2013 Baseball Season/Off-Season Discussion

[Falcon]

A major announcement today coming down from the Cards today at 1:30 PM - pitching related and not good is the early word.

Speculation is it's the possible retirement announcement of Chris Carpenter.

[Falcon]

A major announcement today coming down from the Cards today at 1:30 PM - pitching related and not good is the early word.

Speculation is it's the possible retirement announcement of Chris Carpenter.

Carp's likely done.

On the DL for now but will not pitch in '13 - $12.5 million left on the table if retirement is chosen.

The most significant starting pitcher in Cards history since Bob Fucking Gibson.

[Falcon]

Ryan Braun had enough testosterone in his body to lap the field in the Tour 'de France and got away with it.

He won't be the last.

More names from the "Miami Balco" have surfaced and I'll be damned - Ryan Braun's on the list:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-s-name-listed-in-biogenesis-clinic-records-235650670.html

[tim_m]

Ryan Braun had enough testosterone in his body to lap the field in the Tour 'de France and got away with it.

He won't be the last.

More names from the "Miami Balco" have surfaced and I'll be damned - Ryan Braun's on the list:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-s-name-listed-in-biogenesis-clinic-records-235650670.html

Braun? NO WAY! /sarcasm.

[pilferk]

Ryan Braun had enough testosterone in his body to lap the field in the Tour 'de France and got away with it.

He won't be the last.

More names from the "Miami Balco" have surfaced and I'll be damned - Ryan Braun's on the list:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-s-name-listed-in-biogenesis-clinic-records-235650670.html

Looks like Yanks Catcher Francisco Cervelli is also on the list.

Which, of course, begs the question: If Cervelli was using....they were either the worst PEDs on the planet or PED's, in general, don't really help you when you're already a marginal player.

[faldor]

Ryan Braun had enough testosterone in his body to lap the field in the Tour 'de France and got away with it.

He won't be the last.

More names from the "Miami Balco" have surfaced and I'll be damned - Ryan Braun's on the list:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-s-name-listed-in-biogenesis-clinic-records-235650670.html

Looks like Yanks Catcher Francisco Cervelli is also on the list.

Which, of course, begs the question: If Cervelli was using....they were either the worst PEDs on the planet or PED's, in general, don't really help you when you're already a marginal player.

I saw he came out and explained the situation, but it wouldn't be the first time an unexpecting guy got busted.  Reference Manny Alexander of the Red Sox from years back.  They caught the wrong Manny at the time.  You would've never guessed him to be on the juice.  It certainly didn't show on the field.

[tim_m]

Ryan Braun had enough testosterone in his body to lap the field in the Tour 'de France and got away with it.

He won't be the last.

More names from the "Miami Balco" have surfaced and I'll be damned - Ryan Braun's on the list:

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ryan-braun-s-name-listed-in-biogenesis-clinic-records-235650670.html

Looks like Yanks Catcher Francisco Cervelli is also on the list.

Which, of course, begs the question: If Cervelli was using....they were either the worst PEDs on the planet or PED's, in general, don't really help you when you're already a marginal player.

How do you explain A-Rod then? He certainly isn't a marginal player and if he's been using the last 2 years or so they certainly aren't doing him any good.

[pilferk]

How do you explain A-Rod then? He certainly isn't a marginal player and if he's been using the last 2 years or so they certainly aren't doing him any good.

Four options:

1) They were the worst PED's in the world.
2) A-rod has BECOME a marginal player (I find this hard to swallow).  Age has robbed him of his "Centaur-ness".
3) His degenerative/genetic hip issue was a "PED-proof" injury.  By that, I mean that nothing he could take would "fix" the loss in range of motion brought on by the continuous degeneration of his hip....except fixing the hip (maybe).  The PED's could help him (over) compensate, to some extent, short term.  But not forever.  There's only so much that increased muscle mass and growth can do....and help improve range of motion in a ball/socket joint isn't on the list.
4) He's not lying when he says he doesn't know the guy (again, I find this one hard to swallow).

I think #3 is the likely candidate...with number 1 being second most likely.

Here's my wildly speculative, unfounded, what if theory:

Arod noticed a profound drop in bat speed and range of motion early in 2009.  He turned (again) to PED's to "correct" something he thought was probably father time sneaking in.  It worked, short term.  But, as years went on, it stopped being as effective.  So he increased his regimen.  Then he got hurt, and he turned to PED's to get better faster.  And got hurt again.  And continued.  He created a cycle where the PEDs were partially masking the effects of the REAL hip issue...but as the issue got worse, the PEDs had less of an obvious effect.

Finally, even the PEDs couldn't mask the injury....and A-rod likely thought it was father time and body abuse as the culprit.  I bet he had quite the "ah-ha" moment when his hip injury was ultimately diagnoses for what it was.  And quiet the "oh shit" moment when he realized that, likely, his PED use delayed diagnosis of the same.

But that's just my wild theory....probably complete bollocks.

[tim_m]

I would be you're right that the hip issue had a major part in it. I guess we'll see what happens when he's recovered from this injury. That is assuming he's not suspended if they can prove he used. That's one of the crappy things for MLB in this situation. With the exception of Cabrera and Braun none of these guys have failed a test. So suspending them will be hard.

[tim_m]

In more positive baseball news, King Felix has been signed to an extension by the Mariners. The deal reportedly is for 7 years and $175 million.

[faldor]

Funny, because it's true.  And the guy is supposed to recover just fine.

http://boston.barstoolsports.com/random-thoughts/sox-prospect-shoots-himself-in-the-leg-cleaning-his-gun/

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) ? Boston Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington says outfield prospect Bryce Brentz accidentally shot himself in the leg last month, but could recover in time to play in spring training. Cherington said Saturday that Brentz was cleaning the gun went it went off. The bullet passed through Brentz?s left leg. Cherington said Brentz wasn?t doing anything illegal. The GM said the team had talked to the 24-year-old about the accident. Brentz was a first-round draft pick by the Red Sox in 2010. He hit a combined .290 with 17 home runs and 76 RBIs last season in Double-A and Triple-A.

The Sox 2013 season is off to a fiery start! Pretty much the only good thing you could say about the team last year was ?Well at least none of them have been stupid enough to shoot themselves in the leg while cleaning a loaded gun.? Crossed that one off the list early this time out. Only place you can go from rock bottom is up, I guess.

 

Big question is how much do you think Lucchino sells this bullet for once Brentz makes the big league roster?

[Falcon]

Carpenter not "retiring" but it still doesn't sound like a return is possible.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/spring2013/story/_/id/8936579/spring-training-2013-chris-carpenter-st-louis-cardinals-given-hope-pitch-again

[AxlsMainMan]

Alex Rodriguez's Greatest Loss Could be His Yankee Legacy

In October, 2006, Sports Illustrated published a book that included stunning oversized photographs and pictorials that fondly celebrated our National Pastime. ?The Baseball Book? paid homage to the legends and every day ball players that have defined the game for well over a century. Whether it was a promotional tool or a motivation to sell more books, Sports Illustrated assembled 22 baseball experts and presented them with the enviable task of selecting an all star team for the ages. The parameters were rather basic in nature: seven starting pitchers, two closers, two catchers, seven infielders, seven outfielders, two coaches and one manager. To commemorate the special occasion, photo illustrator Aaron Goodman created a visual masterpiece that was included in the book as well as the cover of the magazine.

On a recent trip to the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, Goodman?s piece of art is prominently displayed amongst Berra?s World Series rings, Most Valuable Player Awards and other priceless artifacts. The photo depicting Sports Illustrated?s all-time roster congregating in a dugout allows one?s imagination to run wild. We can envision Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Jackie Robinson and Mariano Rivera as teammates. As you stand in awe and gaze at the exquisite attention to detail in Goodman?s work, you can?t help but notice the inclusion of Alex Rodriguez and Roger Clemens in the photo.

Opinions regarding Clemens and Rodriguez have changed dramatically since the fall of 2006. While Clemens has spent the better part of the past five years ardently defending himself and his career achievements in a court of law, Rodriguez is about to embark upon another turbulent journey through the court of public opinion in an attempt to restore authenticity to a career that has been once again tainted by serious accusations. A path to redemption seems unlikely at the present moment and Rodriguez?s future within the game could be considered nebulous at best. The accusations alone are so damning that people are unwilling to give Rodriguez the benefit of the doubt.

Over the past week, rumors and allegations have engulfed the embattled slugger as he is at the epicenter of an investigation that could potentially become the east coast?s version of BALCO. Much to Rodriguez?s dismay, this matter isn?t going away anytime soon. It seems as if a new ball player each day either confirms a relationship with Anthony Bosch and Biogenesis or is rumored to have been associated with the controversial figure and his defunct company. Whether it?s Ryan Braun, Francisco Cervelli, Jesus Montero or Jhonny Peralta, Rodriguez is not alone in baseball?s latest episode with deviant behaviors and morally challenged individuals.

As is the customary standard operating procedure when it comes to crisis management for any public figure, Rodriguez has secured the services of a high profile attorney (Roy Black) and public relations firm (Sitrick and Company). Even with these immensely skilled and well compensated experts working on behalf of Rodriguez, his image and relationship with the New York Yankees is irrevocably broken. On top of that, the statement released by Rodriguez?s representatives after the Miami New Times article became public knowledge used one word that could lead to further scrutiny: ?never.? He never was a patient of Bosch?s nor was he advised or treated by him. Rodriguez?s flat out denial of any relationship with Bosch could mark the beginning of the end to his baseball career with the Yankees.

The Yankees are an iconic brand that not only provides ancillary revenue streams for ball players of profound distinction upon retirement, but it is also synonymous with prestige and prominence. At times, it?s quite difficult to quantify the true value of what it means to be associated with the Yankees in any capacity. While not everyone that has donned the uniform will richly benefit in the same manner, the immortals of the pinstripes are handsomely rewarded for meritorious careers and achievements of distinction. In truth, you have reached the apex of the profession if your legacy rests comfortably next to the likes of Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Berra and Mantle.  Besides the obvious retirement of a jersey number and a plaque or monument erected in center field, the Yankees can provide new career opportunities as well. Jobs in broadcasting, managing, coaching, or even front office positions throughout the organization have been filled by former ball players. There is an undeniable cachet being affiliated with the Yankees.

If the mounting allegations against Rodriguez are ever proven to be true, the Yankees will undoubtedly explore several options and alternatives when it comes to terminating all aspects of their relationship with the often-injured third baseman. In a recent conversation with Fred Wilpon, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the New York Mets, he honestly shared his opinion on the Rodriguez matter.  If he were in the position of the Steinbrenner family, Wilpon would do everything legally and morally possible to negate Rodriguez?s contract if it was determined that he had indeed violated the rules.

While Rodriguez will probably enjoy a luxurious lifestyle with financial security for the rest of his life, the days after his baseball career could be filled with guilt, remorse and loneliness. Separation from the game of baseball in some capacity seems highly probable. Exclusions from Old Timers? Day and other Yankee-related functions will become commonplace and Rodriguez will never receive the universal love and acceptance from the fans that he has so desperately craved since his arrival in 2004. A permanent home in Monument Park and ceremonies honoring Rodriguez?s accomplishments will regretfully elude him and he will suffer the inevitable fate of being persona non grata throughout baseball.

Tim Elfrink?s article in the Miami New Times last week is just the tip of the iceberg for Rodriguez and several other ball players. Since it is far too early in Major League Baseball?s investigation to properly assess the degree of involvement between Biogenesis and several ball players, we are left to ponder the potential penalties and repercussions. However, one thing is for certain: the 50 game suspensions are not deterring ball players from cheating. Former Major League Baseball Commissioner Fay Vincent has expressed a great desire to implement a lifetime ban and to place cheaters on the permanently ineligible list. Even six-time all star Matt Holliday surprisingly supported a one year ban for first time offenders and a lifetime ban for second time offenders.

Rodriguez?s once bright star and enormous revenue capabilities for the Yankees is barely flickering at the present moment. Besides missing 101 ball games at Yankee Stadium since 2004, Rodriguez is also viewed as a topic of negativity on the YES Network. He has even seen his popularity wane in Majestic Athletic jersey sales. In 2010, Rodriguez had the ninth most popular jersey in all of baseball. By 2011, he had slipped to 15th place on the list. Sadly, he couldn?t even crack the top 20 after last year?s All Star break. All throughout this time, Derek Jeter remained in first place on each of these annual lists.

You have to seriously wonder what thoughts and questions have crossed the minds of the Yankees? executive leadership. Are they focusing on the five years and $114 million plus $3 million in signing bonus the franchise still owes Rodriguez? Are they still angry at how Rodriguez cost the Yankees a $21,304,500 subsidy from the Texas Rangers when he decided to opt out of his contract in October, 2007? Are they reflecting on the 190 games that Rodriguez has missed to date since signing the now infamous 10 year, $275 million contract in December, 2007? Or are they simply preparing for a parting of the ways? The inevitable divorce between Rodriguez and the Yankees will be costly to both parties for an extended period of time. In the long run, it will undoubtedly hurt Rodriguez in ways that go far beyond compensation and incentives.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/waynemcdonnell/2013/02/08/alex-rodriguezs-greatest-loss-could-be-his-yankee-legacy/

[russkwtx]

Alex Rodriguez is a punk and I hope he never plays another game, and is denied HOF status. He has been nothing but a liar, a cheat, and a jerk since he joined the league. He has contributed nothing positive to the game since he entered the league. There are no words to express my level of disgust for this so-called human being. Other than that, I have no strong feelings.

[Drew]

Alex Rodriguez is a punk and I hope he never plays another game, and is denied HOF status. He has been nothing but a liar, a cheat, and a jerk since he joined the league. He has contributed nothing positive to the game since he entered the league. There are no words to express my level of disgust for this so-called human being. Other than that, I have no strong feelings.

I agree and well said. On one side you have Derek Jeter who seems to be a respectable player, a valuable ambassador for MLB, and good for the game. And than you have people like Alex Rodriguez.

[Bodhi]

Alex Rodriguez is a punk and I hope he never plays another game, and is denied HOF status. He has been nothing but a liar, a cheat, and a jerk since he joined the league. He has contributed nothing positive to the game since he entered the league. There are no words to express my level of disgust for this so-called human being. Other than that, I have no strong feelings.

I agree and well said. On one side you have Derek Jeter who seems to be a respectable player, a valuable ambassador for MLB, and good for the game. And than you have people like Alex Rodriguez.

Yeah A-Rod really blew it here, while I don't hate him as much as some of you I certainly have no respect for the junkie.  I used to be a huge A-Rod fan, and welcomed him with open arms when he came here, but I am done with him in my book.  Unfortunately the Yankees are nowhere near done with him thanks to that ludicrous contract they gave him.  Another reason why I am welcoming this new era of financial responsibility the Yankees are ushering in. 

As far as the PED's go, there are never guarantees.  I do personal training on the side from my regular job, and am around a lot of people who take steroids, HGH etc.  Let me tell you , there are some people that they just don't work on.  People who are not around the stuff seem to think all you do is jab a needle in your ass and you are instantly benching 500 lbs and hitting 50 homers, doesn't work that way.  I'll bet there are a bunch of MLB players who tried the stuff and either played worse or got no results at all.  It would be interesting to hear from them one day.

The one thing that always amazes me about the media and some of the fans is how clueless they are when it comes to how rampant PED use is in society, never mind in pro sports.  I can tell you with confidence that at least 80% of guys who actively work out at a gym are either on something or tried it.  Now I'm not talking about the casual gym member like the father with 3 kids who is on the treadmill a couple times a week to lose a few because his wife is busting his balls.  I am talking about the hardcore guys who lift 5-6 days a week, 80% of those guys have done something.  There were some people who said they tried it and you would NEVER in a million years guess they did, because they clearly did not work.  It doesn't just go for men either, lots of women use PED's though a much smaller percentage.

[tim_m]

Alex Rodriguez is a punk and I hope he never plays another game, and is denied HOF status. He has been nothing but a liar, a cheat, and a jerk since he joined the league. He has contributed nothing positive to the game since he entered the league. There are no words to express my level of disgust for this so-called human being. Other than that, I have no strong feelings.

I agree and well said. On one side you have Derek Jeter who seems to be a respectable player, a valuable ambassador for MLB, and good for the game. And than you have people like Alex Rodriguez.

Yeah A-Rod really blew it here, while I don't hate him as much as some of you I certainly have no respect for the junkie.  I used to be a huge A-Rod fan, and welcomed him with open arms when he came here, but I am done with him in my book.  Unfortunately the Yankees are nowhere near done with him thanks to that ludicrous contract they gave him.  Another reason why I am welcoming this new era of financial responsibility the Yankees are ushering in. 

As far as the PED's go, there are never guarantees.  I do personal training on the side from my regular job, and am around a lot of people who take steroids, HGH etc.  Let me tell you , there are some people that they just don't work on.  People who are not around the stuff seem to think all you do is jab a needle in your ass and you are instantly benching 500 lbs and hitting 50 homers, doesn't work that way.  I'll bet there are a bunch of MLB players who tried the stuff and either played worse or got no results at all.  It would be interesting to hear from them one day.

The one thing that always amazes me about the media and some of the fans is how clueless they are when it comes to how rampant PED use is in society, never mind in pro sports.  I can tell you with confidence that at least 80% of guys who actively work out at a gym are either on something or tried it.  Now I'm not talking about the casual gym member like the father with 3 kids who is on the treadmill a couple times a week to lose a few because his wife is busting his balls.  I am talking about the hardcore guys who lift 5-6 days a week, 80% of those guys have done something.  There were some people who said they tried it and you would NEVER in a million years guess they did, because they clearly did not work.  It doesn't just go for men either, lots of women use PED's though a much smaller percentage.

Well to that face they clearly weren't working very well for  A-Rod the last few years cause especially in the playoffs he couldn't have hit a beach ball.

[faldor]

Curtis Granderson will be sidelined 10 weeks after X-rays revealed a fracture in his right forearm.

Terrible news for the Bombers. Granderson suffered the fracture Sunday when he was hit by a J.A. Happ pitch during his first plate appearance of spring training. The Yankees will go with Brett Gardner in center field, but their options for left field are limited. Juan Rivera is likely the favorite to start there for now, with Matt Diaz also in the mix. Look for the Yanks to seek help outside the organization.

[pilferk]

Curtis Granderson will be sidelined 10 weeks after X-rays revealed a fracture in his right forearm.

Terrible news for the Bombers. Granderson suffered the fracture Sunday when he was hit by a J.A. Happ pitch during his first plate appearance of spring training. The Yankees will go with Brett Gardner in center field, but their options for left field are limited. Juan Rivera is likely the favorite to start there for now, with Matt Diaz also in the mix. Look for the Yanks to seek help outside the organization.

It was not fun to watch.

To be clear: There was definitely no intent on the pitch...it just got away from Happ.  You could tell the guy felt terrible.

[tim_m]

That's gonna hurt until we get him back in early May.