PST up reply actions

there needs to be a designated fielder in baseball

so players like durazo can be in the lineup ... but somebody else can play first base.

by gotgreen on Dec 21, 2006 9:51 AM PST reply actions

you can actually DH for a position player

which reminds me of a funny story. When I was 18 and playing legion baseball I was of course still running and racing a lot. I raced a half marathon one morning before my team had a double header. My coach, who figured out what I had done when he saw me running in the outfield before the game to warm up and then asked me, was upset. So, instead of benching me, he played me in the field and DHed for me. So I played both games on defense and did not bat.

I slept like 13 hours that night.

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 21, 2006 9:54 AM PST up reply actions

Not in the majors

The DH must bat for the pitcher.

by billyball1981 on Dec 21, 2006 1:49 PM PST up reply actions

Reference please

Do you know that as a fact?

by Larry E on Dec 21, 2006 5:00 PM PST up reply actions

Rule 6.10b

Link:

A hitter may be designated to bat for the starting pitcher and all subsequent pitchers in any game without otherwise affecting the status of the pitcher(s) in the game.

by calgbear on Dec 21, 2006 6:26 PM PST up reply actions

that's actually really funny...

the exact same thing happened to me, after a race! what are the chances!

hey AFAR, did you ever move back to the bay area? i did, for like 2 months, but am now in NYC... I guess the AN Running Club will have to wait...too bad.

How's the running going these days, anyway?

Me and your kid probably have the same IQ!! -Swisher to Chavvy

--

My Blog

by rungood on Dec 21, 2006 2:08 PM PST up reply actions

wow

The exact same thing? Interesting. What are the juicy details?

I sort of moved back to the bay area. I live in rural Vacaville. I found a really cool job and I ride my bike to work. I work somewhat odd hours but it gives me all morning with my wife and son and of course, to run. I am putting in a lot of mileage right now and I am going to start running some races next month. I think I will do a 10K in stockton first... I am keying on a race in March that has an A's theme. I am running a half marathon in west sac that starts and finishes at Raley field! http://www.ffsac.com/template.asp?id=156

Good times.

I ran a few 5Ks to get my feet wet after a bit of a racing layoff (although not running) in November.

What are you doing in NYC? My brother just moved to Brooklyn.

Rickey Henderson: 35, 24, hall of fame!

by Athletics fan and runner on Dec 22, 2006 12:13 AM PST up reply actions

What's the airspeed velocity of an unladen Durazo?

I think Ruby might work out OK, if he survives the perils of the Castle Anthrax.

"Ever get the feeling you've been cheated?" --Johnny Rotten

by FreeSeatUpgrade on Dec 21, 2006 9:56 AM PST reply actions

European or African?

by EddieVegas_NRAF on Dec 21, 2006 10:30 AM PST up reply actions

WHOOOOOSH!!!

[eddie736 flies into the Gorge of Eternal Peril]

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on Dec 21, 2006 11:48 AM PST up reply actions

Gorge of Eternal Peril

Cool! I always wanted to visit Kauffman Stadium . . .

by EddieVegas_NRAF on Dec 21, 2006 3:27 PM PST up reply actions

I thought it was the Ballpark in Arlington...

...or Ameriwhatever Field...

"So, whatever, Ozzie." -- Nick Swisher

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Dec 21, 2006 5:24 PM PST up reply actions

No no no...

He has to say, "What? I don't know that-AAAAAIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!"

[FormerHuntsvilleStar flies into the Gorge of Eternal Peril]

"So, whatever, Ozzie." -- Nick Swisher

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Dec 21, 2006 5:25 PM PST up reply actions

OK

Many here have posted about his career OPS and OPS+, and those numbers are obviously very good. But, and this is a big but, both figuratively and literally, how does that translate into Durazo playing first? It doesn't. He's never shown the ability to play the position without tripping all over himself, as Blez hopes he will. I happen to think that Durazo is a DH, plain and simple. I think Piazza has a greater chance of playing first than Durazo does. And if either Durazo or Piazza ends up playing first the infield defense will suffer considerably.

by IndianaAsfan on Dec 21, 2006 9:57 AM PST reply actions

Legitimate concern

I haven't really seen anybody advocating that Durazo or Piazza should play 1B. That will have to be addressed in the Spring, but I still think signing Durazo was a good idea. What if Kendall suffers a massive injury during spring? What if Piazza gets injured during spring? To me, Durazo is very cheap insurance. Durazo at 1B full time? Not sure on that one.

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 10:03 AM PST up reply actions

They could always platoon.

Durazo is a lefty, and Piazza a righty, and they each have about 100 points of OPS difference in their platoon splits. I don't really like using two roster spots on pure DH types (and I'm sure Beane doesn't either), but it might end up being worth it.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 10:10 AM PST up reply actions

because Beane uses spots 23-25 so well ...

you corrupt bitches @('.')@

by monkeyball on Dec 21, 2006 10:35 AM PST up reply actions

i remember

an interview with wash in 04 i think where he said the durazo had plenty of abilty to be a good 1st baseman, but he was satisfied being a dh and spent all his time thinking about hitting. i think the a's could basically say hey, if you want a spot on the big league roster you need to work hard to be our 1b.

by Backspin on Dec 21, 2006 10:09 AM PST up reply actions

Piazza Should Play First

The Problem with him behind the plate was that his throwing arm was hilarously bad. That wouldn't be succh an issue at first. Plus, as a former catcher, you've got to figure he'd be pretty decent at scooping bad throws. Yes, I know Piazza failed at first in a brief attempt for the Mets, but that was his first try.

But it sure would have been nice to have Ron Washington working with him (and Durazo) during ther spring ...

I love the Durzao signing. No risk, potentially high reward. It's not like the A's lineup is stocked.

Plus, I love the way the A's bring back their players.

by Eck on Dec 21, 2006 11:17 AM PST up reply actions

Nice move

As we all know, Durazo can't play 1st base at all, so there might not really be a spot for him. On the other hand, if he's healthy he's likely to outhit Piazza, so he might force his way into the lineup.

I thought there might be a little bad blood between Durazo and the A's organization when he left, but I'm glad to see that's not the case, as he was a favorite of mine during his time here.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 10:02 AM PST reply actions

in 04

he hit 321/396/523! obviously we can't expect that again but if he hit say 290/375/475 with 20 hrs that would go a long way towards.

kendall
bradley
durazo
piazza
chavez
swisher
crosby
kotsay
ellis

looks pretty solid to me. maybe if bradley is hitting with good pop we want him 3rd so we put swish in as the #2 hitter and move ruby to 6 or maybe swish setps up and hits cleanup, piazza hits 5th and chavez 6th. and if chavez can hit 275 with 30 hrs, and crosby say 260 with 20 hrs, man, could be solid.

by Backspin on Dec 21, 2006 10:03 AM PST reply actions

i love it, welcome back ruby

"Where you start is not as important as where you finish."- Zig Ziglar

by bigelephant on Dec 21, 2006 10:11 AM PST reply actions

This is good...

...if he returns to form he can back up Piazza.

Or does Piazza play first and Durazo DH's while Swisher goes back to LF? Or does Durazo play first? (God forbid).

Anyway that I look at it DJ is gone. If they can't trade him they will release him.

by Dr Pez on Dec 21, 2006 10:11 AM PST reply actions

They won't release him

he's too talented to be released. Doesn't he have minor league options? I'm sure they can find some kind of partner for a mid 20s 1b who has hit extremely well in the majors and minors in the past.

by Alon on Dec 21, 2006 11:15 AM PST up reply actions

I love this organization

Asked to confirm Durazo's announcement, Oakland assistant GM David Forst, responding to a voicemail from MLB.com while traveling late Wednesday, promptly did so with a brief text message.

"On a plane," Forst wrote. "Minor League deal for Ruby. Invite to camp."

Awesome.

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 10:14 AM PST reply actions

"AN apeshit"

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 10:24 AM PST up reply actions

LOL

We really gotta bring that one back.

"Z --> Halos. AN apeshit."

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 10:25 AM PST up reply actions

"Also, just signed Cust."

"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s

by Nick on Dec 21, 2006 11:49 AM PST up reply actions

I did love that text message

and I bet Urban found it hilarious which is why it was included.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Dec 21, 2006 12:40 PM PST up reply actions

MF'in AsstGM on the MF'in plane!

you corrupt bitches @('.')@

by monkeyball on Dec 21, 2006 2:38 PM PST up reply actions

If I'm at Lookout Landing right now

I am wondering how the A's have a better DH than us on a minor-league deal, instead of $12M and two of my best prospects over as many as three years (and additional money.)

Absolutely great signing, especially for a minor-league deal.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 10:14 AM PST reply actions

they're on it now

http://www.lookoutlanding.com/story/2006/12/21/141048/60

by gotgreen on Dec 21, 2006 1:29 PM PST up reply actions

He's playing in the Mexican Winter League

Let's not get too excited about those numbers. Remember, he sucked in the WBC. Although he played well in 2003 & 2004, they were his only two full seasons and his other seasons were either so-so or sucktacular.

"Show me a good loser, and I'll show you a loser"

by HugeAthleticSupporter on Dec 21, 2006 10:14 AM PST reply actions

Re

That was in, what, 20 at bats?

by regfairfield on Dec 21, 2006 10:28 AM PST up reply actions

22 at bats...

against some of the best pitching in the world... and he sucked.

Yes, he's playing well now... but it's the Mexican Winter League.

"Show me a good loser, and I'll show you a loser"

by HugeAthleticSupporter on Dec 21, 2006 2:46 PM PST up reply actions

I knew it

I posted this a month ago. I'm not suprised at all. I hope he has improved his attitude about playing in the field.

by billyball1981 on Dec 21, 2006 10:17 AM PST reply actions

"trade bait"??

I am confused about why people think DJ can somehow be traded for anything. He had a good [half of] 2005, and a sweet 2 weeks in AAA in 2006. I think he should be our starting 1B for 2007, and I think he'll have a good season as long as his eyes are sufficiently moist (wasn't that his excuse last year?). I just don't see his being traded straight-up for Manny.

by stinkycheese on Dec 21, 2006 10:17 AM PST reply actions

Either Durazo or DJ

could be trade bait. If either/both have great springs, someone's going to want a left-handed DH who either a) has a good track record, or b) is young enough to still have upside.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 10:21 AM PST up reply actions

Yeah it wouldn't be DJ

by himself. He'd be part of a package deal for someone.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Dec 21, 2006 12:40 PM PST up reply actions

Durazo = Depth

Great move by Beane.There are no guarantees that Piazza will work out. He may really do poorly acclimating the AL. Durrazzzzzoooo is a known commodity who feels comfy in Oaktown and will not have the pressure of being counted on, at first, to carry the offense. Can we conceive of lineups in which Piazza, Durazo, Johnson and Swisher are all playing the same day? Yes! The way he's producing tells me that he's not thinking of his elbow. BTW, wasn't it injured under Washington's watch while preparing to play first? At least this time he'll have more time to prepare.

"I've been accused of using too many words...I suppose that's like accusing Mozart of using too many notes." Bill King

by Gerard on Dec 21, 2006 10:25 AM PST reply actions

Durazo and Witasick

Are only two to have a second go around during the Beane Era.

Bill (Beane) is like the dog, he going to the bathroom. -Tony LaRussa on Billy Beane and a lost dog at the Coliseum on CBS 5 News story.

by pachydermOAFC on Dec 21, 2006 10:31 AM PST reply actions

Don't Forget Curt Young!

by Eck on Dec 21, 2006 12:02 PM PST up reply actions

And Steve Karsay!

by andyinfremont on Dec 21, 2006 11:39 PM PST up reply actions

Genius Marketing Ploy

This will go along way to help Durazo's new movie, "The Night at the Museum". After the TJ surgery, I don't think anyone could have predicted he would go on to movie stardom as a T-Rex.

Signatures? We don't need no stinking signatures.

by jubjub on Dec 21, 2006 10:49 AM PST reply actions

Bad Image

It worked for a bit, let's try another one.

Signatures? We don't need no stinking signatures.

by jubjub on Dec 21, 2006 11:03 AM PST up reply actions

Durazo

That guy who sits in the MVP section by the A's dugout who always yells ERUBIEL will be very very happy!

by 3Chavy3 on Dec 21, 2006 10:58 AM PST reply actions

I remember Durazo once commenting

in an interview that at first he didn't like just DHing and not playing first base. Then he apparently got too used to just Dhing, since Wash commented that Durazo could be decent at first base if he committed the time and work to improve himself there.

It would be nice to see him committing that time and effort so that the A's wouldn't lose much by putting him at first.

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 11:17 AM PST reply actions

Personally, this Key Colony Bayian

is uber-psyched. Durazo is a very good hitter who has established that when healthy he will combine walks, a solid average, above-average power, and RBI abilities worthy of the middle of the order.

I wrote a while back about the notion of sacrificing a strength--defense--to address a weakness--offense. If Durazo makes the team, the A's will surely have decided to do that. Unless the A's are willing to go with an awesome DH-platoon, which seems very, very, very (add 100 more verys) unlikely, as it would relegate Piazza to playing 1/4 of the time for his $8,000,000. (And against lefties, Kielty is comparable anyway at 25% of the cost.)

But .300/.400/.500 hitters are a pretty rare breed, and Durazo is one. I'd love to see him make the team, and I'll keep saying that until the first time I see him attempt to field.

I like Cindi. A. She never pretends to know more than she does. B. She has unbridled enthusiasm for her "Hotties," and isn't afraid to show it. -IM4Oakgal

by Nico on Dec 21, 2006 11:41 AM PST reply actions

I love it!

welcome back, ruby!

"Don't be an ass!" --Bill King

by batgirl on Dec 21, 2006 12:08 PM PST reply actions

what is there not to like?

minor league contract, no major expense, if he hits and works hard he might get to play in Oakland, obviously no one else wanted him, that should be motivation enough. There is no downside to this signing. Of course, maybe there is no upside but from a financial point of view, no loss either.

by china bob on Dec 21, 2006 3:44 PM PST up reply actions

How about

Ruby in LF? He'd probably be about as good there as at first.

Then the A's would have the greatest platoon in history: Kielty against LHPs, Durazo against RHPs.

And yes, I realize this is never gonna happen.

by Philip Christy on Dec 21, 2006 12:12 PM PST reply actions

he got in trouble with the Dbacks

for refusing to play in the outfield.

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 12:43 PM PST up reply actions

His elbow couldn't handle the throws.

The D-Backs asked him to tough it out but the throwing was too painful for his arm.

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 12:45 PM PST up reply actions

DT

can't we get ruby a designated thrower? or he could just work on punting the ball from lf.

by methodrampage on Dec 21, 2006 3:22 PM PST up reply actions

Remember Durazo running around the bases

it was one of the funniest things I'd ever seen in baseball. I can't wait to see that again. Fosse was always saying, "It takes him a while to get going but once he's going, he's pretty speedy."

by Tyler Bleszinski on Dec 21, 2006 12:39 PM PST reply actions

I think the words were,

"He can really motor." The game where T-Long doubled home Durazo to win the game in extra innings was the fastest I have ever seen Durazo run.

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 12:44 PM PST up reply actions

Found it!

Here's the game in question. Sabathia and Hudson had a good duel, but in the ninth inning Durazo singled to right and scored from first on a T-Long double. He can motor!

(Also, this game was awesome.)

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 12:53 PM PST up reply actions

my favorite Durazo AB

was against the Orioles fairly early in 2004. He kept fouling every pitch, pounding them just barely missing a HR to right field. Then he finally hit one towards the left and hit a HR.

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 12:49 PM PST up reply actions

If I remember right

that was against B.J. Ryan, who had totally shut down left-handed hitters that year.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 12:50 PM PST up reply actions

I thought it was pretty early in the game.

But maybe the fact that it was a day game is what's throwing me.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 12:50 PM PST up reply actions

Off BJ Ryan in the eighth

Eventual game winning homer

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 12:55 PM PST up reply actions

Huh

The Orioles didn't come here until late in 2004...this is going to drive me crazy.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 12:58 PM PST up reply actions

Here it is

(the one I'm thinking of at least)
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=240818101
http://retrosheet.org/boxesetc/B08180BAL2004.htm

Durazo hit 3 HRs in that game, 2 off of Ponson and one off of Ryan, as the A's won 5-4.
Ryan held lefties to an .094 batting average that year.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 12:57 PM PST up reply actions

I'm thinking of a different one, then.

It was a Coliseum day game, and Ruby hit two out that were just on the wrong side of the RF foul pole. He straightened out the third for a homer.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 12:59 PM PST up reply actions

that's the game

I'm thinking of too...and it was earlier than August

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 1:01 PM PST up reply actions

It might have been

4/24/04 against the Angels, off Escobar, right after a Scott Hatteberg home run.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 1:12 PM PST up reply actions

That must be the one

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=240424111
"After narrowly missing a homer just foul down the right-field line, Durazo went the opposite way and cleared the left-field fence for his first homer to make it 3-0."

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 1:21 PM PST up reply actions

That would be my guess.

The article doesn't mention that he did it twice in that at-bat, but I know he did.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 1:24 PM PST up reply actions

Yep.

The two pitches that preceded the homer were foul balls.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 1:27 PM PST up reply actions

that's it!!

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 1:59 PM PST up reply actions

I was there too!!!

and he just missed several HRs to right, not just one

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 2:00 PM PST up reply actions

That was great! Woohoo!

One of the extremely rare occasions that I remember an in-game event fairly specifically!

"You know, Mark Ellis is the all-time home run leader from South Pecota." ~ jeepers

by Poppy on Dec 21, 2006 2:58 PM PST up reply actions

The mystery deepens

Here is Durazo's home run log.
The only HR he ever hit against Baltimore at the Coliseum was also in August, was only a 4-pitch AB, and went out to right-centerfield.

He did hit a HR to LF against the Angels in April of that year, in a 7-pitch AB.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 1:16 PM PST up reply actions

I was at that game.

That was fantastic.

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 12:50 PM PST up reply actions

He did the same thing

against Kelvim Escobar and the Angels. He fouled countless down the right field line, just to the right of the foul pole until he muscled one the other way for a dinger.

"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin, Seattle Mariners

by Helloooo 1st on Dec 21, 2006 1:19 PM PST up reply actions

Durazo homer

Yes, I was at that game in Baltimore when Durazo hit the home runs, including the big one against B.J. Ryan. If ever there was a baseball game that could be said to be won singlehandedly that was the game.

by SA on Dec 21, 2006 1:23 PM PST up reply actions

and while we're on the subject of Durazo memories

how about his first game in Oakland, Opening Day 2003: a 2-run homer in his first AB, and a bases-clearing double off the top of the wall in his third, driving in all 5 runs in a 5-0 victory. Holy grail indeed.

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 1:03 PM PST up reply actions

oh yeah!!!

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 1:04 PM PST up reply actions

Do I ever remember that.

Tejada and Chavez got on base, and I was just getting excited when missionaries showed up at my door. By the time I got rid of them, the Ruby had put us ahead 5-0.

Stat Wonk Futurist

by salb918 on Dec 21, 2006 1:09 PM PST up reply actions

Missionaries?

Wonder what their postion is on the return of Durazo...

by DCinWC on Dec 21, 2006 1:43 PM PST up reply actions

They think

that we should sign Jeff Supine

In the stands the home crowd scatters For the turnstiles

by andeux on Dec 21, 2006 1:45 PM PST up reply actions

what else?

the "missionary position"

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 2:01 PM PST up reply actions

Why not invite Cliff Johnson or Dave Parker too?

Some of the younger people here might now get this joke......

by may7 on Dec 21, 2006 12:51 PM PST reply actions

Moose!!!!

Cliff Johnson?!? Damn, that's a name I haven't heard in ages!!!! He was Moose!

And Dave "Cobra" Parker...hmm, how about an all Oakland A's animal team? I've got three to start...

Cliff Moose Johnson
Dave Cobra Parker
Fred Chicken Stanley

Help?

by mvk on Dec 21, 2006 2:41 PM PST up reply actions

Jim "Catfish" Hunter

"When I got injured, I felt disrespected. Waaannnh!" - Mark Kotsay

by FoolshGame22 on Dec 21, 2006 2:55 PM PST up reply actions

Esteban "Drinks Like A Fish" Loaiza

I'd like to eat my lunch, but Billy just kicked me out of my office.

by BlameChannel53 on Dec 21, 2006 3:03 PM PST up reply actions

Curt "All of Them" Schilling

"Look its either batman or batman and robin not robin w/o batman robin isn't sh@#."--cchefz71

by jeepers on Dec 21, 2006 3:31 PM PST up reply actions

Stomper "The Elephant" Elephant

"So, whatever, Ozzie." -- Nick Swisher

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Dec 21, 2006 5:31 PM PST up reply actions

re

Is Mike Piazza's wife out hitting him grounders on a playground? I like this move as a motivational tool for DJ, but there's no spot on the team for Durazo, unless he's dropped 30 lbs while retaining his hitting ability.

by 31Boots on Dec 21, 2006 1:26 PM PST reply actions

I hear Jeremy Giambi is doing great

in the Tierra del Fuego summer league (started today). He will work for peanuts.

"Is this heaven? No, it's the f'ing suburbs."

by LAXile on Dec 21, 2006 1:29 PM PST reply actions

RUBY!!!!!!!!

Ho hum. Just another day for the OAKLAND ATHLETICS OF AWESOME! ~Kyli

by baseballgirl on Dec 21, 2006 1:46 PM PST reply actions

OT Michael Lewis is being interviewed

about his book right now
KPFA 94.1 FM SF Bay Area and Northern California, or KPFA.org

by OaklandSi on Dec 21, 2006 3:05 PM PST reply actions

i hope the a's try piazza at first also

it just seems like piazza as a former catcher should be more effective out there than durazo with his t-rex arms.

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on Dec 21, 2006 3:37 PM PST reply actions

WTF

It's just a minor league invite, it's not like they gave him 11 million dollars a year for 6 years. OMG, I did not just say that, that was mean, very mean.

Great move, the more options the better. He might lead the team in hitting, he's done it before.

Do we really need an excuse for more cellphone usage at baseball games?

by emperor nobody on Dec 21, 2006 4:28 PM PST reply actions

i'm not all that excited about durazo

sure this is a good move by beane, but what were a's fans saying about ruby after he left? juicer. slow as molasses. warning-track power. can't play first base. has any of that changed?

A's v Giants "is kind of like the difference between going to see the Ramones and going to see the Bee Gees. A's fans will go see the Ramones." -BB 07/27/05

by xbhaskarx on Dec 21, 2006 4:52 PM PST reply actions

Don't understand the hate-This is a no brainer

Folks,

This is another great move my Billy Beane. Durazo signs a minor league deal. He is not guaranteed any money at all.

If he is washed up, the A's let him go at no cost.

If he can still contribute at whatever reduced level, he is a bargain at the minimum salary.

by radicaldude on Dec 21, 2006 5:42 PM PST reply actions

absolutely right

by china bob on Dec 21, 2006 9:34 PM PST up reply actions

Rubi?

Wow. We are desperate!

by IM4Oakgal on Dec 21, 2006 5:46 PM PST reply actions

Defence in Mexico

Anyone know if Ruby is playing any D in Mexico?

by Larry E on Dec 21, 2006 5:52 PM PST reply actions

His D is not bad!

career fielding percentage is .988% in nearly 2,000 major league innings-240 mlb games, DJ and Swishers career 1B fielding is only a few points higher...so with only a slight downgrade in fielding and a potential big upgrade in offense...i think he could wind up our starting 1B over DJ, with Swish in left

by AthleticsFanatic4ever on Dec 21, 2006 6:46 PM PST reply actions

Sweet!

I love Durazo! Can't picture him playing first though...

It's a beautiful day for baseball.

by As Man on Dec 21, 2006 10:45 PM PST reply actions

w00t!

I love this move so much. THANK YOU BEANE! Talk about no risk...truly that. If durazo can play some first, play some dh, rake it up to a 900 ops. He'll be truly money..and he'll be insanely cheap..even cheaper than Frank! (Although nobody compares to Frank's raking)

by tomoyo on Dec 21, 2006 11:03 PM PST reply actions

Could we trade piazza

when could we trade piazza?

I am a sports writter.

by scottofchico on Dec 22, 2006 12:15 AM PST reply actions

An absolute butcher

Now THAT is hillarious.

Not a chance in hell Durazo plays first for us. NOT A CHANCE. Zero. Zilch. 0%.

by NewPosterMojo on Dec 22, 2006 3:22 AM PST reply actions

2005

I don't understand why everyone gives Ruby so much grief for 2005. Up until the time he got injured that year NOBODY on the A's was hitting well, and right before the elbow injury that happened before the Giants series, he was the only A that seemed to actually actually be starting to heat up and getting some extra base hits.

by iggystooge on Dec 22, 2006 5:51 AM PST reply actions

I don't really get it

It's a great pickup for the RiverCats. But I don't see how this guy is the answer to our problems on the major league level. The most jacks he ever hit was 22 and he's coming off of a season in which he was let go by multiple organizations. And he's coming off an injury. I guess it's a good insurance move in case DJ really struggles again. In the meantime, maybe Ruby can give Charles Thomas some help in the hitting department during his (hopefully season-long) stay in Sactown.

Zito: I would never bet against this team. First of all because it's against the rules...

by Joey C. on Dec 23, 2006 3:36 AM PST reply actions