Kinzer Announces "Final Four" Without "Mystery Team"
by Nico on Dec 9, 2008 6:55 PM PST
170 comments
So Rafael Furcal's agent has decided that mystery is overrated and has announced that four teams are still in the mix for Furcal: the A's, the Dodgers, the Blue Jays, and the Royals. A few thoughts if these are indeed the teams still vying for Furcal's services:
That list would suggest the A's still as front-runners, because the Dodgers haven't shown any more interest in a three-year commitment than they did in a four-year commitment - in fact their interest, since Furcal first announced what he was looking for, has been tepid at best. The Jays and Royals don't appear likely to bid high, meaning that if it's now a question of who will make the best three-year offer, I'd bet on Oakland to be able to come in with the best offer financially.
It's interesting that the Royals are in the mix, in that they have a SS, Mike Aviles, who had a terrific 2008 season (word is if the Royals signed Furcal, Aviles would move over to 2B). Granted he came out of nowhere and is almost Furcal's age, but SS is not among KC's biggest holes at the moment. That may speak more to how many holes KC has than how good Aviles is, but still - are the Royals going to go all out to take a chance on Furcal when they have other needs that are more pressing?
No Twins, no Indians, just, according to Paul Kinzer, three teams with less reason and resources to sign Furcal than the A's have...and the A's. Interesting.
0 recs |
170 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
The BlueJays also have Scutaro penciled in at SS already right?
They’d be the main competition judging from that list. Also the Dodgers just signed Casey Blake, so theres some more money out of the Dodgers pot.
facepalm.jpg
by Zonis on Dec 9, 2008 7:04 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Scutaro belongs at 2B; maybe that what the Jays are thinking
But the economy has hit the Jays among the hardest, so I can’t see them risking too much money on a guy with an injury history.
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 9, 2008 7:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah but the Jays have Aaron Hill coming back for 2B.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't he dump LuAnn and move to Hawaii?
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 9, 2008 7:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
WOW
you never cease to amaze me nico
"If you hit .440 with 20 bombs, you don't have to do s---. You don't have to bring a glove to practice, just hit and leave whenever you want. You can bring a 40 and smoke a cigarette and call me from the parking lot asking me what time the game is, and I'll tell you. You can even say 'F--- you, Steve!' Actually, don't say that, that wouldn't be very nice." -Steve Friend, Head Coach, Chabot College Gladiators Baseball
by flipgatey3 on Dec 9, 2008 10:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
you must be thinking of Gunther
"Don't be an ass!" --Bill King
by batgirl on Dec 10, 2008 12:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
nope. aaron moved to hawaii, gunther stayed.
though technically she & aaron weren’t really dating.
In search of a new signature. Say something funny and you may see your comment here!
by DMOAS on Dec 10, 2008 8:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Jays to use Burnett money on Furcal
I wouldn’t be so quick to rule out the Jays financially. They could use the money they had planned to spend on Burnett.
http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ti-furcalbluejays120808&prov=yhoo&type=lgns
by Larry E on Dec 9, 2008 7:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
One more time
Blue Jays are interested in Furcal
By Tim Brown, Yahoo! Sports
Dec 8, 20:42 EST
PrintRelated Video Maddux takes a bow Maddux takes a bow
Tribune files for bankruptcy
More MLB Videos More From Tim BrownSabathia, Giants do not have meeting planned Dec 9, 2008 Angels are about to fly into the fray Dec 9, 2008
LAS VEGAS – Last we heard from Rafael Furcal, the free-agent shortstop had turned down a four-year offer from the Oakland Athletics amid reduced demand all over and concerns that his back problems could flare up again.
Would he be forced to slink back to the Dodgers and their potential three-year offer? He did say after the season that he wanted to continue to play in L.A.
Or would he scour the fast-drying landscape only to return to the A’s $35 million to $40 million proposal, which would result in a significant pay cut from the $13 million a year he made on his last contract. An A’s source said the offer is still on the table.
Another suitor has entered the picture, however. The Toronto Blue Jays believe they might be able to swoop in and sign Furcal with money they had earmarked to re-sign pitcher A.J. Burnett, a source said Monday at the winter meetings.
No way Burnett is coming back to Toronto, so upgrading at shortstop, where the light-hitting John McDonald is the incumbent, is an appealing idea to Blue Jays brass. However, it probably would take going a fourth year for Furcal and increasing the overall value of the offer beyond what the A’s offered.
by Larry E on Dec 9, 2008 7:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Working link
here.
"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL
by oblique on Dec 9, 2008 7:59 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Jays are a serious suitor,
but I don’t see them offering 4 years and more than what the A’s offered. If they do, so be it, but I can’t see a team swooping in to take that kind of risk both in years and money.
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 9, 2008 8:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
One Fact Running Against the Blue Jays
The tanking exchange rate is making their money worth less… that money they had earmarked for burnett is now worth only 80% on the dollar.
JP Ricciardi was on ESPN radio talking about this last week.
Cust is the new Jaha.
by johnjahafanclub on Dec 10, 2008 10:07 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Scutaro belongs on the bench
He’s not a starter.
by thejd44 on Dec 9, 2008 11:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And yet Dial had him as the best SS in the AL last year by OPD
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 12:32 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone else think Furcal and his agent f#@*ed themseleves
with their initial reaction to the A’s original offer? Not saying Furcal is gonna sign with the A’s (although he would still be a terrific upgrade at SS over Crosby) but I can’t see him getting anymore than 3/33 from the A’s at this point. Very intereseted to see what happens next……
by mrod on Dec 9, 2008 8:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Right and the prices are dropping, not rising.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 9, 2008 9:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If you can handle the 568+ comment thread a couple down from this one,
you’ll see I think Furcal and his agent may have f#@*ed themselves.
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 9, 2008 9:02 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That's good news to me
Especially since I’m still in the “Sign Furcal as No. 1 priority” camp. KC has been known the last couple years to make one big FA signing per offseason so I wouldn’t discount them. I don’t think Jays will seriously make a push for him so really I see it coming down to the A’s, Dodgers, and KC. After the Blake & Loretta signings and the myriad of other holes that the Dodgers have I’d say KC is more of a threat than LA at this point.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 9, 2008 7:07 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
so where does Tom Verducci of Sports Illustrated
get that the Dodgers are making signing Furcal “their top priority”?
by OaklandSi on Dec 9, 2008 7:13 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Weird - it seemed that as soon as Furcal said
he wanted a long-term deal the Dodgers said “Count us out.” It appeared to me they were interested in a 1-2 year commitment, but not more. I also wonder, in a market like LA, how influential it might have been that Furcal had such a disastrous game in his last one – a “knocked out of the playoffs” game. I remember thinking, after the game, “He gone.”
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 9, 2008 7:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe he'd prefer the shorter deal for more bucks
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 9, 2008 7:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
In which case the A's can accommodate him.
2/24 should sound lovely to Beane, what with Holliday and/or Chavez potentially coming off the books soon and the SS prospects arriving around 2011.
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 9, 2008 8:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds good to me, but Furcal may prefer something like 1/$13 to prove he's healthy
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 9, 2008 9:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like that even better
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 9, 2008 9:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Me too
Because then you get him for one year, and if he’s good/healthy you can offer him arbitration after 2009. If he takes it, fine. If not, he might be worth a pick or two. And, even if he’s not, you still got one good year out of the guy and didn’t really lose anything except the money spent.
by thejd44 on Dec 9, 2008 11:55 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Colletti and McCourt want another excuse not to pursue Manny
since McCourt’s previous excuse caused a PR backlash.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If I'm right, the Royals really don't have the payroll resources this offseason
to make a major signing.
Guillen can’t be moved, so that’s a shitton of money locked up in worthlessness.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:14 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I worry about the Royals.
They have a recent history of dispensing large amounts of cash to FAs that won’t make any dent in how badly they suck.
"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL
by oblique on Dec 9, 2008 7:18 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
If your claim is true, then they wouldn't want a player who does make a dent in how badly they suck.
like Furcal
And, Meche was a good signing. Well worth the money. Just not good timing, but really smart signing.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
the added 2-3 wins aren't going to save the Royals or put them in the playoffs
'That's something we do...thirteen hits and not score'-Terrence Long
by DyeLongJustice on Dec 9, 2008 7:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
The Royals appear to be desperately seeking win #82 for no apparent reason.
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Dec 9, 2008 7:21 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It's been a while since they had a winning season
I imagine win #82 would be pretty sweet. Who got win #82 for them last time around? Bret Saberhagen?
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 9, 2008 7:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
it's been five years (2003), hasn't it?
I think that the Pirates and Nationals have something to say on this issue.
'That's something we do...thirteen hits and not score'-Terrence Long
by DyeLongJustice on Dec 9, 2008 7:44 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Why not? Their fans try to
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 9, 2008 8:13 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
LOLrioles....
'That's something we do...thirteen hits and not score'-Terrence Long
by DyeLongJustice on Dec 9, 2008 8:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, that memorable 3rd place 83-79 season in 2003.
In a bit a randomness, recent Giants acquisition Jeremey Affeldt picked up win 82 for them that year. It was his sophomore season and his only one as a full-time starter. They went on to finish the season 1-6.
More oddity: The last 82+ win season for KCR happened exactly a decade before that, in 1993 (84-78). Jeff Montgomery picked up win 82 in relief that year, en route to winning the AL Rolaids Relief award. Montgomery had a great career that went to waste; he racked up 304 saves (19th all-time) closing out games for the hapless Royals of the late 80’s and all of the 90’s.
What to take from this? The good money’s on the Royals to not finish on the happy side of .500 ’till 2013.
by GoA's on Dec 9, 2008 10:29 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Meche is a great deal in a vacuum
But a pretty silly trade for that particular franchise unless they trade him for prospects soon.
by thejd44 on Dec 10, 2008 12:05 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
He was a FA signee
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 1:47 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Guillen was horrible though.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:20 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Interview with Geren
Pretty informal but does have some updates on the injured A’s
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 9, 2008 7:26 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
So let's get this straight
Three teams that would require the GM to beg the owner for cash to even start talking to him or a team that made a competitive offer that you turned down. Brilliant agent that Kinzer is.
In search of a new signature. Say something funny and you may see your comment here!
by DMOAS on Dec 9, 2008 7:26 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Yup. I still predict Furcal will get neither 4 years nor 36 million
from anyone else. K-Rod just signed for 3/37 – Kinzer’s other client. Who do you think will command a better three-year deal, K-Rod or Furcal? Welcome to 3/30, Rafael…If you’re willing to sign with Oakland, that is.
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 9, 2008 7:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think so
Market has to be stronger than that. Teams wouldn’t enter (I.E. Riccardi wouldn’t beg his owner) if they weren’t willing to beat the A’s old bid. Even if Beane has “retracted” the last bid, I don’t doubt its the new baseline.
by ohmangoAs on Dec 9, 2008 7:31 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Or, the offseason progresses to January
in which nobody tops the “baseline” offer, and thus the A’s get him at that offer.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
You already have "reports"
that teams are shifting their funds from other targets to Furcal. The Dodgers and Jays. Furcal below 4/40 is tremendous value. That’s why his price will go up. I’m serious. Burnett is definitely not going back to the Jays. They still may not be able to afford Furcal, but he’s their only stated target right now.
And, how much are you willing to bet on that? For 7M, you are risking a 3 win upgrade in 2009 (and the only SS option that would bridge smoothly to our raw SS prospects)
Actually, the Jason Donald idea is one decent alternative to furcal, but remember, that still concedes 3 wins in 2009.
by ohmangoAs on Dec 9, 2008 7:50 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm all for the Furcal acquisition.
What you stated might happen, and is also pretty likely.
If that happens, the A’s should act accordingly and raise their offer to appropriate levels to challenge other teams.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I just think that's the issue
it’s possible 4/42 a week ago controls the cost- it’s a big enough offer to deter other teams.
Now, the A’s are in a bidding war, and have the honor of being the team that Furcal perceives as trying to “get him while he’s down”
by ohmangoAs on Dec 9, 2008 8:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
If Furcal has such notions, that's ridiculous
Every team wants to get him while he’s down. The A’s just took first blood.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 8:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The A's are in a bidding war?
That’s precisely what they’re NOT in.
The Dodgers, Blue Jays, and Royals might get into one, but the A’s have never bid against anyone for Furcal, and according to Beane they don’t intend to. Beane only makes offers when he has a client to himself. He did it once with Furcal, and he may do it again with Furcal. But he’s not in a bidding war.
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 9, 2008 8:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Supposedly they were in a bidding war for Loaiza
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 9, 2008 9:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
and we all know how that turned out
facepalm.jpg
by Zonis on Dec 9, 2008 10:58 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
My fear is that it may happen again.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 12:33 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
See my exchange rate comment above...
Toronto’s money they earmarked for Burnett is now worth 80% on the dollar b/c of the falling exchange rate… thus making it harder for Toronto to compete with American teams for FA’s…
Cust is the new Jaha.
by johnjahafanclub on Dec 10, 2008 10:11 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
That is why theyll probably end up back in Oakland in a few days peddling for a few more million…something more like 4/40 with incentives for performance and games played…maybe the a’s give them none of that and get what they originally offered
by yawedout21 on Dec 9, 2008 10:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ricciardi's owner just died.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:46 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I almost posted something in very bad taste
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 9, 2008 9:03 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I almost flagged it
But first I almost laughed.
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 9, 2008 9:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
As I posted
I’d actually rather we try and acquire Jason Donald than sign Furcal at this rate.
And it would rather humorous to have a former Phillies Middle Infield come 2010 of Donald at SS and Cardenas at 2B, then stick Gio the mound… hell sign Burrell and put him at 1B!
facepalm.jpg
by Zonis on Dec 9, 2008 7:26 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
And Mike Schmidt for 3B!!!111!!
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 9, 2008 7:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather go for Asdrubal Cabrera since he's actually MLB ready.
by mikev on Dec 9, 2008 7:30 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather not give up Anderson or Cahill in the process.
If the A’s can get him without Anderson/Cahill, go for it.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:32 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think it would take one of them to get Cabrera.
by mikev on Dec 9, 2008 7:38 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Shapiro isn't stupid.
SS prospects are like the holy grail of baseball. Cabrera has crazy upside.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 7:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And yet they insisted on leaving him at 2B last year to appease... Jhonny Peralta?
by mikev on Dec 9, 2008 7:51 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Stupid managerial decision?
IDK. He’s still looked at as a SS, if I’m right.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 9, 2008 8:00 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Your point?
Wouldn’t make any difference to speak of if they had switched them. Maybe a run or two, max.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 9, 2008 9:27 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Okay Paul, you're absolutely right, there is no sense in putting the superior defender at shortstop.
Honestly, sometimes I think that you just respond to shit just for the sake of making an argument.
by mikev on Dec 9, 2008 10:18 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
There's certainly a reason not to
Players are not just numbers and if you’re a very, very good hitting SS (one of the best in the AL), even if you’re not great shakes defensively, you’d be pissed to be moved off the position you’ve played your entire life for a struggling rookie. If you piss Peralta off, he may demand a trade, and with no leverage you could end up selling a guy for 50 cents on the dollar.
"Loyal? I'm the most loyal player money can buy." - Don Sutton
by vignette17 on Dec 9, 2008 11:24 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly
Would teams be better off, in some minor sense, if they rearranged their defensive personnel to conform strictly to the defensive spectrum? Yes.
Does that mean they’re going to do it? No (at least, not necessarily).
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 9, 2008 11:33 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Can't have it both ways, though.
Maybe Cabrera was struggling because he played shortstop his whole life and then got moved to second when he was called up? Maybe Cabrera is pissed now and wants to be traded? Why jerk around Cabrera to keep Peralta happy?
That’s an awful lot of speculation.
Besides, if Peralta gets upset, you tell him to shut his ass and look at A-rod. He switched to third base even though he was better than Jeter.
by mikev on Dec 9, 2008 11:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
because Cabrera is a rookie and Peralta is a Veteran
facepalm.jpg
by Zonis on Dec 10, 2008 12:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dude, Cabrera OPSd 529 before they sent him down finally
He just wasn’t ready last year, at least coming out of st. Then he had a terrific second half after coming back up and he mostly played 2b.
Marcels has him OPS 800 next year and he’s 23. He isn’t going anywhere.
Perralta hit well last year, despite what you may think of him.
"Not in your wildest alcoholic nightmare would you ever imagine such events unfolding!" Bill King
by Buck Turgidson on Dec 10, 2008 11:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Peralta's a fine hitter, but his defense is pretty bad.
At the same time, I’d take him over Crosby too!
by mikev on Dec 10, 2008 11:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I have that impression as well about jonnhy's defense
Thing is, how bad is it before it would be an overall scratch with Crosby?
Thing is I know Crosby sucks at the plate. But defensively how many runs does he save over somebody like Peralta?
"Not in your wildest alcoholic nightmare would you ever imagine such events unfolding!" Bill King
by Buck Turgidson on Dec 10, 2008 4:47 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
if you can't beat 'em...acquire them?
'That's something we do...thirteen hits and not score'-Terrence Long
by DyeLongJustice on Dec 9, 2008 7:48 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
This is sort of the scenario I wanted to try and avoid
We bid low on Furcal, and now we have 4 bidders because “the market is lower”. It’s possible we get him anyway, but this is the scenario in which we might lose him. We now have to outcompete Toronto, KC, and his hometown dodgers (who scare me the most).
I acknowledge that we might very well get him anyways, but given how big an upgrade he is (3 wins), this current risk was worth avoiding.
Also, Gammons basically repeats Kinser’s announcement:
A deal for free agent Rafael Furcal has an outside shot at being done before the general managers start fleeing Las Vegas on Thursday morning.
Kansas City is working to come up with the money, the A’s are back in, so are the Dodgers, so is Toronto.The Royals have also been talking to Orlando Cabrera. The most likely Furcal timeline is Friday to Monday, but then, as one GM said Tuesday night, “If we weren’t here, a lot more could get done.”
by ohmangoAs on Dec 9, 2008 7:30 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Ah, Gammons...
the A’s are back in
We never left.
by GoA's on Dec 9, 2008 10:37 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, it is….
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Dec 9, 2008 7:37 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I always get an image of creepy Denzel Washington in my head when I hear that song...
"I'm going to take a camera crew and march into Billy Beane's office and demand to know why instituting his newfangled cost-saving measures means that the run manufacturing plant had to get shut down." FJM
by Elvez on Dec 9, 2008 8:01 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
A generational thing, I guess.
It reminds Me of Barbie Pettit, my seventh-grade crush.
And no, time wasn’t on my side.
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Dec 10, 2008 6:41 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
And if salb918 had a *requited* crush on the same girl, what would we call that?
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 9:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Dec 10, 2008 10:39 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Kinzer's getting a lot of press these days...
I dreamt last night that the A’s signed Furcal. There was also some sort of major trade, so the Furcal signing was basically an afterthought, but it happened. Take from that what you will.
by whiteshoes40 on Dec 9, 2008 8:01 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I dreamt of the signing about a week ago.
AN had like 20 posts about it and 3000 comments on one front page article.
Say something funny.
by muffinpryde on Dec 9, 2008 8:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
We haven't signed him
yet we’ve already had 20 posts and 3000 comments about him
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 9, 2008 8:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Ha ha, you're exaggerat--
Woah, whaddya know? You actually guessed low.
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 9, 2008 8:28 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
While actively not studying for my final tomorrow...
… I was looking around at other SBN sites. Pirates fans are all a-chatter about how the Dodgers are “exasperated” with the Bucs’ demands for Jack Wilson’s services. Perhaps the Dodgers will find a newfound drive to sign Furcal.
That would be teh suck.
Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.
by Joey C. on Dec 9, 2008 8:56 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
leather pants bowden on on the prowl
doubt he’ll get any takers though
Brian Fuentes Rumors: Tuesday
By Tim Dierkes [December 9 at 10:59pm CST]
10:59pm: Rosenthal says the Nationals are also in the mix for Fuentes. His source says they want to sign Mark Teixeira or Manny Ramirez, plus Fuentes. Nationals GM Jim Bowden said on November 12th, “We are not pursuing Manny Ramirez.”
by Asfan4ever723 on Dec 9, 2008 9:09 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
It'd be great if they signed Teixeira
Basically, as long as anyone besides the Angels or Yankees sign him, I’m satisfied.
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 9, 2008 9:11 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
What about the Red Sox?
I just want him out of the AL completely.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 1:51 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
So does Beane
Rodriguez leaves, A’s relieved: The news that former Angels closer Francisco Rodriguez is signing a three-year, $37 million contract with the Mets didn’t go unnoticed by the A’s brass.
“I’m glad he’s out of the division. I’m glad he’s out of the league,” general manager Billy Beane said. “There are a few more guys we hope will leave the league, too.”
Such as Mark Teixeira? “Might help,” Beane said.
by GoA's on Dec 10, 2008 12:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Great minds and all that
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 12:06 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
11:46 p.m. — UPDATED: A's, Furcal's agent meet Tuesday night
11:46 p.m. — UPDATED: A’s, Furcal’s agent meet Tuesday night
Rafael Furcal remains the A’s top focus and the team resumed discussion with his agent Paul Kinzer on Tuesday night.
Kinzer said four teams remain in the running for the free-agent shortstop — the Dodgers, Blue Jays, Royals and A’s.
“Toronto and Kansas City told me the only guy they would go to ownership for is Furcal,” Kinzer said. “They’re serious.”
He is seeking a four-year guaranteed contract.
The Dodgers have been unwilling to go to that level, and the A’s withdrew temporarilly last week after Furcal rejected their four-year proposal.
If the Royals signed Furcal, they would move Mike Aviles to second base.
Furcal remains the A’s No. 1 priority despite the breakdown in negotiations that occurred last week. To sign Furcal, they might not offer the same amount of money as in their initial offer
by Asfan4ever723 on Dec 9, 2008 9:23 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I think Kinzer is blowing smoke trying to get those teams into a bidding war.
I think that no other teams actuallly made an offer, other than the A’s so far. They also thought the A’s were out of the running so they could get him for cheaper and 3 years. Now that the A’s are back in the others may just bow out.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, either way, YOU'RE RIGHT !"
by Eastbayjim on Dec 9, 2008 10:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
what a fun offseason so far! :)
""These guys are a different breed of ballclub." - Twins manager Ron Gardenhire on the A's
by gotgreen on Dec 9, 2008 10:21 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
mlbtraderumers
We also have word from Yahoo’s Tim Brown that the Orioles are in on Furcal, and the list might at times include the Indians
Every team will be named today as interested at this rate. Kinser is busy throwing stuff out there again.
by Athletix Man on Dec 9, 2008 11:27 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I'm tired of Furcal.
I’m on the verge of not giving a shit.
…
Verge over. I don’t give a shit.
Ray: "How fun is it to be up here playing in the Big Leagues?"
Gio: "It's *SUPER* fun!!!"
by Poppy on Dec 9, 2008 11:57 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
You're not one for negotiations, are you?
by thejd44 on Dec 10, 2008 12:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I certainly don't have the patience for it. I'm with Poppy on this one.
It would be different if he were Teixeira or something. But Rafael Furcal? Come on.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 12:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
+about a million
"Don't be an ass!" --Bill King
by batgirl on Dec 10, 2008 1:05 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
The Orioles
are going to sign Cesar Izturis.
"We are a complete freak show." -- Billy Beane
by day-to-day on Dec 10, 2008 12:36 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
That's a good move for them.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 1:20 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dodgers made a contract offer to Furcal
facepalm.jpg
by Zonis on Dec 10, 2008 12:45 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
2/$25M. Sounds like they're listening to Nico.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 1:23 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That's a better offer than 4/36, flat out
A’s better up their bid.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 10, 2008 1:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless they refuse to get into a bidding war
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 1:45 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
OK, if they do, then Furcal should sign with the Dodgers...
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 10, 2008 10:08 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
No!!! The trick when you're colluding with other owners/GMs...
…is not to flinch. There’s still collusion going on, right, Paul?
by LowcountryJoe on Dec 10, 2008 2:15 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, *I'm* the #1 collusion-conspiracy theorist around here, bub!
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 9:35 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
I’ll defer all my collusion/conspiracy-mongering questions to monkeyball…
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 10, 2008 10:12 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
is it?
much higher annual salary, but only a 2 year deal. i somehow don’t see furcal getting a big contract after this one, so its in his interest to get the most years possible. plus, given his injury history, if he goes down for any period of time during this contract, he’s in big trouble after it. if 2/25 is what he’s looking for, i think we can match. i’m also suspicious about the dodgers offer – i think manny is learning he isn’t getting a 3-4 year deal, and will end up back in LA pretty soon. he’s the priority, not furcal. i gotta imagine they’ll wait to figure that out before really going after furcal.
by guy incognito on Dec 10, 2008 7:54 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
4/36, versus 2/25, is effectively agreeing to play 2 seasons at mediocrity rates (5.5M a season)
Not terribly likely.
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 10, 2008 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
54/40 or bust!
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 10:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure I want to sign Furcal to a 54 year contract.
But if it’s only for 40 million dollars, and it’s evenly distributed, where do I sign??
by mikev on Dec 10, 2008 10:25 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Tip: don't do a google image search for "54 bust" at work.
The meaning of life is not so much 'found,' as it is 'made.' --Opus
by The Dogfather on Dec 10, 2008 10:33 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
“58 bust,” on the other hand …
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 10:37 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
So, you're saying this is
Furcal’s manifest destiny?
"Camelot sure fell apart, didn't it?"-Steve McCatty
by 5Aces on Dec 10, 2008 11:05 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
a logical extension of the Craig Monroe Doctrine
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 11:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I actually like a 2/$25M deal
4 years guaranteed to a 30 year old SS coming of of back surgery is scary. I am all but certain it is going to take 3 or 4 years to snag him, but paying 12.5M annually for 2 years seems sssooooo much more feasible.
by son of wes on Dec 10, 2008 3:40 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
NY Post reports CC has picked the Yankees
http://www.nypost.com/seven/12102008/sports/yankees/yanks_close_in_on_sabathia_deal_143481.htm
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Dec 10, 2008 3:41 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Well
At least it wasn’t the Angels. I had hoped he’d go to SF so that we could watch him on a consistent basis because he is an extraordinary talent.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 4:37 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I would rather CC pick the Angels than Teixeira pick the Angels.
Seriously. With the amount of torque a pitcher’s body has got to generate and carry that weight, an injury seems all that likely.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 10, 2008 7:42 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Well if the reports are true
That say that Boston is gettng closer to signing Tex then that means that a). the Angels get neither and b). the Rays probably won’t win the East next year.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 10:30 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
i got 3 out of 4 right in my bracket, did i win the AN pool?
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 10, 2008 6:02 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
i think we'd match almost any 2 year deal
but i highly doubt furcal is getting 4 years from anyone. 3 years would be the max. either way, i suspect we’ll have a good shot at getting him, for one year less than we initially offered. again, this is all speculation, but furcal rejecting our 4 year offer will probably end up being a big mistake. i also doubt the dodgers will resign him – manny’s market is apparently not as good as he thought, so there’s speculation that he might end up taking LA’s 2/45 deal. as for the jays, yes, they might have money to play with if burnett is going elsewhere, but i don’t see them overpaying for furcal. this is all good for us.
by guy incognito on Dec 10, 2008 7:49 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Is Beane smart or what?
Lets see he makes a early play for Holiday. He watches the angels lose k-rod then CC sign in NY which now pushes the red sox to react by upping their offer to Texeria to 8/120. If the angels lose out on Tex who will they get? Not Manny because you can’t see him playing under their manager. Maybe a Dunn or Burell. No garret anderson or juan riveria and the angels offense looks as bad as our offense.
by Arcman on Dec 10, 2008 8:10 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
The Angels should bring back Garret Anderson.
He’s still open to signing there, and whoever signs him is going to have to overpay anyways.
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 10, 2008 8:16 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dodgers Are Probably the Real Competition
I think the Sabathia dominoes fall like this—
Teixeira goes to Boston;
Angels must make a play somewhere— they get Manny
Dodgers now embarrassed about losing both Sabathia and Ramirez— they try to reup Furcal
by windyfelix on Dec 10, 2008 8:37 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
And that's when Ned Colletti signs Raul Ibanez!!!!!
Dude. This.
by Blicks on Dec 10, 2008 8:58 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Dodgers need pitching too
They lose Lowe most likely and Chad breaks his leg so they are down 2 starters plus their closer is hurting and may not be back. I see them getting Manny back and going after a Garland/Sheets. They already put out on Blake so money will be tight if they sign Manny.
by Arcman on Dec 10, 2008 8:46 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Not really down 2...
Billingsley’s injury is a 6 week thing. Supposed to be throwing in January and ready by the start of Spring Training. Should be fine to go.
Bring back Hammer.
by OaktownPower on Dec 10, 2008 8:57 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
O's are now out
Report O’s sign Cesear Izturis. Another team down.
by Arcman on Dec 10, 2008 8:47 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
If the Dodgers get Furcal?
Can’t we trade one of our young starters (not Cahill or Anderson) for Ivan Dejesus? He has no power, and he probably needs half a year in AAA, but he is still a long-term solution at SS because he can handle the position and he gets on base.
by drink32 on Dec 10, 2008 9:40 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Toronto out?
It looks like there are rumors that the Blue Jays aren’t that interested in Furcal and that Kinzer is exagerating their involvement to juice up the market. Just a blurb from the Toronto Star but it does seem to have some logic behind it. Toronto doesn’t have a lot of money to throw around and while they could use money they were going to give to Burnett it seems like it would make a lot more sense to divert that to getting another pitcher to replace him.
I’m inclined to agree that the Dodgers are the biggest competitor to getting Furcal. I think the A’s have an advantage in that they can move on Furcal now while the Dodgers would probably be unlikely to improve their offer untill the Manny situation is settled.
by DiegoAsFan on Dec 10, 2008 9:55 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
i kinda get the feeling that kinzer is
an idiot.
"My group runs some frogloks down the hall to finish them off and POP! RASTER! If there was a way to scream louder than caps in EQ I was doing it. Man I am straight panicking because I know I have NO CHANCE soloing and the party has run off. I'm in my hotel room; it's like 5am, and I am straight hollering, in EQ and in real life. Bottom line is the group comes back, heals me, and kills Raster! WOOT!" -Curt Schilling on his favorite memories in the video game "EverQuest"
by travdog6 on Dec 10, 2008 11:39 AM PST reply actions 0 recs
Hardly...
If anything he’s showing that he’s fully qualified to be the GM of the Padres…
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Dec 10, 2008 12:04 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Furcal's agent meeting with Beane
This reported 10 minutes ago on the hot stove. It is apparent we are not out of the Furcal sweepstakes just yet.
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=3760405&name=winter_meetings_2008
My religion is A'slamic.
by WhoNeedsReligionWhenYaGotBaseball on Dec 10, 2008 12:51 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
Interesting....
Furcal’s reps had asked for $13 million a year over four years last week, and Oakland had offered a deal for something around $9 million a year.
3 years, 33 million! Everybody wins!
by mikev on Dec 10, 2008 12:57 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
That isn't exactly meeting in the middle.
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Dec 10, 2008 9:16 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
3.5 years!
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 10, 2008 9:26 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
SIGN RAF FUR NOW!!!
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 11, 2008 9:43 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
4/44 would be meeting in the middle
Both teams at 4 years, middle $$$ at 11M
"There's never enough time to do all the nothing you want" -Bill Watterson
by nevermoor on Dec 13, 2008 8:58 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Question - Who is Wes Childs?
“I don’t think Furcal is worth 13 mil a year. But then again Billy Beane is a smart man with his money. If the A’s can build around Holiday, Furcal, Cust, and maybe call up 2nd baseman Wes Childs at some point in the year, they have a shot to take a weak AL West.”
-Quote from comments section of link above provided by WhoNeedsReligionWhenYaGotBaseball .
by HRH on Dec 10, 2008 1:42 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
It's what Adrian Cardenas translates to.
"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL
by oblique on Dec 10, 2008 1:47 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
more importantly why would you ever call up anybody to 2nd base
when you have a f@$^ing unicorn playing there?
Save Rajai Davis
by oakinboston on Dec 10, 2008 2:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd prefer Moe Adults
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 2:25 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Interestingly, that's what Mark Grudzielanek translates to.
"God doesn't pay attention to your cute little hypotheticals." -- Jeff from LL
by oblique on Dec 10, 2008 2:36 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder what "Rod Blagojevich" translates to
I'll send you a postcard from Space Mountain. @('.')@
by monkeyball on Dec 10, 2008 4:56 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
I think "Blagojevich" means "briber" in Ukrainian
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 10, 2008 5:09 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Prison Bitch.
"You may glory in a team triumphant, but you fall in love with a team in defeat."--The Boys of Summer
by alox on Dec 11, 2008 2:13 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
it’s a comment on espn
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 10, 2008 4:10 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
kevin correia
is this plan B is not randy johnson bidding war?
very good in 06/07, then struggled in 08
sort of like a chad gaudin can pitch in both relief/sp
definitely fits into beane’s idea of bring in a reliever/sp type with some mlb experience on a minor league deal
by Asfan4ever723 on Dec 10, 2008 5:14 PM PST reply actions 0 recs
I fear Correia kind of sucks big time
I used to think he had some potential, but currently I’m not so sure. I always liked Jerome Williams, though.
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 10, 2008 5:39 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
While we're picking up ex-Giants pitchers,
where’s Jesse Foppert these days?
by whiteshoes40 on Dec 10, 2008 6:53 PM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn't David Aardsma released a few weeks ago?
Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.
by PaulThomas on Dec 11, 2008 11:29 AM PST up reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Athletics Nation
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
