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« Orioles Rumors: Roberts, Uehara, Zaun, Pudge | Main | Andy Pettitte Open To Astros? »
Brewers, Dodgers Pursuing Hoffman
11:27pm: Ken Rosenthal says the Brewers have emerged as the frontrunner for Hoffman.
10:19pm: Bill Shaikin says Hoffman will make his decision Thursday. Kevin Towers said tonight that the Padres "just don't have the money" to retain their longtime closer. He added that if Hoffman would've accepted their $4MM offer they it would've been hard to exercise Brian Giles' $9MM option.
9:07pm: Tom Haudricourt spoke with Doug Melvin and Melvin believes that the Brewers have a legitimate shot at landing Hoffman. He does not believe the team is not being used to drive up the offer from the Dodgers. Melvin is confident based on his previous work with agent Rick Thurman. Melvin and Thurman have agreed to speak again tomorrow morning.
4:11pm: Jon Heyman believes the Brewers are making a stronger move for Hoffman.
3:36pm: Both offers from the Dodgers and Brewers are for one year with a club option, and both exceed $4MM. Hoffman's agent (Rick Thurman) expects to have a deal within 48 hours. A requirement of Hoffman signing is that he is the closer. The Brewers have not heard back today from Thurman yet.
11:19am: Brown has confirmed that the Brewers made an offer as well.
WEDNESDAY, 8:43am: Bill Shaikin of the L.A. Times says the Dodgers offered Hoffman a one-year contract worth more than $4MM. Hoffman would take the ninth inning in L.A. Buster Olney confirms the one-year offer as well, but neither Olney nor Shaikin mention the club option Brown did.
TUESDAY, 11:11pm: Yahoo's Tim Brown says the Dodgers offered Hoffman a one-year deal with a club option. Brown suspects the Brewers have made an offer as well. Hoffman is "thought to prefer Southern California," though he might have to take a setup role in L.A. At this point, the Padres have not reconciled with Hoffman or restored their offer.
8:16pm: Haudricourt says the Brewers have to battle geography if they hope to win the Hoffman sweepstakes.
6:37pm: Hoffman is in discussion with the Brewers over the "parameters of a contract" according to Ken Rosenthal. His source, who has knowledge of the negotiations, says, "It's got legs."
5:37pm: Jon Heyman echoes the Brewers and Dodgers are in the running and that Hoffman "could sign in coming days." Heyman reiterates Hoffman's interest to say close to his "home base" in Anaheim, CA.
1:21pm: Hoffman's agent says they have mutual interest with the Brewers, though Haudricourt got the impression they may seek two years.
10:13am: Tom Haudricourt talked to Brewers GM Doug Melvin, who indicated Trevor Hoffman is the team's top choice to fill the closer role. The two sides have talked parameters and Melvin hopes to learn his chances soon as discussions continue. The Brewers' main competition might be the Dodgers, but Hoffman would have a lock on the ninth inning in Milwaukee. Haudricourt believes the Brewers want to do a one-year deal with an option.
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Tales of Hoffman I guess we can start calling this now :)
Posted by: TripleHHH | January 06, 2009 at 10:14 AM
I was wondering if Milwaukee or St. Louis would have any interest in Hoffman. Makes sense for Melvin to look into it. They need someone.
Posted by: studio179 | January 06, 2009 at 10:29 AM
He throws his changeup harder than his fastball now, doesn't he?
Posted by: Teetz1 | January 06, 2009 at 10:47 AM
Lol Teetz if he throws his fastball slower than his changeup I guess its not a fastball anymore. Regardless, who wouldn't want to have the all-time saves leader on their team and a 1st ballot hall of famer?
Posted by: Jeff Levy | January 06, 2009 at 01:29 PM
It would be somewhat ironic if Hoffy ends his career with the Brewers, since it was the Brew Crew who sent his career spiraling into the abyss in his next-to-last appearance of 2007. It would be nice if Moorad turns into a white-knight for the Padres and allows them to sign Hoffman and end his career with SD.
Posted by: VAFriar | January 06, 2009 at 01:41 PM
I still think Hoffman will end up as a Padre come the start of the 09 season.
Posted by: Franco | January 06, 2009 at 02:14 PM
I'd expect Hoffman to end up back in SD.
Otherwise he can be a good stopgap closer/set up man for someone, though I wouldn't give him two years, maybe an option though.
Posted by: scribbletone | January 06, 2009 at 02:36 PM
They know what he can do, give up Triples to Tony Gwynn Jr.
Posted by: hitttman | January 06, 2009 at 04:04 PM
This would be great if it worked out for Milwaukee...I agree a one year deal with an option would make the most sense, but if it absoulutely takes two to get him I think the Brewers will do it. With a few other minor moves, this would solidify the Brewers bullpen nicely
Posted by: JoeyT107 | January 06, 2009 at 06:23 PM
also, I really don't think he will be a padre...they're trying to shed payroll...and they've made it pretty clear they don't have much interest in him...but who knows
Posted by: JoeyT107 | January 06, 2009 at 06:25 PM
VAFriar, think it may be a bit harsh to say his career is (or was) "spiraling out of control".
A 30 save season and a sub 4 ERA for a horrible team is hardly spiraling out of control. Is he as sharp as he once was, no, but then again, who is?
Great clubhouse guy, hate to see him in anything but Padres gear, thanks John Moores and Sandy Alderson.
Posted by: Just another idiot | January 06, 2009 at 07:18 PM
Good move for the Brewers to sign Hoffman.
Then we need to sign Sheets and take a chance on a low risk, high reward SP (Freddy Garcia)
The biggest question is why Melvin has not really done anything in regards to his comments on adding a left handed batter? I guess he signed Nixon and Duffy to minor league contracts, but not really what I was thinking.
The Crew will be ok if they can sign Sheets back and Hoffman. Then add a left handed bat in the outfield.
Posted by: craig | January 06, 2009 at 09:49 PM
Tales of Hoffman - it is about an aging closer who was released by a cost cutting thanks for nothing Padres team..suddenly Hoffman began to smell the dairy air of old Milwaukee, for the Brewers need a 9th inning man at any age, but then a problem occurred..a scent of something worse than dairy air hit Hoffman, for it was the armpit of California known to us as LA, looking to sign a pitcher since they have lost them all...
where will the Hoffman sign...
Tune in tomorrow for the next chapter of Tales of Hoffman
Thank you and good night.
Posted by: TripleHHH | January 06, 2009 at 10:08 PM
I don't get all the hate for Hoffman really. Yeah he's ancient, but it's hard to argue with this from last year:
9.1 K/9
.224 BAA
1.8 BB/9
Post-break ERA: 1.59
Posted by: vtadave | January 06, 2009 at 10:15 PM
Either way your saying tim wakefield fastball?
Posted by: ptk420biatch | January 06, 2009 at 11:15 PM
Meant!!!
He throws his changeup harder than his fastball now, doesn't he?
Either way your saying tim wakefield fastball?
Posted by: ptk420biatch | January 06, 2009 at 11:17 PM
whoo hooo dodgers made an offer
Posted by: NedCollettiClueless | January 06, 2009 at 11:47 PM
as a dodger fan, i wouldnt mind have hoffman closing if that means he becomes a dodger. he is one of the top closers, with mo and eck, and id rather have broxton setup if that is the only sticking point
Posted by: lakersdodgersyankees4life | January 07, 2009 at 12:07 AM
I think this will mean I no longer follow the Padres actively. They just can't seem to do the right thing anymore and don't deserve money or attention from fans.
Posted by: agro23 | January 07, 2009 at 12:10 AM
The way I see it, this is a great opportunity for the Dodgers, especially if they resign Saito as well. That means that they will have Saito, Broxton, and Hoffman for the 7,8, and 9th. That's pretty lights out, probably one of the best "bridges" (not an actual baseball term, but it fits nice huh) in baseball.
I like the idea of Hoffman also because I'm not totally sold on Broxton yet. He looks great as the set-up man, but seems to not be as lights out as the closer. Plus it seems that he loses a bit of steam in the latter part of the season. All in all, adding Hoffman can't really hurt in anyway (especially if its for only one year).
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 12:38 AM
well if we dont re sign saito, we will still have wade, mccdonald,kuo and elbert
thats pretty soild, but just gotta work on rotation
Posted by: LADodgerfan99 | January 07, 2009 at 01:13 AM
Yeah, I don't see them signing both Hoffman and Saito, considering they have Wade and Kuo. That would create too much of a jam, and would be hard to keep some kind of continuity in the bullpen with their roles and how often they pitch.
Posted by: cheba63 | January 07, 2009 at 01:52 AM
aggreed
Posted by: LADodgerfan99 | January 07, 2009 at 02:13 AM
but i would rather have hoffman than saito.
because hoffman had 556 saves, a vet, and could teach brox how to throw a change... scary huh
Posted by: LADodgerfan99 | January 07, 2009 at 02:15 AM
Hoffman is going to close for the Dodgers. Their pen will be filthy again:
RHP Troncoso
LHP Elbert
RHP Wade
LHP Kuo
RHP (setup) Broxton
RHP (close) Hoffman
I expect nice development from Troncoso and Elbert this year.
My prediction is that if Hoffman signs, this pen will be just as good as last year's pen.
The Dodgers just need to sign a starter.
BTW, tomorrow Minaya meets w/Boras tomorrow to discuss Lowe and Perez and are willing to move on Perez if Lowe is too expensive. They seem reluctant to better their 3 yr/$36 mill offer to Lowe.
My prediction:
Perez signs w/ the Mets for 4yrs/$44 mill and Lowe goes back to the Dodgers for 3yrs/$45 mill.
Makes perfect sense. Lowe, at 36 yrs old, needs to get that one last big payday and the Mets need to land Perez (and probably Wolf) to solidify their rotation.
A big concern for Lowe was lack of run support in LA but if Manny comes back (which he will), then Lowe can be assured of improved run support.
If this happens, then the Dodger rotation shapes up as:
Lowe
Billingsley
Kuroda
Kershaw
McDonald
w/Schmidt as the wild card & Stults as the emergency guy and Vargas as the reclamation project.
I like the potential of that rotation a lot.
If these moves do happen like I think they will, then the Dodgers should again have one of the best pitching staffs in baseball.
Posted by: Die-Hard Dodger Fan | January 07, 2009 at 02:15 AM
As much as I would like to see Hoffman become a dodger, I think when all is said and done...he's gonna stay with the padres.
Posted by: williams411 | January 07, 2009 at 03:35 AM
Wow.. Blake, furcal, Vargas, Hoffmann!! Now we got a championship team! With a crappy loney( no power for 1b) a crappy matt kemp, and a crappy martin, and a better than average Eithier now were winners!! I can't wait!! Please sell the team mcCourts!!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 03:36 AM
KingMayan!
R U sure U R a Dodger Fan?
Crappy Kemp? Crappy Martin?
Not sure why you would call a 2-time All-Star and future All-Star "Crappy".
The Dodgers have some of the best collection of young talent in baseball:
C Martin
1B Loney
2B DeWitt
CF Kemo
RF Ethier
RHP Billingsley
LHP Kershaw
RHP McDonald
RHP Troncoso
LHP Elbert
RHP Wade
LHP Kuo
RHP Broxton
That's ALL homegrown talent. Many of them capable of playing in an All-Star game or 5 down the line.
Besides the Rays, Diamondbacks and Angels, I think you would be hard-pressed to find a group of young, major league-ready talent like that.
And the Rays had to lose badly for 10 yrs and collect high picks to get all that talent. The Dodgers have rarely picked in the Top 10 and when they did (Kershaw), they made it count.
Plus, the Dodgers have a payroll that is over $100 mill a yr now so obviously the Dodgers are trying to put a competitive team on the field.
So I guess all that equates to being "crappy", then we have to agree to disagree.
Dodgers have made mistakes but they have also made a LOT of progress since their Fox ownership years, which set the club back quite a bit.
Posted by: Die-Hard Dodger Fan | January 07, 2009 at 08:31 AM
It would be somewhat ironic if Hoffy ends his career with the Brewers, since it was the Brew Crew who sent his career spiraling into the abyss in his next-to-last appearance of 2007. It would be nice if Moorad turns into a white-knight for the Padres and allows them to sign Hoffman and end his career with SD.
Posted by: VAFriar | January 06, 2009 at 01:41 PM
I believe it was 4 homeruns straight against the dodgers in 06 that started his downfall.
Posted by: Ivdown | January 07, 2009 at 11:29 AM
I see hoffman either being a Padre or a Brewer. I just feel LA has way to many holes for them make complete use of him
Posted by: phoenix88 | January 07, 2009 at 11:30 AM
Wow.. Blake, furcal, Vargas, Hoffmann!! Now we got a championship team! With a crappy loney( no power for 1b) a crappy matt kemp, and a crappy martin, and a better than average Eithier now were winners!! I can't wait!! Please sell the team mcCourts!!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 03:36 AM
When you wear your helmet does it hurt year head?
Posted by: Ivdown | January 07, 2009 at 11:34 AM
The guy had outstanding splits last year. I'm sure a lot of his success in recent years was aided by Petco, but he's still a mid 3's reliever. Solid addition to whomever gets him.
Posted by: CubbyFan23 | January 07, 2009 at 11:47 AM
"Wow.. Blake, furcal, Vargas, Hoffmann!! Now we got a championship team! With a crappy loney( no power for 1b) a crappy matt kemp, and a crappy martin, and a better than average Eithier now were winners!! I can't wait!! Please sell the team mcCourts!!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 03:36 AM"
I am sure you traded them all away on the PS3, no?
"It would be somewhat ironic if Hoffy ends his career with the Brewers, since it was the Brew Crew who sent his career spiraling into the abyss in his next-to-last appearance of 2007. It would be nice if Moorad turns into a white-knight for the Padres and allows them to sign Hoffman and end his career with SD.
Posted by: VAFriar | January 06, 2009 at 01:41 PM
I believe it was 4 homeruns straight against the dodgers in 06 that started his downfall.
Posted by: Ivdown | January 07, 2009 at 11:29 AM"
Not too nitpick, didn't someone give up 2 home runs and then Hoffman came in for the next 2? Oh bring back Saito if hes healthy.
Posted by: 661dodgerblue | January 07, 2009 at 12:01 PM
"and could teach brox how to throw a change..."
Now THAT would be crazy. Broxton could stop using his slider as a change and give batters a third look. Imagine if one pitch is 99 and the next 84?
"Oh bring back Saito if hes healthy."
I tend to agree. That guy quite possibly has the absolute best stuff in baseball when healthy.
Posted by: AA | January 07, 2009 at 12:14 PM
"I tend to agree. That guy quite possibly has the absolute best stuff in baseball when healthy.
Posted by: AA | January 07, 2009 at 12:14 PM"
I also tend to agree, Sir.
His stuff was second too none and his control was out of this world. I just don't think hes healthy.
Posted by: 661dodgerblue | January 07, 2009 at 12:35 PM
I see hoffman either being a Padre or a Brewer. I just feel LA has way to many holes for them make complete use of him.
phoenix88
----------------
Too many holes?
LA is set at every defensive position except LF. They have a deep bullpen with only the need for a veteran (preferably closer) to guide the youngsters. The only holes I see are in the rotation, where the team only has Billingsley, Kuroda, and Kershaw, with Schmidt an unknown and unproven rookies Elbert and McDonald.
Add to that the committed payroll for '09 being only around $65-70 million depending on arbitration hearings, leaving the Dodgers with $30-40 million possibly to still spend and I see no logic in your argument. Hoffman will likely cost around $6-8 million per year, which is hardly breaking the bank for LA.
I see Hoffman in Dodger Blue next year.
Posted by: hunteralan | January 07, 2009 at 12:46 PM
If Trevor Hoffman lives in Anaheim then why didn't he just just sign with the Angels when he had the chance. And who has actually won a World Championship?
Hmmm...
Posted by: XxRyana.k.a.RufusxX | January 07, 2009 at 01:08 PM
Well another disappointing effort from Melvin. He needs to offer him a guarantee of 2 years. If he is offering the same as the Dodgers, he will be in LA.
Wake up Doug! We don't have a closer right now even though I like McClung. They really don't have a clue on any FA Starter either. Sign Hoffman and then get a starter!
After Hoffman, there really isn't anyone left.
Posted by: craig | January 07, 2009 at 03:57 PM
CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets really screwed the Brewers. Maybe you get Sheets back. To make the playoffs first time in a long time, then lose your 2 aces. Then only get a second round pick from the Yankees, I really hope you bounce back.
Posted by: Cyyoung | January 07, 2009 at 04:13 PM
"If Trevor Hoffman lives in Anaheim then why didn't he just just sign with the Angels when he had the chance. And who has actually won a World Championship?"
Maybe the Angels never offered him a deal..? Or maybe they wouldn't let him be closer, because a team that good shouldn't have a closer like Hoffman unless they're forced to.
Either way, now they have Fuentes, and that bullpen is quite good.
He'll probably end up in Los Angeles, with the Dodgers, although honestly I think Broxton is a better reliever than Hoffman at this point.
Posted by: scribbletone | January 07, 2009 at 04:16 PM
Why is there no love for Broxton? Is it because he's too young or is it because the homer he gave up to professional hitter Matt Stairs has yet to land? No offense to Hoffman, but I think Brox has a ton of potential.
Posted by: pdogg1079 | January 07, 2009 at 04:24 PM
Jon Heyman commenting on a non-Boras client? I thought Heyman was the sole supplier of Boras related propaganda and mystery team information only.
Posted by: go sox | January 07, 2009 at 04:32 PM
ivdown just go to the dodger games and spend all that money on food and beers! So McCheaps can give you a small market team in a big market city!! Martin, Loney, and Kemp have hit their peaks! Billingsley is NOT a #1 starter!! Loney sucks!! And martin got lucky to make the all star team( he won't make it this year for sure)!! If loney, martin' and kemp would learn how to hit like Eithier they would be better! I love the dodgers but fans ivdown that still support the mcCheaps kill it for everybody!! Don't support the dodgers for this year and I'll guaranty the dodgers will win for years to come!! We went to the Ncls last year and instead of making a run for the world championship the dodgers got worst!! You know why the mcCheaps feel that the Ncls was good enough and fans like ivdown will be happy and still come to he games!!!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 04:46 PM
KingMayan, "Don't support the dodgers for this year and I'll guaranty the dodgers will win for years to come!!"
That wouldnt make me a dodger fan! Unless SF adds a couple of big hitters to their lineup there isnt anyone competing with the dodgers right now...yet alone when we pick up a starter and a power bat (manny, dunn, and abreu) The team is young and Martin has every chance to go back to the all star game and he is just starting his prime!
Posted by: Lasorda for President | January 07, 2009 at 06:09 PM
"Billingsley is NOT a #1 starter!!"
This is my favorite line. What is the definition of a #1 I would ask. Is a 135 ERA+ the mark of a #1? I'd argue yes. Is more than a strikeout per inning over 200 innings the mark of a #1? I'd argue yes. How about the fact that he's doing all that while only 24? I'd say Bills is most definitely a #1, and to say otherwise just shows ignorance.
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 06:54 PM
We need 2 power bats not 1!! That's the problem with the dodgers they give too much chances then nobody wants the prospects when you try to trade them!! So does mean we are going to the division and the better teams will whoop us in the playoffs!! So it content on just winning the pennant!! Hahahahah-!!!! All this experimenting on young is great but after a while if they don't produce you need to trade them!! Were not small market!!! The McCheaps have brainwashed you!!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 06:56 PM
Do u see billingsley in the ncls!! I guess you the ignorant one!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 07:04 PM
If u trust billingsley in a must win game!! Then you must be ignorant!! U made a good point he's too young!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 07:12 PM
Or you can read scouting reports that the young kids we're playing are going to be All Stars and will also contend for MVP's and Cy Young's. It's not like we're giving crappy players a chance. Oh, and the benefit of having young studs is that the Dodgers get to enjoy the benefits of their successful seasons longer.
And KingMayan, were the Dodgers also cheap when they allowed Eric Karros, Mike Piazza, Raul Mondesi, Hideo Nomo and Todd Hollandsworth to play? That was also a case of the owners being "cheap" under your reasoning.
Granted I don't like McCourt, but I don't think he should be graded off this offseason. I'd grade him off allowing the Pierre signing to take place.
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 07:13 PM
KingMayan, just stop. You're basing your argument off one game. Are you 12, or just really dumb? Or both?
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 07:21 PM
Yes I'm 12 yes old!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 07:49 PM
King Mayan. Wow.
You are either high, drunk, eleven years old, or really, really uneducated. Or maybe you're a hammered, stoned, dumb 11 year old.
Billingsley's raw stuff is simply nasty, his career ERA+ is 132.
Last season he was a very good pitcher, and if he can bring down his walks a little, he'll be an ace, for sure. The guy posted a 135 ERA+, 201/80 K/BB in 201 innings, AND he gave up one less home run in 54 more innings compared to last season. This guy is a stud.
Martin is a plus defensive catcher that gets on base like crazy, has solid power and speed as well.
Kemp has the tools to be a monster, and last season he make a lot of indications that he's learning how to use his tools.
Loney is a very good hitter, and although his power and patience are slightly lacking for a first baseman, he's still only 25 and has time to improve.
I don't even know how you could think that about those players.
Posted by: scribbletone | January 07, 2009 at 07:52 PM
All I see is could be, has the tools, will be, everything we said last year!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 07:58 PM
I don't know how you say martin has power!! You must be blind!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 08:01 PM
DodgersBruin,
Take it easy on KingMayan! based on his eloquent use of the english language it is obvious that english is not his first language (at least I hope not cuz that would make this guy DUUUUUUUUUMMMMMMMB!)
He probably has his words mixed up because everyone in baseball knows that Bills is one of the best young pitchers in baseball. As long as his leg healed properly and he is at 100% on opening day, I say he finishes in the top 3 for the Cy Young. The guy is already great and will only get better with time! He's learned a lot in the past two years and it really shows. He got much better control than when he first came up and was in the bullpen and isn't as concerned with striking out each and every batter he faces (which he found out really quick was a good way to throw 100 pitches in 4-5 innings). I'm excited about his 2009 season! Go Bills!
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 08:03 PM
Ned colletti has really brainwashed you guys!! I'm scared now!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 08:06 PM
"Ned colletti has really brainwashed you guys!! I'm scared now!!"
Nice argument KingMayan,
It wasn't funny the first 300 times.
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 08:08 PM
I'm not saying bills is not a good pitcher but we need a veteran ace!! We have a chance to go to the world series and mcCheap isn't doing anything!! And cutme it is my first language!! One of three!! How many do you know?? I pretty sure your brain can't handle more than one!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 08:11 PM
Cutme,
I love Bills as much as the next guy, but remember, not only is Bills dealing with the leg injury, but he's dealing with the Verducci effect. I'm going to hope that he is in the Top 3 for the Cy, but can see him only throwing 150 innings next year.
More of a reason we should be in on Lowe or Sheets. Someone who will be dominant.
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 08:17 PM
I love how you say eloquent but you start calling people names!! Nice!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 08:19 PM
"We need 2 power bats not 1!! That's the problem with the dodgers they give too much chances then nobody wants the prospects when you try to trade them!! So does mean we are going to the division and the better teams will whoop us in the playoffs!! So it content on just winning the pennant!! Hahahahah-!!!! All this experimenting on young is great but after a while if they don't produce you need to trade them!! Were not small market!!! The McCheaps have brainwashed you!!!"
Does this paragraph indicate a full understanding of the english language? I don't think so but what do I know I'm only a PhD student at a upper echelon university.
That's not the point. Why would you get rid of Bills who is under team control for a long time (I think something like 4 more years) and making pocket change for a "veteran ace" who would require a huge portion of our current roster and a ton of money. Also, what veteran ace is available right now. Look at what it was going to take for the Cubs or Braves to get Peavy. The price would be too high and Bills may be just as good as anyone else out there this year. The point is that you are completely impatient and want instant gratification rather than waiting a year or two to reap the benefits.
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 08:19 PM
"I love Bills as much as the next guy, but remember, not only is Bills dealing with the leg injury, but he's dealing with the Verducci effect. I'm going to hope that he is in the Top 3 for the Cy, but can see him only throwing 150 innings next year.
More of a reason we should be in on Lowe or Sheets. Someone who will be dominant."
I just read about the Verducci effect yesterday, seems like a legitimate concern.
BTW, I couldn't agree more about Lowe or Sheets. Either would be the piece that the Dodgers need. I worry more about Sheets though, if they get him I would still like to see them get a back of the rotation guy, we all know Lowe is as durable as they come. I would welcome Lowe back with open arms, one of my favorite dodgers of the past few years.
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 08:23 PM
Damn I didn't know this was a term paper!! Damn I thought it was just a blog!! Forgive me Mrs. Phd!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 08:26 PM
Hey man you were the one questioning my intelligence. Don't ask questions if you don't want to hear the answer.
Nice comeback again! you know three languages, why not vary it up a bit?
Besides, what would you know about a term paper anyway, you probably haven't written one since you dropped out of the 7th grade!
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 08:39 PM
What's with all the disdainful comments? Get over it - it's a message board.
Guess we'll see how much Hoffman's SoCal preference comes into play.
Posted by: Chris W. | January 07, 2009 at 09:22 PM
"That's pretty lights out, probably one of the best 'bridges' (not an actual baseball term, but it fits nice huh) in baseball."
Remember the Bridge To Lidge? (Or lack thereof?) That's a good baseball term.
---
"One of three!! How many do you know?? I pretty sure your brain can't handle more than one!!"
I hate bad English. It's a good thing that all sentences end in two exclamation points or question marks, or this would be a great example. And it's a good thing you don't have to say "am" when describing yourself, too.
Posted by: NYYanksCaptain23 | January 07, 2009 at 09:26 PM
Dodgers should have went out and got Kerry Wood. The SoCal sun would have made his arm feel nice. Hoffman is washed up and folds like a lawn chair anytime he is put in a must win situation, which for the Dodgers would be quite often down the stretch since I see them taking the division again. There are much much better options out there at this stage of Hoffmans career.
Posted by: yanks09 | January 07, 2009 at 09:26 PM
Almost forgot... I like the move for the Dodgers, since Broxton could be used more frequently in more important situations, as relief aces should be used. Also, what's really wrong with Saito? I know he's old, but he must have had a hell of an injury that no one's come after him yet. He was a monster for a couple years.
Posted by: NYYanksCaptain23 | January 07, 2009 at 09:28 PM
Seems like us Brewer fans may miss out again. We need to offer him at least $6M per with an option for a second year or even offer him a 2 year deal worth $12 total.
Melvin is really making me mad this off season. Mark and Doug said if there were 3 million in tickets, the team would make moves. Not happening so far guys!
We need a CLOSER!!!!!!!!
Sign Hoffman or we are screwed!!!!!
Cordero and Lyon are not very good options. Lets go!!
Posted by: craig | January 07, 2009 at 09:33 PM
"All I see is could be, has the tools, will be, everything we said last year!"
Martin has a career OPS+ of 108 in 1508 at bats, including a .373 OBP. The guy is a plus defensive catcher.
Loney has a career OPS+ of 114 in 1041 at bats.
Kemp has a career OPS+ of 109 in 1052 at bats. He flashed very good speed (35/46 in steals), as well as his emerging power with 61 extra base hits.
All three of these players have proven themselves at least somewhat at the ML level, and given their talents and tools, I would expect them all to improve. Kemp and Martin have very legitimate superstar potential.
"I don't know how you say martin has power!! You must be blind!!"
Uhh. The guy hit 19 HR as a 24 year old catcher. Last season he showed a mysterious drop in power in the second half, but he still has above average power for a catcher.
Please. Please don't complain about those players.
As a fan of the Cubs, I would be giddy as hell if they had that kind of young core.
You should be tearing up thinking about Kemp, Bills, Kershaw, Loney, Martin, Ethier, McDonald, DeWitt, DeJesus, Broxton, Wade and Hu.
That is sick.
Kemp
Posted by: scribbletone | January 07, 2009 at 09:40 PM
craig,
Don't get me wrong, I would love to have Hoffman on the Dodgers, but I just have this strange feeling that he will end up with the Brewers. No real reason other than the fact that the Brewers have a greater need for a legit closer than the Dodgers. But as pointed out by Chris W. geography may play a huge role in this one (although CC didn't seem to mind passing up CA!). It makes sense though, I would rather play half of my games in So. Cal. rather than Milwaukee (no offense Brewer fans) plus he owns a home in Anaheim. We'll see, I surprised that the Dodgers were so actively pursuing him.
Also, NYYanksCaptain,
Hilarious comment above, actually made me laugh out loud. Also, you may be right about Saito. I was watching the game the night he was injured and Vin Scully was commenting that based on Saito's mannerisms he may have torn the ligament in the elbow that requires "Tommy John" surgery to correct. Sure enough it was such an injury but a more mild case that the trainers thought could possibly be corrected with rehab instead of surgery. Well we all saw how bad he did in the playoffs, maybe he does need Tommy John. I hate to see him go, he was one of the best closers in the NL for about two seasons there and the best move Colletti has ever made (in my opinion).
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 09:46 PM
Scribbletone,
I couldn't have said it better myself. I just didn't feel that this guy was worth looking up all the stats. Other fans wonder why Dodger fans are so excited about the players that you mentioned, and its quite obvious. Just the fact that the vast majority of our roster is homegrown and quite competitive should tell you something. Also, as you mentioned each player you listed is still quite young (especially Kershaw and Kemp) and should continue to improve.
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 09:51 PM
Craig: Depending on the strength of Chad Cordero's shoulder, he might not be a bad option for us Brewers fans. A lot depends on his throwing session today.
And honestly, I don't fault Melvin much for this offseason. Past Sabathia and Burnett, there really isn't much out there for front-line starters. A lot of guys you hope might be the next Kyle Lohse. So, I'm not sure what Brewers fans are expecting. It's an extremely weak FA class, and there's no way Milwaukee could slide into that $90-110M payroll range. I'm glad he's deciding not to overbid for players like Lowe.
Regardless, I think Stache is gonna drive hard for Hoffman. If he takes the Dodgers' offer, that's his decision.
I think if the Mets don't make an offer on Perez soon (which is possible, since Lowe seems to be their main target), he might be the guy Melvin goes after. Freddy Garcia is another decent option.
Posted by: FakeDiesel | January 07, 2009 at 09:58 PM
Has there been any thought by the Brewers to forget this Hoffman or Chad Cordero nonsense and give a solid in-house option, like Carlos Villanueva, a shot at the closer's role?
Posted by: PaulyOH | January 07, 2009 at 10:16 PM
I think the Dodgers pursuit of Hoffman makes sense. If McCourt is really worried about the salary aspect of the team, he's going to do everything he can to lower his payroll. Well, it's been pointed out that when Broxton goes to arbitration, he'll get more money if he's guaranteed to be the closer. The Dodgers need to sign another reliever. If they're going to pay about the same amount for a reliever, why not make him the closer. This could lower Broxton's value in arbitration. So they make an attempt at Hoffman. If he signs with the Brewers, they sign another reliever. But at least it's worth a shot at keeping salary lower.
Just my thoughts.
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 10:22 PM
Cutme stop with ur nonsense!! You must think your smarter than everbody!! Your just a little whinner!! Were both dodger fans. Just u drink collettis kool-aid and I don't!! And you wouldn't understand Portuguese or Spanish!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 10:27 PM
Has there been any thought by the Brewers to forget this Hoffman or Chad Cordero nonsense and give a solid in-house option, like Carlos Villanueva, a shot at the closer's role?
Posted by: PaulyOH | January 07, 2009 at 10:16 PM
I think the Brewers feel Villanueva's best role is as a 6th/7th inning guy, and spot-starter. I tend to agree.
If any in-house option gets the nod, it's Seth McClung, although I think Tim Dillard would make an awesome closer someday.
Posted by: FakeDiesel | January 07, 2009 at 10:34 PM
Cutme stats are one thing and heart is another. The young dodgers that seem to have a strong mind and heart is kuo, mcdonald, and eithier! Maybe martin and kershaw!! But not loney,kemp, and broxton! These guys are just other laroches!!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 10:36 PM
KingMayan,
I don't understand Portuguese or Spanish and I'm done arguing about this with you. I am posting my thoughts on the Dodgers attempting to acquire Hoffman. Which is what this blog is for. That's the point of this blog, the argument over someone's intelligence (or lack thereof).
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 10:40 PM
Seth McClung? Really? Wow, that guy is terrible. I guess they really need Hoffman then.
Posted by: PaulyOH | January 07, 2009 at 10:40 PM
KingMayan,
When you start to argue against legit and appropriate statistics you just start to look ignorant. Stats are an important aspect of baseball. How do you measure "heart"? It is totally subjective, your opinion may differ totally from mine (which it does because all of these guys have drive and determination). I'm just saying that anyone who argues against appropriate statistics is fighting an uphill battle.
If you want to argue the appropriateness or validity of the statistics that other people have posted (because I haven't even posted any stats) then that makes sense, but that is not what you are doing.
Posted by: cutmeibleedblue | January 07, 2009 at 10:44 PM
I accept your apology!! And I think they should get hoffman! I'm sorry too cutme!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 10:45 PM
"Cutme stats are one thing and heart is another. The young dodgers that seem to have a strong mind and heart is kuo, mcdonald, and eithier! Maybe martin and kershaw!! But not loney,kemp, and broxton! These guys are just other laroches!!"
Uhh what?
Please, please prove this to me. Do it. Now. Do it. Prove this.
Posted by: scribbletone | January 07, 2009 at 10:52 PM
$4MM offer they it would've been hard to exercise Brian Giles' $9MM option.-TYPO!
Posted by: Nick | January 07, 2009 at 11:08 PM
Scribble,
While we've been talking about OPS+ and ERA+, we've missed out on the biggest stat of all: HRT+. This measures heart and is taken as a league wide metric. For example, while Kuo was battling an arm injury in September, he didn't have an ERA+, but his HRT+ was 176, or 76% higher than league average. Kemp was busy playing CF, so he didn't have time to worry about HRT+. He was an Andruw Jones 34 bad. It was pitiful. He just didn't have it in him. And Kershaw, at 20, has been proven to be a complete bust. His HRT+ this season was only 66 because he was sent down to the minors. All are busts and should be traded away for more players like Nomar and Pierre, who excel at HRT+, even when on the bench.
Posted by: DodgersBruin | January 07, 2009 at 11:12 PM
I guess u Dudes have never played baseball competitive. That's the difference of you Dudes just sitting in front of computer and getting stats day and night and people that are street smart and knows who plays with heart!! Just look at mcdonald he just came in the playoffs and showed us that he had heart!! But bills can't even throw a baseball at someone when ramirez is getting hit left and right. That's why we lost! And for andruw he just got fat because he stopped taking steroids! That was funny dodgerbruin! Geek!
Posted by: KingMayan! | January 07, 2009 at 11:27 PM
How do you explain Bills performance against the cubs in game 2 of that series?
Posted by: cheba63 | January 07, 2009 at 11:49 PM
Much as I would like to see Hoffman as a Dodger for a year or two, no chance I would make a deal with any player which guarantees he play a particular role with the team. In Hoffman's case it's being reported he is requiring he be guaranteed the closer roll.
On the Brewers that seems fine, with the Dodgers they are trying to develop Broxton more to eventually be the closer. He can't get there if Hoffman is guaranteed to be exclusively the closer.
I would think Torre would not be all that pleased with such a situation either. Of course isn't this Torre's final year of his contract? I forget the length of his deal...??? Reminds me of the scene in Major League when Dorn bring out his contract to show he was not required to do any calisthenics he did not feel were needed. Only to have the manage drop it on the ground and wizz all over it...maybe we are getting not quite the whole deal, well, I KNOW it's not the real deal yet only rumor really.
Posted by: grumpy3b | January 08, 2009 at 12:23 AM
These teams are purely bidding for Hoffman to force San Diego to pay him more.
Posted by: hitttman | January 08, 2009 at 12:27 AM
King Mayan-
I am high right now, and I am laughing out loud at your last post..
Just. Yeah.
Posted by: scribbletone | January 08, 2009 at 12:30 AM