Our 3 Remaining Needs series slides west to the NL Central, another lively offseason division with a surprise player moving to the fore. Though heavy lifting may have concluded in many of the NL’s charter cities, others still have piles of work at hand. Let’s get to the most pressing needs for each of the five teams in the NL’s staunchest division last season (teams listed in order of 2018 standings) . . .
[Previous installment: NL East]
Milwaukee Brewers
- Address second base. The keystone was a black hole for an otherwise prodigious lineup last year, with midseason acquisition Jonathan Schoop performing so badly at times that 6’4, 230 pound Travis Shaw was asked to learn the position. With the likely impending departure of 3B Mike Moustakas, Shaw will slide back across the diamond, leaving a gaping hole at second. Top prospect Keston Hiura is on the way, but may still be a year or so off, and the options at hand are, in the interim, woefully insufficient. The club has been connected to free agent Jed Lowrie, but may prefer a short-term stopgap to keep Hiura’s spot warm.
- Add a proven arm to the rotation. Milwaukee’s rotation consists, at current, of three number-five starters, three rookies vying for the fourth and fifth spots, and a rehabbing Jimmy Nelson set to make his return at some point early in the season. Ideally, the club would be a perfect fit for a top-end hurler, but seems to have neither the financial nor the prospect capital to make such a deal happen. Corbin Burnes, Brandon Woodruff, and Freddy Peralta all had promising debuts last season, but the Crew would do well to somehow slot a proven commodity into the mix.
- Find a legitimate backup shortstop. Former top prospect Orlando Arcia’s 2018 season was, to put it mildly, not a good one. The purported defensive wiz was anything but magical on that side of the ball last season, to say nothing of his league-worst 54 wRC+. If he again slumps out of the gate, the club can’t exactly look to Tyler Saladino or Hernan Perez to hold down the fort, especially given its question marks at second. A veteran backup capable of handling the bat against both sides (and, perhaps, handling second-base duties in a pinch as well) would be a perfect fit for the reigning division champs.
Chicago Cubs
- Solidify the back end of the bullpen. An aging Cubs pen that struggled with the free pass last season faces further uncertainty at present, what with the loss of Jesse Chavez and the hazy future of closer Brandon Morrow, who’s found it nearly impossible to stay healthy for a full major-league season. Upper-minors reinforcements are scarce, so the club will likely have to dip into what little reserves it has or scour the fringes of the market for a bargain pickup.
- See if Jason Heyward’s albatross can be moved (with cash incentive). This is speculative, at best, but the Cubs have as few holes as any team in baseball, and still lurk at the edges of the Bryce Harper market. Finding a team willing to take on at least some of the $118.5MM still owed to Heyward could be just enough to lift the free-spending Cubbies to the Harper Sweepstakes’ fore; the club, after all, would still boast a number of capable right-field options for the upcoming campaign even if they were to deal Heyward and miss on the 26-year-old superstar.
- Add depth in the upper minors. Star-caliber graduations from 2015-17 have decimated a farm that was once the jewel of the National League. At current, the system offers little in the way of high-impact talent, which could be a major impediment to a big mid-season acquisition, should the Cubs be hit by injuries and/or ineffectiveness. Both Ian Happ and Kyle Schwarber could be leveraged in this way – with multiple years of team control remaining for each, the prospect capital acquired could be, come July, the lone bullet(s) in the Cubbies’ gun.
St. Louis Cardinals
- Find a taker for Jose Martinez. Martinez has raked to the tune of a 130 wRC+ after years of uneven performance in the minors since debuting for the club in late 2016. The acquisition of Paul Goldschmidt, however, and the 30-year-old’s frightening defense in an outfield corner, make him a much better fit elsewhere, ideally on an AL club. Though the return might be insubstantial, even with his four years of team control remaining, it’ll likely add more value to the club than Martinez will as a part-time fill-in and occasional pinch-hitter.
- Continue to add to the bullpen. Despite possessing a hothouse of flame-throwers in the pen, the 2018 unit was arguably the NL’s worst (4.50 xFIP, 4.34 BB/9). The club took a major step to address the issue with last week’s signing of Andrew Miller, but it’s still a unit light on track record and heavy on control issues. The Giants’ Will Smith and Tony Watson, former Central stalwarts both, have each been linked with the Redbirds this month, and either could catapult the club to a place very near the projected top of the division.
- Add a lefty bat. In addition to the perennially-awesome Matt Carpenter, the Cards’ only other left-handed regulars are the mercurial Kolten Wong and the will-be 33-year-old Dexter Fowler, who often struggled to hit the ball out of the infield last season. The bench, too, is stacked mostly with solid right-handed hitters of all types – there is, it seems, scarcely a club out there in more dire need of left-handed infusion, and this one might need a couple.
Pittsburgh Pirates
- Add to the rotation. The unit, though possessing of four proven MLB arms, is arguably the division’s thinnest – after the 3-4 of Joe Musgrove and Trevor Williams, the latter of whom has posted consecutive shaky-peripheral (4.54 xFIP, 6.64 K/9 in ’18) seasons, the club has little on which it can depend. Chad Kuhl, dreadful anyway in ’18, had Tommy John in September, and youngsters Nick Kingham and Clay Holmes showed little in their scattered opportunities. Top prospect Mitch Keller is close, but the team would be well-served to add a couple proven, back-end arms (in addition to the newly-signed Jordan Lyles, who’s spent much of the last three seasons as a reliever) to cover their backs.
- Find a shortstop. Following the departure of longtime Pirate Jordy Mercer, the club is left with just a combination of Kevin Newman and newly-acquired Erik Gonzalez at the position, neither of whom inspire much confidence on the offensive side. The Buccos have long prized defense at the position, and may indeed be content with a combination of the two, but a sub-70 wRC+ anywhere on the diamond is a gaping hole, regardless of defensive prowess.
- Assemble more depth on the bench. Gregory Polanco will already miss the first two months of the season, at the very least. If Starling Marte or Corey Dickerson incurs an injury, the club’s outfield mix will look exceptionally weak. Positional versatility, a hallmark of the successful Pirate teams of the mid-decade, is in short supply on the current version, and the club will need to bolster its depth if it harbors any real hope of contending in an increasingly difficult division.
Cincinnati Reds
- Make another impact move. The club, which for years has been an absentee on the free-agent market, and hadn’t made an industry-shaking acquisition since 2011’s trade for Mat Latos, has already announced its intention to contend this offseason, jettisoning far-away talent for short-term impact in a pair of December trades to acquire Tanner Roark, Yasiel Puig, Alex Wood, and Matt Kemp. But, given the quality of the Central, the returns aren’t nearly enough; the Reds are still at least seven, and perhaps closer to ten or twelve, wins away from seriously challenging for a playoff spot. Landing an elite-level talent via trade – which the club, with a throng of upper-level projected regulars on the farm, is certainly capable of doing – could catapult them squarely into the mix.
- Shore up center field. Following last week’s procurement of Kemp and Puig, the Reds are flush with outfield thump from both sides, but are still left without a true center fielder in their midst. It’s true that Great American Ballpark has less space in the outfield than most, and that the club has been successful with a decaying Shin-Soo Choo manning the position for much of a season, but the rotation is a contact-heavy one that will undoubtedly suffer with a subpar defender left free to roam. Top prospect Nick Senzel could be an option, but the club will likely be best-served to pluck its feast from outside the organization.
- Add depth to the bench/pen. Both units here are severely undernourished – an infusion would require perhaps three 85 FIP- or lower bullpen arms, and bench bats capable of handling multiple positions and offering adequate output at the plate. It’ll be a tall task to imbue the club with this much reinforcement, but a necessary one if Dick Williams, Nick Krall, and Co. hope to contend next season.
chubbs131313
So the Pirates entry here is off….
-Polanco is already on the shelf until at LEAST May (baseball activities in March or April are a possibility, then the buildup)
-The team has already stated that they will give Jordan Lyles a shot at the last starting spot. I would agree that is not necessarily a strong answer, but warranted a mention?
–
army123456
I am a big pirates fan too. I don’t think they are too far off in this article. Even the reds are spending money this year to get better. We don’t have a proven power bat or even a number one starter in pitching. Neil and bob don’t want to spend the money as usual. We might be lucky and win 60 games. Ie last in the division.
xabial
Be more dissappointed in the fans who still support “Spend nutting, get nutting” Bob Nutting.
You can still support the team, but to support owner’s frugal ways, boggles the mind. Sign the petition asking MLB to force him sell the team.
tv 2
lol. he should spend more but this is not the Cubs. he is not going to spend 30 million during a rebuild. he is a great owner. one of the best we have had and way better than that pos the Bengals have. plus he is great in the community
jekporkins
Great idea, a petition… if MLB forces owners out for being frugal they would have moved the A’s and Rays owners out years ago.
What you do is not support the team. Don’t go to games. Don’t buy merchandise.
66TheNumberOfTheBest
The idea that anyone thinks that the owners are going to force the sale of any team for anything short of a Donald Sterling tape is what is mind boggling.
Business owners tend to not invest in businesses that can be randomly taken from them. The other owners aren’t going to devalue their own teams to appease fair weather small market fans.
The driest rain dance ever.
petrie000
A lot of people don’t quite understand that the individual team owners are also effectively co-owners of the league itself. No amount of signatures ona petition can force an owner to sell
Legally speaking the only way an owner can be forced out is if he’s actively hurting the league itself in some way.
CentralPABuccos
Simplest way to support the players and not the owner go see the buccos at away games and do not watch them on at&t sports. As for the organization they need to make moves in FA early stop this waiting for scrap to end up on your team. 100 million in today’s market is a joke. MLB/players association needs to address that as the minimum for a 40man roster not coaches and b.s.
Pirates need a innings eater and a longrp both lefties either trade for them or sign Gio Gonzalez and Pomeranz 1yr deals
Bell & Moran can’t sustain their last 3mths of ’18 in ’19 they need dealt but that much control wont be dealt.
Kang should be everyday 2B if the brass believes in Moran. Frazier and Reyes best two bench options.
SS trade for or sign neither in house options are sustainable.
Lastly the signing of Chisenhall is another bottom feeding hope for the best lightning in the bottle bs by the organization.
I bet the orioles in 4yrs out perform the Pirates waste of young talent.
Goku the Knowledgable One
Honest Assessment:
No SS, no 3B, no 2B, no SP depth, no bench, no power.
Their OF is solid, and Bell should break out at 1B.
Their catcher depth is very good unless they dump Cervelli.
Sk8rboi
MIL: Sigm Keuchel
STL: Trade Martinez and Wacha for ERod Swihart and Mooreland
CH: Trade Schwarber for Betances
PIT: Sign Pomeranz
CIN: Trade Kemp to A’s for Lauraneo and a prospect
YankeesWarriorsPatriots
Martinez and wacha for swihart is not enough
Sk8rboi
Okay add Bader and Boston can include JBJ
Sk8rboi
L2RotoworldMLBDepthCharts
Slevin
Why you gotta troll YWP?
EndinStealth
@Sk8rboi that is terrible trade proposal for the Cards.
MetsYankeesRedSox
He sure does troll a lot.
Slevin
Have you come the realization about ey yet?
JFactor
Mayers for Swihart is enough, of course Martinez and Wacha are enough
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
Who else are the Cubs gonna get though. Your selling Schwarber for way less. They are better off trading happ,Russell, kinzler and Schwarber for Blake snell and the Rays best bullpen pitcher that’s not the closer. Cubs can throw in morrow and cash. Schwarber is untouchable unless you get significant talent back. Betanaces is not that guy. And the Yankees have no one in their farm worth trading Schwarber for.
petrie000
Stop giving Cubs fans a bad reputation, please.
dewssox79
you are not a smart cubs fan. kinzler sucks, russell has no value except a jail cell,happ is a compliment piece and schwarber is not the main piece to a deal for snell. get off the drugs
ChiSoxCity
More like, petriedish making cubs fan look bad again.
petrie000
Oh great, more thin skinned idiots to waste space here…
petrie000
Thanks for the advice, it was worth it’s weight in gold.
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
No I’m really not. Who ever said betancea for Schwarber is an insult. I give suggestions and I’m the one getting trolled.
petrie000
Blake Snell for Kyle Schwarber and spare parts is frankly not any more realistic
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
Russell still has value. Whether he did what his ex wifes best friend claimed is still unknown. Hes still a top 5 SS.
If Russell belongs in a jail cell then so does Chapman and miguel Cabrera. Both did the same thing but it was proven.
Cabrera never got punished for beating his wife.. Chapman did he served his time and til got 65mil
petrie000
No, he doesn’t. He had a bad year at the plate and he’s a PR nightmare.
There is no trade value there.
jdgoat
“Russell is a top 5 ss”
So who does he beat out between Simmons, Correa, Lindor, Bogaerts, Seager, Segura, Gregorius, machado, Semien, and probably a few more.
And it’s pretty obvious based on the reports that what Russell did is much worse than Chapman. Stop being so biased.
EndinStealth
The Ray’s would hang up laughing.
EndinStealth
Omg stop…… top 5 SS. Funniest thing I’ve read all day.
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
Simmons is good but hes not top 10. Let alone top 5. Russell is 24 and endless potential. He has plenty of value. I should have been more clear. Russell is top 5 ss in the NL. Baez obviously being #1. Hell Baez is top 10 at 3rd, Short,and 2nd. If it guaranteed no injury he probably could play CF.
Chapman choked his wife. Russell hardly didnt worst than adrian peterson.
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
That was my point. You cant trade Schwarber for one player. You gotta get a haul for him. Obviously not Snell but they could probably get Kluber. If they included Happ they need someone at 2nd add in russell. Happ can play 3 of 4 infield spots. And all 3 outfield spots. Indians would demand probably 6 players or more for him. Honestly happ and Schwarber and a prospect would be enough to get him. The Cubs don’t need starting pitching yet. They do need bullpen help. Which is why they should sign. Ottavino 3/26.5 or so. With an option for a 4th year.
hockeyjohn
That Ball – Have you heard of Lindor? Why #1 would the Indians want Russell? #2 – Schwarber is a DH and the Indians need outfielders. Besides Schwarber is overrated. Honestly, Happ, Schwarber, and a Cubs prospect is not enough to get Kluber.
tv 2
Schwarber is worthless. can hit. can field. cant run. he is a bench bat
tv 2
ya everyone is getting in line for a slow guy who cant hit. this guy is never hit above 238
tv 2
just as funny as the guys yay say Kyle can play defense or hit
BrewCrew54
“Hey guys, let’s trade a .238 hitter who can’t even grow a legit beard for a Cy Young winner in Blake Snell” ~ Delusional Cubs fans
Bill N
But he does have the dumbest wife in the world. She made a statement last year and now she keeps hammering it. Then she will wonder why she killed the bird that was laying the golden eggs in the form of fat alimony checks every month. If he ain’t working, you are hurting girl.
petrie000
The sooner Darwinism catches up with people like you, the better… Eesh…
basebaIl1600
Kemp to the A’s for Chapman and a prospect. Let’s see how long until JTO shows up.
driftcat28 2
Lmao why would NY do Betances for Schwarber, they have enough DH’s and need bullpen help. Also the Sox would be robbing STL in your trade proposal. Keyboard GM’s are the funniest
mistry gm
Both you, Ty Bradly and the other speculators should drop the “trade Schwarber” nonsense. The Cubs have made it abundantly clear that he is going to stay. Russell and Hayward WILL go, Bote may go and it will come down to a choice for Harper, the Dodgers or the Cubs.
megaj
Why would the Cubs trade Schwarber? He will probably hit more homers than Harper this year, and is a much better defender. And he makes less than 1M.
data9147
I see they edited the article to take your comments into account, although they didn’t acknowledge it. They should list you as co-author.
xabial
“See if Heyward albatross can be moved (w/ cash incentive)”
Be straight with us. Are you a Cubs’ fan? 😉
I think better chance Heyward has magical 2019 and opts out
cubsfan2489
I think there’s a better chance of J-Hey getting traded or Chatwood along with Schwarber or Happ and then Harper signs. Just my theory. And yes, I’m a cubs fan.
megaj
Enough with the Schwarber trade talk already. it will not happen this year, they have made that clear. Even in a down year the guy is going to be over .800 OPS with 30 homers. You would rather pay Harper 300 million for close to the same output but worse defense? Trading him away now would be utterly stupid considering the production they are getting for the price. Happ and Almora are expendable, Schwarber is part of the core along with Rizzo, Bryant, Baez, and Contreras.
xabial
I’m also biased and hope my team signs Bryce Harper
So feel like a hypocrite criticizing that. Sorry, Ty!
Dont know if it’s possible to move JHey
Mattimeo09
It’s certainly possible, but is it worth the amount of money the Cubs would have to pay?
How much of the $118M would the Cubs have to pay?
Vedder80
For what he has done in Chicago, about a $110m.
ChiSoxCity
Does it really matter what the Cubs have to pay to move Heyward? It’s a sunken cost either way—best to move on and focus on improving the roster.
Lanidrac
To be fair, Heyward actually had a decent offensive year last year. If that improvement is real, combined with his defense, the contract isn’t that much of a sunk cost anymore.
justacubsfan
Teams nowadays value hitting over baserunning and defense, so likely the cubs would have to eat like 1/2 of that contract or more so we’re talking like 55+MM… at the same time they would have to move a couple decent players as well. They’re almost better off to move Chatwood, kinzler, and duensing (roughly heyward’s deal) + a guy like almora, plus some other pieces to a rebuilding team. Rebuilding team can easily eat the 2 years or less worth of money and either keep the players or waive them outright. I think 1 of (depending on team’s preference): almora or Happ + Bote, plus that future stud Amaya or pitching prospects. They clear roughly 23MM this year and 13MM next year off books. Move heyward to CF and have him platoon with Happ or almora (whichever stays) then have schwarber in LF. They have a couple minor leaguers deserving of reserve outfield spots. Teams that could surely use a boost to prospect/young talent: Orioles who have cub guys in org now, blue jays, marlins.
Lol I know I rambled a lot but I think that’s what we’re looking at if cubs decide to move 24MM in salaries and sign Harper.
JFactor
A 92 OPS+ from a right fielder isn’t decent, it’s well below average.
Cubs probably need to send about $60M to donate Heyward at this point
megaj
Amaya is literally the one ray of sunshine in the minors right now. NO way should they include him in a trade, especially since it has yet to be determined if Contreras will ever learn how to frame pitches.
Lanidrac
A 92 OPS+ is perfectly decent for a RF who’s a perennial Gold Glove candidate. It still doesn’t make him worth his contract, but it’s much more tolerable than when he wasn’t hitting much at all.
Bill N
Sure you can move him. He has the opt out but isn’t dumb enough to do it so pay him $118 mil or whatever is left and he can walk away. What’s $118 mil to the Cubs?…….LOL
wrigleywannabe
What’s bad about his statement? He can be moved, but it would take, half the money, at least.
What’s silly is thinking he’d opt out, even with a big year. No way he gets this kind of deal, again
xabial
I think it’s wishful thinking paying JHey to play for another team, to get Bryce’s signature on a contract exceeding 300M, when rumor had it, Cubs out of the Harper sweepstakes, much of the off-season.
petrie000
The Rumors never had them in on Heyward to begin with. The Rumors say a lot of things that turn out to be untrue… Otherwise they’d be facts…
xabial
maybe so but all the more peculiar they werent due to lack of interest, more so, lack of funds Cubs crying “broke” as I said in other thread.
Again, Bryce is my favorite player, and hope the Yankees sign him, (as bleak as it looks) take everything I said with a pinch of salt. Good luck, Cubs fans, if Heyward is traded, will admit I was wrong.
petrie000
The whole ‘broke’ thing is another Rumor… One the internet strangely clings to even after they’ve already given out one 20 million dollar contract this off season
brent8706
I don’t want Harper or his attitude. He’s already been choked out once because of his selfish entitlement. Herward will still be more valuable than Harper ever will be especially defensively.
cards81
Cubs aren’t broke obviously…but also obviously they have to be careful with money…ergo, they have to clear payroll to sign Harper…sorry but don’t believe a word…Sorry cubbies but no one is taking any bad contract you have…and at this point why would they…no one..not even close, has lived up to the value…Harper isn’t signing because of Heyward
petrie000
I’ll take a .900 career OPS with any attitude. I like winning.
xabial
Choked out by Jonathan Papelbum, who’s out of the league for dogging it, and being a bum.
Harper’s antithesis, every way, shape or form. Two shouldn’t even be in the same sentence…
socraticgadfly
We’ll swap you Fowler and you eating half of JHey’s contract difference.
cards81
I’ll take Fowler and if he doesn’t work out O’Neill will be ready…no thanks
andyb
It would never happen but that’s a fascinating trade proposal on so many levels
cubsfan2489
Recent reports state that Theo and company told Harper to talk to them before he decides on an offer. Hardly out of it by any means. Trying to give you the benefit of the doubt here X. If you prove me wrong, then the “train will keep a Trollin, all night long”.
Vedder80
Fowler has more value than Heyward right now. He has only been horrible for 1 season.
rondon
cards81… No way you can know they can’t move Heyward. He had a very solid year last year at the plate and his usual strong defense. And you can’t measure the player because a team over paid for him. No doubt they’d have to pick up a serious chunk but it could be done…
andyb
what you call a very solid year for Heyward was league average offense with declining defense. He was good for 2 WAR this last year. Lots of teams are clamoring to drop 110 million over the next 5 years for that kind of production.
Bill N
$118 million is a VERY serious chunk.
Sk8rboi
Maybe if he gets hit in the face again, it will help him regain what little ability he hadto make contact ball.
Aaron Sapoznik
xabial: It’s a bit of a conundrum for the Cubs in regards to Jason Heyward’s opt-out following the 2019 season. He needs to achieve 550 PA’s in 2019 just to have the right to opt-out and produce that “magical season” you speak of. Heyward has come well short of that number the past two years due to poor offensive production as well as spending some time on the DL.
The odds of Heyward opting out would be akin to “a snowball’s chance in hell” but the only way he would even have that opportunity would be for the Cubs to give him regular playing time. Would the Cubs even chance that with so many other more productive OF’s in need of PA’s as well?
An added irony would be that Heyward might have a better chance to garner those PA’s with a trade to another club. They would be more likely to provide him with regular playing time in the hopes that he could bounce back to the overall numbers he produced in his first 6 MLB seasons which “earned” him that 8 yrs/$184MM contract with the Cubs three offseason’s ago.
RedFeather
1. Reds
2. Pirates
3. Brewers
4. cubs
5. Cardinals
6. Tokyo Red Bull’s
tominco
Did they just legalize pot In Ohio?
petrie000
It would explain the Reds off season thus far
tv 2
at least we dont have to watch out for gun fire
tv 2
plus give us 130 million to add and we would wipe the floor with u. it’s funny 1 championship after 10 years of gaming the system and you guys think your great. get 4 more then you can act big
petrie000
Unfortunately nobody is going to give you 130 million, so enjoy slugging it out with the Pirates for 4th place
Aaron Sapoznik
Or peyote in Missouri?
daved
Don’t sell Missouri short. It’s the METH capital of the U.S.
Bill N
Nah, it lost that title a couple years ago. Mexico makes a lot better brand and the cops are getting too hinky in MO.
daved
I didn’t realize Mexico is part of the United States?
army123456
Where did you come up with the pirates being second. That’s a joke.
1. Brewers
2.cubs
3.cards
4.reds
5.pirates
tv 2
it’s a total toss-up. the Brewers could be good if they can fill second base and get some good pitching. the Cardinals could be good if they stay healthy and if the Reds get any development at all they’ll be right there with everybody.. if you compare the rotations of these teams and the lineups there’s really very little difference.
Melchez
I’m a Tiger fan… send us Heyward and Jose Martinez. Our lineup includes Mahtook, Jacoby Jones, Goodrum, Greiner and Mercer. 5 number 9 hitters. Pretty sad.
stymeedone
I disagree with Nikko being on that list, but your point is taken.
Melchez
He was a minor league free agent… I doubt he amounts to much. Tigers hope he becomes a solid bench player, which is probably where he’ll end up.
wrigleywannabe
No one is taking Heyeard, without a hefty, self degeating cash incentive.
Schwarber is not going to be traded.
Happ, maybe.
I do think someone would take Zo and his one year at roughly 17 million.
That would put Happ at 2B and free up relief money.
Or, trust DD to start and trade Happ and Almora, if you signed Harper.
Also, Hamels comes off after rhis year.
If you move Zo, you can stomach one year of over budget of 25 million or so, until Hamels is done.
I don’t want Harper, but it is doable.
I’d rather trade Happ for relief help.
holstein1986
I don’t want another ridiculous contract on the books. Anyone who signs Harper for ten years at any price will be doing that! Schwarber needs to be in the American League and out of the Cubs outfield. Heyward is the only defensive outfielder the Cubs have. I’ll just keep him and play him.
petrie000
You do know Schwarber was rated one of the best defensive left fielders in the league last year, right?
cards81
You do know that anyone with a brain realizes that they are getting a decent defense st most in a corner spot…I’m not against his defense but also he isn’t one of the “best defensive left fielders”…this is why defensive stats sucks compared to reality
petrie000
The stats from last year say you’re wrong, and the assertion that they suck simply because they don’t agree with a preconceived opinion is a really terrible argument against them.
cards81
I agree with that but everyone knows they aren’t getting a top left field defense and that is what I’m talking about..I’ve watched enough cubs games to know about his defense
petrie000
All truly good left fielders are in right field for obvious reasons, but the narrative that Schwarber’s just a DH needs to die. The objective measurements say he was just fine in the field last season.
Melchez
Schwarber has the range of Nick Castellanos. According to UZR.
Melchez
Have you watched every game of every player that’s ever played the game? Petty has.
petrie000
Yeah, but what about his putouts?
(Your pacifiers over there, I assume that’s what you’re looking for)
Melchez
What saved him is hardly anyone hit the ball to him. Don’t need to have range if no one hits the ball to ya… get my drift? LOL
petrie000
Being thin skinned and dumb is a dangerous combination on the internet, just warning you right now that this may not be the place for you
cards81
I’ll agree with that…I’ll compare him to Matt Holiday defensively…but he really has to up his offensive game to compare respectively
Melchez
Then why are you here?
petrie000
I was talking about baseball, then you showed up to continue an earlier argument for some stupid reason
Because pettiness is a great way to get credibility, right?
If you want a forum board rival, pick someone who’s down in your league, okay? I’m not interested
Melchez
I wonder if someone told Maddon how good Schwarber was defensively? Maddon replaced Schwarber 57 times last year late in the game for defensive purposes. 7th, 8th, and 9th innings he was replaced 57 times.
Melchez
Just stating facts Mr. Petty
petrie000
I hope you’re 12, then at least there’d be hope for you.
Melchez
You wish I were 12… wierdo.
Melchez
Internet tough guy with the big warning….
You said I’d be sorry… it’s more like disappointment. Maybe a little sadness too. You probably have no friends… probably because you don’t watch much baseball. A little advice… get out, watch a couple games, you might enjoy it.
Have a great weekend buddy.
petrie000
The further you drift from even attempting to make this about baseball the more pathetic you look.
My silence is me simply not caring about your wounded pride. If you don’t like being treated like a moron, think harder before posting.
You’re just more idiotic white noise on the internet to me.
Melchez
Schwarber removed for defensive purposes 57 times. Schwarber is a baseball player. If you need someone to hold your hand through this, by all means, get someone to help you. I can’t carry you on every thread.
petrie000
If you think that counts as a stat, I don’t need to respond. I can’t say anything that would make you look dumber.
Let the adults talk baseball
Melchez
We are talking baseball… you’re the one derailing things with your insults and crying. Look back at the posts.
Schwarber was removed for defensive purposes… Maddon wouldn’t do that if Schwarber were a top defender. Has he improved? Yes… but he is far from a top defender.
I compared his range to Castellanos because they are very similar. They don’t make the impossible plays. They don’t get to the difficult plays. They make the routine plays and they make them pretty consistently. Maddon usually puts in a defender that is more fleet a foot late in games. Guys like Almora and Zobrist replaced him late in games when the games were close.
But you don’t really care do ya? You just want to sit in judgement of others and talk down to them if they don’t agree with your narrow minded thinking. We get it.
petrie000
You insisting something meaningless is not meaningless when you’ve already proven your kind of an idiot doesn’t really make the argument any better the 4th time around.
There is nothing to derail here. It’s just you flailing around because your boy Nick Castellanos isn’t a good defender. The fact that you’re dragging that into a whole new article is just pathetic
Stop wasting space.
Melchez
I never said he was a good defender… Can you read? And please stop insulting posters when you are losing an argument.
Makes you look petty.
petrie000
Calling someone a moron is only an insult when it’s not true. Otherwise it’s really a public service so you know you need to improve.
justacubsfan
Hate to say it but if he’s getting replaced doesn’t mean that much because you could have a stud 5th outfielder who is amazing in the field and most managers would take a hitter out with the lead late. Schwarber is solid in LF. Doesn’t mean he’s an amazing fielder, and at any other position would be liability, but the cubs have found a spot for him on their team. He needs to figure out how to hit Lefties more than he does how to play defense…
justacubsfan
Glad to know you watch cubs games! And with that amazing cardinals defense, you watch a lot of high quality defensive games too
Melchez
Please stop insulting posters, this is a baseball forum.
petrie000
Then what are you doing here? It’s a topic you know nothing about…
Melchez
I looked at most of the games he was replaced… it was usually Zobrist and Happ and Amora replacing him. Not much of an improvement by putting these guys out there, but they do cover more ground.
Schwarber is a decent fielder, don’t get me wrong. Just one poster on here said he was one of the best defensive left fielders in the league. I thought that was rather comical.
Melchez
What am I doing here? I’m talking baseball. Kind of silly I have to explain that to you. It should be obvious…. but….
petrie000
Really, trying to insist being pinch hit for is a measure of defensive ability is talking baseball? That’s the first time anyone’s ever tried to say that with a straight face..
At least, anyone who wasn’t a moron…
Melchez
Was he pinch hit for? You might want to actually do some research before making idiotic claims.
He was replaced for defensive purposes 57 times in 2018.
Baseball reference… games played…. 2018….
I’m trying to teach you something here.
petrie000
You don’t need to, I already know you’re only doing this because I humiliated you in a different post and you’re not mature enough to really internalize that being humiliated on the internet is not, in fact, the end of the world.
Seriously, just stop. You’re just humiliating yourself this time by acting like a complete child.
Melchez
LOL
Please, we are talking baseball here. Try to focus.
petrie000
No, you’re not. You want revenge for losing a previous argument.
It’s painfully transparent.
Melchez
I didn’t lose an argument with you. Please… talk baseball. No one cares if you want to be an internet tough guy. Talk baseball.
petrie000
And nobody cares that you made the rookie mistake of arguing defense by bringing up Errors
Nobody cares that your clueless but want to be taken seriously.
You say something that stupid and somebody’s gonna laugh at you
Melchez
Errors are part of the game…. you should have read the rest of my post… I talked about assists and putouts and range and chances and UZR. You missed all that.
Kind of like when you thought Schwarber was pinch hit for 57 times… LOL That was a good one.
petrie000
The rest of your post was as garbage as Errors, frankly, because it was entirely based around your interpretation of stats you clearly don’t understand… Because you’re still defending the Error
You only even acknowledged UZR about five posts in after errors, Fielding percentage and put out arguments failed to gain any traction… Mostly because you didn’t even understand the stats you were pushing…
So yeah, you want to be taken seriously? Stop posting inane drivel and the reposting it 8 times and demanding it be accepted as anything but drivel.
Melchez
Errors are part of the game. So are putouts and assists and range and chances…. Come on, let’s just agree to disagree. You are still learning this baseball stuff. We’ll get through this together. I’m here for ya little feller.
petrie000
Errors are part of the game, sure… But then so are many other worthless stats like RBI, saves and wins. All it proves is there’s a lot of lazy fans out there.
But you’re still only proving to be one of them by dismissing advanced metrics that factor in all those things and then compare them to other players, and instead trying to argue them individually without any comparative context
Most likely because you don’t understand the value of comparative context, because you came to your conclusion first and then tried to bend the facts to justify it
You actually fell back on ‘you have to watch the game’ to justify yourself… That’s the internet equivalent of putting a ‘kick me’ sign on your own back…
Melchez
I did not dismiss advanced metrics… I showed you the UZR where Castellanos was ahead of 3 other right fielders. But you ignored that stat. and every other stat. You clung to your lone stat where he was last and you used that one and only stat to define his defense. I tried to broaden your horizons of knowledge but dog gone it…. you stood to your lone piece of information. I never once denied Castellanos was a bad defender… not once. I just said he could possibly improve, because he improved from the previous year…. and I gave you the stats to back that up… but you said no. You said he won’t improve.
It’s been difficult trying to teach you this game, but I’m not giving up on you. You will learn this game when I’m done with you.
Now, once again…. show me where Schwarber was pinch hit for 57 times last year. I just don’t see it anywhere.
petrie000
Trying to tell someone that the stats they’re using, that are actually good because they’re comparative, should be discarded in favor of stupid ones is not educating them, it’s dumbing them down.
The argument you doggedly cling to is his range must be good because he’s second in total putouts… Then you finally acknowledge that he had the 4th worst uzr range rating in the American league… that’s basically proving yourself wrong and acting arrogant about it… And the really laughable thing is that was your REVISED argument, the one you came up with to try and save face…
Now your clinging to a non-stat about Schwarber you’ve made no effort to explain as to why is meaningful, and again acting arrogant about it…
Your arguments are frankly idiotic, so there’s nothing to be learned from you beyond how not to be taken seriously
Melchez
Come on now… do you really want to look stupid again? We discussed this in the other thread. You got your but handed to you. Don’t ask for it again.
I believe you said Schwarber was pinch hit for 57 times in 2018… any evidence to back that up? Any?
petrie000
You declaring yourself the winner as a clumsy attempt to mask your inability to come up with a counter argument is making you a bad internet trope.
Wanna try again, and not look stupid this time?
Melchez
Schwarber…. 57 times he was pinch hit for…. still waiting.
petrie000
You’re the one who brought up Schwarber being pulled from a game 57 times as a measure of defense. It’s on you to explain why that’s not moronic, because it’s your argument.
If you can’t/won’t. You lose.
Melchez
He was replaced for defensive reasons. You claimed he was one of the best defensive LFers in the game. I thought it odd they would replace “one of the best defensive LFers in the game” for defensive reasons. If he’s one of the best defensive LFers in the game, why would they put Zobrist and Happ out there late in the game when the games are close?
Please explain.
petrie000
Can you prove every time was for purely defensive reasons? He plays in for a National League team, there’s a lot of other reasons one may make a lineup change.
And again, this is your argument, the burden of proof is on you
And you have to prove it.your opinion on the matter doesn’t count
Melchez
Can you prove he was pinch hit for… that was your claim. I gave you the site for where I got my information….
Baseball Reference…. Games…. 2018….
Please…. try to support something you say.
petrie000
Not my responsibility to prove anything. This is your assertion, if you don’t have enough Information to support it, that’s a failing of your argument.
So, again, can you prove he was always pulled for defensive reasons?
Melchez
So, once again, you are talking out your but. Should have known.
Baseball reference has him listed as getting pulled from the game in the 7th, 8th, or 9th inning 57 times and not for a pinch hitter. It was for defensive reasons.
Baseball reference…. games…. 2018…. right there.
baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=schwaky0…
petrie000
Can you prove it was for purely defensive reasons?
Simple question. if your going to make the assertion, you must already have the answer, right?
Baseball reference gives no reason for the decision.
Melchez
LOL…. so you admit it wasn’t for a pinch hitter? Because the player that took his place wasn’t listed as a “PH”. Maybe Schwarber was hurt 57 times last year? Maybe, is that your next claim?
You are too funny.
petrie000
You’re doing that thing again where you try and substitute bluster and attack for a straight answer. You should know by now I see right through it.
You either have proof or your argument goes out the window. So try again.
Can you prove Schwarber was always pulled for purely defensive reasons? That’s your argument, defend it.
Melchez
I proved my point… you were wrong once again. Maddon does not consider Schwarber one of the best defensive LFers in the game because Maddon consistently replaces Schwarber late in close games. And it’s not for a pinch hitter.
57times. Read it and weep. LOL
petrie000
No, you didn’t, you refused to prove it. I asked you to prove the reasons for the roster move, which you are insisting is purely because of his defense… And you repeated the raw number, no attempt at a reason
Leaving me to decide which is a more credible metric, DRS, or the half formed theory of some idiot on the internet… I wonder which one carries more weight…
Learn baseball, Skippy, before you think you can teach it
Melchez
Certainly wasn’t pinch hit for LOL… am I right. Man, that was an ignorant statement you made… Sheesh you are dumb.
OK, this is getting old. I would love to stay up and beat you up some more, but I’m headed to bed. Have a great night. Maybe you learned something about baseball tonight… I hope so. I will teach you some more later on.
BTW, watch some baseball, you might learn something… LOL
petrie000
I’m sure you’ll try a third time to prove to the world you’re not some ignorant twit, and fail utterly.
But hey, you think you won, that’ll impress all the ladies, right?
chesteraarthur
You didn’t prove anything. You tried to use him being pulled as a knock on his defense and you provided nothing to support that defense was the reason for being replaced.
He is bad against lhp, this was the reason for at least some of those replacements.
You found something that you thought kinda supported your argument, you then posted your interpretation of that stat, as support for your argument, as if your interpretation was fact, without considering all facets of it… Then resorted to ad hominems when that was called out.
agrorolm
Sorry to mention it but as Schwarber is one of my Cubs’ favorite, he was taken off for a pinch runner in some games. Not for only defensive purposes only was he lifted, and that move may have cost a couple of games to the Cubs when oppositive teams tied the game at the last innings and Maddon only had pitchers to pinch hit from his bench. I’m a MLB.TV subscriber and I watched most of Cubs games since 2015 there. I am not argummenting against any of you, guys. Only adding a point.
tv 2
get off your computer and watch the guy play he’s absolutely terrible and he can’t hit for nothing
tv 2
Bill James often complained that defensive stats were not very good and he is Brandon Phillips as an example several times to prove this point
tv 2
open your eyes that I can’t hit and cant field. even Bill James admits defensive stats aren’t that good
tv 2
he’s not even as good as Adam Dunn
tv 2
the guy has zero trig value people are delusional
tv 2
do you feel better
cards81
Petrie000…sorry bud but you just look pathetic in this argument…the guy proved you wrong multiple times and also added good insight you chose to ignore…then you do nothing but insult the guy for no reason…well other than you where losing the argument.
When the debate is lost, slander becomes the tool of the loser.
Socrates
petrie000
When did he prove his argument? Or, more accurately, which of the three times he masked his inability to make an argument by trying to twist the burden of proof to me wasn’t a failure to prove his argument?
If you’re falling for any of his deflection and bluster, don’t be sorry for me, be silent and leave this to the adults.
cards81
Lol there you go…I don’t argue with people like you…sorry…i read the argument and you looked pathetic through it all bud…have a good day
petrie000
Hey, if you want to actually try and summarize his argument in any coherent way, be my guest. I seriously doubt you can
I can already tell you’re about the same intellectual level as he is. You form an opinion you like to hear, state it as fact, then hide behind a thin veneer of arrogance when you have to actually justify that opinion
So yeah, more idiotic white noise…
cards81
Lol
seth3120
Petrie that was seriously pathetic
ChiSoxCity
Not sure why Cubs fans think Schwarber, Happ and Almora can’t get traded. If anything, not trading one or two of these guys has cost them opportunities to significantly improve the roster. With a depleted farm system, they’ll have to deal from the big league roster before their window closes.
justacubsfan
Almora and Happ yes, they have legit amounts of control. Schwarber has more value to cubs than to other teams atm imo. I think the guys the cubs can move are David Bote, Almora, Happ. Those all have more control and are valued higher within other organizations likely than the cubs utility infielder, utility outfielder and super sub.
tv 2
because he has 0 value to most teams
megaj
More than a dozen teams have approached the Cubs the last two seasons wanting to make a deal for Schwarber. He was a solid defender in left last year and steadily getting better. Even in a “disappointing” season he had a .356 OBP and .823 OPS. EVERY TEAM wants that.
ThatBallwasBryzzoed
Almora should not be traded. He needs to start 150games. I hate that Maddon never gave him a real chance. The excuse was “he cant hit lefties” hes never gonna improve if hes never in the lineup with a left on the mound. He made 5 tops plays of the season in one series vs the Rockies. Trading him would be like Jim Hendry trading DJ Lemehieu for Ian Stewart all over again. A huge mistake.
megaj
Almora is not that great and does not have the ceiling of Happ or Schwarber. He chokes in big situations and chases the slider almost as much as Baez.
bobtillman
Shin Soo Chu is a member of the Reds OF? Did anyone tell him? He keeps showing up in Arlington……
Ty Bradley
“that the club has been successful with an aging Shin-Soo Choo manning the position for much of *a* season”
dwight 2
It says “a season”. He played 150 games of CF for the reds 2013.
bobtillman
….gotcha….
ericl
That part of the article wasn’t written well at all. It is easy to get confused by that part. I had to read it a few times. All the confusion could’ve been avoided if they would’ve added in the past or in 2013 to the end of that sentence
Melchez
I was confused by that sentence also… I had to look it up and Choo did play one season in center… like 5 years ago.
bobtillman
Glad to see it wasn’t just me…..thought it might be the water I was drinking…..or the Dewars I had mixed with said water……..
tv 2
a season
wrigleywannabe
Chateood could be moved, with Happ included, maybe.
It would have to be a simple salary dump deal. There wouldn’t be much coming back.
He’s got two years left.
ChiSoxCity
Cubs might as well waive Chatwood.
shortytallz
The Pirates are embarrassingly meh.
realgone2
Lotsa luck to the cubs trying to jettison Heyward
grizzled sports vet
The Pirates would take Heyward if the Cubs would eat $118M of the $118.5M left on his contract, although the Bucs may ask for more. Lol.
army123456
Are you kidding? The pirates are trying to trade cervelli with 11 million contract. They won’t take heyward.
realgone2
He was joking.
andyb
That would be a start on the payback for the pirates giving aramis Ramirez to the cubs
stymeedone
I’m expecting Iglesias to end up in either Pittsburgh or Milwaukee. He won’t require a lot, and probably a two year contract.
ekrog
Julio Iglesias?
Saint Chris
No, Enrique. He can bring Anna Kournikova along to play 2b.
Melchez
OMG…. I would Designated Hit That…..
Anna, not Enrique…
jvent
The brewers are looking for a 2b and a sp. as a Mets fan we need a speedy cf and a sp so let’s swap Gimenez and Wheeler for Corey Ray and Burnes. Mets haven’t had a speedy cf since Mookie/Dykstra era
forstyle
don’t see the brewers parting with 2 of their top young assents for a redundant, lesser prospect than Huira and a SP with injury history and a history of up and down years.
why would they move Burnes for a different pitcher who has less control and might have a similar stat line.?
Aaron Sapoznik
Corey Ray hasn’t exactly been setting the world on fire as the overall #5 pick in the 2016 June Draft. This is especially troublesome since he was a highly regarded college player coming out of the University of Louisville. By the time he’s worthy of an MLB promotion Jacob deGrom will probably be a free agent and maybe Noah Syndergaard as well.
Last I checked Juan Lagares is a speedy CF who plays elite defense as well. Ray has been producing Lagares like numbers in the Brewers minor league system. I don’t believe the Mets want to wait too long for their next impacting starter in CF
mikeyst13
Ray strikes out too much, But he did slash .239/.323/.477 with 27 HRs and 37 SB in Biloxi last year and the Southern League is not exactly known as a hitters league. Plate discipline needs to improve, but that speed/power combo while playing a solid CF still has quite a bit of trade value at only 24.
mateodh
Idk why but Joc Pederson seems to be undervalued and I hope the Cardinals make a play for him.
Lanidrac
Why would the Dodgers give him up? Besides, he has very limited experience in RF, which is where a big OF addition for the Cardinals would need to play.
Aaron Sapoznik
Perhaps the Dodgers would consider moving Pederson because they already have enough left-handed hitting players in their lineup and outfield. It would seem they might need to shed one or two more in order to even justify adding yet another in FA Bryce Harper, no?
mateodh
Personally, I think he’s one of the top 30 outfielders in baseball, so I’m not trying to answer *why* they would give him up, it has just been reported they are willing to deal him and the return isn’t expected to be that much.
Lanidrac
He’s still not a right fielder.
Saint Chris
I believe the Reds will look to employ Puig in centerfield. He’s a plus right fielder, and I’m guessing they hope he will be around average in center. He has a chance to hit 40hr in Great American Ballpark, too, so that should help. The Reds have Schebler, Winker, Kemp, Puig, and possibly Senzel vying for outfield playing time. Signing a true CF, like, say, AJ Pollock, doesn’t make sense for them, especially with Trammel on the way. Puig, as part of a package for Kluber, however, could change that.
ksoze
I think you have to start Puig in center, and Winker and Kemp need to man the corners. Schebler is a perfect 4th, he can play all 3 positions, and is a left handed bat with power off of the bench.
willymayshayse
Schebler or Irvin will be your center fielder. Whoever remains from whatever trade they worked out for a relief pitcher. Because of his age and medical history Kemp is your fourth outfielder. Puig and Winker are your starting corners. Senzel is either moved (cluber deal on the table,not likely) or starts the year in AAA so as to not start his clock. The new acquisitions further support that notion as there is currently no infield opening for him. The only available spot was the Outfield. This trade effectively pushed his clock back a year. Dallas will likely sign with Cincy. This team will surprise! Methinks 2nd WC is not out of the question.
tv 2
William said two days ago since I would probably be deployed as a utility player who played almost every day
tv 2
William said two days ago nick would probably be deployed as a utility player who played almost every day
willymayshayse
Well then……I stand corrected, good sir!
tv 2
it would be absolutely foolish to keep schebler as a fourth outfielder. he’s going to hit 20 to 30 every year and isn’t easy everyday outfielder.. You could argue maybe not on the contender but he’s definitely valuable. although I think he has a ton of value to the Reds
Melchez
I think Puig would do a decent job in center for the Reds. I think Kemp might be a DFA possibility… just not too sure about his future with the Reds. He’ll probably start the year on the roster. By the all star break, if he has no value and the team is in trouble… DFA time.
tv 2
no way they DFA a guy who can play a really good fourth Outfield position even if he’s just a corner outfielder
RedRooster
Inb4 the Reds are at least 15 games out at the deadline, hold onto Gennett, Puig and Roark because “We should be looking to extend them, not trade them!” And then next offseason they all sign elsewhere.
Hanawi
I wouldn’t be surprised if they did extend either Wood or Puig. Think they’ve moved on from extending Scooter. Roark is just fodder for this year to try to raise their starters up to at least competence.
Payne Train
I’d like the cards to sign/trade for another top bullpen Arm … on a side note, I’d like them to also try and trade for a top left handed hitting OF prospect . One to be Mlb ready in a year or two.
cards81
Why they have Gorman a top hitting lefty infield prospect?
Payne Train
One top lefty prospect – cards won’t sign a FA . So why wouldn’t you want another lefty coming through when Carp’s Contract will be out soon, Wong can’t hit, and ……. well, that’s all the left handers lol – that’s why
Oh wait, there’s Fowler – just to make my point
Lanidrac
Wong hits well enough to make up for his lack of power with his defense.
Why wouldn’t the Cards just sign a lefty hitting free agent next offseason and/or the year after? They do go after significant free agents when it’s necessary.
daved
Gorman is 18 years old. When do you expect him in STL?
socraticgadfly
Personally, I wanted the Cards to consider Brantley. I still want them to look at Martinez plus Gyorko being part of a trade for pitching with Cleveland (ior another AL team). socraticgadfly.blogspot.com/2018/12/two-possible-c…
cards81
I agree but I actually think they it will take Reyes, Martinez and maybe Gyrko..get an ace
socraticgadfly
Agreed on being willing to add other pieces besides Martinez and/or Gyorko. And, I’m willing to gamble on letting Reyes go.
rondon
An ace? Talk about over valuing players. Good lord.
cards81
Kluber is an ace…I don’t think that’s overvalue…Bauer is ace material and younger…I think you add either one to the cardinals rotation and it the best in the division
Lanidrac
Their rotation is already the best in the division with plenty of qualified candidates for the 5th spot. Making a trade like this is complete overkill and not worth giving up a top prospect like Reyes.
hockeyjohn
Cleveland would not want Gyorko and his 13 mil contract. Cleveland needs outfielders and Jose Martinez is not a good outfielder. Latest word is that Cleveland not likely to trade unless bowled over by an offer.
daved
Padres paying $5M of it this year. $13M in 2020 is a club option with $1M buyout. But he sucks anyway and isn’t worth $3M in my opinion.
army123456
The pirates will be cellar dwellers this year. They do not want to spend money. Don’t expect great things. They lack out field depth and a strong shortstop that can hit. I am a disappointed pirates fan.
xabial
PIT seem more “middle of the pack” than cellar dweller
80-90W… “cellar dweller” is more like O’s, Marlins…
Lanidrac
Maybe in a different division, but the Buccos are clearly inferior to the 3 Big Dogs, and even the Reds look better than them right now. As it currently stands, the Pirates aren’t even close to being an 80 win team.
jtkuch
They were an 82 win team last year and only lost 2 below average starters and their #5 starter. Assuming they get a SS and another starter they should be fine. And if a few things work out, like Bell having a breakout and Archer pitching to his talent, they could be dangerous.
petrie000
Seems to be the Pirates every off season. Either they get lucky and everything works out… Or it doesn’t and they’re forgotten by the all-star break
daved
I didn’t know a team that has missed the playoffs 3 straight years was considered a “big dog?” Cards fans always think they are 1 year removed from their last WS title when it’s been 7 years now. But they did win 8 prior to 1982, so that still matters in 2018.
cards81
Lol Daved They have barely missed the playoffs all three years and always made a run…battleimg till the end…what the cubs finally become relevant after 108 years and they should be considered a big dog? I don’t think you will find an educated baseball guy and they would say that the Cardinals aren’t a big dog in the Central or the NL for that matter
daved
Cards81, LOL is on you. Missing the playoffs is missing the playoffs. It’s that simple, unless you’re a Cards fan who comes up with every excuse in the book to justify it. And yes, the Cubs are a big dog right now. Nobody cares about 108 years ago. Cards made a run? 12-15 in September and finished 7.5 games back of the division. 9 games back in 2017 and 17.5 games back in 2016. Don’t tell me about the wild card. They haven’t sniffed the division title in 3 years. But the big dog has sniffed the azzes of other teams ahead of them.
Lanidrac
Adding Goldschmidt and Miller to an 88-win team certainly does qualify as one of the Big Dogs of the division.
As for the Pirates, they’ll drop significantly from their 82-win mark due to the unbalanced schedule and the rest of the division either getting significantly better (Cardinals, Reds), likely to do so before the offseason’s over (Brewers), or likely to have multiple players rebound significantly (Cubs).
some guy 2
Phillies seem tired of Odubel Herrera… perhaps he may interest the Reds? Maybe for someone like Amir Garrett?
realgone2
What are the Reds doing?
Saint Chris
The Reds need an ace to compete in the NL Central. Perhaps Castillo is that guy or possibly Alex Wood, but Corey Kluber, I believe, would put them over the top.
BrandonGregory74
I’d take Bauer over Kluber. It would cost less trade-wise and he only wants 1 year deals so if he tanks you aren’t on the hook.
tv 2
Milwaukee didn’t have an ace or anything close to it
Hanawi
Mostly trying to increase excitement in the fan base. I expect them to be better in 2019 and then they will have a ton of money coming off the books and can be more active next offseason when their young players are closer.
ksoze
It’s really not hard to figure out. They are looking to improve in 19, without sacrificing the future. So far they have made low to no risk moves. They may end up surprising us with a big move on a guy like Kluber, or Keuchel, but more than likely they’ll sign a guy like Wade Miley on a 1 year deal.
tv 2
exactly these prospects they gave up where absolutely nothing. if they can get some people into the stadium this year they’ll have even more money to spend. they used dead $ to improve the team. its was brilliant. the simple fact is if the reds don’t get some homegrown talent to work out on the pitching side they’re never going to compete anyways.
Aaron Sapoznik
It’s ludicrous to suggest that the Cubs would deal Ian Happ and Kyle Schwarber this offseason to acquire “prospect capital” for a potential midsummer trade. If one or both are dealt it will be to improve their active roster for the 2019 season. Either may also be included in a potential Jason Heyward trade as an incentive for any prospective club willing to take on a significant portion of his remaining contract in order to facilitate the signing of FA Bryce Harper.
Saint Chris
The Reds need an ace to compete in the NL Central. Perhaps Castillo is that guy or possibly Alex Wood, but Corey Kluber, I believe, would put them over the top.
vamosrojos
Did I miss something? The Reds first and foremost need to add an impact starting pitcher to the fold.
Also, relief help is definitely preferred over bench help. The first three players off the bench are Senzel/Scooter, Puig/Kemp and Lorenzen as a PH. Thats pretty strong.
willymayshayse
The already got relief help with Roark. Bailey threw 103 innings last season. Roark is an 180 inning guy.Barring injury you just took a full mans workload off of the bullpen. They won’t be nearly as taxed and overexposed and thus more effective.
Saint Chris
Anyone else think the Brewers are overrated? No top pitching and no middle infield. They took advantage of a weakened division last year, but I don’t see them competing with the Cards or Cubs, but fighting the Pirates for 4th place.
1 Cards
2 Cubs
3 Reds
4 Brewers
5 Pirates
daveineg
Apparently you aren’t watching the Brewers. They had two players in the top 5 in the NL MVP voting and that’s not counting their corner IF who combined for 67 HR and 194 HR. By the way Arcia had a poor year but in 2017 he hit .277/.324/.407 and over the last month and playoffs he was on fire, He might be the most talented player on their roster, and soon his numbers will show it.
As to the no top pitchers, have you ever heard of Josh Hader, Corey Knebel and Jeremy Jeffress who formed the best bullpen trio in the game? and you might want to take a closer look at Jhoulys Chacin who had a 1.59 ERA vs, the Cubs in 5 starts.
Saint Chris
Brewers had one player in in the top 5 of MVP voting, not 2. Lorenzo Cain was 7th. A dynamic bullpen is an on obvious necessity when lacking a true number one (or number two, or number three) starting pitcher.
daved
How many Cards players finished top 7 in MVP? Who is their ACE? I hope you enjoy your 1 and only year of Goldschmidt and last year of Ozuna. But hey, Drew Robinson and the best pinch hitter in the league, Martinez, should carry them far.
daved
How many Cardinals finished top 7 in MVP in 2018?
socraticgadfly
Goldy as a D-back last year. Same as the number of current Cubs. Bye, troll.
rondon
Was he talking about the Cubs? Wow, sensitive Card fans…
daved
Hey dummy, he wasn’t a Cardinal in 2018, you troll.
cards81
Daved come on now…you should be the last person on here calling someone a troll
Saint Chris
Who’s the Card’s face? Pick one: Michael Wacha, Carlos Martinez, Miles Mikolas, Jack Flaherty, Jon Gant.
There’s not a Brewer’s pitcher that could make the starting 5 on the Cards.
daved
None of those guys are ACES. No Brewers starting pitchers could play golf in October with those 5 Cards starters either. I find it absolutely comical that you are on here bashing a team of pitchers who made the NLCS when the Cards haven’t been to the playoffs in 3 years. It’s best to keep quiet and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.
Lanidrac
Martinez and Mikolas are BOTH qualified aces and well above anyone the Brewers have.
Lanidrac
It only matters that Goldschmidt will be a Cardinal in 2019.
daveineg
What 3 guys is this author talking about in the Brewer rotation as 3 number 5 starters?
Jhoulys Chacin? He was 15-8 with a 3.50 ERA in 2018 and 13-10 with a 3.89 ERA in 2017?
Chase Anderson? He’s 21-12 over the past 2 seasons with a combined ERA under 3.50
Zach Davies? Yes he’s coming off an injury plagued year where he was just 2-7, but in 2017 he was 17-9
So let me get this straight. The 3 guys he’s referring to as all #5 starters are a combined 68-46 over the past two seasons. On what planet is this guy living?
mlb1225
The planet where a pitcher’s W/L record isn’t weighed.
daveineg
Chacin’s ERA was 3.50 in 2018 and 3.98 in 2017
Anderson’s ERA was 3.93 in 18 and 2.74 in 2017
Davies’ career ERA is a respectable 4.03
I’m not even mentioning the rookies, Peralta, Woodruff and Burnes who were lights out in the postseason.
mlb1225
Fair enough, but Anderson, Davies, and Chacin don’t exactly shout TOR starters.
petrie000
4.03 era is only really respectable for a bottom of the order pitcher…
socraticgadfly
No, not TOR, but they’re not all No. 5 starters, either. That was too harsh.
Ty Bradley
Steamer projects the trio for a combined 3.0 WAR in 2019. Those are #5 starters.
Vanilla Good
I could see you thinking Chacin is a #5 if you paid zero attention to the Brewers last year. I’m surprised an author on this site could know so little. Chacin is no ace, but he’s a solid #3. Add in Burnes and Woodruff (if they decide to keep them in the rotation, where they’ve been for their entire careers), and you have a pretty solid top 3. Freddy Peralta has shown he can get guys out. There’s 4. Then you have Nelson, Anderson, and Davies (in order of my personal preference) fighting for the 5th spot. Throw the last 2 into the pen, along with Guerra and you have 8 starters on a team, along with one if the best bullpens in baseball, piecing together 27 outs per day. The Brewer’s pitching staff is a STRENGTH just like it has been the last two years. This was not a fluke 96-win season. I’d start taking them seriously if for some insane reason you still haven’t.
Saint Chris
You can call the starting pitching a strength all you want, but you know there’s not a single pitcher on the Brewers that could crack the starting rotation for the Cards or Cubs.
Brewers were a fluke.
daved
The Brewers starters also lost out to the Cards starters on the 1st tee at the golf course in October. I heard Mikolas got in 20 rounds before Chacin even got to the course. In golf, the Cards won with a score of 88 to 96. However, this is baseball, and 96 is better than 88.
daved
What does Turd Burglar project?
JFactor
Their FIP suggests they are number 5’s, and their tight rope walking numbers for run prevention isn’t sustainable
daved
Yay! FIP, tight ropes and not sustainable. What were the Cards excuses?
mlb1225
Pirates should go out and get Clay Buchholz. Nice fit to round out the rotation, and a decent stop-gap for Mitch Keller.
jtkuch
I’d rather they get a lefty to fill out an otherwise all-righty rotation, but at this point I’d take anything substantial over the current options they plan to throw out there.
titanic struggle
You’re high Ty…the Reds aren’t that far away for one reason. They’ve filled two rotation slots and are likely to add a third which opens up an opportunity for several good young arms which started last season to move to the pen, which will already hold Lorenzen,Hughes and Iglesias…don’t sell their pen short, that actually where they are building but few seem to realize their direction…
xabial
I’m with Ty… Not drinking the “Red Kool-Aid” 😉
67-95 record worse than either of the previous 2 seasons
ksoze
A new Manager, a new Pitching Coach, a new Hitting Coach. 2 veteran arms with playoff experience added to the Rotation. 2 Right handed power bats added to even up the batting order. That is what they have done so far. Dicky W says more moves are yet to come. I’d say get ready for some of that delicious surgery drink.
They have done enough to make themselves competitive, another move or two could make them legit.
Dbird777
We’re at least trying to make the cellar more respectable for our Central bros.
Lanidrac
Lefties like Smith and Watson were only connected to the Cardinals before they signed Miller. Now that they have Miller, if there’s another major bullpen addition, he will probably be right handed, as they still need to see if either Cecil or Shreve can bounce back from the left side.
Bubba 5
He is right you aren’t winning with those starters for the Brewers. Every window is short and if the Brewers think they have time to groom starters they are wrong. Windows close fast. Spend now and make a run.
daveineg
Guys like you said the same thing before last season and before 2017 too.
Lanidrac
In 2017, they had a healthy Jimmy Nelson on top of their rotation.
I don’t know how they pulled if off with such a middling group of starters last year, but it’s not likely to be repeatable, while Nelson himself is much more of a question mark.
mikeyst13
Part of the reason they pulled it off is being one of the best defensive teams in baseball. #2 in DRS with almost 60 more runs saved than the #3 team. Defense and that bullpen can cover up a lot of the issues with the rotation. Woodruff, Burnes, and Peralta all have #2 upside, but they need to hit on 2 of them this season and still add a true ace.
daved
No way! Defense matters in baseball? Who knew?
jtkuch
The Pirates DO need to add to the rotation, but indications are that they’re content letting a bunch of guys who haven’t proven themselves compete for it, and even considering an opener if that doesn’t work. All when they had Nova who could suitably eat innings as a #5, but was apparently unaffordable at $9M. I try not to be one of those annoying fans who always point to the cheapness of management, but this is a pretty blatant offense (especially after 2016) and I hope I’m proven wrong.
panj341
Honesty is annoying? I can’t speak for everyone but would sure wish that Nutting would prove me wrong.
jtkuch
There is truth to the sentiment, but it gets ridiculous when people point to that when the Pirates do literally anything, even small minor league signings.
justacubsfan
With the emergence of Javy, I think they should go all in on the big Left-hitting Harper. Great lineup and solid L R options. Rizzo, Bryant, Harper, Baez would be arguably best 4 hitting teammates in the game.
Lanidrac
Sure, but with what money? Even if they take a financial loss for 2019, Hamels and Zobrist are the only contracts likely coming off the books next offseason, while most of their big money deals are years away from completion. Meanwhile, guys like Bryant are only going to become more and more expensive through arbitration or early career extensions..
petrie000
The money that’s coming from their new tv deal in 2020?
The Cubs are a fantastically wealth franchise. That’s just a fact.
stan lee the manly
It’s not just about the amount of money available. They will have to deal with their big four (rizzo, Bryant, Contreras, and Baez) all scoring huge deals in free agency as well as thin pitching depth all around the same time. Signing Harper now has huge implications on which of the four they are letting walk and any supplemental pitching they can bring in. The luxury tax, and more importantly draft pick tax, set a ceiling on every team, they can’t just sign everyone and say the consequences don’t matter.
jonsteele
Exactly, every team operates within a budget. I don’t think the Cubs are “broke” in the sense of what we think is broke. But they are gonna have to pay a lot of people a lot of money to keep their core intact. I think they recognize that the bills are gonna be coming and are saving accordingly, especially after the gambles that didn’t pay out from last season.
stan lee the manly
That’s exactly right. I don’t think the majority of fans see this at all, but budgeting will always be what allows clubs to contend more often than not.
megaj
To be honest, with the emergence of Amaya in the minors, I don’t think Contreras will be offered a long term contract with the Cubs unless his framing greatly improves. I think the big 4 are Rizzo, Baez, Bryant, and Schwarber.
JFactor
Career wRC+
Bryant – 140
Harper – 140
Rizzo – 131
Baez – 103
Avg – 128.5
Goldie – 144
Carpenter – 132
Martinez – 130
Ozuna – 113
Avg – 129.8
It can be debated, but even adding Harper, I dunno if they are the best in their own division, much less the league.
The talent is there for sure. But pretty much every one in here has flaws as a hitter but maybe Goldie
megaj
Did you conveniently leave out Schwarber and Contreras knowing that would skew your stat? IF you are going to list the core of each team, at least do it right
sjwil1
How does Heyward have $118.5m left on his contract? I see $106m remaining.
sjwil1
still see $106m left
troll
cardinals need an ace.
Zachary Hines
No they don’t. They need a LH bat…..If we don’t trade JMart it would be J Gryko
troll
left right doesn’t matter if they can hit.
JFactor
They have an ace, and they have rotation depth.
They need to have a league average bullpen, if they have that, they might win the division.
daved
Who is the Cards Ace?
stan lee the manly
I disagree with the idea that the Cardinals have to trade Jose Martinez. I don’t think they should at all unless they can get an attractive return, what’s the worst that can happen? They hold on to a .300 hitter who hits righties as well as any lefty for their bench making almost nothing? A spot start or two a week and a VERY potent late-inning weapon at the plate would be huge for close games, especially with a competent manager at the helm.
If you are desperate for a lefty bat, put Jose in the lineup.
Melchez
I agree. Keep Jose Martinez and let him fill in at first and left and right. Heck, he’s a better option than Fowler. Let Fowler be the 4th OFer.
He’s cheap and he’s very good. You have him for 4 more years. Keep him.
birdsonbat
Trade him. O’Neill should get chance to start, but it will be fowler and hopefully O’Neill 4th OF. Next year O’Neill is starting LF presumably after Ozuna hits FA. Yes jose can hit but in 300 less plate appearances, O’Neill was .1 war less than jose. Defense counts.
Moneyballer
I wouldn’t describe him as very good. Keeping him takes at-bats away from guys who need regular AB’s. Are you really wanting that?
stan lee the manly
I am absolutely ok with that. Right now, Jose is a much better hitter than both O’neill and Fowler, no matter how much Fowler rebounds. Especially against right-handed pitching. Next year should be the focus right now
Moneyballer
The willingness to part with him should be indicative that the birds FO does not believe he can replicate his 2018 season. He was very streaky last season and his stat line benefited from a torrid hot streak where his batted over ..500 for an extended period of time. That is tough to repeat. He’s probably more of a .270 guy disguised as a .300 hitter. Be cautious here.
JFactor
I’d project him to hit .285/.350/.465 or so
That’s solid, even if it’s regressed overall from his career so far.
daved
Amazing how “your” projections for Martinez are almost identical to what Baseball Reference projects.
daved
Martinez has been regressing over his short career. 1.000 small sample OPS in 2016. 897 OPS in 2017. 821 OPS in 2018.
JFactor
And he is insurance in case Ozuna or Goldie walk or Fowler/O’Neill don’t rebound/regress
In addition, for a team that hopes for a WS spot, he’d be an awesome DH for those games if they can get there
johnnyringofwc
It’s not entirely impossible they don’t already have a suitor for JHey plus other pieces, but it might depend on Harper’s final ultimate price and other mechanizations.
troll
take out the trash, dump martinez
daved
Don’t the Cards need to hire a GM? It’s been a while since they’ve had one.
L. Womack
Not as long as the period of time it took the cubs to win a World Series
Moneyballer
Surprised by the lack of moves by the Chicago Cubs. I see a very incomplete team right now that is still within a contention window. Theo and the gang need to start getting creative.
Gwynning's Anal Lover
Trevor Williams is the Pirates answer to Bryce Harper.
Google both names together and you’ll get a laugh on what Trevor did the other night at a restaurant.
slasher016
Reds should trade Schebler + A level lottery ticket to the Blue Jays for Pillar.
Reds get: 2 years of a very good defensive centerfielder + a league average bat (plus added payroll)
Blue Jays get: 4 years of a power hitting RF/LF who is still pre-abritration + said lottery ticket prospect and they also get cost savings to build for the future.
tiredolddude
So you are basically saying the Pirates, who already had short and the 5th starter spots filled with capable vets who were biding time while prospects matured but cut them and their relatively affordable contracts, must now go out and find even cheaper variations And they were essentially a .500 team last year
Thanks. Everyone else in the division is trying to contend, but the Pirates will tell fans that they’re looking to do the same with cast offs from other organizations.
Guess they’ll be cutting broadcasters and PR staff soon, too
Who believes this nonsense?
tv 2
no one wants Schwarber. he is terrible. can play the field and cant hit a beach ball.
Android Dawesome
This narrative is getting old… and is quite frankly lazy. Most statistics show that Schwarber is at least average at both defense and offense. Is he worth what it would probably take to make a trade? Probably not. Is his value more in potential than in results? Probably. You don’t need to exaggerate to make a point.
megaj
More than a dozen teams have approached the Cubs the last two seasons wanting to make a deal for Schwarber. He was a solid defender in left last year and steadily getting better. Even in a “disappointing” season he had a .356 OBP and .823 OPS. EVERY TEAM wants that.
JFactor
Maybe I’m in the minority, but I don’t want to see the Cards trade away Jose or Jedd.
I think their depth is important, and protects the organization when injuries arise and we’ll want both over a 162 game season, and if we can reach the World Series, then it would be awesome to have a 130 wRC+ bar to use as a DH and high leverage PH.
I don’t think either has really any value in a trade, but both provide a lot of value in terms of depth for a potentially contending team.
Now, if they can get a top end bat added to the roster, then dealing them makes a lot more sense, because you are then sliding other players to the bench, for example, if they signed Harper, they’d need to shed some payroll (like Jedd) and would simply move guys like Fowler and O’Neill to those depth roles.
I dunno, maybe I’m in the minority, but I don’t want to see either one moved, but I’d prefer they move Jedd before Jose, because we have Munoz who can do what Jedd can do
joepanikatthedisco
The Crew need Tulowitzki. Good defensive 2B and emergency SS, cheap, and with offensive upside.
Bill N
This article is good evidence that writers should stick to what they know and that trying to write about multiple teams with any degree of accuracy is dicey at best. For the Cardinals you need to do more homework but, as usual, you just spout the BS you have read on other scribbler threads.
jasonpen
Who hangs up first?
Giants send Shark and Melancon to the Cubs for Heyward, Happ, Chatwood, and Adzolay, and maybe a small amount of salary relief.
Honest question.
petrie000
Cubs. Happ and Adzolay are too much to pay for marginal salary relief.
jasonpen
Well, 19 and 20 would be a wash. Salaries are nearly identical. But the Cubs would get out of the last 3 years of Heyward and pick up two back end bullpen veterans. Happ is the only legit piece that they have to trade.
You could leave out Adzolay, but I think he’d be needed to get someone to take Heyward.
This creates longterm flexibility to sign Harper. Happ wouldn’t be needed with Zobrist, Harper, Schwarber, Almora, and Bryant all able to play corner OF.
It also gives the Giants two starting OF and a high up side starter. All of which they desperately need. It also may prevent the Dodgers from signing Harper. It’s a huge win win for both teams. I think they’re the perfect trade partner for Heyward.
petrie000
Cubs have enough contracts expiring by 2021 that it still doesn’t make a lot of sense for them. They only reason they’d want a salary dump deal is to make a big move now, so trading away future value for future salary relief they may not even need just doesn’t come out as a net positive for the Cubs
jasonpen
All reports indicate that they want Harper but need to get out of the end of Heyward’s deal. This is the last year they can trade Heyward before 10/5 rights. This accomplishes this. Happ is not too much to give, if they get Harper while strengthening the pen.
petrie000
Well, see, there’s the problem,it doesn’t.
You said yourself the salaries in the short term are a wash, so the Cubs may be freeing a spot for him… But no payroll.
Cubs need to free up a spot for him AND some money, which is where this gets problematic.
jasonpen
I think their hesitation isn’t about this year, but about longterm penalties for the luxury tax. The Cubs are one if the richest teams in baseball, but will soon have to go over the cap to extend their core, which is all nearly the same age and contract length.
petrie000
I think the hesitation is about this year for the same reasons. The penalties for being over the cap get steadily more severe the longer you’re over it, so the Cubs unwillingness to spend freely now is because they now that have to blow past the cap in the very near future.
Danthemilwfan
Ty BRADLEY. Not a fan of the Brewers lol. 3 number five starters and 3 rookies? Yeah but 2 of those 3 rookies look like aces and chacin was much better then a #5. I agree that we could use a top end starter but with Hader and Knebel in the pen it’s not as glaring as you think. Also at Ss Arcia turned it on last year and was one of the best ss in baseball down the stretch and in the playoffs
petrie000
Every rookie looks like an Ace to the home crowd…
daveineg
None of those 3 are even rookies.
Peralta made 14 major league starts in 2018, and allowed just 49 hits in 78 major league innings while fanning 97..
Burnes pitched 38 innings out of the pen in the heat of a race and posted a 2.61 ERA and 1.00 WHIP, fanning 35. In the playoffs he logged 9 innings allowing just 2 runs on 4 hits and fanning 11.
Woodruff has made 12 major league starts and 27 total appearances totaling 85 innings with 79 hits allowed and 79 K’s. Ask the Dodgers if they think Woodruff looks like an Ace? He fanned 17 Dodgers in 9 1/3 innings in the NLCS.
RePete
The Reds were 26-50 against the NL Central last year. If they can get close to .500 there, they will have a winning record against the rest of the league, and be right the mix for a WC.
megaj
Cubs should just save their money for Trout. By then, Lester, Hamels, Strop, Zobrist, Kintzler, Duensing, etc, will all be off the books. Just let Almora play CF and Happ play RF this season and see what happens. They should still look to cut loose both Chatwood and Heyward now though while eating about 1/2 of their salaries. At least that would allow them to get Britton to close which is their biggest need right now given Morrow’s injuries.