Miguel Tejada Wants Out

I had received a few tips from readers about Miguel Tejada possibly being traded.  I didn't print anything because I couldn't substantiate them.  Turns out those readers were on target; today Tejada said, "I think the best thing will be a change of scenery."  You can bet Tejada's proclamation will get the hot stove buzzing once again.

It's a strange thing for Tejada to say, given that the Orioles have several months left to improve their team.  He said that the Orioles "have not made any signings to strengthen the club."  If I were Ramon Hernandez, I'd be slightly offended by that remark.  And to think the two were teammates for so many years. 

Anyway, let's begin with Tejada's contract.  He'll make $10MM in '06, $12MM in '07, $13MM in '08, and $13MM in '09.  That's $48MM over four years.  He'd certainly snag more than that on the open market.  Tejada isn't even 30 yet, and you know all about his offensive accolades and durability.  One mild sign of a possible decline is that Tejada slugged only .416 after the All-Star break in '05, hitting seven home runs.  Still, that's only 300 ABs and he may have felt uninspired. 

Here's what we're all wondering: where might Tejada end up?

Boston Red Sox.  Of course, they have a huge need for a shortstop and plenty of cash.  There's even an article circulating saying that Tejada might want to play for the Red Sox.  The Sox could offer up Jon Lester and Dustin Pedroia for starters.  The one little problem is that the Orioles still consider themselves competitive, and would probably be reluctant to trade within the division.  Back when the Red Sox dealt Curt Schilling and Brady Anderson to the Orioles for Mike Boddicker, the O's were completely out of the race.

Chicago Cubs.  I'm thinking that if Jim Hendry removes Felix Pie from the "untouchables" list, the Orioles would seriously consider shipping Tejada their way.  If the Cubs included Ronny Cedeno to take Tejada's vacant spot, a deal could get done quickly. (This is all speculation, of course).

New York Mets.  The Mets seem willing to give Jose Reyes all the time he needs to develop into a leadoff threat at shortstop.  But Omar's been mortgaging the future this winter like it's going out of style, so you think he'd at least inquire.  The Orioles' response would probably include the words "Lastings" and "Milledge." 

Toronto Blue Jays.  If the Orioles do decide to deal within the AL East, the Blue Jays could get involved.  Russ Adams is OK, but Ricciardi might have interest anyway.

Houston Astros.  If ownership doesn't mind the commitment, the 'Stros might try to allocate some of that now-available Clemens cash for a marquee shortstop.  Not sure if they've got the prospects to cut it, though.

What do you think?  Any teams I've left out?  What players would it take to get a deal done?

Thanks to Tom and Dennis

Comments

[Michael]

As a cub fan I would love to have Tejada...Cedeno I can handle sending, send Corey Patterson too. He has proven speed and some "pop" when he does make contact with the ball.

[Michael]

Pierre
Walker
Lee
Ramirez
Tejada
Bradley
Murton
Barrett

sounds like a scary lineup to face to me...watch out Cards and Astros!!!

[CarrieICL]

Considering how hard Terry Ryan is hunting for infielders, and how badly Mike Flanagan needs pitching, I can't help but wonder if there will be phone calls between Minnesota and Baltimore.

[RumorMonger]

Sure Carrie, especially if they would give up Francisco Liriano.

[Ryan]

Why not just Manny for Miggy and be done with it?

[Brian]

Tejada for Manny makes way too much sense.

[RumorMonger]

Agreed, Miggy for Manny sounds perfect. What do you wanna bet the press runs with that one until we go nuts?

I like it because it would keep O's fans happy as well, bringing in a name slugger. Almost seems like the divisional thing wouldn't matter.

[CarrieICL]

Liriano is untouchable, but Lohse, Crain, Romero, a pitching prospect or two (Gassner or Bonser), and some outfielders (which the Twins have coming out their @ss and the O's are seriously lacking, I'm thinking Ford and/or Kubel and/or Tyner) would be an equitable trade for Tejada and Baltimore eating some of Miggy's contract. Or so it would be if I was in charge. Flanagan isn't exactly working genius moves here, and Ryan is a wizard -- he could probably get Tejada for some magic beans if he put his mind to it.

[RumorMonger]

While it is equitable, it could be a PR disaster if the star player is dealt for guys a lot of O's fans never heard of.

Kubel would have to be included, but might have to prove his health first.

[Truth]

I think Manny would block a trade to Baltimore, and I doubt the Sox want to trade him in the division.

The Cubs need to make this happen. I don't give a crap what you need to send to Baltimore, make it happen. He's cheaper then Furcal, he's better. It has to happen.

[RumorMonger]

Good point, Truth. Pie is still all potential, no matter many tools he has. Any minor leaguer is fair game, and Cedeno too.

[CarrieICL]

In all fairness, Orioles fans are so emotionally abused after last season, they no longer have the ability to summon the indignation necessary for a proper PR disaster.

[CarrieICL]

In all fairness, Orioles fans are so emotionally abused after last season, they no longer have the ability to summon the indignation necessary for a proper PR disaster.

[Hoops]

I'm hearing that Hendry is already aware of this and has contacted the O's. Though he's probably not alone, as I'm sure every other team has as well. But at least he knows.

[Jeff]

I agree it makes a lot of sense for the Cubs to make this deal.... Cedeno,Patterson, and a prospect for Miguel Tejada would be perfect

[James]

Tejada for Abreu straight up. Move Miggy to 3B, best infield in baseball!

Rollins
Rowand
Tejada
Howard
Burrell
Utley
Michales/Victorino
Lieberthal

Brilliant!

[RumorMonger]

That's a good idea, James. Seems that every team can find a way to work in a Tejada.

Hoops - at least Tejada's on the radar. Will be interesting to see what possible deals the rumor mill churns out (we've thought of probably five good ones already here).

[ummmm]

Tejada/Rollins/Utley/Howard = not the best infield in baseball

It won't happen anwyay.

[Truth]

The O's need pitching like nobody's business. Send them Hill, Williams, Cedeno (or Walker) and Patterson. I don't even think it would take Pie, but screw it. Personally I would then make a deal to the D-Backs for Green, and hell, how bout Vazquez..

Pierre
Tejada
Lee
Ramirez
Green
Murton
Cedeno/Walker/Hairston
Barrett

Prior
Zambrano
Wood
Vazquez
Maddux

World Series baby

[Army Guy]

The Cubs need to jump on this opportunity since they missed out on the Furcal sweepstakes. Trade Walker, Patterson, and one or two minor leaguers. Although, tho O's may not take Walker cause their 2B position is filled for years to come, but Walker would be an invaluable backup off the bench. He could be used in a future trade as well. I like Michael's lineup

[RumorMonger]

If the Cubs somehow swung a deal, it would go a long way towards redeeming Hendry.

[Jarid]

Boy oh boy...I think if Tejada got dealt tomorrow Hendry would never hear the end of it.

You guys are already jumping on the 'giving up whomever it takes' mentality, but were all over Hendry for giving up 3 to get Pierre.

Can you imagine what its gonna take to get Tejada, and that is IF the Orioles agree to trade him.

I'm all for it, but its probably going to take alot of pitching...Hill, Guzman, etc, etc. It'll be interesting, to say the least.

[Shane]

I think the Cubs could have a good chance of landing Tejada. There's not doubt that we have the resources to get him. Hendry offered Furcal the same money that Tejada is making now...Plus we have some really good prospects that I think Hendry would give up for a guy who's not even 30 and one of the best shortstops in the game.

GO CUBS!!!

[Jarid]

I say Jerry Hairston & cash.

[OutOfDarkness]

I don't think there is any way that the Cubs have the ammo to pick up Green, Vazquez, and Tejada. In fact, one of the three may be a stretch. I don't really see Tejada going anywhere, but I would love to see him in Cubbie blue. If the Cubs trade for a young RF, they would be set for at least 3-4 years anyway w/ Murton, Pierre, and the other RF (Bradley or Kearns?).

[OutOfDarkness]

(What I meant to say is, that is how you could justify adding Pie to the deal, if you pick up another young RF)

[BigJoe]

Tejada for Kerry Wood and Cedeno??

[Truth]

Kerry Wood is injured and has a no trade clause. He's going nowhere.

[JMan]

Don't the Orioles still owe us a player from the Sosa deal since David Crouthers retired?

[RumorMonger]

Jarid, was anyone really on the Cubs for those 3 prospects? It was more that is was Juan Pierre.

[Gavin]

RumorMonger, could you post any of those tips you received that you mentioned? I'd be interested to see what's actually being talked about besides our guesses.

[Oriolefan]

How about this

O's get
Harden
Street
Crosby

A's get
Tejada
Gomez
Javy Lopes

[Jarid]

Okay, so they gave up 3 prospects for Pierre...my point was, if the competition for a deal was there, and they had to give up 2 decent prospects and a 9th starter on most teams for a Juan Pierre, your buddy....then who goes in a Tejada deal which will certainly catch alot of attention??

I'd think quite a bit.

[metsfan]

definetely think the Mets should go far Tejeda. Maybe Beson, Matsui and a 2nd tier prospect along with some cash. But I actually like Reyes at shortstop and Miguel at second. I think Jose and David are the mets future and shouldnt be moved. Plus reyes was unbeliavle SS in the minors and all the rave was on his fielding abilities, so i would love to have him at 3rd.

Mets infield would be david jose miguel and carlos.

seems incredible enough to me

any thoughts?

[Xonis]

Gavin, while I would LOVE a reuinion with Miggy back to Oakland, there would be no way in hell the A's deal Harden OR Crosby OR Street, let alone all three.

I'm thinking the A's might put out a Zito and Ellis deal, but even then, I'm not sure. It would depend on if Lew Wolfe thinks its a good PR idea, and if Beane thinks it helps the team for the future. If they did do a Zito and Ellis for Miggy trade and moved either Miggy or Crosby to 2B (Miggy has seniority, but Crosby is better defensivly), they'd have quite the lineup again.

CF Kotsay
MI Crosby
MI Tejada
3B Chavez
DH Thomas
1B Johnson
RF Swisher
LF Payton
C1 Kendall

Then again, the A's have a good 2B (Melillo), a good SS (Pennington) and a defenisve Wiz (Petit) in the minors comming up.

[Rock Raines]

Ronny Cedeno and Felix Pie for Tejada? Sold! Where do I sign up?

I'll throw in Rich Hill too. And Patterson if anyone would actually want him. And I'm sure Baltimore could use a reliever, couldn't they? I'll give them their choice of Roberto Novoa or Michael Wuertz. Maybe they need a backup catcher, too? Geovanny Soto, he's yours.

Um, yes, you could say the Cubs have a need and I'd pay whatever the price to get it done. Tejada would hit between Lee and Ramirez, if they do the rumored Walker for Bradley trade, Bradley hits 2nd behind Pierre, and that is one helluva 1-7 my friend (Murton and Barrett 6-7). You could actually live with Neifi in that lineup hitting 8th and not worry about it.

And all it would take is to give up some of the precious "prospects"....

[Paul]

Good position for the Cubs...

1) The two teams have a good relationship and have orchestated a complicated Sosa deal.
2)Cubs have both hitting & pitching prospects. Plus they have some major league ready young pitchers... Williams, Wellmeyer, Hill, & Guzman.
3) Walker at an attractive salary

I say make an offer of Williams, Wellmeyer, Sing, & Guzman and get Tejada and Julio

DON'T OFFER PIE!!

[Army Guy]

I don't think there would be more competion than what there was with Pierre. The YANKEES were trying to get Pierre, yet the Cubs were able to get him. Think of who might need a SS. Boston now that they traded Rentaria, but they seem to be dead set on getting Lugo. Who else?

[anti-metsfan]

metsfan, that has to be the most ridiculous idea i've ever heard. benson, kaz matsui, and a 2nd-tier prospect for Miguel freakin' Tejeda?!?! and you'd play him at 2nd base?!?!

um, no.

[RumorMonger]

Something tells me that Red Sox will be less sold on Lugo if Tejada is truly on the market. The Red Sox are a lot like the Yankees these days.

Good point, Paul, although Sing isn't thought that highly of given that he was left unprotected for the Rule 5.

[RumorMonger]

yeah...the mets would absolutely have to give up Milledge for talks to go anywhere. benson and matsui aren't worth much at all.

[Army Guy]

Who else needs a SS and is willing to pay his salary other than the Red Sox?

[CarrieICL]

I just don't see the BoSox and the O's negotiating this high level a trade. Not in the same division. Especially these two teams. The only reason they aren't constantly at each other's throats is because they're united in their Yankee-hatred. But that doesn't make them pals.

[Jonathan]

Well yes, for any player that will only take 12 mill in 2006, Tejada is a bargin and teams will bend over backward to get a deal done.
I for one would throw the Cards into that list. Eck can easliy move to 2b and Pujols could help make the team a prime spot for the SS. Do the Cards have enough prospects? Marquis, Reyes and Wainwright (the best of the bunch) wouldn't get it done. If the Cards get Tejada, it will be part of a 3 way trade. Look for the D-Backs to be involved as a thrid partner, with Vazquez and Gonzo as good fits in Baltimore.

[dan]

id dangle rich hill, patterson, and maybe walker. if not hill, then cedeno. but certainly not both. as stated, tejada is on the right side of 30, so giving up a youthful prospect doesnt hurt too much. especially if they can keep him around a few years.

[Jarid]

If you were the O's (who I have a hard time believing will want to give Tejada up at all), would you ask for any less than what the Phillies reportedly asked in return for Abreu? i.e. Prior.

I'd think the O's will ask for alot more than prospects...and I don't think Walker as the only ML experienced player along with others is enough.
The O's have had huge backlashes in the past from their fans, and I'd find it hard to believe they would take prospects or a combo of Walker, Williams, etc for Tejada.

They don't HAVE to deal him, so if they do, I think they ask for more than just prospects...they need fan appeal. Something Mr. Sosa was supposed to bring. Cough Choke Cough

[howboutthis]

3 way trade

Mets trade:
Heilman, Diaz, Floyd, Benson

Red Sox trade:
Manny Ramirez, prospect

Orioles trade:
Miguel Tejada, Julio

Mets get:
Ramirez, Julio

Red Sox get:
Floyd, Tejada

Orioles get:
Heilman, Diaz, Benson, Sox prospect

[Frankie 2 tone]

O's
Manny
Arroyo

Red Sox
Tejada

Let's get the Deal done.

[Jarid]

from the Foxsports.com article about Tejada:

"A source close to Tejada, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said Tejada would like to be traded to a team on the East Coast, and mentioned the Boston Red Sox as a possible destination.

Tejada would not mention any specific team.
"

[Army Guy]

Could the Cubs get Craig Monroe from the Tigers? I've read they are interested, but so are other teams. Maybe the Cubs could do Patterson and a minor leaguer for him? Any thoughts or rumors?

[RumorMonger]

Yeah, they could definitely get Monroe. I think Hendry is thinking bigger, though.

[Army Guy]

Well, if the Bradley trade doesn't happen, Monroe is a good backup plan I think.

[leefanatic25]

hendry thinks too big for the cubs to get tejada hendry will overprice and trade the cubs future, otherwise nown as rich hill and felix pie who the cubs cant afford to trade, the only deal for cubs is like sean marshall todd walker jerome williams patterson and brandon sing or dopriak

[CarrieICL]

I can't imagine the O's would take less than Prior for Tejada, and more. Up and coming prospects are nice... as a bonus. But the Orioles need pitching, pitching, pitching. Proven starting pitching. They don't *have* to trade Miggy, so except whoever gets him to break the bank in the pitching department. Lefty relievers are a bonus. For me, it keeps coming back to Minnesota, oddly.

[RumorMonger]

But the Twins don't have a Prior type that they'd be willing to trade. Does anyone?

[AstrosFan]

How about...

Astros:
Brad Lidge
Adam Everett
Prospect SP

O's:
Miguel Tejada

I like it! Qualls is ready to step in and close. O's fill the closer spot with an All Star! Make it happen Purpura!

[leefanatic25]

not necesssarily for the right prospects and maybe a jerome williams or glendonm rusch proven number 4 starter, and the right other players and prospects to fill the orials holes such as of and 1rst , prospects sing and dopriak top 1rst base prospects and patterson or an outfield prosp. not pie and the cubs could get it done, if hendry could get tejada without trading prior zambrano pie or the untouchables, lee and aramis, i would be stunned

[RumorMonger]

Astros fan, that could work. Maybe add Burke in there.

I think the White Sox could make a deal if they were willing to make Uribe a sub. They could offer Garland or Buehrle, both of whom are going to get ridiculous free agent deals when the time comes.

[Soxfan]

Red sox trade away their top prospect for short, deal away their former all-star who only had a slightly less than average offensive year and get two unproven third basemen. The same day one of the top short stops in the game gets unhappy... coincidence? I hope not or that front office is in real trouble. O's need pitching... Foulke and Arroyo let hansen step in as our closer.

[AstrosFan]

RumorMonger, I don't know if I'd give up Everett AND Burke, but I'd definitely be willing to part with either of the two + Lidge and possibly a throw in to get Tejada. We need offense terribly and have a solid enough bullpen to absorb the loss of Lidge. I don't want to see him go, but if he brings in a Tejada, it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make.

[RumorMonger]

Foulke and Arroyo isn't thinking big enough. It might take a true All-Star pitcher with no question marks to make a deal.

[CarrieICL]

The Twins may not have a Prior-type, but they've got a *lot* of pitching. And the O's are hard up -- I think they've be willing to take 4 good guys instead of 1 great guy, and not many people out there can offer 4 good pitchers. Also, the Twins have Torii Hunter, who is also looking for a move. And lord knows the O's have a spot to fill in the outfield.

[lennywebster42]

Tejada's not going anywhere. His comments were before he was aware of the Hernandez signing, and came from sheer frustration. 10 to 1 says he turns around and takes them back within the next week.

Also, who the heck would the O's have play short if Tejada were moved? Just not gonna happen.

[RumorMonger]

Well, the O's are in love with Nomar...

[Army Guy]

What better way to get back at the Red Sox than to sign Nomar and have him have a comeback year. TRADE TEJADA TO THE CUBS!!!

[Dave]

With all the 3- and 4-for-1 proposals being bandied about here, it's apparent that nobody here has taken a glance at the O's roster.

It's at 40 exactly right now.

And that's without Hernandez.

Look at 1-for-1 or 2-for-2 ideas, folks.

Mine is Aramis and Patterson for Tejada and a throw-in. Or they can skip Patterson.

[Grant]

The deal that makes the most sense to me with regard to Tejada is the Astros. They've got Clemens money to spend and have a gaping hole in their lineup and a severe defiency in terms of power. Could you imagine what Tejada could do in that bandbox they call Minute Made? Anyone remember the HomeRun Derby a couple years ago. If I'm Purpura, I jump on this deal in a heartbeat and give up whatever is necessary.

[RumorMonger]

Yeah, he'd probably hit an extra 5 dingers in Minute Maid. Inflates right-handers HRs by 33%.

[CarrieICL]

Yeah, but there's plenty of players they'd like to knock back down to the minors. DuBose. Penn. Maine. Young. Whiteside. Fiorentino. Newhan. Those are just *some* of the names that would be playing at double or triple A if the O's had some *real* players.

[Dave]

Pretty sure anyone that's removed from the 40-man roster has to pass through waivers.

I don't know the Baltimore system real well. How many of those guys would clear?

[ChicagOs]

I like the idea of a 3-way with LA and Boston.
Manny & Javy Lopez to LA
Miggy & Finley to Boston
Orlando Cabrera, Kotchman, Ervin Santana, Wood & Mota to Baltimore

[Steve]

As a Cub fan I'd love to see Tejada come here. I say offer up Cedeno, Pie, and Rich Hill and see what happens. It's a lot to give up but you're getting arguably the best shortstop in the game. Keep Walker at second and re-sign Burnitz.

Too bad it takes a GM with a vision of winning NOW instead of looking 5 years down the road.

[AstrosFan]

Grant, I agree. If Purpura doesn't at least get into this with some sort of offer then I can't see them making any moves at this point. You've got one of (if not the) best SS available for trade, the money available to pay him and a desperate need for what he provides and the goods available to trade that the O's could definitely use. If he doesn't at least make an offer, I'll be very disappointed.

[Shane]

Think about what you are all saying. If we could get Tejada for Cedeno, Pie and maybe even Hill too....it's still a great trade for the Cubs. They are all PROSPECTS. Cmon....you know at least one will be a bust and Pie was hurt for half of last year.....and we already have a center fielder!!!

[ChicagoFan]

The O's need proven players. They are going to want more than Pie or Cedeno, and Patterson has a lot less trade value than Cubs fans want to believe. I'm sure the O's would want starting pitching, especially since they don't have to trade Tejada.

[Grant]

I agree with ChicagoFan. The O's don't have to deal Tejada, and if they do choose to grant his trade request, they'll get top dollar for him. As a Cubs fan, I just don't think we have what the O's would deem acceptable. I know we have some great prospects (Hill, Pie, etc.), but the O's want to compete now (i.e. signing Hernandez today for $24 million). A package including Lidge, Adam Everett, and possibly Ezquiel Astacio or Carlos Hernandez would likely be too much for Flanagan to turn down. It meets needs (closer, SS, and a young SP) on several levels while not crippling his teams pennant hopes this year. If bidding gets real tough, the Stros could eventually add Backe instead of Astacio. That my friends, would be difficult for a GM to turn down. If the Cubs were to make an offer it would have to include Jerome Williams, Patterson, Cedeno, and possibly two other prospects. I still think that of the teams mentioned, the Stros have the most to give the O's.

[Truth]

According to the Orioles board on ESPN, XM Radio reported that Hendry has contacted Baltimore regarding Tejada. I didn't hear this, but I don't know why a Baltimore fan would make that up, I could see it from a Cubs fan..

[JC]

Okay, here's a more realistic Met offer for Tejada:

Lastings Milledge
Jose Reyes

Do I need to throw in Heilman? I probably would if I had to.

Git-R-Done!

[Realist]

Most of the trades proposed here would get the GM of Baltimore fired real fast.

[RumorMonger]

Sure, but a few of them wouldn't.

[alex]

for the people who say that the orioles will want current MLB talent here's something to think about. Not saying you're wrong because it makes sense to me to ask for a good, proven, MLB player but what I'm about to say makes more sense to me.

The orioles suck. They have holes everywhere. Pitching, outfield. pretty much everywhere but 2B and C and they have a shaky fielding 1B. SO...They will NOT win this year with Tejada or without him. That is just a fact. This is why they would probably be willing to trade him for prospects. I have 2 options that fit that bill.

1. Cubs trade prospects to Orioles. We want to win NOW! none of this future crap. We have the pitching and the hitting to do it now with an upgrade in right. we have a significantly better shot to do it with tejada. I could see the cubbies getting him.

2. the 3 way deal someone mentioned above. Mets get Manny, sox get tejada, orioles get prospects from both.

i suppose the angels could pull it off. I know someone mentioned a possible trade above and i guess it could happen. i don't know enough about the angels to say for sure.

here's hoping Hendry pulls a rabbit out of his hat and keeps Cedeno and Murton and our MLB pitching while doing so. That would be one hell of a lineup.
GO CUBS!

[Doug]

There is a lot of talk about Tejada being traded to a couple of different teams. The O's will not trade one of their best players to a team in their own division. Listen, trades no matter how lopsided they may be must benefit both teams. The O's are not dumping all of their stars so they need something in return that will give results. Most of these postings are showing the Cubs giving up multiple players for him, but these guys are not even close to a Tejada and five bad players do not make it an even trade. I am a lifelong Cubs fan but some of these postings are way out there in fantasy land. We need him but will have to give up the world for him but it is posssible because of the good relations we have with the O's and we are in a different league that posses no immediate threat to them taking the pennant. Your thoughts?

[RumorMonger]

angels have tons of great prospects to deal from...and it's true that they don't want cabrera around anymore.

[Realist]

The most realistic option is Tejada staying and this whole hullabaloo giving the O's front office a kick in the pants. Its highly unlikely they deal away their offense(tejada) and way more likely they get get at least one more solid pitcher.

[Steve]

NO TEJADA TO THE RED SOX. NOPE SORRY

[Steve]

NO TEJADA TO THE RED SOX. NOPE SORRY

[who]

Most likely senario....the O's have an amazing offer on the table, including the top 5 prospects from any given MLB team, but don't pull the trigger over some stupid techinicality.

[Mikey fresh]

Is there any way he goes to the Yankees? I kno it seems far fetched and crazy, but could anyone forsee a possible Sheff/prospect deal for tejada? I know it won't happen, but everyone knows how steinbrenner feels about superstar players and being relativley quiet this offseason.

[RumorMonger]

If he did go to the Yanks, some people would obviously have to change positions. I could see it, knowing the Boss.

[Adam]

tejada for cedeno, pie, and whatever reliever the o's want...hell make it two relievers. hendry needs to stop thinking about 4-5 years into the futuring and think about 2006. the cubs need to build a lineup that will absolutely scare the stros and cards, and tejada would be the best addition for them to do that. they need to make this happen as quick as possible. also a RF wouldn't be too terrible.

[alex]

if we do get tejada, that means we don't need a nasty RF like we do without him so a signing of Encarnacion might make sense. He's a servicable player who puts up decent average and decent numbers. What do you guys think?

[Seth]

I posted on my site today:

Baltimore sends Tejada to the Twins for:

Torii Hunter, Kyle Lohse, JC Romero, Jason Bartlett and... one of Boof Bonser,Glen Perkins, Adam Harben, Justin Jones, Jay Rainville, or Anthony Swarzak... or two of JD Durbin, David Gassner, Nick Blackburn, Errol Simonitsch, Kyle Waldrop, Adam Hawes, Alexander Smit.

The Twins need to make this happen!

[OriolesFan]

If and when the Orioles trade Miguel Tejada, I can see only 4 teams that make sense. The Mets, the Rangers, the Angels, and the Red Sox. Possible deals I could see. (Whoever gets Tejada will have to pay significantly in order to get him from the O's) I can see Mora traded along with Tejada in any deal because they are so close. The O's could sign Garciaparra to take Tejada's place in the short term, so I don't think getting a shortstop back in trade is absolutly necessary.

Mets: If its only Tejada I could see Tejada for Milledge, Reyes, Heilman. If we throw in Julio, take out Heilman, put in Benson and add another prospect. Another deal I could see is Tejada, Mora, and Julio in exchange for Reyes, Wright, Milledge, and Benson. I know the chances of Wright being traded are almost none, so if not him then Heilman and another prospect with Mora moving back to the outfield.

Rangers: The Orioles love the Baltimore product that is Mark Texiera. The Rangers could move Michael Young back to second base after trading Soriano. Tejada for Texiera, Mench, and a prospect (Most likely pitching or shortstop). If Mora is involved then him and Tejada for Texiera, Blalock, Mench, a pitcher, and a prospect.

Angels: Tejada for Wood, Kotchman, and Santana (maybe Finley, Cabrera or Erstad to balance salary a little). Mora and Tejada for Wood, Kotchman, Santana, Mathis, and McPherson (again, maybe one of the salary dumps).

Red Sox: Tejada for Manny and one of Lestor/Papelbon/Marte plus money. Mora and Tejada for Manny, Marte, one of Lestor/Papelbon and money.
Reply

[OriolesFan]

You could throw the Cubs into the mix too...but I don't know enough about their prospects at this point to make a trade proposal.

[Steven]

If the trade includes the name "Jose" and "Reyes" Im going to be ready to hurt someone.

[biggestOSfanEver]

the Orioles wanted Adam Dunn so bad, what about sending Miggy (Which i hope we never get rid of him). He's only 29!!!! Are you kidding me if they get rid of him I almost want to quit the O's. But anyways...

Miggy for Dunn & Griffey, JR

Fills a bit of the OF gap and brings a marketable name the Os were looking for along the lines of Sosa.

[SJ]

The only deal I believe the O's would do would be with Texas to get Texiera as part of it, unless they can find a player out there with a greek-sounding name, no matter how much talent.

[Jarid]

Not that this has much bearing, but any thoughts to Sammy Sosa & the whole fiasco with him & the Cubs affecting Tejada and his decision?

Is there a no-trade involved here? As in, Sosa, his Dominican buddy had such a rough going with the Cubs...what would make Tejada want to go there?

[alex]

Tejada is not Sammy Sosa.

Sosa is a prima donna.

I can't believe that Tejada wouldn't realize that.

Besides, if he really does want out and he comes to the Cubs they will be a force to be reckoned with and who wouldn't want to be a member of a team like that.

[Chris]

This whole idea of giving up Pie, Hill, Cedeno, Guzman and however else is getting out of hand. The Cubs could package Williams, Wellemeyer, and Cedeno to get this deal done. I would give up different pitcher like Hill in the deal, but shouldnt be necessary. The O's wont trade Tejeda within the division anyways.

[RumorMonger]

Williams, Wellemeyer, Cedeno? C'mon man. You think that's the best possible package for a superstar shortstop that the team has no obligation to trade? Cubs fans are overrating Cedeno quite a bit; his hitting is a bigger question mark than it may seem.

[leefanatic25]

cedeno is going to be very good, we shoulodnt offer him the orioles need a 1rst baseman, so give them either dopriak or sing, they need an of, i dont want to deal pie but mybe prob smone like a patterson or prosp. ryan harvey, and then add in a pitcher, pref. sean marshall or maybe hill, and fromt heir add along some other ok pitchers like a koronka williams, and wellemeyer

[leefanatic25]

that should be enough to get the deal done, the os are gonna realze that they cant keep drawing fans witholut a future, their farm system sucks with the exception of hayden penn, so they prob will trade for future IF they ttrade tejada, the cubs have the best future to offer....

[RumorMonger]

Leefan, I think you're a bit biased. The Cubs have one, and only one, top flight prospect - Pie. The rest are B-level, and a club like the Angels could easily top a Cubs offer.

[leefanatic25]

yes i am biased, cuz im a cubs fan, but i would classify rich hill as alevel too, wouldn't u? and the angels could but i doubt they will, the cubs would be the team to make a deal happen, cuz redsox, manny sounds good, but same division, and i aggree with u, not just prospoects maybe some establsihed #4, #5 starters, rusch williams, i know it would take a lot to get tejada, but the cubs have a lot to offer, who do u think has a better chance to get the deal done?

[CosmoK]

As a Twins fan I would make the deal that Terry Ryan most likely would not---Hunter, Liriano, Romero, Cuddyer and the minor league pitcher of their choice (not named Baker or Perkins) for Tejada and Melvin Mora. Chances of happening: 1 in 100 million

[William Strunk & E.B. White]

Leefanatic25, we command you to stop writing things immediately. Our eyes are bleeding.

[josh]

no i agree with leefanatic, prospects tht the cubs fan should be enough and william what team do u like so much that has a better chance at tejada

[alex]

just one thing. The cubs still have players coming from the Red Sox and Rangers. I don't know who they will be or when they are coming or even what the precedure generally is for "players to be named later" but I think that we have a good one coming from the Sox and at least a decent one from the rangers cause we gave them both good prospects.

Maybe we turn around and trade the prospects we get to Baltimore to help get Tejada.

[leefanatic25]

thank u exactly,, i dont see y
good prospects and a couple great ones wouldnt be enough

[Chris]

Actually the Dopirak is rated just as high as Pie. The Angels do have a great farm system, but they are going after Manny which would cost them atleast 3-4 top level prospects. Cubs got a shot. The question is will they do it. Probably not

[RumorMonger]

BA dropped Dopirak from 1st to 9th after his '05 season.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/features/05top10s/cubs.html

2005 was a huge step backward for him, as he hit just .235/.289/.381 in A ball.

http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/D/brian-dopirak.shtml

[leefanatic25d]

yes but dopriak is still highly regarded,and i guess the cubs will have to trade established players but alex is right we trade the two players we get from boston and texas, btw wat is the player to be named policy? and we trade our top notch prospects, the cubs need tejada

and wait rm according to the baseball america source mark pawlek is number 2 our first round draft pick this year and a lefty, i would still love sending him pie patterson, sing, and the two, players to be named for tejada

[Jarid]

Doesn't anyone get it? It's gonna take alot more than one A level prospect, or even 2 for that matter.

The O's have a need for STARTING EXPERIENCED MLB PLAYERS. They don't have to trade Tejada, so if they do, they'd have to be blown away with ML players, not prospects that will take 2 years to find out on.....

If they dealt Tejada, their leader, and by far their best player for prospects, the O's managment would be run out of town.

Forget Pie, forget Hill. Look what the Phillies asked for on an Abreu trade. If they are to get Tejada, it would be more on the lines of what Philly asked, not what Cub fans dream up.

[RumorMonger]

Pawelek was our #1 draft pick and is going to be incredible; we can't and won't trade him.

Jarid, I agree with you, but a deal centering around Pie and one ML player could get done.

[alex]

Jarid I agree with you to an extent but the Orioles are an awful team!

they don't need a great MLB talent that they can pay to waste his time on a bad team. They, unlike the cubs, have no chance of being good this year. That is why they probably would be more willing to part with Tejada to improve their future.

[Jarid]

Alex,
Tell that to the O's front office, tell that to the O's fans.

There is still 2 months at least for the O's to make moves to improve the team, and I think they probably will do what they can. They'll hold on to Tejada until late in the offseason to see if he changes his mind...and I don't see Hendry waiting that long & potentially screwing himself like he did in the Sosa fiasco.

The O's have $$$ and will do what they can to keep Tejada there.
Don't get me wrong..I would want nothing more than Tejada in a Cubs uniform. I just don't think Pie is completely ready to excel in the ML's, and for the O's to give up Tejada for potential & a combo of Walker/Williams/Hill, or whatever else people are throwing out here, I think it would get shot down pretty quick.

You throw in proven players that make an impact right away in an area the O's need help in, like Zambrano or Prior, then the O's listen. But you know it would never get to that point.

So with that, I think everyone is jumping the gun a bit. I think Tejada stays.

[come on guys.]

As a Cub fan, I would love to see Tejada at Wrigley. Sandwiched comfortably between Lee and Ramirez but it's going to take more than our scraps to get him. I assume if this is going anywhere it would take Cedeno/Hill/Pie. Your not going to get him for much less. You may be able to sub Marshall for Pie or Marmol but not much less.

[Jutter]

Exactly, Alex. Baltimore should seek young talent in return because they're going nowhere in the East--with or without Tejada.
If I'm Hendry and I'm negotiating with Baltimore, any combination of players outside of Lee, ARam, Prior, and Z should be made available. Personally, I'd use Pie as bait because while he's talented--he's no sure thing. I'd offer Pie, Cedeno, RHill, Williams, and Novoa( Mazzone could do some very good things with Novoa). This trade gives the O's three ML-ready players and two talented youngsters. This offer may get some laughs, but that's where I'd start. Then, I'd turn my attention to Bradley--yes, I'm one of those who's enamored by his talent and wants Dusty to start earning his lofty pay!

[RumorMonger]

Yeah, come on guys is on point with this one. It's not gonna be a sweet package of John Koronka and our bullpen catcher.

[Jarid]

I hope I am wrong, but I guess the pessimistic Cub fan in me finds it a little hard to believe that prospects would get him...in any capacity.
If all it took were prospects, I'd say give whomever it takes...

But, like I said, I hope I'm totally wrong.

[alex]

well I mean, this is partly the eternally hopeful cubs fan in me hoping we get him. your points make a lot of sense and I'm not saying that we won't have to give up someone good but I just think that we have a chance of doing it w/out giving up one of our best players for the reasons i've said before and I cling to that hope cause I want to get a world series win so badly.

[AstrosFan]

These cubbie fans make me chuckle. This isn't a Marlins fire sale. This is an all star and arguably the best player at his position saying that he wants a change of scenery. *IF* the O's even consider shopping him, it's likely going to take at least a similar level ML player (all star/potential all star caliber) *PLUS* a huge prospect or two. When I mentioned my idea for an Astros trade for Tejada, it included (all star) Lidge, (big time prospect w/proven ML experience) Burke and a low starter like Astacio or a SP prospect. I don't think something will get done for less than this type of offer. If the cubs really want him, they're going to have to include a Prior/Zambrano PLUS a top prospect like Pie (or similar) and maybe that won't even get it done. The O's still have months before the season starts...they could pick up a handful of free agents, make a couple of trades and be competitive. It'll be very difficult in the AL East, but with Roberts, Tejada, etc. it's possible. I really don't see anyone even considering moving Tejada for only prospects or prospects and some #4 or #5 type SPs unless they are going to go the Marlins way and completely gut the team for the future.

[RumorMonger]

I think the Lidge deal is one of the more practical ideas to come up here.

[Jarid]

I agree AstrosFan. I know Lidge has a guy ready under him, but do the Astros really have the room to trade any of their SP? Since Clemens won't be back, I assumed that would be where they would put all of their attention...

Mora's thoughts on all of this were pretty interesting as well.....

"I think he is right," Mora told the newspaper from Puerto Rico, where he is vacationing. "He says what he feels and that's pretty much what has happened. You let people go like nothing and you do nothing to help this club. And he wants to go someplace to compete. I don't blame him. We want [the front office] to do something."
....
"Who is going to pitch for us?" Mora told the Sun. "I don't care what people think of what Tejada says. We know exactly what he says because we feel it."

I still don't believe the O's will be shedding any payroll.

[AstrosFan]

Jarid, I agree that with the Clemens situation, trading any Astros SP is a gamble, but we have a couple of guys at AAA that could be given a shot much like Astacio and Rodriguez were this year. If it meant getting Tejada, I could definitely see giving up Lidge, Burke OR Everett and one of Astacio/Rodriguez/AAA SP Prospect. That still leaves us with a starting rotation of 1) Oswalt, 2) Pettitte, 3) Backe, 4) Astacio/Rodriguez (whichever is not traded) and 5) FA pitcher we pick up or AAA SP prospect we give a shot to. Then there is always the possibility that Clemens comes back after May 1 if he decides not to retire or go to another team. How badass would this team be after May 1:

C Ausmus (or other FA catcher)
1B Berkman (or Bagwell if healthy)
2B Biggio
3B Ensberg
SS Tejada
OF Taveras
OF Lane
OF Burke (or Berkman if Bagwell's not healthy)

Rotation:
Oswalt
Pettitte
Clemens
Backe
FA Pitcher/AAA Prospect/Astacio/Rodriguez

Bullpen:
Wheeler, Qualls, etc.

I LIKE IT!

Unfortunately, I still don't think Tejada will be going anywhere and there are no guarantees about Clemens, but it's fun to see how we could look if everything fell into just the right place.

[BiggestCubsFanEver]

LOL Tejada will never go to the Astros. Do not give up your hopes on him lol they have no one to trade. Plus I think the cubs should go after him.

[Teetz]

I would trade Pie and a couple of pitchers for Tejada. I would want to keep Cedeno to play 2nd base. If we trade Walker for Bradley then we don't want Neifi playing 2nd base.

[Grant]

This may sound far fetched, but does anyone think the Braves could get involved for Tejada? This is pure speculation on my part, but Tejada would give the Jones'more protection in that young lineup. Schuerholtz could add one of the top hitters in baseball to that lineup and certainly give Omar and his new look Mets a run for their money. A package would probably have to include Renteria (of course), either Kelly Johnson or Ryan Langerhans(one of which wouldn't be starting for the Braves anyway), and probably a young pitcher like Joey Devine or Beau Jones. Although this is highly unlikely, I think this would be a very creative alternative to getting Tejada out of Baltimore while the O's still get major league quality players in exchange.

[g-unit]

Here's a thought,

Cubs trade whatever they will need to trade to the d-rays, d-rays trade huff and lugo to the o's and the Cubs get tejada.

[g-unit]

Here's a thought,

Cubs trade whatever they will need to trade to the d-rays, d-rays trade huff and lugo to the o's and the Cubs get tejada.

[cubbie]

I'd rather have huff and lugo before Tejada.

[AstrosFan]

BiggestCubsFanEver, did you even look at the trade idea I posted? You say, "they have no one to trade," so I'm assuming that you think Brad Lidge is no one? I'm fairly certain that offering Lidge/Burke/Astacio for Tejada would garner a bit more of a look than Pie/Cubs Lesser Prospect/Cubs Lowly Prospect as is suggested several times here. I'm not saying it will get done, like I said, I really don't even think he'll move, but to say that the Astros have no one to trade is laughable.

[AstrosFan]

BiggestCubsFanEver, did you even look at the trade idea I posted? You say, "they have no one to trade," so I'm assuming that you think Brad Lidge is no one? I'm fairly certain that offering Lidge/Burke/Astacio for Tejada would garner a bit more of a look than Pie/Cubs Lesser Prospect/Cubs Lowly Prospect as is suggested several times here. I'm not saying it will get done, like I said, I really don't even think he'll move, but to say that the Astros have no one to trade is laughable.

[Ben]

Hey Astros fan....your team got swept in the series. So get off Biggestcubsfanever. I know the cubs didn't make it to the series but they definetely wouldn't have gotten swept.

[AstrosFan]

Ben, that has nothing at all to do with this discussion, but thanks for playing. And I'm not getting on BiggestCubsFanEver, I just thought it was kind of odd that he posted that we have no one to trade when I spelled out a pretty decent trade. To just laugh off a trade which would swap two all stars is pretty weak. Thanks though, your comments were very well thought out and helpful to the discussion!

[Jarid]

I'm a Cubs fan, but this is a MLB site, not for Cubs fans only. Its good to hear other teams fans perspectives, especially since a majority of the people that discuss here are for the Cubs.

AstrosFan brought up some very good points, and last time I checked, the Cubs haven't made it to the series lately, so let's get there first before we start throwing out "we definately wouldn't have gotten swept."

Until you would hear the O's GM saying they are packing it in for the year, I'd have to say what AstrosFan posted as a possible package looks alot more appealing than anything the Cubs have to work with.

And everyone is forgetting...you get Tejada, and you get all the help you need with that needle in the ass. Vitamin B that is.

[Ty]

Here is a trade I have been hearing in Philly:

Red Sox get: SS Miguel Tejeda

Phillies get: LF Manny Ramirez

Orioles get: RF Bobby Abreu, SS Danny Sandoval

[Os Fan]

Just checking in to say some of the trade proposals made here would get the O's brass lynched, not fired.

The O's are probably going to do what the Sox have done with Ramirez the past few years: listen to offers, but not feel any real pressure to take one. Ramirez used far harsher language than Tejada did, and he's still in Boston. Some team would have to blow the Orioles out of the water for them to trade Tejada. It would have to be a trade like AstrosFan suggested: except, given the Orioles half-hearted attempt to resign Ryan, I don't think they view closer as that big of a hole.

It will take all-star quality players or multiple top prospects to get Tejada. Any trade would have to involve a Teixeira-type player, or a quality starting pitcher and the best prospects in their organization.

This will be doubly true in the AL East: If Boston wants him, they better be sending over Marte and Ramirez, and eating some of Ramirez's salary.

Man, some of you cub fans need a reality check here. Hill/Pie/Cedeno for Tejada? That's one of the most ridiculous things I've ever heard.

[Teetz]

It's reality when you're dealing with a team (Orioles) who have surrendered their playoff chances before the season has even begun. The Orioles have no shot at contending in 2006 and getting prospects in return for Tejada makes sense for a team that's rebuilding.

The Orioles can certainly get more than the sort of low-level prospects the Cubs have for Tejada. It's not ridiculous that the Orioles would try to rebuild in a Tejada trade. It is ridiculous to assume they would trade away the best player they've had in a long time for anything but top notch prospects. Two different people above mentioned Kotchman and Wood in a three team deal from Anaheim. Those are the sort of prospects Baltimore is going to expect to be bringing in to be prompted trade Tejada. And if they can't, they'll probably trade Tejada for established veteran talent. This isn't Florida. They don't have financial problems and won't be giving anybody away.

[Carl_kps]

I am from the Baltimore area and the majority of these deals are stupid.
Tejada is not going anywhere. Tejada is much more valuable that Manny, Abreu, and any crap prospects. The Orioles received a lot of can't miss prospects during the last PA purge of the late 90's. The only prospect that is still in baseball from that deal is Mora.

Right now the relationship between the Orioles ownership (PA) and the fans is at an all time low. Trading Tejada would be devastating to the Baltimore fans. If PA traded Tejada he would be as popular to Orioles fans as Saddām Hussein was to the Iraqis people.

[Kevin]

Carl kps said ...
>"Trading Tejada would be devastating to the Baltimore fans.
>If PA traded Tejada he would be as popular to Orioles fans as
>Saddām Hussein was to the Iraqis people."

Well Carl - Saddam did enjoy 99%+ approval ratings while he was in power. Boy I used to always feel really bad for that 1% who didn't vote for him.

[D.Lee.MVP]

Tejeda and Hernandez hate each other. So the signing of Ramon would only be fuel to the fire, if he did say this before hand.

[RumorMonger]

I didn't know that DLee. What's the history between the two?

[QueensTeam]

Mets should trade
Benson Mildedge and Heilman but I dont think Minaya will trade REyes

so imagine this line up
Reyes
Beltran
Tejada
Delgado
Wright
Floyd
LoDUca
Diaz/Nady

[Lifeling O's fan]

Look understand this. most likely Tejada is not going to be traded, but "if" he is, it is either for someone like Mark Teixeria, OR it's gonna be starting pitching. And it's going to have to be an ace. The O's have a lot of faith in their young pitching prospects, and many O's fans were hoping an offer would be made for Burnett, and many are banking on a big offer for Millwood. Do you really think they are going to trade their most potent offensive player (when, btw, they don't have to) for a bunch of "prospects"? You're smoking the wrong stuff. Tejada is a legend in Baltimore in 2 years. The only way to get him if you want to make a trade is players who have proven they can play in the big leagues. And "one" of the them better be the best pitcher on your staff.

[A Cub Fan]

I will start off by saying that I am a huge Cubs fan. But to think that we are going to make a trade for Tejada without including one of the big four (Lee, ARam, Prior, or Zambrano) is ridiculous. You think the Orioles are going to give up the cornerstone of their franchise for unproven players? As much as I would like that, it's not going to happen, so it's time to forget about that. Frankly, I would love to have Tejada, but since it's going to take including one of those four, I am not willing to make a deal. I say the Cubs go after Lugo and Huff (I know Lugo is no Tejada, but it won't take a whole lot to get him). With those two you feel two big holes, and you still have a solid lineup. Go pick up another starting pitcher, maybe Vasquez. He hasn't done anything the last two years, but we know he has the talent and MAYBE another change of scenery can get him back on track...so quit the Tejada for prospects pipe dreams, cause there's no way in hell thats happening.

[OMGitsthelaststors]

I would just like to say that Andy Petite is a huge baby. He thought the Astros should have pushed the envelope. Well, I say good-bye. You, Andy, are not worth the 12 million they offered. Your ERA was piss pour at best, and who needs a 5 inning per outing pitcher. Heck, they could have put a middle reliever in and got the same production. At least now we have Woody and he is going to give a consistent 6 or 7 innings. You, Andy, are not worth more than Woody and he is older than you. So, take your 16 million and you can join the rest of the tits on the Yankees you trader. They can't get it together to make it to the WS with all the talent that George has stolen away from all the other teams anyway. What really needs to happen to you greedy suckers is a salary cap. The NFL has finally got it together with the Salary cap and you can actually sit and watch games that are competitive across the league. I love baseball, but I don't like what greedy players have done to the game. Whatever happened to loyalty like Biggio and Bagwell. Andy, you didn't need 16 million. You have more money now than you or your children will ever use. You are from the Houston area and I guess apathy has eaten you up. You wonder why you cannot get the fans into the game, it is because the players need to show some loyalty. If you, Andy wanted to bring a WS championship to Houston you would have taken the overpayment the Astros was offering to you and at least made your piss pour effort at 5 innings. One more thing and I am out. I am 37 years old and if the Yankees never win another championship in my lifetime I will die happy. I HATE THE YANKEES AND GEORGE. George, you need to quit buying off players and build your team like everybody else. What you are doing is killing the game and it sure hasn't worked for you. Try drafting and trading instead of overpaying.