Earlier this evening, Brian MacPherson of The Providence Journal wondered if Adrian Beltre will figure into Boston's plans this offseason. The third baseman, who will earn just $10MM for his outstanding play in 2010, is seeking a multi-year commitment in his next deal. Beltre has exceeded all expectations this year by turning in a .326/.369/.563 slash line with 27 homers and a strong defensive play (15.1 UZR/150) at third.
The Red Sox would obviously love to have Beltre back but he may very well command more money and years on the open market than they would be willing to yield. Tim Dierkes believes that the Scott Boras client may seek $50MM over four-years at the outset of this offseason. And, as Ben Nicholson-Smith pointed out, there are plenty of potential suitors who could up the bidding for his services. If Theo Epstein & Co. feel that Beltre is too rich for their blood, they could turn over the third baseman gig to either Jed Lowrie or Kevin Youkilis (if a new first baseman is found). Of course, there would still be a void to fill in the absence of the 31-year-old Beltre.
Will Boston re-sign Adrian Beltre?
Beltre took a very small deal from boston, and rebuilded his value. He may be 31, but if he can keep in shape, and keep his work ethic, he could be worth those 4 years.
Beltre took a very small deal from boston, and rebuilded his value. He may be 31, but if he can keep in shape, and keep his work ethic, he could be worth those 4 years.
Detroit loves Scott Boras, and Scott Boras loves Detroit
Pitcher’s park doesen’t love Scott Boras hitter, Scott Boras hitter doesen’t love pitcher’s park.
It’s probably his last big contract, doesn’t matter as long as it’s a ton of money. Brandon Inge sucks, Scott Boras clients put butts in the seats, and Mike Illitch doesn’t mind overpaying for premier (sometimes..sometimes not) players.
It’s probably his last big contract, doesn’t matter as long as it’s a ton of money. Brandon Inge sucks, Scott Boras clients put butts in the seats, and Mike Illitch doesn’t mind overpaying for premier (sometimes..sometimes not) players.
Pitcher’s park doesen’t love Scott Boras hitter, Scott Boras hitter doesen’t love pitcher’s park.
Yeah, you’d be a fool to think Beltre would go to another pitcher’s park. He’s going to be looking for a hitter’s park on a contending team, hmm… sounds like Boston. 3y/43m is what I would offer if I was Theo, paying 12.5, 14.5, 16m. That would be enticing to Beltre as well setting him up for another big contract payout being only 34-35 if all goes well.
Yeah, you’d be a fool to think Beltre would go to another pitcher’s park. He’s going to be looking for a hitter’s park on a contending team, hmm… sounds like Boston. 3y/43m is what I would offer if I was Theo, paying 12.5, 14.5, 16m. That would be enticing to Beltre as well setting him up for another big contract payout being only 34-35 if all goes well.
and Dombrowski hates free agents. Not a single position player has signed a multi year contract with the Tigers as a free agent since Ordonez before the 2005 season.
Detroit loves Scott Boras, and Scott Boras loves Detroit
It’d be great to see him come back to a healthy Red Sox team with a good pen and a shot at winning the East or Wild Card. I don’t know why, and please don’t crucify me for being optimistic, but I think both VMart and Beltre will be back next season.
I don’t think V-Mart will be back, from watching some sox games, specifcally Beckett and Lackey at least to my POV, they are not on the same page with V-Mart’s game plan behind the plate. Both of those guys body language is not good and they seem to be very frustrated, They are obviously both struggling regardless, but it makes you wonder if it would be better to let him go.
I think the Sox have been trying to focus more on pitching and defense, which leads me to expect VMart going elsewhere (especially since Papi is staying).
I think the Sox have been trying to focus more on pitching and defense, which leads me to expect VMart going elsewhere (especially since Papi is staying).
couldn’t agree more with you sadly. I love V-Marts bat, but the difference when Varitek is behind the plate and V-Mart is behind the plate as far as the pitcher’s confidence go are completely different. Not in V-Marts favor.
I hope you’re right. I think it’s a real possibility if Theo doesn’t play hardball with two of Boston’s most productive assests. I’d like to see Dice-K traded, despite alot of promise and some amazing games, he’s just too inconsistent. We’re stuck with Beckett and Lackey and can only hope they rebound. One more starter would be, obviously be great. The pen has to improve. Alot of work this off-season Theo, hope you’re up for it.
I hope you’re right. I think it’s a real possibility if Theo doesn’t play hardball with two of Boston’s most productive assests. I’d like to see Dice-K traded, despite alot of promise and some amazing games, he’s just too inconsistent. We’re stuck with Beckett and Lackey and can only hope they rebound. One more starter would be, obviously be great. The pen has to improve. Alot of work this off-season Theo, hope you’re up for it.
It’d be great to see him come back to a healthy Red Sox team with a good pen and a shot at winning the East or Wild Card. I don’t know why, and please don’t crucify me for being optimistic, but I think both VMart and Beltre will be back next season.
I just don’t see it. Next years draft has an enormous amount of talent and it will most likely be the last draft without a hard slot. For the Red Sox this means the most picks they have, the better. Beltre may or may not be worth the enormous contract he will sign but he certainly won’t be worth the enormous contract PLUS the two top of the organization talents they could receive.
They will still get picks from victor martinez likely unless the sign both. And is letting Beltre walk for 2 picks worth the risk of a team with a protected first round pick getting him?
In my opinion, yes.
At worst they will get a supplemental pick and a 2nd-3rd round. Best case is like what happened with Wagner (which is a team with the 16-20 pick signs him). I just think we’ve seen this before with Theo, countless times he has passed up the opportunity to buy high on someone when picks can be had. The strength of this years draft class just makes that decision all the easier to make.
You express some sound logic. Theo always try to stay ahead of the game abit and he’s been focusing more and more on the draft in recent years.
You express some sound logic. Theo always try to stay ahead of the game abit and he’s been focusing more and more on the draft in recent years.
In my opinion, yes.
At worst they will get a supplemental pick and a 2nd-3rd round. Best case is like what happened with Wagner (which is a team with the 16-20 pick signs him). I just think we’ve seen this before with Theo, countless times he has passed up the opportunity to buy high on someone when picks can be had. The strength of this years draft class just makes that decision all the easier to make.
They will still get picks from victor martinez likely unless the sign both. And is letting Beltre walk for 2 picks worth the risk of a team with a protected first round pick getting him?
I just don’t see it. Next years draft has an enormous amount of talent and it will most likely be the last draft without a hard slot. For the Red Sox this means the most picks they have, the better. Beltre may or may not be worth the enormous contract he will sign but he certainly won’t be worth the enormous contract PLUS the two top of the organization talents they could receive.
Let Beltre walk for the draft pics. Move Youkilis to third for 2 years. Trade for (then sign for 5-6 years) Fielder to play first. Sign Papi to DH for two years. When Papi is gone, move Fielder to DH and Youkilis to 1st. By then, hopefully, an internal 3rd baseman will develop. (Lowrie, Middlebrooks?)
Let VMart walk for the draft pics. Sign Werth and Varitek and work on the bullpen.
Ellsbury (L)
Pedroia (R)
Ortiz (L)
Youkilis (R)
Fielder (L)
Werth (R)
Drew (L)
Scutero (R)
Saltalamacchia (S)
If I really wanted to dream, I’d rather the Sox get Crawford instead of Werth, and wish that they’d try to somehow trade for Matt Kemp or Colby Rasmus, while dealing Ellsbury. But I would be happy with Werth and Fielder and bullpen help.
Your lineup and spelling blows!
Actually that line up is pretty damn good and the only words I misspelled are “picks” and “Scutaro”. What’s your excuse for spelling “home” wrong in your Twitter feed? Doesn’t look too “prodigal” to me.
Actually that line up is pretty damn good and the only words I misspelled are “picks” and “Scutaro”. What’s your excuse for spelling “home” wrong in your Twitter feed? Doesn’t look too “prodigal” to me.
Im just curious what would your package to get Kemp look like?
It would probably be too much. Just daydreaming because I had read that he may have been a little disgruntled there at one point. Not sure of the Dodgers’ needs but sure it would take at least 2-3 of our top prospects+. Loney hasn’t shown much pop, so Rizzo may interest them. If they want pitching, Casey Kelly is our top prospect. He got roughed up a bit this year, but he’s young for the league. I expect him to look a little better next year.
I’m sure the cost in prospects would be prohibitive, but if there was a chance to buy low on him, I would hope they would at least look into it. Same thing with Rasmus, but sure his price would be higher.
Are you an LAD fan? What would you expect in return?
I don’t think the price for Kemp would be as high as you think. I would think at most it’s one top prospect. He is signed for a very cheap number next year, but he also has one year of arbitration left going into 2012 where, assuming he plays like he is capable of, he is due a very large raise before hitting free agency. Given the fact that you are really only getting one year of true undermarket salary, followed by at most a 20% discount, I think 2 or certainly 3 top prospects is too much for the Dodgers to reasonably expect.
Yes I’m a Dodger fan. I don’t really know what Kemp’s value is at this point thats why I was curious as to what you saw it as.
I’d have to say his value is still very high. But with him having a down year and him publicly showing some displeasures with the Dodgers, now could be the only time to get him at somewhat of a discount. Think it would still take a decent prospect or two, including someone major league ready. I’d be interested in what could get Kemp and Broxton and hope a change of scenery would be good for both.
Yes I’m a Dodger fan. I don’t really know what Kemp’s value is at this point thats why I was curious as to what you saw it as.
It would probably be too much. Just daydreaming because I had read that he may have been a little disgruntled there at one point. Not sure of the Dodgers’ needs but sure it would take at least 2-3 of our top prospects+. Loney hasn’t shown much pop, so Rizzo may interest them. If they want pitching, Casey Kelly is our top prospect. He got roughed up a bit this year, but he’s young for the league. I expect him to look a little better next year.
I’m sure the cost in prospects would be prohibitive, but if there was a chance to buy low on him, I would hope they would at least look into it. Same thing with Rasmus, but sure his price would be higher.
Are you an LAD fan? What would you expect in return?
Werth would tear it up in fenway, I would fear him more than crawford as a yanks fan
And I’d fear Crawford in NY. I don’t like facing him.
And I’d fear Crawford in NY. I don’t like facing him.
I think you have to include ryan kalish in the OF discussion..
Certainly, I see him replacing Drew after next year, but I think he may spend another 1/2 season in Pawtucket for seasoning purposes.
Let Beltre walk for the draft pics. Move Youkilis to third for 2 years. Trade for (then sign for 5-6 years) Fielder to play first. Sign Papi to DH for two years. When Papi is gone, move Fielder to DH and Youkilis to 1st. By then, hopefully, an internal 3rd baseman will develop. (Lowrie, Middlebrooks?)
Let VMart walk for the draft pics. Sign Werth and Varitek and work on the bullpen.
Ellsbury (L)
Pedroia (R)
Ortiz (L)
Youkilis (R)
Fielder (L)
Werth (R)
Drew (L)
Scutero (R)
Saltalamacchia (S)
If I really wanted to dream, I’d rather the Sox get Crawford instead of Werth, and wish that they’d try to somehow trade for Matt Kemp or Colby Rasmus, while dealing Ellsbury. But I would be happy with Werth and Fielder and bullpen help.
I think the Red Sox are starting to reach a point where they should invest in more solid, predictable offensive players and stay away from the gambling tent. Beltre, as nice as he has been this year, is playing completely out of his normal level.
If they were to invest 50 mil over 4 years and he lives up to his career avgs, it will be a huge disappointment…
You mean stop making moves like signing Beltre to a 1-year deal?
I think there is a big difference between a low-risk move (which that deal was) and locking up a player who has not shown consistency offensively for 4 years…
Taking a flier on Beltre to play third this year was a no lose situation. It was a one year deal, low money, and if it did not work out they are not tied down for multiple years..
What exactly was your point?
I think there is a big difference between a low-risk move (which that deal was) and locking up a player who has not shown consistency offensively for 4 years…
Taking a flier on Beltre to play third this year was a no lose situation. It was a one year deal, low money, and if it did not work out they are not tied down for multiple years..
What exactly was your point?
You mean stop making moves like signing Beltre to a 1-year deal?
Will that be worse than having Lowrie be our starting third baseman? Because he’s pretty much the next option. Or maybe Miguel Tejada…man, these names sound SO much better than an overpaid Beltre…oh wait…
Or we can sign/trade for a quality 1B and move Youk to 3B…Or did you forget about that?
Oh, no I didn’t actually. I just think that that is not really a viable option. Our farm system only has a few trade chips that would interest teams like the Brewers, and those guys (Kelly) have so far been untradeable. The only guy Epstein would trade for would be A-Gon, and at this point in his contract Theo would require basically a guaranteed contract extension before making the deal. And again, he won’t give up his prime talent.
Oh, and the simpler reason: I think its time for Youkilis to stop shifting around and play 1B. His defense is diminishing at third as he plays it less often, and as he’s getting older. Beltre will be guaranteed to have stronger defense at 3B, and will still have solid numbers for that position.
I think the facade that Kelly is untradable will disappear this off-season. With 4 spots of the rotation locked up and potential free agents in the coming years, trading a pitcher such as Kelly for an everyday 1B (not sure who, Gonzalez doesn’t seem likely) would be the smart business decision. Also – Kelly really is not as good as everyone is making him out to be…
I don’t think signing Beltre for 4 years is warranted, especially considering that Youk can play third. Granted he isn’t as solid at 3B – he still isn’t a slouch. If the possibility of acquiring a 1B presents itself, the Red Sox should look to that route.
I just have bad feelings about locking up another 10+ mil player who doesn’t really serve as a middle of the order bat. The Sox desperately need that middle of the order bat and addressing it should be priority #1.
Ok, so I agree that Kelly may become available. I also am not sure who would play 1B, if its not AGon, which is one reason I don’t think a move’ll happen. The next big guy who’d be on the market would be Prince Fielder, but Boston cannot be excited about his possible health issues and weak defense. That’s the kind of player that loses his skills early in his career.
Sure he’s not a slouch, but I think there’s also the risk than in a couple of years Youk may need to move back to 1B or DH, and that could be a problem down the road if we get a new 1B.
And lastly; do the Red Sox -really- need a middle of the order bat? Before the AAA team really took over, we had the best (or very close to) offense in the majors. It’s a very balanced lineup, and they proved in the first half that you -can- score a lot of runs with out a big bopper in the middle. Without injuries, our 3-4-6 hitters (Youk Papi Beltre) would all have 30+ home runs. Sure there’s no 45 homer guy, but that’s a lot of middle-of-the-lineup power. I think the Sox will have one of the best lineups even without adding a big bat. When healthy, I think our infield is one of the strongest offensively.
Maybe it’s me, but I’m not exactly excited about the idea of Ortiz and Beltre being my 4 and 5 hitters. Ortiz can’t hit LHP and is 37 next year (don’t look at his birth certificate, it’s a lie) and Beltre will not give us this years line next year.
Yes Ortiz is 37, Miguel Cabrera is 34, Jesus Montero is 30, and Chapman is 29. Watch out for those foreign old guys!!!
Maybe it’s me, but I’m not exactly excited about the idea of Ortiz and Beltre being my 4 and 5 hitters. Ortiz can’t hit LHP and is 37 next year (don’t look at his birth certificate, it’s a lie) and Beltre will not give us this years line next year.
Will that be worse than having Lowrie be our starting third baseman? Because he’s pretty much the next option. Or maybe Miguel Tejada…man, these names sound SO much better than an overpaid Beltre…oh wait…
Beltre is NOT playing out of his normal level. His stats in Seattle only indicate that. I won’t say the real Beltre is the one from 2004 either. If you take a look at the splits from 2007, 2008, and this year, I think it’s pretty obvious.
HOME 07: .264/.319/.426 with 25 XBH
AWAY 07: .288/.320/.538 with 44 XBH
HOME 08: .240/.303/.400 with 24 XBH
AWAY 08: .292/.349/.512 with 31 XBH
HOME 10: .322/.365/.529 with 28 XBH
AWAY 10: .330/.373/.596 with 42 XBH
Career at Safeco field: .252/.305/.406
Career at Fenway Park: .297/.352/.476
He’s not going back to a pitchers park. I can say that much. I would venture to guess that his home XBH’s are low this year because of the Green monster.
I think the Red Sox are starting to reach a point where they should invest in more solid, predictable offensive players and stay away from the gambling tent. Beltre, as nice as he has been this year, is playing completely out of his normal level.
If they were to invest 50 mil over 4 years and he lives up to his career avgs, it will be a huge disappointment…
I would take Beltre over Werth that was posted above and even with Beltre as a Boras client and Werth without and agent for the time being, Werth is going to cost more in the off season. Not to mention 3B is much more of a priority need next season over the OF and that glove of his alone is nearly priceless. Toss aside (no pun intended) the errors he makes.. His range and foot work at 3B alone and keeping Youk at 1B and get him to put up 2/3 of what he did this year IMO would be worth 4/50M.
Tim, I can’t see Boras this off season getting “just” 50M either that have seen mentioned also, or if he has to “settle” for that it’s going to be very late in the off season before he signs. Boston would also probably be where his ends up then if Oakland was already willing to give him 3/36M last year and he was coming off an injury and mediocre for the couple previous seasons.
I would take Beltre over Werth that was posted above and even with Beltre as a Boras client and Werth without and agent for the time being, Werth is going to cost more in the off season. Not to mention 3B is much more of a priority need next season over the OF and that glove of his alone is nearly priceless. Toss aside (no pun intended) the errors he makes.. His range and foot work at 3B alone and keeping Youk at 1B and get him to put up 2/3 of what he did this year IMO would be worth 4/50M.
Tim, I can’t see Boras this off season getting “just” 50M either that have seen mentioned also, or if he has to “settle” for that it’s going to be very late in the off season before he signs. Boston would also probably be where his ends up then if Oakland was already willing to give him 3/36M last year and he was coming off an injury and mediocre for the couple previous seasons.
I could very well be wrong, but I think Beltre WANTS to return to Boston next year. He loves the fans, the clubhouse and the hitting-friendly Fenway. Boras may be a dollar-whore, but Beltre’s already made $87MM in his career and Beltre makes the decision; not his agent. I believe Adrian would accept a 3 year, $40-45MM deal with incentives and a 4th year option, just to stay here. I believe he’d be worth that kind of money if he just merely achieves his career average slash line and plays above-average defense. To quote the Geico commercial, a bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush. Beltre is a PREMIERE level player. What percentage of 1st round draft picks become premiere players? Maybe 5%. The odds are only 1 in 10 that we will eventually get a premiere impact player out of 1 of the 2 draft picks we’d receive as compensation in letting him go. I would advocate aggressively trying to re-sign both Beltre and V-Mart for 3-4 seasons, each.
With you pretty much on Beltre, he just puts everything into both sides of the game, regardless of the situation. Martinez may be pretty good on the offensive side for a catcher, but not for what he will be looking for and think Epstein is playing it right with him by letting him test the market. He is just not going to be worth nearly as much to the team as a “catcher” for more than 2 , 3 at the most years. Let him walk if more than 12M per over 3 seasons.
Long John, I just don’t get the logic of that argument about him being worth more as a catcher. I know you didn’t originate it, because I’ve heard it thrown around ad nauseum everywhere. I did a little contract research on Cots to see what top-end catchers are earning. Here’s what I found:
McCann (ATL) Avg./Yr. in contract $5.2MM; Highest – Option Yr. $12MM
Pierzynsky (CHW) Avg./Yr. $6.1MM; Highest $6.25MM
Suzuki (OAK) Avg./Yr. $4.0MM; Highest $8.5MM
Soto (CHC) Avg./Yr. $4.7MM**/Highest $8.0MM**
Molina (STL) Avg./Yr. $3.9MM/Highest $7.0MM
My point is that basically, we can make V-Mart the highest paid catcher in baseball at a mere $8-9MM per season for 3-4 years and secure our catching future. But at $8-9MM per year, he is also right in line with the going rate for quality 1B/DH guys. We’re paying Youk $10MM per season and Papi $12.5MM right now. So even if Victor can’t catch after 2 more seasons, as long as he can turn in that .300+/- average, with 20 or so homers and 80 or so RBI, he’s still worth the $8-9MM/Yr. we offered him as a 1B/DH player in years 3 and 4 of the deal.
** Proposed contract extension extrapolated here
NOTE: I excluded Mauer, because he’s in a league of his own
Long John, I just don’t get the logic of that argument about him being worth more as a catcher. I know you didn’t originate it, because I’ve heard it thrown around ad nauseum everywhere. I did a little contract research on Cots to see what top-end catchers are earning. Here’s what I found:
McCann (ATL) Avg./Yr. in contract $5.2MM; Highest – Option Yr. $12MM
Pierzynsky (CHW) Avg./Yr. $6.1MM; Highest $6.25MM
Suzuki (OAK) Avg./Yr. $4.0MM; Highest $8.5MM
Soto (CHC) Avg./Yr. $4.7MM**/Highest $8.0MM**
Molina (STL) Avg./Yr. $3.9MM/Highest $7.0MM
My point is that basically, we can make V-Mart the highest paid catcher in baseball at a mere $8-9MM per season for 3-4 years and secure our catching future. But at $8-9MM per year, he is also right in line with the going rate for quality 1B/DH guys. We’re paying Youk $10MM per season and Papi $12.5MM right now. So even if Victor can’t catch after 2 more seasons, as long as he can turn in that .300+/- average, with 20 or so homers and 80 or so RBI, he’s still worth the $8-9MM/Yr. we offered him as a 1B/DH player in years 3 and 4 of the deal.
** Proposed contract extension extrapolated here
NOTE: I excluded Mauer, because he’s in a league of his own
Right, it has been here for months here and pretty much everywhere with regards to VMart and even with his SB% getting some better, still don’t think his overall game will hold in 1-2 years at what it is know, but that is just my own pure speculation also, plus counting on one of the Boston catchers to come up, or another to be found in the mean time.
Do you think that Martinez would be willing even to settle for just 8-9M average over a 4 year deal also is something else, I don’t see that happening either and Youk plays GG caliber defense at 1B gives that back at 1B and out produces Vmart in just about every offensive category every season.
It just all does not add up to one of Epstein’s desperate contracts like the Drew deal did when he was replacing Nixon. Now would I complain? No, but just don’t see it happening.
If a choice here on Epstein looking to sign one of the pair (Beltre/Martinez) and get picks on the other, I would prefer Beltre, reason is they don’t have a replacement near MLB ready in the system even close at 3B yet (other than Lowrie/Youk) and think Salty and ‘Tek could probably handle it for a season, with maybe some help by the end of the season from Exposito if a problem came up.
Right, it has been here for months here and pretty much everywhere with regards to VMart and even with his SB% getting some better, still don’t think his overall game will hold in 1-2 years at what it is know, but that is just my own pure speculation also, plus counting on one of the Boston catchers to come up, or another to be found in the mean time.
Do you think that Martinez would be willing even to settle for just 8-9M average over a 4 year deal also is something else, I don’t see that happening either and Youk plays GG caliber defense at 1B gives that back at 1B and out produces Vmart in just about every offensive category every season.
It just all does not add up to one of Epstein’s desperate contracts like the Drew deal did when he was replacing Nixon. Now would I complain? No, but just don’t see it happening.
If a choice here on Epstein looking to sign one of the pair (Beltre/Martinez) and get picks on the other, I would prefer Beltre, reason is they don’t have a replacement near MLB ready in the system even close at 3B yet (other than Lowrie/Youk) and think Salty and ‘Tek could probably handle it for a season, with maybe some help by the end of the season from Exposito if a problem came up.
Not a good comparison. All of those guys except for Pierzynski who is an inferior catcher signed those deals to cover their arbitration years, they weren’t going to be free agents at anytime during those contracts.
With you pretty much on Beltre, he just puts everything into both sides of the game, regardless of the situation. Martinez may be pretty good on the offensive side for a catcher, but not for what he will be looking for and think Epstein is playing it right with him by letting him test the market. He is just not going to be worth nearly as much to the team as a “catcher” for more than 2 , 3 at the most years. Let him walk if more than 12M per over 3 seasons.
I could very well be wrong, but I think Beltre WANTS to return to Boston next year. He loves the fans, the clubhouse and the hitting-friendly Fenway. Boras may be a dollar-whore, but Beltre’s already made $87MM in his career and Beltre makes the decision; not his agent. I believe Adrian would accept a 3 year, $40-45MM deal with incentives and a 4th year option, just to stay here. I believe he’d be worth that kind of money if he just merely achieves his career average slash line and plays above-average defense. To quote the Geico commercial, a bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush. Beltre is a PREMIERE level player. What percentage of 1st round draft picks become premiere players? Maybe 5%. The odds are only 1 in 10 that we will eventually get a premiere impact player out of 1 of the 2 draft picks we’d receive as compensation in letting him go. I would advocate aggressively trying to re-sign both Beltre and V-Mart for 3-4 seasons, each.
the sox have to have a clause in his contract where he voluntarily allows someone to hurt his ankle (or was it his knee) the way it was in 2004 when he had that mammoth year at dodger stadium no less. His opposite field power that year was out of control (not that that would be helpful in fenway). I’d swear the 2 have something to do with each other.
but maybe he was juicing to try to play through it or recover more quickly since it was his contract year…
the sox have to have a clause in his contract where he voluntarily allows someone to hurt his ankle (or was it his knee) the way it was in 2004 when he had that mammoth year at dodger stadium no less. His opposite field power that year was out of control (not that that would be helpful in fenway). I’d swear the 2 have something to do with each other.
but maybe he was juicing to try to play through it or recover more quickly since it was his contract year…
I really would like to see Beltre in Boston for the next four years. He seems healthy (although of course that can change in the blink of an eye…there’s always risk though), sure he’s cooling off a bit, but he still looks much more comfortable hitting in Fenway then he did in Safeco. As Gordon Edes mentioned on ESPN, he hit two deep fly balls tonight that ended up being outs; two big reasons why he’s much happier to be playing in Fenway right now. I don’t expect him to keep up this great production, but I -do- hope for higher numbers than his career averages would predict, because of being able to consistently play in a friendly ballpark. Plus, he’s simply the best available third base option right now. I wouldn’t mind overpaying him a bit to keep that position solid, honestly. I have a feeling that in four to five years, unless some kid grows up to take it up, that third base will become our next rotating position. There’s just nothing to look forward to at that slot, in Boston’s farm system at least. Without Beltre that rotating could begin in 2011, and nobody wants that.
I would like to see our infield stay intact, Youk/Pedey/Scutaro/Beltre. Not sure yet whether I prefer taking the risk on V-Mart or taking the risk on Saltalamacchia, but I think those are the two major options right now. Drew and Ellsbury are staying in the outfield next year, which leaves a place for either a big free agent (unlikely), Mike Cameron (…ew…), or maybe a young guy (Kalish?). That’ll be interesting to watch unfold.
Pitching stays the same, except for a couple minor changes in the bullpen. I think Epstein likes to create his bullpen from the farm, plus low-risk/high-reward free agents, and I think he’ll stick with that this year. I’d be surprised if he signed Scott Downs (unless maybe it was to keep him away from someone like New York?)
Excellent points you bring up right there. Do you think Kalish could be able to start a full season?
Oh and, Scott Downs will not be going to NY. The Yanks have an excellent resigning to do with Kerry Wood and his .42 ERA thus far w/ NY. Joba might be fighting for spot next year(ugh..)and the way Wood has pitched, Cashman would be a fool not to resign him for a one year deal.
This.
The Yanks love building their bullpen from the inside.
And I do hope we resign Wood! But I find it unlikely, he can get a better role and closer money on another team. Although, he might be a bit like Berkman who’s driven by success… who knows.
As for Downs, I’d LIKE to have him, but not at the expense of a draft pick, relievers are too volatile (excluding a guy named Mo, I’ve heard he’s OK. haha) to give away picks, particularly to division rivals.
Downs is 36 years old next year. He’s also a Type A. I wouldn’t sign him, and neither should Theo unless he wants to overhaul his bullpen. Wood is younger, and I suggest at least 6-7$MM with incentives and maybe an option. Berkman has stated he was there with NY for strictly 2010, no longer. He said he wants to go back with Houston.
I dunno. I had higher hopes after his strong minor league season plus a good strong start in the majors, but he’s tapered off a bit offensively of late. It would depend on a strong spring training, I would think. He’s got the skills in the outfield, and has great baserunning instincts, and an overall strong feel for the game, he just needs to polish up his bat.
I only mentioned him because out of the three young guys of Kalish, Nava, and Reddick, that Kalish is the most well-rounded player of the trio. Nava can hit, and I think his bat would continue to improve next year, but he looks foolish in the outfield, and plus with some seasoning I think Kalish’s bat could improve to a similar level. And Reddick is looking more and more like a AAAA player, who can mash at AAA but can’t function in the bigs. If Boston sticks with a player within the system for their third outfielder, then I hope its Kalish (maybe Cameron with a strong spring…eh). If not, then maybe they go out and get a guy.
I think the Sox will make a serious run at Downs. The bullpen this year was just pathetic and Downs is about a close to reliable as you can find on the market.
I think otherwise. The bullpen was pathetic, yes, but they already unloaded a couple guys around the deadline, and brought up some guys from the farm who have been effective. I can foresee Bowden and Doubront staying in the bullpen, as well as Bard, Papelbon, and maybe Atchison. Plus, Okie has been a little better since coming back from the DL. He’ll make some small moves, but he’s not going to risk the years/millions on Downs. Sure he’s been reliable, but he’s also what, 36? And reliability runs out eventually, unless your name is Mariano Rivera.
Agreed. The bullpen would be a good group with Bard, Papelbon, Atchison. I have my doubts on Bowden though, he hasn’t had any control, and has been all over the place. Okajima would probably get non-tendered. Doubront might stay.
The one question about Doubront I think is whether Boston wants him to return to starting or not. If not, I strongly believe he’ll be an important part of the ‘pen tomorrow. You’re probably right about Bowden, I wouldn’t really know; I’m in Iowa for college and haven’t been able to watch them play for a while. I’m just curious; what do you think about this kid Richardson? I know he’s had control issues as well, but it seems to me that he’s got some good live stuff as well. Might he be useful next year?
I’ve been pleased with our bullpen production since the trade deadline. I’m honestly not as worried about the 2011 bullpen anymore as I was in the first half. There are so many other things going on in the roster that the bullpen issues look pretty minor now. 🙂
Dustin Richardson, of course besides the control problems, could be a good middle reliever, maybe a long man because of his size in the future, like Brian Tallet, though hopefully with better control. Has a good mix of pitches and will go offspeed, though that is a working progress, and gets the ball high in the zone and gets puonded. He can stop that by just throwing th ball with control more down in the zone, he can get alot of hitters out with his deceptive delivery, and sink on his fastballs. Working progress, but might be good someday.
As for Doubront he has been the better of the callups, though he needs to work on some mechanics and control. He can start in the future.
Agreed. The bullpen would be a good group with Bard, Papelbon, Atchison. I have my doubts on Bowden though, he hasn’t had any control, and has been all over the place. Okajima would probably get non-tendered. Doubront might stay.
Downs is 36 though, and as much as I know Theo Epstein, he’d absolutely hate to give up a draft choice to any team, much more a division rival.
Downs is 36 though, and as much as I know Theo Epstein, he’d absolutely hate to give up a draft choice to any team, much more a division rival.
Next year the OF will be Ellsbury, Drew, and Cameron barring a FA signing. No question in my mind. Cameron was hurt all this year and didn’t have a chance to prove anything. Kalish will take over for Drew in 2012.
Ok, I’ll buy that.
Its possible Kalish gets some playing time next year as well, though, especially if Cameron does show some minor decline due to age. He seems to be getting close to being ready at the major-league level, and if they can get him some extended starting time, they’ll put him in. It would be kind of a drag to have him play a couple months in Boston in 2010, and go back to Pawtucket all year next year (because sitting on the bench would be detrimental to his growth) before popping back up to Boston in 2012. It’s a bit of a confusing situation, I’ll admit…
Yeah I love Kalish but I think another year of seasoning is needed for him. But I think he is the first long term answer for the Sox if need arises.
Ok, I’ll buy that.
Its possible Kalish gets some playing time next year as well, though, especially if Cameron does show some minor decline due to age. He seems to be getting close to being ready at the major-league level, and if they can get him some extended starting time, they’ll put him in. It would be kind of a drag to have him play a couple months in Boston in 2010, and go back to Pawtucket all year next year (because sitting on the bench would be detrimental to his growth) before popping back up to Boston in 2012. It’s a bit of a confusing situation, I’ll admit…
Next year the OF will be Ellsbury, Drew, and Cameron barring a FA signing. No question in my mind. Cameron was hurt all this year and didn’t have a chance to prove anything. Kalish will take over for Drew in 2012.
I really would like to see Beltre in Boston for the next four years. He seems healthy (although of course that can change in the blink of an eye…there’s always risk though), sure he’s cooling off a bit, but he still looks much more comfortable hitting in Fenway then he did in Safeco. As Gordon Edes mentioned on ESPN, he hit two deep fly balls tonight that ended up being outs; two big reasons why he’s much happier to be playing in Fenway right now. I don’t expect him to keep up this great production, but I -do- hope for higher numbers than his career averages would predict, because of being able to consistently play in a friendly ballpark. Plus, he’s simply the best available third base option right now. I wouldn’t mind overpaying him a bit to keep that position solid, honestly. I have a feeling that in four to five years, unless some kid grows up to take it up, that third base will become our next rotating position. There’s just nothing to look forward to at that slot, in Boston’s farm system at least. Without Beltre that rotating could begin in 2011, and nobody wants that.
I would like to see our infield stay intact, Youk/Pedey/Scutaro/Beltre. Not sure yet whether I prefer taking the risk on V-Mart or taking the risk on Saltalamacchia, but I think those are the two major options right now. Drew and Ellsbury are staying in the outfield next year, which leaves a place for either a big free agent (unlikely), Mike Cameron (…ew…), or maybe a young guy (Kalish?). That’ll be interesting to watch unfold.
Pitching stays the same, except for a couple minor changes in the bullpen. I think Epstein likes to create his bullpen from the farm, plus low-risk/high-reward free agents, and I think he’ll stick with that this year. I’d be surprised if he signed Scott Downs (unless maybe it was to keep him away from someone like New York?)
It really isn’t neccessary to go out and empty the farm getting someone like Prince Fielder… The Sox are perfectly capable of filling those spots themselves.
1.) Injured players last year(Pedroia, Youkilis)come back healthy with full force. Scutaro will also still be there in the last year of his contract while Iglesias gets much needed seasoning.
2.) Beltre needs to be resigned. The Sox don’t have many 3d baseman in the minors, and Beltre could solidify that position for the next 3-4 years.
3.) Ellsbury is also coming back from an injury. Since Cameron isn’t coming back, Ellsbury would be playing CF again. I would advise whoever is playing RF to stay away from Beltre. Drew is coming back, and some posts here about Kalish starting. Might be a possibility. Or the Sox can trade for another outfielder.
4.) V-Mart might need to be resigned. If Theo doesent want a big deal, at least offer a 2 Year deal with an option for a 3d along with incentives. I’m pretty sure Salty can handle backup duty, or unless Theo wants Tek back.
I’m sure Fielder can be had for Kelly, Rizzo and another prospect. With Fielder and Youkilis, Rizzo wouldn’t have a spot anyways. Plus they’d still have Anderson as a 1st base prospect and they have Renaudo and Workman that are probably farther along than Kelly.
I can see Fielder as Papi’s replacement in two years. Youk can handle 3rd for a few years until then. The Sox system has top 15 prospects in Vitek (10), Navarro(11), Middlebrooks(12), Tejeda(13) coming up at 3rd base.
Fielder would probably demand a 6+ year contract which would make him 33-34 at the end of it. Assuming he takes care of himself a little better than his father, he should still be very productive after 6 years.
Cameron is signed for next year. Not sure Kalish is ready to be a full time OF in the ML. Maybe another 1/2 season in AAA. I see him taking over for Drew after next year. McDonald will be in the mix for 4th OFer, as will Nava and Reddick. So if they want to look into signing one of Werth/Crawford, they may need to make a trade to free up room. That’s kind of why I wish Ellsbury could have come back and proven himself. I can see the Sox needing some bigger bats to offset the likelihood of Iglesias and Saltalamacchia in the line-up in a year or two.
Doubt it, the Brewers main desire in a trade is MLB ready pitching, besides Buchholz, who’s a young, promising pitcher that’s at least at AAA in your system? I’m not too familiar.
Perhaps a package of: Kelly, Rizzo, Pimentel, Weiland/Someone Else?
If I were Theo I’d:
Trade for Fielder, stick him at 1B for the next 3 years, then to DH
Move Youk to 3B for those 3 years, then back to 1B
Re-sign V-Mart for 3 years, first two at C, then the 3rd year he’s the DH/backup C
Re-sign Papi for 2 years, and have him at DH the whole time.
So basically it’d be:
2011-2013
C- V-Mart
1B- Fielder
3B- Youk
DH- Papi
then 2014
1B- Fielder
3B- Youk
DH- V-Mart
C- not my problem
then 2015 onward
1B- Youk
DH- Fielder
3B- Not my problem
C- Not my problem
“Perhaps a package of: Kelly, Rizzo, Pimentel, Weiland/Someone Else?”
A power hitter at a position with absolutely minimal positional scarcity who likely won’t even be able to perform at said position halfway through his anticipated contract is NOT worth giving up four of a team’s top twenty prospects.
Considering his weight, I would never give Fielder more than a four year deal and I certainly wouldn’t give up so much in prospects for him. I love his bat, but not enough to justify stripping the farm system for him.
I wouldnt let go of Rizzo so quickly seeing Youks contract is only through 2012 with a club option for 2013 at 12mil or a 1mil buyout…Rizzo is a leader and has a high cieling for power and plus defense at 1b…Fielder is a future DH imho and Youk will be 34-35 by the end of his contract…Anderson is expendable IMHO, not Rizzo…
I’d rather have Rizzo and Kelly.
I’d rather have Rizzo and Kelly.
Yamaico Navarro is not a even a top 50 prospect in their system…
Depends on who you talk to. Project Prospect likes him because there aren’t many good 2B prospects in the minors that are projected to stick (They have Navarro at 2nd in the minors) at 2nd. He could be a Juan Uribe type bat which isn’t too bad.
Depends on who you talk to. Project Prospect likes him because there aren’t many good 2B prospects in the minors that are projected to stick (They have Navarro at 2nd in the minors) at 2nd. He could be a Juan Uribe type bat which isn’t too bad.
Read his scouting report. Pretty good defense, plays third, second, and shortstop. Hitting skills are good, but his power is average to below-average, which seperates him from being a Juan Uribe type bat.
His power is above average for a middle if. Probably not 30 hr power but he may develop 20 hr power.
Yamaico Navarro is not a even a top 50 prospect in their system…
If I were the GM for boston id certainly resign beltre 4yrs big risk but the market isnt flooded with premium 3bs for catcher if the dodgers want to trade martin he could be a bounce back candidate for the sox or even napoli I just dont see vmart as a long term catcher.i do like bengie buck and even yorvit is solid.sox should get downs though and another premiem reliever.cameron is signed for next yr but who knows he is getting up there in age.Id stay away from crawford for long term loved him on the rays but might over value himself.prince is very possible to trade for the brewers could use a starter I think kelly rizzo lowrie and possibly kalish would be a fair package.One thing to keep in mind is boston have alot of money coming off the books its possible you would see a surpirse of 2.
You like Bengie Molina, a 36-year-old catcher having easily the worst season of his career, who plays abysmal defense? And then you mention Mike Cameron later on and use his age as a negative… Wow. I don’t mind Buck, but he cannot expect more than a moderately priced two-year deal at best. He doesn’t know how to take a walk and only hits well against LHPs. His career splits suggest his uncharacteristically high BABIP in 2010 will see some correction in the future, which makes even a two-year deal a risky enterprise.
And there is not a soul who would place any positive trade value on Jed Lowrie at this point, so there’s nothing he could contribute to a Prince Fielder trade other than the idea that the Brewers have to consider putting him in the minors and getting rid of some organizational talent to do it.
I really dont see Kelly going anywhere for now..same with rizzo and kalish..
Oh and if anyone on this site wants to talk mlb thats fine but I will only talk to people who follow the sport and not just there favorite team.I follow each team and know a fair amount of knowledge but I cant stand and refuse to talk to those who are biased losers of 1 team might be mean but I dont care I only want to talk to true fans of the sport I refuse to though fight online with anyone and can care less if you think im cool I know I am.remember dont let any sport control you its not worth it in the end
I’d talk with you, but I swore off talking to people who use run-on sentences almost two years ago.
I’d talk with you, but I swore off talking to people who use run-on sentences almost two years ago.
Prince Fielder is the 21st century version of Mo Vaughn. Jayson Werth is this year’s version of Jason Bay. The Red Sox would be wise to steer clear of these two.
Um…both played pretty well in their time with the Red Sox. I would take 6 years of Mo Vaughn-like numbers.
Bay score 100+ runs, 100+ RBI, 36 HR, .384 OBP, .921 OPS. in his only full season in Boston.
Yeah, sign me up for both.
Hindsight is fun! Some choice remarks from the post made when Beltre signed.
This first one in response to someone’s prediction of Beltre’s slash line.
“300 batting average?
rofl ”
“Collectively, can you depend on 35-40 hrs from Lowell and/or Beltre?”
Beltre – 27
A-Rod – 22
Scutaro – 11
Jeter – 10
That last one was in a comparrison of the Sox’ left side to the Yankees’ left side. Didn’t get 35-40 (Though it does seem within the realm of possibility, but an EXTREME outside shot), but the Sox have definitely gotten more out of their left side than the Yanks (Heck, Beltre’s WAR is over double A-Rod’s per Fangraphs in only about 70 more at bats).
Now, this isn’t a gloating thing. They’re in the playoffs, we aren’t. That said, it’s a fun exercise on how some remarks can be in hindsight. I expected a huge bounceback from Beltre myself, but he exceeded even my expectations.
In the interest of fairness, though:
“? and which Yankees outfielder do you think will hit better than .255/.390/.480 this season? And thats an overstatement for a scrub like Gardner…. ”
The slugging’s WAY behind that, but he’s only two points off pace for the OBP. Wasn’t me saying that, but I can’t imagine I was thinking much of any differently.
Given, I don’t think he’ll replicate it, his BABIP is a pretty unsustainable .342, but yeah, definitely not a scrub season by any measure (Especially with his defense and plate discipline displayed).
This was NOT supposed to be a reply, sorry.
Only thing that is concerning for Gardner to me is his K% which is over 20% now. Fangraphs compared him to 2009 Nyjer Morgan (which is a pretty good comparison). Only question is whether he can repeat this and not become the 2010 Morgan.
Hope not. He just needs to keep his patient approach. Nyger Morgan on the other hand can’t take a pitch.
Hindsight is fun! Some choice remarks from the post made when Beltre signed.
This first one in response to someone’s prediction of Beltre’s slash line.
“300 batting average?
rofl ”
“Collectively, can you depend on 35-40 hrs from Lowell and/or Beltre?”
Beltre – 27
A-Rod – 22
Scutaro – 11
Jeter – 10
That last one was in a comparrison of the Sox’ left side to the Yankees’ left side. Didn’t get 35-40 (Though it does seem within the realm of possibility, but an EXTREME outside shot), but the Sox have definitely gotten more out of their left side than the Yanks (Heck, Beltre’s WAR is over double A-Rod’s per Fangraphs in only about 70 more at bats).
Now, this isn’t a gloating thing. They’re in the playoffs, we aren’t. That said, it’s a fun exercise on how some remarks can be in hindsight. I expected a huge bounceback from Beltre myself, but he exceeded even my expectations.
In the interest of fairness, though:
“? and which Yankees outfielder do you think will hit better than .255/.390/.480 this season? And thats an overstatement for a scrub like Gardner…. ”
The slugging’s WAY behind that, but he’s only two points off pace for the OBP. Wasn’t me saying that, but I can’t imagine I was thinking much of any differently.
Given, I don’t think he’ll replicate it, his BABIP is a pretty unsustainable .342, but yeah, definitely not a scrub season by any measure (Especially with his defense and plate discipline displayed).
Um…both played pretty well in their time with the Red Sox. I would take 6 years of Mo Vaughn-like numbers.
Bay score 100+ runs, 100+ RBI, 36 HR, .384 OBP, .921 OPS. in his only full season in Boston.
Yeah, sign me up for both.
My 2 cents- I’d like to see Beltre sign with the Bo-Sox. I think his offense might plateau after this year, but a .260-.280 hitter with 20-25 hr will fit pretty well with the Sox batting order (which is what Lowell was doing before he got old). People have thought about moving Youk. to 3b, but I’d worry about his defense and ability to stay healthy at a more demanding position (Youk. does get dinged up a bit). I think the danger with Beltre is expecting him to be a big middle of the order run producer- he’s not. But if you look at his value in terms of a complimentary bat with superior defense, I think a 4 year deal is reasonable. I think he is athletic enough to be able to stay healthy and productive through those 4 years.
What I expect to happen however- Beltre signs with the Tigers because they come in with an insane contract offer that he can’t turn down. I know many don’t see the logic of Beltre going to a pitchers park, but I think he’d follow the money (he did it once before). I’m not sure I can see any other team interested that have a position open (Some say Oakland but that would be a horrible use of money on their part considering their budget). Maybe the WhiteSox if they ditch Teahan. Maybe the Angels if they spend money.
My 2 cents- I’d like to see Beltre sign with the Bo-Sox. I think his offense might plateau after this year, but a .260-.280 hitter with 20-25 hr will fit pretty well with the Sox batting order (which is what Lowell was doing before he got old). People have thought about moving Youk. to 3b, but I’d worry about his defense and ability to stay healthy at a more demanding position (Youk. does get dinged up a bit). I think the danger with Beltre is expecting him to be a big middle of the order run producer- he’s not. But if you look at his value in terms of a complimentary bat with superior defense, I think a 4 year deal is reasonable. I think he is athletic enough to be able to stay healthy and productive through those 4 years.
What I expect to happen however- Beltre signs with the Tigers because they come in with an insane contract offer that he can’t turn down. I know many don’t see the logic of Beltre going to a pitchers park, but I think he’d follow the money (he did it once before). I’m not sure I can see any other team interested that have a position open (Some say Oakland but that would be a horrible use of money on their part considering their budget). Maybe the WhiteSox if they ditch Teahan. Maybe the Angels if they spend money.
Jayson Werth is this year’s version of Jason Bay”========= He’s more of a late-bloomer like Dwight Evans. He could play a tough Fenway RF well. Last time I looked he was leading MLB in doubles. If he’s willing to come I’d certainly talk. Crawford is U-30 and a tremendous D presence but I don’t think he be worth the kind of money he’s probably going to get to the RS. There’s more need of 4-5 order guys depending on who they get back from the big-3 FA’s.
Jayson Werth is this year’s version of Jason Bay”========= He’s more of a late-bloomer like Dwight Evans. He could play a tough Fenway RF well. Last time I looked he was leading MLB in doubles. If he’s willing to come I’d certainly talk. Crawford is U-30 and a tremendous D presence but I don’t think he be worth the kind of money he’s probably going to get to the RS. There’s more need of 4-5 order guys depending on who they get back from the big-3 FA’s.
2 words for sox fans after they let Beltre walk.
Ryan Zimmerman
Theo needs to put together a package of prospects for this stud.
Bring him and his stick to bean town to defend 3rd base!
one word: Untouchable
one word: Untouchable
2 words for sox fans after they let Beltre walk.
Ryan Zimmerman
Theo needs to put together a package of prospects for this stud.
Bring him and his stick to bean town to defend 3rd base!
If totally up to me I would let Otiz walk (I know reports are that his option is getting picked up), resign Beltre, and pick up Konerko. Use Konerko as DH and part time 1st baseman. When he plays first either Youkilis gets a night off or he moves over to 3rd and gives Beltre the night off. That should keep the corners a lot fresher and gives Tito bunch more optins when filling out his lineup.
I have to admit, I’ve thought about Konerko a bit. He’s a product of R.I. Wonder if he would have interest in coming back to the area. Not sure he feels he’s ready to be DH only now or not. He’d probably want 4 years, which would make him 39 at the end of his contract.
His numbers kind of scare me though. He’s been declining since 2004, but had a slight upsurge last year and is killing the ball this year. Look at his hit chart. He’d plaster the Monster.
Would be tough to see Papi walk though.
If totally up to me I would let Otiz walk (I know reports are that his option is getting picked up), resign Beltre, and pick up Konerko. Use Konerko as DH and part time 1st baseman. When he plays first either Youkilis gets a night off or he moves over to 3rd and gives Beltre the night off. That should keep the corners a lot fresher and gives Tito bunch more optins when filling out his lineup.
I would re-sign Beltre for sure… but, since the Mets are in no position to win right now….. or ever. IF and only IF David Wright is available…. I think the Sox should go after him. He would rake in Fenway. Being in a very protected lineup would boost his numbers a ton. I’d enjoy having him at the hot corner. Now if he were made available, What would it take?
Also, Theo HAS to go after Werth or Crawford. They would have huge numbers in Fenway also. Cannot rely on Cameron and JD Drew. I say let Ortiz walk, and re-sign Martinez. Bolster up the bullpen and the Red Sox are playoff bound in 2011.
The Sox outfield is crowded and they wont be going after those guys unless they were signing for peanuts and we all know they arent going to go cheap, Red Sox are going to stay with a young outfield and have Cameron as the veteran and trust me, aside from JD “double play groundout” Drew, the Sox will have a good outfield, remember Ells will come back next year with fully healed ribs and Nava and Kalish are turning into really good players.
JD Drew has played bad this year but let’s not be dumb and say he isn’t a good player. That would be embarrassing to you.
Its not embarrassing to me, JD Drew has some good games but overall he isnt very good, he always manages to take away all momentum when he bats, he pops it up or grounds out.. and when he grounds out it makes the infield look like a gold glove defense because they always seem to be right where the ball is and flips it to third and gets him out by a mile every time and JD just trots back to the dougout with a blank stare in his eyes, he never has fire or intensity…trust me, when his contract is up he wont be resigned and it will be then when all the rest of the Red Sox fans will start to hate on him, i mean come on, you watch Red Sox games you dont bite your nails when there are two outs and a guy on third and JD is at the plate?
Drew’s best numbers are with two outs. He has a career .960 OPS in that situation. He’s also got a respectable .881 OPS with 2 outs and RISP.
Red Sox “fans” already hate on him because he’s not Trot Nixon. The majority of casual fans have complained about him since day one because of the massive lovefest for a guy who was an even bigger injury risk with worse career numbers then Drew. He doesn’t break his bat when he gets an out, he doesn’t pump his fist when he hits a home run. He’s a very good player, just people who don’t care to actually pay attention knock him for not showing enough emotion, even though he’s our best outfielder (And was before the entire rest of the outfield got hurt).
Thank you. Drew is my favorite player and the fact people don’t like him because he doesn’t show emotion is a joke. Who cares, that is who he is.
Agreed. And somewhere in there you have to take into consideration that Drew is one of the top 3 rightfielders in the game. He doesn’t have to make flashy plays to get to a ball because he’s so good at judging where fly balls will be right off the bat. He gets to so many more balls that “flashier” OF’s get to, he just doesn’t get the same recognition because he makes it look easy.
The Sox outfield is crowded and they wont be going after those guys unless they were signing for peanuts and we all know they arent going to go cheap, Red Sox are going to stay with a young outfield and have Cameron as the veteran and trust me, aside from JD “double play groundout” Drew, the Sox will have a good outfield, remember Ells will come back next year with fully healed ribs and Nava and Kalish are turning into really good players.
I would re-sign Beltre for sure… but, since the Mets are in no position to win right now….. or ever. IF and only IF David Wright is available…. I think the Sox should go after him. He would rake in Fenway. Being in a very protected lineup would boost his numbers a ton. I’d enjoy having him at the hot corner. Now if he were made available, What would it take?
Also, Theo HAS to go after Werth or Crawford. They would have huge numbers in Fenway also. Cannot rely on Cameron and JD Drew. I say let Ortiz walk, and re-sign Martinez. Bolster up the bullpen and the Red Sox are playoff bound in 2011.
I think Beltre is going to get A LOT more than $12.5m/season. If he could nab $10m (and that wasn’t the highest offer) coming off an injury plagued, offensively disappointing season, then I have to think that he will do much better after an MVP caliber year in 2010.
Not really, baseball owners took a breather and assessed what they called “toxic contracts” and tightened their belts on the free agent market.. borderline collusion but within a guideline, they arent going to sign mega deals unless your a mega star and Adrian Beltre is a good player but not a mega star like Pujols or A-Rod, his contract for 10 million was to prove he is indeed worth 10 million and if he wasnt and flopped he could say well give me my 5 million with my player option.. he proved he is worth 10 million, and now he will look to lock in 10 million, I see the Sox going three years with an option for a 4th year.
Not really, baseball owners took a breather and assessed what they called “toxic contracts” and tightened their belts on the free agent market.. borderline collusion but within a guideline, they arent going to sign mega deals unless your a mega star and Adrian Beltre is a good player but not a mega star like Pujols or A-Rod, his contract for 10 million was to prove he is indeed worth 10 million and if he wasnt and flopped he could say well give me my 5 million with my player option.. he proved he is worth 10 million, and now he will look to lock in 10 million, I see the Sox going three years with an option for a 4th year.
No, see, it was easier for teams like Boston to offer 10 million this year, even with the injury risks, because it was a one-year deal. At worst they wasted 10 million, which for Boston isn’t a huge deal. He’d be off the hook the next year. But with a long-term contract, as a rule, the yearly salary typically will go down as the years are extended, as it is assumed the player is willing to sacrifice a million or two a year for the security of the long-term deal. Plus, obviously, 7m for 4 years is more money than 10 million for one.
I don’t think he’ll get more than 12.5. Nobody will pay much more than that PLUS give him the years he wants. If he does another one-year deal, sure. But otherwise, he’ll probably get 10m or so over 4 or 5 years.
No, see, it was easier for teams like Boston to offer 10 million this year, even with the injury risks, because it was a one-year deal. At worst they wasted 10 million, which for Boston isn’t a huge deal. He’d be off the hook the next year. But with a long-term contract, as a rule, the yearly salary typically will go down as the years are extended, as it is assumed the player is willing to sacrifice a million or two a year for the security of the long-term deal. Plus, obviously, 7m for 4 years is more money than 10 million for one.
I don’t think he’ll get more than 12.5. Nobody will pay much more than that PLUS give him the years he wants. If he does another one-year deal, sure. But otherwise, he’ll probably get 10m or so over 4 or 5 years.
What does Adrian Beltre and the Red Sox have in common? they need each other. Boston brought out the best in Beltre and as long has his lethal knees don’t go into any other player he should be a big piece to their organization. Unless the Red Sox make a trade for Miguel Cabrera, or Prince Fielder or Adrian Gonzalez or gee any other all-star 1st baseman that would shift Youkilis to third, my vote is the Red Sox resign him to a 10 million a year deal maybe 3 and 30 million with a team or player option for the 4th.
I agree with you except that Beltre is going to want (and will get) more than 10mil a year..
What does Adrian Beltre and the Red Sox have in common? they need each other. Boston brought out the best in Beltre and as long has his lethal knees don’t go into any other player he should be a big piece to their organization. Unless the Red Sox make a trade for Miguel Cabrera, or Prince Fielder or Adrian Gonzalez or gee any other all-star 1st baseman that would shift Youkilis to third, my vote is the Red Sox resign him to a 10 million a year deal maybe 3 and 30 million with a team or player option for the 4th.
I think a Beltre offer of 3yrs 40-45mil with a 4th year option is in order..Vmart wont be resigned and the sox will go with a Salty/Tek catching tandem..I also think that Papi will get a 2 yr deal at less $$.. Something like 2/14-16 is doable..Guys like Kelly, Kalish and Rizzo,IMHO, will still be in the sox system..Kalish will prob replace Drew in RF or Ells in center if they choose to deal him at some point..Im NOT on board with signing either CC or Werth..too much $$..the sox offense is strong enough IMO without one of those guys in the OF…just my 2 cents..