A's Trade Harden and Gaudin to the Cubs

Am I really the first?

Wow. I’m suprised Gaudin left in the deal as well. I hear Donaldson is a “walk machine” and Murton and Patterson seem AAAA talent at best….

I don’t even know…

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I am going to very politely suggest

That I was the first. :)

Parental Advisory - Explicit Content

by Jivas on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

THANK YOU for the diary.

I was composing the news in another window, and trying to find internet links. It snowballed from there, but I was going to link your diary too.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're now linked.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ha ha, it's all good!

I’ve peeked around the site for awhile, but never posted anything of any sort. It was random that I happened to be online and listening to WSCR when they broke the news.

Great site. Keep up the good work.

Parental Advisory - Explicit Content

by Jivas on Jul 8, 2008 4:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

ESPN did not dig at Harden, IMO

“sixth trip to the disabled list in his six-year career” does not tell more than a small piece of the story. They could mean 6 15-day DL-trips in 6 years, which would be totally normal.

ESPN hasn’t explained the depths of Harden’s injury woes in almost any of the lead articles, preferring to leave it at “six trips to the disabled list in his six-year career.” I’m sure the fans who are paying attention have looked up his stats (ie IP), but for many Cubs fans, the Harden trade provides a psychological answer to the Brewers move, with no real strings attached.

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 10, 2008 6:11 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

we shouldve gotten vitters

boooooo

Cust is the new Jaha.

by johnjahafanclub on Jul 8, 2008 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That was really quick

Billy probably knows what he’s doing, but I don’t anything about the Cubs players.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Hmmmm

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 3:43 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Just saw this on ESPN

Don’t know a whole lot about the Cubs players other than Murton, but I think I’m more upset that Gaudin got thrown into this trade. I honestly think Gaudin is more valuable and better than Blanton, so the Cubs got the injury riddled Harden AND Gaudin for what????
Scratching my head, but I guess I’ll wait to pass judgment.

by oaktownmario on Jul 8, 2008 3:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

GAUDIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I totally agree. I’m not seeing anything here that was worth losing Gaudin over! He is starter ready and was only put in the bullpen due to Harden’s return in a crowded rotation. I could of let Harden go but Gaudin just crosses the line.

I don’t know much about these guys from the cubs but I’m not thinking the cubs fans will miss any of them.

It's just more exciting with Billy Beane running the team.

by ru155 on Jul 8, 2008 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

dude, he's fresh, too

only 6 starts on his arm, and months of rest. if you play fantasy, you should grab Gaudin.

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 8, 2008 4:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

What-what-what?!?

Harden AND Gaudin?

Someone’s getting a callup. Please not DiNardo or Saarloos.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 3:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Holy crap

Does this trade suck at first glance.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 3:44 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

That's pretty much my impression

Murton is more or less Bobby Kielty – that’s useful to the A’s right now, but not terribly exciting.
Donaldson is a catcher who appears to be not hitting in A ball.
Patterson is a toolsy outfielder who’s hit decently in the minors and is already 25.
Gallagher is a young pitcher who’s put up good (but rarely great) numbers at every level in the minors, but hasn’t had major league success.

Clearly Beane sees some real upside in at least one of these players, but I’m honestly not sure which.

"May a nit suck Cajun geese?" wonders Red. No, we see gnu Jack Cust in a yam.

by andeux on Jul 8, 2008 3:50 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So will Gallagher go into the rotaion??

Or is a Gio call up on the horizon?

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Gio has been awesome; I'd love to see him.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Inoa. Now.

by A'sian on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs

Lol

First player called up straight from the DSL.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

[jumps from ledge]

Mark Ellis: sent down from Heaven to rob Evil of hits and hand out rainbows

by Jennifer on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

you mean porch?

alaska A

by ak_A on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wellll...

...I’ll obviously reserve judgment on this deal until everything is said and done, but I’m glad it came off 2 “hurt” Harden starts, and not his “perfect game” ones.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Are those 4 players mentioned the only ones the A's got?

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah

hurt harden always seem to go together think billy finally found some interest in him. hate to see him go but really did we ever get to see him enough?

Beane's World!! Excellent!!! Rock On, Beane! Rock On, Geren!

by Satchmo22 on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

the press release said Harden has made like 89 career starts

wow, I don’t remember him pitching that much??

You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}

by micdog2001 on Jul 8, 2008 4:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

hell yeah, bballgirl

“dead arm” = out for the season in two weeks with 50% prob, given what we’ve seen from Richie.

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 8, 2008 4:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

this sucks.

by whiteshoes40 on Jul 8, 2008 3:45 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Why Gaudin?

And not Blanton? The more I think about this the less I like it.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

i cannot believe this

I just watched Rich’s last game, in person here in Chicago, and I can’t believe it.
The A’s were robbed blind by this trade. Robbed blind.
Quite possibly the saddest day of my A’s fan life…
Not even someone like Pie? Vitters? And dealing Gaudin too? Jeez…the cubs just got a shit ton better.

Mike "lego my" Gallego

by catfish hunter on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I saw that one

and his 4th career start in Chicago vs. Loaiza. Crazy memories at the Cell.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I saw his debut at Kaufman. I was so freakin' jacked and now I'm the

opposite of jacked.

Was Black Snake Moan a comedy or a drama?

by ohtobe21likehuston on Jul 8, 2008 6:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Holy crap!

Did the cubs back up the truck?

by A'sian on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Seems like no "elite" prospects

The time was right to deal Harden…thought it might bring more?

Bring back Hammer.

by OaktownPower on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Exactly my thought

Did Billy get too excited that someone, anyone, would take Harden off his hands that he traded for a bucketload of worthless?

by jonahsilas on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

wow this sucks

donkey balls

HELMET: Sandurz, what's going on?
SANDURZ: It's Mega Maid. She's gone from suck to
blow!

by SoCalA'sFan on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Gallagher is only 22

He’s got a 1.36 WHIP in 12 games, 10 starts, he’ll probably plug into the rotation immediately

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:46 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

The reports seem to say

2 as-yet unnamed players for Harden and Gallagher/Murton/Patterson/Donaldson for Gaudin.

by green star oakland on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

right

so josh vitters and someone else. no big

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i havent seen that yet, i only see the 4

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Where are you seeing this?

I see “six player deal, Gaudin and Harden for those four”

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

link?

by Bitey on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

At first glance I'm calling this Billy Beane's worst trade ever

I’m not sure I’d trade Gaudin alone for those 4 guys.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I would give Gaudin for the 4 guys but only because he wasn't starting

You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}

by micdog2001 on Jul 8, 2008 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

And that, my friends...

is why I’m not a baseball GM.

by sonomanate on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Harden AND Gaudin

and no Vitters?

by NateHST on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

i'm waiting for the "and a PTBNL"

meaning josh vitters

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd still think that would make the deal heavily lopsided in favor of the 2008 World Series Champions

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

the brewers?

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs

The Cubs are the best team in baseball right now

Even if Harden gets hurt, the Gaudin thing was such a steal for Hendry.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, that's the part I don't understand.

If Harden is broken, then fine – getting Gallagher and Murton plus a couple minor leaguers is fine.

WHY THE FUCK DEAL GAUDIN ALONG WITH HIM?

by mikev on Jul 8, 2008 3:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

and even then...

I’m waiting for the “a AAA team to be named later.” Has Billy been hanging out with Chris Mullin too much and studying his techniques on how to get rid of talented players? Too soon?

by TempletonPeck on Jul 8, 2008 5:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That just completely ruined my day.

by #14fan on Jul 8, 2008 3:47 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

+1

by whiteshoes40 on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+ 10000000000

There's no crying in baseball!

by gigglingone on Jul 8, 2008 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I felt this way once before

when Bush was re-elected in 2004. I think I’m gonna puke.

by petitceebee on Jul 8, 2008 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1000000000

want to burn my A’s shirt

by schmifty on Jul 8, 2008 4:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

Looks like a pile of poop to me.

I’ll reserve judgment for a while but… blech.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

paul

what if the ptbnl that some are reporting is vitters?

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

There is no PTBNL

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

that's my reaction

I’ve been pounding the trade Harden drum for some time—but only for a back-up-the-truck deal. Which this really doesn’t seem to be. I’m not impressed.

And including Gaudin? That … is peculiar. Seems to me Beane could have done better dealing each separately (presuming moving Gaudin back to the rotation and reestablshing his value).

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 4:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i blame you

Billy read your comment about his setting the bar too high for Blanton and then lowered it. Two hours ago, I tried briefly to compose a reply warning that Billy could also set the bar too low, but there was a glitch and my reply didn’t post. “Oh well,” I thought, never imagining that my failure to reply would change the course of A’s history.

Brainless Automaton #439

by rubin sierra on Jul 8, 2008 4:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Umm ... I guess there was no glitch. Moving on ...

Brainless Automaton #439

by rubin sierra on Jul 8, 2008 5:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pucking A

Why not wait till the deadline?

by Pucking Insane on Jul 8, 2008 3:48 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

A's release

Right Here.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:49 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I understand harden

but Gaudin too!!!

What is going on. All of these players seem like AAAA dudes. Are we gonna trade Blanton now too?

Who takes his place?

I don’t like to questions Billy, but I don’t know about this one.

Who needs homeruns?

by robber23 on Jul 8, 2008 3:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I know we've been talking about the possibility of trading Rich all season

but now that he is gone is really hurts.

I’m seriously sad right now.

HELMET: Sandurz, what's going on?
SANDURZ: It's Mega Maid. She's gone from suck to
blow!

by SoCalA'sFan on Jul 8, 2008 3:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm absolutely floored

That Beane could trade Harden AND Gaudin and not even get Vitters in return.

This is just something else.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 3:50 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Vitters can't be traded...per MLB rules.

but you guys are getting a decent pitcher in Gallagher and a legit LF in Murton. There is much hand wringing over losing Gallagher, just so you know.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That package shouldn't be good enough for one of them, let alone both. Gallagher won't change

that

by theblackpearl on Jul 8, 2008 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Talk to your GM...he seemed to think it was.

Look…based on Harden’s past DL experience, most of the risk involved in this transaction is on our side. I’m guessing Beane was willing to part with Chad to insure the deal got done.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, god forbid the A's don't pick up Sean Gallagher...

Well, at least the #5 starter spot is nailed down for a while.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

sorry, you're wrong

we just picked up a platoon leftfielder, a shittier younger brother of a shitty player, a #5 starter, and a catcher, albeit a prospect, hitting under .220 in the low minors.

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by Bitey on Jul 8, 2008 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You picked up a #5 22 yr/o

Who is a #5 right now, in his rookie season, he’ll get better.

by tigerhawk61 on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

right

gallagher is the prize of the deal. great.

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

PECOTA hates him

Has him as a 1.5 WHIP/5 ERA guy for the next 7 years

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 7:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton is only a "platoon leftfielder" because our $120 million dollar K-out machine

took his position. Play him everyday and he’ll put up .300/.365/.450 for you…he just didn’t really get a chance. Patterson is a much better hitter than he gets credit for..again…we have 42 2nd basemen on our 40 man roster…so he didn’t get a chance either.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 8, 2008 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

he's a platoon guy for us most likely though

with cust in left/dh, sweeney and cargon in cf/rf and hurt dh’ing when he comes back, plus bankston, barton…etc.

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

fer sher

Don’t we have more than enough marginal OF’s?

by jonahsilas on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not that it helps any...

....but Eric Patterson is way less shitty than his brother.

by sitrick2 on Jul 8, 2008 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fantastic, thanks!

As long as we’re getting a decent pitcher. By the way, you guys are getting a better than decent pitcher… and Harden.

by Sacred#24 on Jul 8, 2008 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not true - he could be included as a PTBNL

Parental Advisory - Explicit Content

by Jivas on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

he better be

for this trade to make any sense

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don't think he is

Just responding that he could be traded.

Parental Advisory - Explicit Content

by Jivas on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, he couldn't be

The PTBNL has to be named well before the one-year anniversary of Vitters signing, which is the earliest he could be dealt.

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on Jul 8, 2008 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Er, ignore me

I was thinking for some reason that Vitters was drafted this year.

He's extremely quick and good.

by battlekow on Jul 8, 2008 6:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is not looking good

It may be better than we are all giving it credit but it looks like it really suck balls right now. That was a lot to give up to just get 4 guys back.

by A'sfaninNC on Jul 8, 2008 3:51 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

we are now officially off the fence and are in full blown re-building mode

by A'sfaninNC on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not really news...

Many thought we were in re-building mode before this season. Just because the A’s have exceeded expectations doesn’t necessarily change that.

I want an A's-Rays ALCS.

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Jul 8, 2008 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i was not one of the fence sitters

I knew and understood that this was a rebuilding year. But this trade (unless Harden is hurt) seems a little one sided to the cubs. My comment was for those that may have been leaning toward going for the playoffs this year

by A'sfaninNC on Jul 8, 2008 4:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fair enough

I want an A's-Rays ALCS.

by FormerHuntsvilleStar on Jul 8, 2008 7:34 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gallagher should be a good one.

by tigerhawk61 on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

i agree

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 7:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

On ESPN now...

It’s just the 4 guys back.

Bring back Hammer.

by OaktownPower on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

The #5, 7 Prospects

2 AAAA talents…really?

I mean we’ll all love this if Rich’s arm falls off next week

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm the #1 prospect in my house

Being the tallest midgets doesn’t make them good.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

uh

it makes them better at nerf basketball

Beane's World!! Excellent!!! Rock On, Beane! Rock On, Geren!

by Satchmo22 on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

and if Gaudin Dies.

by Sacred#24 on Jul 8, 2008 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs

Honestly

We all know that Harden was a ticking time bomb, so really, how much more were we going to get? I just don’t like Gaudin being involved. Damn it.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 3:52 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I was somewhat shocked to see Gaudin's name in the mix

I thought he would slip into the rotation when Harden was dealt…

by SwisherThresher on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

How much more?

Well, maybe the Rasmus rumors were pulled out of someone’s ass, but I’d take him in a second over this group.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

To think

Just last night we were salivating at the slightest hope of Rich Harden for Rasmus and Anderson, and what we get is Sean Gallagher and a bag of balls and lose Chad Gaudin as well for our troubles.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 7:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So I took a few minutes to talk it out with my Cubs fan mother

And this trade still sucks for the A’s.

I have no problem with trading Harden. Or Gaudin. This isn’t one of those “Gotta hang onto everybody” complains.

But unless Donaldson is Johnny Bench and Ivan Rodriguez combined, this is Billy’s worst big-time trade ever. And it’s really not close.

Gallagher won’t ever be as good as Harden, and he probably won’t be as good as Gaudin, either. Eric Patterson sucks as much as his brother. Matt Murton is better than Emil Brown, so I like that aspect.

Harden must be hurt, because Beane just sold him and Gaudin for 25 cents on the dollar.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:53 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Harden may very well be hurt

His last two starts, he wasn’t close to the same pitcher.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, he had his velocity last start

But he was wild and the Sox are a good enough team to handle a two-pitch pitcher who is wild. I don’t know if he’s hurt though.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, Hardin and Gaudin

seem to be not in top form.

Harden says he gets a “dead arm” after missing most of April (equivalent). Gaudin seems to be coming in,giving up runs in relief, though they are usually someone else’s runners that he inherits.
I have no faith with him coming in.

The way Gaudin’s been used, like that one-inning, ninth inning mop-up job he did a week or so ago in a blowout….what was with that??? Except to prevent someone from “peeking at the cards”. I don’t think he is 100% healthy, but he’s been kept off the mound to make it look “good”.

Both Gaudin and Hardin, they’d probably tell you, “I feel great, everything’s working great.” But then you see them get treatment from the trainer, or pop a lot of Advil, look at video, get outside consultations on pitching motion…they may all tell you stuff, and you have to act…

and by act, I mean action (see Mulder, Mark, and trade for Haren (who? ) and Barton.

"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer

by One won lost won on Jul 8, 2008 4:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here's what the trade looks like to me

Gallagher + Murton + Patterson + 48th Overall Pick (2007 Draft)

for,

Harden + Gaudin + No Physicals

Harden is definitely a ticking timebomb. Beane couldn’t wait any longer. HIs next start could be his last, and from the looks of Harden’s last 2 starts, guys weren’t getting fooled because of Velocity Decline.

As for Gaudin… Control Issues were a Huge Problem as a Starter. And, he’ll be a Free Agent after the 2010 Season.

Please extend Mark Ellis & Justin Duchscherer!!!

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 5:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ellis & Duke

Please extend Mark Ellis & Justin Duchscherer!!!

Agreed! Their price isn’t likely to go down, but should be reasonable now, and both seem to be looking for security more than a big payout. Locking in Ellis and Duke for 3 years each at a reasonable price makes sense—Ellis is the best defensive second baseman in the AL and solid at the plate. In 3 years maybe Weeks is ready to take over. And Duke has been great as a reliever and a starter.

by andyinfremont on Jul 9, 2008 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So your mom is our resident Cubs prospect expert?

Good puck in convincing the jury on that one, eh?

by Pucking Insane on Jul 8, 2008 3:55 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The point of that statement was just to say I thought it out and analyzed it

instead of just sticking with my gut reaction. Her only comment was “They better not have traded Reed Johnson.”

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wish they would trade Reed Johnson.

FREE FELIX PIE.

by sitrick2 on Jul 8, 2008 4:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton/Brown

That’s the small shred of silver lining (though not enough to make me not hate this trade).
Can we finally DFA DFA?

"May a nit suck Cajun geese?" wonders Red. No, we see gnu Jack Cust in a yam.

by andeux on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

If we DFA DFA there'll be a DFA party

by nevermoor on Jul 8, 2008 7:46 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

IN BILLY WE TRUST

Lets not forget what the same man got in return for Swisher and Haren.

I think BB knows something about Harden’s recent slow in velocity.

by put em in a body bag johnny on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Are we not all hyperventilating a bit...

We all know Harden and his propensity to get injured. He has complained of arm soreness on many occasions this year with a strict pitch count.

Gaudin is a tough one, because everyone here appreciates what he did last year, but with Duke in the rotation he is expendable.

Murton fills an immediate need right now. How many of you kill Emil on a daily basis

And if the young kids come through the way Sweeny has…maybe this isnt so bad

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Except that Duke isn't replacing Gaudin

and everyone expected Gaudin to replace Harden or Blanton when they inevitably departed. I honestly think Gaudin is/will be better than Blanton.

by oaktownmario on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

There aren't many people

That don’t think Blanton is better than Gaudin.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I messed that up.

Gaudin > Blanton

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

count me in the few

blanton has far better track record than gaudin.

Beane's World!! Excellent!!! Rock On, Beane! Rock On, Geren!

by Satchmo22 on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm with you.

So, bring on Bonds! Or, not... then, bring back Langerhans!! -One won lost one

by baseballgirl on Jul 8, 2008 4:44 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Me too

I’ll take Solid Longevity over Potential.

Blanton > Gaudin

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 5:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The few,

are not so few? I agree, Cupcakes > Gaudin. Gaudin’s K / BB rate is improved this year, but he’s been used quite a bit as a reliever, not a starter.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 9, 2008 1:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

the other thing is

maybe Beane is looking to flip one or two of these guys to some other team, ya never know.

It could be like Ryan Langerhans all over again.

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 8, 2008 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Please just let me cling to whatever optimistic illusion I might be able to find a scrap of.

I had no idea who any of the Dbacks or White Sox prospects were, either.

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Damn AN 3.0

That was supposed to be a reply to andeux… somewhere…

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

what am I, chopped Langerhans?

sorry, I’m not very sharp-witted when I’m depressed.

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 8, 2008 5:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

QOTM

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 5:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wait...

...whatever happened to Doyle, anyway?

by juanmiguel on Jul 8, 2008 6:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You people crack me up – Most of you know nothing about the players the A’s are getting in return.

Same people who paniced when Haren was dealt, freaked out when Swisher was traded and lost their minds when Mulder was shipped off.

This was a good deal for the A’s…Even though you can’t wrap your heads around it, it is.

The A’s still compete in 2008, and are even stronger moving forward.

by Pappagiorgio on Jul 8, 2008 3:54 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I agree that the first reaction around here is usually panic

But you must understand, Billy traded his best (if oft-injured pitcher) and the guy we all thought would replace him for… well, not for the Cubs’ top prospect, which you would figure would just be the beginning.

I’m all for trusting Billy on this one. But head-scratcher doesn’t even, er, scratch the surface on this one.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

It is because you overvalue Harden

If his arm falls off, which given his history is very likely, then he isn’t worth anything. His return value would be ZERO.

It is hard, because you guys get to watch Harden when he isn’t injured… ie, the most dominating pitcher in the game. But Beane knows Harden’s injury history better than anyone. He got what was available. Be thankful for that.

by manyoso on Jul 8, 2008 4:38 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, that leads to a good question of what's better:

a high likelihood of okay-ness, or a small chance at excellence.

Unless Beane really, truly believes that Harden is physically incapable of pitching over 125 or so innings per season in the majors, then he’s giving up something really significant in trading someone with Harden’s talent and track record.

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

by Nick on Jul 8, 2008 5:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Are you a Cubs fan?

How the fuck do the A’s still compete in 2008?

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i'm having trouble with that too

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sign Bonds?

Wait, no.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Better yet

How the hell does this trade help them compete in 2009 and 2010?

There’s nobody here worth plugging into our future plans except maybe Gallagher- another freaking pitcher.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is exactly why you are fans…

...And Billy is running the club.

You think with your hearts and rush to judgment, and Billy uses his head (which he has done successfully, time and time again)

Paul, I bet you were asking that exact same question before the season started.

by Pappagiorgio on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

no one is thinking with their hearts for the most part

is the thing though.

no one here believes rich harden can stay healthy for a full season.

we just were expecting more, is all. at first glance, this trade looks like shit for us.

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then ask yourself why you were expecting more...

Harden’s injury history is no secret. The Cubs are well aware I’m sure. In spite of this, you think any GM should give up a top prospect for a guy who’s arm is beyond ‘risky’?

by manyoso on Jul 8, 2008 4:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Evading the question

A leading indicator of being full of shit.

You said it, you back it up. How do the A’s compete in 2008?

(BTW, I didn’t think the A’s would compete at all this season, and I was OK with that. I’m OK with them not competing down the stretch. I’m just trying to figure out where the hell your position is coming from.)

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 4:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The A's might compete despite this trade in 2008

say, if Gio Gonzalez is called up and turns into Fernando Valenzuela. Or if Joe Blanton decides to become unhittable for a couple of months in the second half.

But there’s no way they compete in 2008 because of this trade.

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

by Nick on Jul 8, 2008 5:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I understand your point, Giorgio,

and if you were just speaking generically it would make sense.

But if you knew Paul at all, you wouldn’t direct it at him.

"Dispatch knuckleheadedness with Bond-like aplomb." –74mk

by iglew on Jul 8, 2008 8:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Were the A's ever "Competing"?

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 5:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I watch almost every Cubs game

Murton is basically Bobby Kielty, but he only bats right-handed. And he can’t play defense very well.

Patterson has no business being anywhere on a major league roster.

Gallagher is good, young, but he’s not Harden.

I don’t think Donaldson is good enough to be the prize of a deal that costs the team Harden and Gaudin.

I just can’t believe Beane couldn’t have gotten twice as much for a guy who is a top 5 starter in baseball when healthy.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

when

That’s why

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Right, because Carl Pavano never got a massive 4-year deal

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

From a Steinbrenner, though...

That sort of changes the equation a little.

Ryan Sweeney: I probably irrationally embraced him before you did.

by Joey C. on Jul 8, 2008 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

“Murton is basically Bobby Kielty, but he only bats right-handed. And he can’t play defense very well.”

Since Kielty could only bat right handed (even though he was a switch hitter), it sounds like he’s a smarter version of Bobby Kielty. I think he’s a redhead, too.

Root for the Giants? Not even if they're playing al-Qaeda!

by Monday Fan on Jul 9, 2008 7:14 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

We might not know much of what we are getting

but we do know what we are losing. IMO Harden is the equal if not better then Zambrano, injuries aside. Wait, Zambrano is injured tơ right? Seems they’re about equal then huh? Cubs got a gift and we got fleeced.

by petitceebee on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Injuries aside?

That’s a bit of a ridiculous comment. You can’t just put the injuries aside. As I recall, Harden was complaining of a dead arm a couple starts ago. As great as he is, the injuries continue and can’t be poo-pooed

Niners Nation - The premier 49ers blog on the Internet!

by Fooch on Jul 8, 2008 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by manyoso on Jul 8, 2008 4:41 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Being emotional is one thing

equating Carlos Zambrano to Rich Harden in terms of health and durability is ridonkulous.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 9, 2008 1:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

no elite hitter prospect=bad trade

some other team would have givin us an ELITE bat prospect for those two. who cares about the scraps that came with it

by TheLC on Jul 8, 2008 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with the TheLC

I was expecting a good hitting prospect. BB already made quantity over quality trades in the offseason. I was hoping for quality this time. now we get to wait and see.

You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}

by micdog2001 on Jul 8, 2008 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Days like this are very hard

As my wife said, “Hottie Rich Harden? But he speaks fluent Canadian!”

Looking forward to learning more about our new farmhands.

Good luck Rich!

More than just ANtics: http://www.louisgray.com/live/

by louismg on Jul 8, 2008 3:55 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I think the move on Harden was too quick

He’s a special kind of talent and Beane gave up on him too early. I think I’m in the minority but I would have wanted him to sat with the A’s a lot longer. And then he gives a gift to the Cubs with Gaudin too. I’m no Peter Gammons but this trade looks like dookie-booty for us right now

by petitceebee on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Giving up on him too early? Did you forget that hes been jumping back to the DL multiple times for the past 4 seasons?

How many trips to the DL will it take for you all to realize that the A’s deserve more consistency if they want to make the playoffs in the coming seasons?

by jwnewman on Jul 8, 2008 3:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

exactly

how many turn into Sandy Koufax after an injury record like this. I think the velocity drop is very telling.
That’s why the A’s got what they got.
Gaudin was injured, had surgery. It’s not like “shiny toys outta the box”. These guys have serious smoke coming out of the tailpipes.

"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer

by One won lost won on Jul 8, 2008 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. Why now? Why this deal?

by Pucking Insane on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why now????

see press conference, CC Sabathia.

Cubs have to do something, if not just for the fans, but the psychology of the club.

"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer

by One won lost won on Jul 8, 2008 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Word out of Chicago is this trade has been in the works for nearly a month...

...well before CC’s trade.

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 8, 2008 4:32 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

sfgate updated their article

””The Cubs were pretty aggressive,” Beane said. “(Cubs GM) Jim Hendry and I talk quite a bit anyway. We consistently had conversations over the past month; we came to an agreement this morning. They were looking for Rich is what they were looking for.”“

(sorry i dunno how to block-quote)

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/07/08/SPFE11LLCS.DTL

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 8, 2008 5:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

the frenzy is now. In a month, Milwaukee may fall back

then the Cubs might be ahead by ten games at July 31, don’t need Rich…Rich, two more starts, 91 mph, wild…Gaudin mediocre… it just makes sense with the hoopla in Milwaukee that NOW rather than an unknown later, to pull the trigger. So what if the bullet was in the chamber two weeks ago, a month ago? Your question was, why pull now and not 7/31.

Just my opinion. Of course.

"I never predict anything, and I never will." Paul Gascoigne, English footballer

by One won lost won on Jul 8, 2008 6:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Beane himself

Didn’t BB himself say that Harden is such a special talent that you don’t give up on him? Those prospects we got back don’t add up to Harden’s talent level… (do they?)

by sec119 on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

It'd be a different story if Harden wasn't injury prone

Last of the Ninth - Photography Site
jamesvenes.com - Blog

by Flashfire on Jul 8, 2008 4:56 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Billy Beane is smarter than all of us...

Still sucks to have lost Baron Davis and Rich Harden in a one week span…

by put em in a body bag johnny on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

He is.

But with every other Beane trade where everybody freaked out, I still saw what he was doing. I don’t see that this time. I think he underestimated Harden’s market value because he more than other GMs knows his actual value.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

by truelements on Jul 8, 2008 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

The market value is determined by what other teams are willing to offer.

And I’m sure Beane knows that better than anyone else alive. He is the one entertaining the offers after all.

by manyoso on Jul 8, 2008 4:42 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pietrus to the Magic today as well

so sayeth sfgate

Bob Geren, on 8/2/07, on the success of Alan Embree as new interim closer: "What can I say,... he's been our Steady Tremendous Bullpen Man"

by popcornjames on Jul 8, 2008 5:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Also, he traded Mulder before his injuries took over his career.

by put em in a body bag johnny on Jul 8, 2008 3:57 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

+1 We've all been through this before... Tim Hudson, Mark Mulder... have hope Oakland Fans!

by jwnewman on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe don't throw in Tim Hudson

I’d like to forget the awful trades.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

We ain't getting a Dan Haren or a Daric Barton back this time.

"We were s--, pathetic," Guillen growled early in spring training. "We hit too many home runs."

by lenscrafters on Jul 8, 2008 4:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is this shit final?

Does it have to be approved by the MLB? Does Harden need to pass a physical?

Thais sucks

by Bitey on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

If you give it another generation or two,

this business model is eventually bound to produce a WS title

by southofcruiseamerica on Jul 8, 2008 3:59 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

give this comment the proverbial plus one

"Behind both goals were banners bearing the word 'Calamity' while another carried the warning: 'You will drown in the Bosphorous.'"--Threats made by Turkish soccer fans to the British from a match in 2003. Tribute to their miraculous run in Euro 2008.

RIP Tim Russert, quintessential Buffalonian.

by Cutthemullet on Jul 8, 2008 6:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think most people here can live with Harden being shipped off

for this package, but Gaudin too! That’s my big problem . . .

by oaktownmario on Jul 8, 2008 4:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Replace Patterson with, like, somebody with talent

And I’d be ok with it. Marmol instead of Patterson and I’m sold. Vitters instead of Patterson and yay. But I’m not sure how Patterson is more useful than Rajai Davis (not exactly the same type of player, but pretty close).

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, let's not go THAT far

Patterson has a better minors track record than Rajai.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's better

But not necessarily more useful in filling a role. He’s basically a fast guy who can’t really hit. He can hit a little better, but he can’t play the outfield well (he’s only been doing it a year or two). He’s a 2B and I would rather have Ellis, Petit, Murphy, or, like, anybody.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Except for 37 PAs

in 2005 at AA in the Southern, Patterson’ raw OPS in the minors has been above the league average in every single season, at every level. Same with his raw OBP. Granted, he’s been slightly old for his levels. More of a concern, his homeparks at AA, and AAA, where he’s spent most of his minor league career, are hitter’s parks.

The issue really is his D. If he’s actually really 2b, he’s a pretty useful piece. If he can play D at 2b adequately, league average, he should overall be capable of being a league average 2b.

ZIPS: Milledge: 466 HR, 485 2B, 2282 hits, 278-379-524

by rfloh on Jul 9, 2008 1:38 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think most people here

overestimate the value of Chad Gaudin. My problem is with the Harden part.

"May a nit suck Cajun geese?" wonders Red. No, we see gnu Jack Cust in a yam.

by andeux on Jul 8, 2008 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed

by petitceebee on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gaudin right now doesn't have much value

Trade Harden, move Gaudin back into the rotation for either 3 weeks or 55 weeks, and he has a fair amount of value.

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 4:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

...yeah

"Behind both goals were banners bearing the word 'Calamity' while another carried the warning: 'You will drown in the Bosphorous.'"--Threats made by Turkish soccer fans to the British from a match in 2003. Tribute to their miraculous run in Euro 2008.

RIP Tim Russert, quintessential Buffalonian.

by Cutthemullet on Jul 8, 2008 6:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

yes

The A's colors are green and gold.

by mikeA on Jul 8, 2008 4:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is a joke...

This is obviously a joke.

That’s what I’m gonna keep telling myself.

by Philip Christy on Jul 8, 2008 4:00 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Keep telling yourself that you narrow minded fan.

by jwnewman on Jul 8, 2008 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

the onus is now on you to describe a 2011 scenario in which the A’s win a World Series led by the Gallagher-Donaldson battery. Put your imagination to the test.

"Behind both goals were banners bearing the word 'Calamity' while another carried the warning: 'You will drown in the Bosphorous.'"--Threats made by Turkish soccer fans to the British from a match in 2003. Tribute to their miraculous run in Euro 2008.

RIP Tim Russert, quintessential Buffalonian.

by Cutthemullet on Jul 8, 2008 6:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

They're interviewing Pinella on ESPN

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 4:01 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Repeating this over and over to myself:

I love Carlos Gonzalez, Ryan Sweeney, Dana Eveland and Greg Smith… I love Carlos Gonzalez, Ryan Sweeney, Dana Eveland and Greg Smith… I love Carlos Gonzalez, Ryan Sweeney, Dana Eveland and Greg Smith… I love Carlos Gonzalez, Ryan Sweeney, Dana Eveland and Greg Smith…

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

can you put that on a tape for me?

by whiteshoes40 on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's get drunk and get tattoos.

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

okay.

can we kidnap Rich too?

by whiteshoes40 on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Noooooooobody knows the trouble I've seeeeeeen!

Mark Ellis: sent down from Heaven to rob Evil of hits and hand out rainbows

by Jennifer on Jul 8, 2008 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Link.

Someone go check on prana160.

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm still here

barely! Thanks for the concern. Since then, I added TBuck to the list—uh oh…we’ll see how that one turns out. So, am I allowed to be an A’s fan and have a favorite player?

Nature's first green is gold...

by prana160 on Jul 8, 2008 6:27 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

And Ziggy.

I’m going to drink my sorrows away and work on the Ziggy Bobble Village project.

Mark Ellis: sent down from Heaven to rob Evil of hits and hand out rainbows

by Jennifer on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ironically

my reaction to the Haren trade was the same as my reaction to this – seems like we sacrificed quality in favor of quantity. That one is looking a lot better now, as Gonzalez and Smith have both progressed faster than I expected (as has Sweeney, from the Swisher trade). But I’m really not sure what the upside is in the players we got today.

"May a nit suck Cajun geese?" wonders Red. No, we see gnu Jack Cust in a yam.

by andeux on Jul 8, 2008 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, here you are.

The following reply was misposted onto another comment in the flurry that is this diary:

Please just let me cling to whatever optimistic illusion I might be able to find a scrap of.
I had no idea who any of the Dbacks or White Sox prospects were, either.

There's no textbook for how to treat a geriatric tapir.

by Poppy on Jul 8, 2008 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was hoping for quality this time :-(

You have to include smiley faces - Poppy
;- ) :- ) :-O : -> : -] : -}

by micdog2001 on Jul 8, 2008 4:39 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Honestly no one should be suprised...

Harden was traded.

When will then be now? Soon.

by Syphon on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

+1. Good call Syphon.

by jwnewman on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nobody is

people just wish Billy could have gotten more for him

"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse

by kbtoyz on Jul 8, 2008 4:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Of course we all wish we could have gotten someone like Lee from the Cubs but no GM with half a brain would over look Harden's trips to the DL...

by jwnewman on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Precisely.

In a way, I’m actually a bit relieved to have one less day-to-day guy around.

I’m gonna go take some deep breaths and try to make this all make sense.

What scares me: This seems to indicate that Billy doesn’t expect Ellis back. Patterson can’t play the outfield (maybe he’s not as bad as Cust, but pretty close).

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Also maybe indicates that Chavez in on the shelf til next year (at least)

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

by Nick on Jul 8, 2008 5:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm surprised since the A's are only a few back in the WC.

by JI on Jul 8, 2008 4:03 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

why?

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:04 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good point.

by JI on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

It just seems stupid to blow up the team until you are 6/7 back.

by JI on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

agreed

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So what's the value here?

A 22 year old 5th starter? Sweet, but we’ve already got a ton of pitching in the minors who will be ready as soon as next year

A fast 2B with terrible plate discipline? Uh, yay?

An AAAA left fielder? We already have Emil Brown, we already released Todd Linden.

A light hitting catcher in A ball? So what. Our starting catcher right now is only in his 2nd year in the big leagues. Catcher wasn’t anything CLOSE to a need.

by mikev on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

right

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm Flustered....

That is all..

A's Fan in Philly

by Duby on Jul 8, 2008 4:05 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I think that Beane

is trying to lose his rep as a sharp trader so other GMS will trade with him hehe.

by IM4Oakgal on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

The Mike Caro strategy?

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Poker?

by IM4Oakgal on Jul 8, 2008 4:15 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Caro is famous

for deliberately playing like a lunatic half the time, then making up for it by playing brilliantly the rest of the time while everyone thinks he’s still playing like a lunatic.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 9:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

BRILLIANT!

In Beane we trust!

by truelements on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs fan here...

...we’re a bit confused over at BCB, too guys. Obviously Harden’s durability is always in question, but Gaudin seems too good to be true? Why would both be in the trade?

Murton is LF ready, and can produce and get on base, just needs to start on a regular basis, and he was blocked for too long at Wrigley. And Patterson, hell if I know.

Gallagher is going to be a solid starter. If Harden doesn’t pan out because of injuries, the A’s have the upside here with Gallagher.

Donaldson? Don’t know much about him, but he’s not gonna start with Soto behind the plate.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Gaudin

= Walk-itis. He walks waaaaaay too many guys. His stuff is good.

Harden = Shoulder-itis. I’d be very surprised if he makes it to September. VERY SURPRISED. So, when Harden comes down w/ “Inflamation in the Shoulder”, don’t blame Billy Beane. Hendry had access to all medical records and doctors. It’s a huge Risk for the Cubs (IMO), but one they had to take (IMO).

I hope you can hold your breath. That’s what I’ve been doing for every Harden start for the last 3 years.

(exhale)

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 5:51 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great analysis by Rob Neyer in his article yesterday

(This is an Insider article, but I’m only presenting two paragraphs). Let’s hope that this was prophetic:

This is where proximity really helps. Nobody should have a better idea about Harden’s immediate future than the A’s. If they think he’s going to be healthy for the rest of this season, they should keep him. With a healthy Harden, there’s no obvious reason to think the A’s can’t contend for a playoff spot down the stretch. Which is, you know, what it’s all about.
But if he’s not healthy, they probably don’t have the depth to contend because their pitching has to carry them.

Granted, all this may change between now and the July 31 trade deadline. At the moment, the A’s are 3½ games behind the wild-card-leading Red Sox. If they’re six or seven games out, the equation’s different. But if the A’s are still close at the end of this month and they’re willing to deal Harden? Caveat emptor.

Parental Advisory - Explicit Content

by Jivas on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

I honestly don't think Harden is 100 percent healthy

His last two games were his two worst games of the season and I’m guessing Beane is pulling a quick one because, hell, you have to sell on Harden while you can still get something for him and he isn’t on the DL for the 100th time. Interesting that Cubs fans are delighted about it given that they had two of the most legendarily injury prone pitchers of the last decade in Wood and Prior. I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s why Gaudin was included as the Cubs insurance policy in case Harden shows up, pitches one game and winds up back on the DL.

I could be wrong, but that’s how I’m viewing this right now. I knew a Harden deal was coming. I could just sense it. But I was hoping Beane would get more for him without having to include Gaudin.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jul 8, 2008 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed on your points.

And I wouldn’t be suprised if Beane moved some of these new guys he got today in another trade.

A's, baby!

by Coach Cleats on Jul 8, 2008 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

My question, Blez, is - if he's hurt in the near future

it looks like we traded damaged goods. Granted, the risks are well known, but still – doesn’t seem like a way the A’s would want to do business, trading someone because they think/know he’ll break down very soon, or already has.

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 Jul 8, 2008 4:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

nico come on

everyone knows Harden is damaged goods. That has never been news.

Beane's World!! Excellent!!! Rock On, Beane! Rock On, Geren!

by Satchmo22 on Jul 8, 2008 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's not my point.

My point is, if Harden makes one start and then goes on the DL for two months, sure the deal looks better for the A’s but how do the A’s look?

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 Jul 8, 2008 4:26 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

I think Harden is hurt, with the way he pitched in the last two starts. In fact, I think there is a chance this trade could be voided, if a physical is involved. The only reason I DON’T think that is that there is no way Beane would do that. You don’t misrepresent like that when you make your living on the trading block.

More likely: the Cubbies FER SURE watched Harden’s last two starts. Gaudin had to be thrown in cuz neither Beane or they know what Rich’s health status is. Now, how Beane would convince them (and others) that he doesn’t/didn’t know… especially if Richie’s arm falls off… which is a definite possiblity….

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 8, 2008 4:40 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

oops

should have read the next point on the thread before posting. i agree, blez.

only question: how does Beane convince the Cubs he doesn’t have any inside info? And if Harden’s arm falls off, how does he convince everyone else, in order to make deals in the future?

As great as this trade is for the Cubbies, it is total crap if Harden goes down. Gaudin is good, but too much of an unknown to be worth four guys, even if two are AAAA.

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 8, 2008 4:43 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm honestly just guessing

But Harden’s fastball velocity was down BIG time his last two starts. He didn’t hit 95-96 regularly on his fastball. He just wasn’t his dominant self. Maybe I’m reading too much into it, but that’s what I saw. And maybe that’s exactly WHY Gaudin wound up as a part of the deal. I’m sure that Cubs scouting had to have noticed that as well. Apparently this deal has been in the works for more than a month by all published reports.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jul 8, 2008 4:28 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think what we learned today is that

Harden’s value on the market was low. Apparently we’re not the only ones who noticed how often he’s hurt.

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 Jul 8, 2008 4:29 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

agree 100% on all points

... arousing men to burst the chains under which monkeyish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves ... @('.')@

by monkeyball on Jul 8, 2008 4:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least Dusty isn't there anymore

"There's m'fn sprinklers on the m'fn infield!'" - Ice Cream (AN), 6/13/08

by doctorK on Jul 8, 2008 4:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

For the Record...

Does Harden have to pass a physical before the deal is finalized, ala the NFL and NBA?

A's Fan in Philly

by Duby on Jul 8, 2008 4:24 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

still think harden is injured and possibly heafed for the dl...

cubs panicked bc of the Brewers and beane may have seen harden headed to the dl and decided to get something in return…

by put em in a body bag johnny on Jul 8, 2008 4:06 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

From what we're hearing in Chicago...

...this trade has been in the works for the last month. Well before CC’s trade.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

that's true

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gaudin

I realize people had high hopes for Gaudin, but have you looked at his splits from last year? After May, his era was 5.87 and that’s even with a 4.04 June. Gaudin is nothing more than a short term answer and considering the injury risk with Harden, that’s probably why the Cubs insisted on Gaudin.

Niners Nation - The premier 49ers blog on the Internet!

by Fooch on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

Turns out pitching with a fucking broken foot will tend to skew the numbers a little.

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

no way

show me some empirical evidence

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wasn't it a broken hip?

by oaktownmario on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

In that case, he has no excuse!

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

he had a hurt foot and hip.

by inbillywetrust on Jul 8, 2008 5:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Injured hip and a fractured sesamoid in the foot

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

by Nick on Jul 8, 2008 5:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fooch knows things.

by Pappagiorgio on Jul 8, 2008 4:14 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here we go again

Those high hopes for Gaudin came recently. When the A’s acquired him, the general reaction was, “Why the hell did they want this guy?” Now we have folks ready to jump off a bridge because he was traded. We may well repeat this story with Gallagher in a few years.

Root for the Giants? Not even if they're playing al-Qaeda!

by Monday Fan on Jul 9, 2008 7:24 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

HA!

i called it yesterday. gaudin was not in the a’s future.

by inbillywetrust on Jul 8, 2008 4:07 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

Can any of these positions players...

...hit the baseball? A quick look at their stats tells me NO. If a real hitter is to show up, more trades are coming.

by doubleplayer on Jul 8, 2008 4:08 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

MURTON CAN HIT

He’s just not been inserted into a major league lineup on a regular basis.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton is ok

but his overall numbers are only as good as they are because he’s had such a high percentage of his at-bats against lefties. He’d probably be about average as an everyday LF, which certainly has some value, but with almost no chance of being a real star.

"May a nit suck Cajun geese?" wonders Red. No, we see gnu Jack Cust in a yam.

by andeux on Jul 8, 2008 4:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wasn't that what we said about B Keilty?

by mikedaviswhereareyou on Jul 8, 2008 5:58 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton can hit lefties

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

And we like to call him Kid Ginger over in Chicago...

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 8, 2008 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've never heard anybody call him that

I must be listening to the wrong stations.

http://bocropleasestopswingingatbadpitches.blogspot.com/

by thejd44 on Jul 8, 2008 4:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Strategy...

I’m thinking outloud here but was the logic behind the trade something like this:

By taking the “mystery” pitcher out of the equation, is Beane trying to pump up Blanton’s and Duch’s value by taking supply of the market?

Now that the Cards HAVE to make a move, do they overpay for our other pitchers?

"I'm not going to buy my kids an encyclopedia. Let them walk to school like I did." -Yogi Berra

by brenarlo on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

NO Cards

I don’t think the Cards will want a part of us after we fleeced them in the Mark Mulder trade.

It's just more exciting with Billy Beane running the team.

by ru155 on Jul 8, 2008 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

We would want Ellis.

by JI on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So that one fleecing trumps the Cardinals fleecing of the A’s in their previous trades? I don’t think so. If they see a deal that improves their team, they attempt it.

Root for the Giants? Not even if they're playing al-Qaeda!

by Monday Fan on Jul 9, 2008 7:27 AM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think that's it, brenarlo.

But good theory.

by IM4Oakgal on Jul 8, 2008 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

i wouldnt be surprised if beane keeps the trade lines open...

espn said we’ re interested in holiday, fuentes and tavares from the rockies.

not necesaarily in a deal, but who knows what mr. beane will do.

by put em in a body bag johnny on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

my condolences, A's fans...

...looks like we’ll be the ones making a run at the Angels.

by oc on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

you want joe blanton?

all it will take is bradley and hamilton. and feliz. and andrus.

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:11 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

kentucky joe?... naaaahhhh...

by oc on Jul 8, 2008 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

it was worth a shot

"It's not my fault your team's so shitty." -Steve Friend, head coach, Chabot College, to Laney College's head coach, who asked why we scored so many runs after we beat Laney 30-3 in 2006

by flipgatey3 on Jul 8, 2008 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

OK

Now that was funny.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 4:12 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

was it?

by oc on Jul 8, 2008 4:21 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

You must first begin outscoring your opposition

by MrIncognito on Jul 8, 2008 5:45 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

So does Murton play every day is my question?

Everyone says he just needs regular AB’s…where do those come? I guess no more Brown and Cust DH’s every day

Bring back Hammer.

by OaktownPower on Jul 8, 2008 4:10 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

That's my feeling

And it also probably means that Frank Thomas is done for a long time.

by Tyler Bleszinski on Jul 8, 2008 4:20 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

They probably got Thomas' MRI results

in between last night’s game and the trade, huh?

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 Jul 8, 2008 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

that’s what I’m thinking, too.

by Mark Borgschulte on Jul 8, 2008 4:47 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well they also moved M.Sweeney to the 60 day

by theblackpearl on Jul 8, 2008 4:49 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm less optimistic about Chavez after this deal, too

On the other hand, there’s less need for him to rush back now.

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

by Nick on Jul 8, 2008 5:16 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look guys

You can justify the trade all you want. Not a Harden fan? Fine. Not a Gaudin fan? Fine.

But we two players who might- might – be a part of the team that we expect to contend in 2010.

That’s pretty bad no matter what you think of Harde and Gaudin.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 4:11 PM PDT reply actions 0 recs

What?

Please repeat without the missing letters.

Might as well Jump! - Van Halen

by sprtsnwyn on Jul 8, 2008 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm using a crappy keyboard

My sincerest of apologies.

RagingHarden: Yeah if you get 20 starts out of me I'll be shocked. Like, I'll wreck my drawers.

by walk off bunt on Jul 8, 2008 4:18 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gaudin would be

I totally think Gaudin would of made that 2010 team. he’s only 25. I don’t see these other guys doing anything. There’s no buzz around them and I would be able to slow my heart rate down if Vitter came in on the deal, but no. I’m going to be stuck here and have a stroke at the ripe old age of 24

It's just more exciting with Billy Beane running the team.

by ru155 on Jul 8, 2008 4:13 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harden + Gaudin = 3 Years

Gallagher + Murton + Patterson + Donaldson = 23-24 years of service time.

Gaudin is going to be a Free Agent after 2010. Harden would have definitely been gone after next season.

I’m willing to bet anyone that Harden is put on the DL this season. His shoulder is shredded.

Do people think we’re contending this year? Too Young. Too inconsistent.

by Colorado Fan on Jul 8, 2008 6:02 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs

Zounds

24 years of service time? I say.

OK. The problem here is that service time is meaningless if it’s awful service time. No one gives a crap how much service time Freddy Bynum has, because he’s freaking terrible.

Well, the A’s just traded for Freddy Bynum (among other similar luminaries).

Your 2008 Athletics: It's Nothing Personal.

by PaulThomas on Jul 8, 2008 9:17 PM PDT up reply actions 0 recs