And behind door number 3 …
Posted by: Sam Borden - Posted in Misc on Dec 22, 2009 
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The Yankees began this offseason by making a strong trade for an outfielder, Curtis Granderson. Then, last week, they completed a deal for Nick Johnson (that’s still being finalized) which shored up the DH spot left open by Hideki Matsui’s departure. Now it appears that a starting pitcher is the next target.
Who is it? Rumors abound. Word is that this move, whatever it turns out to be (if it does indeed turn out to be something) is substantive. The last source I spoke to about the Yankees earlier today said pitching was clearly the Yankees next priority but didn’t indicate anything was close so it seems that something either a) heated up quickly; or b) was revived from previous discussions.
Aaron Harang would fit the latter since he was someone the Yankees had discussions about in the past, but he’s been ruled out as a possibility in several reports. To me, that makes a deal with Atlanta as an obvious possibility with Derek Lowe being one intriguing option as well as teammate – and former Yankee – Javier Vazquez.
Several sources have said that Braves GM Frank Wren plans to move a starter this winter to free up money, and Lowe was quoted in an MLB.com story just last week saying he has basically resigned himself to the idea that he won’t be in Atlanta to start 2010. “I’m just waiting for it to happen,” Lowe said. “I don’t think it’s a matter of if anymore. It’s just a matter of when.”
For what it’s worth, Vazquez would be the more cost-effective option at this point. Lowe is owed $45 million over the next three years, while Vazquez – whose time in New York was, admittedly, hardly idyllic – is owed $11.5 million next season before becoming a free agent. Given that, one would think he’d cost less, player-wise, in any deal. It’s also worth nothing that Vazquez has a limited no-trade clause in his contract, but it doesn’t include any AL East teams (he can veto deals only to NL West and AL West clubs).
Are the Yankees going to get Lowe or Vazquez? Not necessarily. But it seems more and more likely that we’re going to find out who is behind Door No. 3 for the Yankees sooner rather than later.
UPDATE, 12:25 a.m.: I know that Josh Johnson is a name that has been mentioned and bandied about both tonight and over the past month or so, and it’s interesting to hear that Johnson was apparently very angry about the Marlins reportedly offering a five-year deal to Aroldis Chapman.
That said, Florida has Johnson under control for two more years and has indicated previously that they aren’t interested in dealing him. Back in November, Johnson’s agent, Matt Sosnick, gave this fantastic quote to Fox Sports: “I’d be less surprised if Elijah showed up at my parents’ house this Passover than if they trade (Johnson) before the start of the season.”
(For those not getting the reference, here’s a quick primer.)
just say no to lowe and javvy
I wouldnt mind Javy. But a big time Nay on Lowe.
Could be Bobo Newsom
Check out 6pound8ouncebabyjoba.com’s post on the matter. Ted Lilly would be a really smart fit. Cubs wanted Melky/Gardner. Lilly has one year left on his contract. Cubs would love to free up money. Lilly’s had success in NY. Seems like a perfect fit…
I don’t want either Lowe or Vasquez but if I had to choose one it wouldn’t be Lowe.
They could get Lowe or Harang in 4 minutes. It wouldn’t be substantive so much as it would be stupid.
wow the suspense is killing me. I wonder who its gonna be?!
Josh Johnson would be huge get for NYY but Marlins have insisted they’re not trading him this winter. As we all know, everyone has a price.
2 minutes ago from web
Please let it be Josh Johnson. I was hoping for him earlier this offseason.
Hey, maybe we can give up a failed MLB 25 year old pitcher, Ryan Westmoreland, and Max Ramirez (the prospect of another team)!
And I was looking to catch up on sleep tonight. Now, it’s time to be up for hours waiting…
I’ll take the Amana freezer and luggage set.
It’s not Harang. Having him move Hughes or Joba to the pen would be idiotic, and Cash isn’t that.
Lilly’s a fly ball pitcher. You want that in NYS? He gave up some inoportune homers first time around as it is.
Josh Johnson (Florida) would be pretty awesome…
It’s not Lowe either.
If it’s a trade with Atlanta, it’s Vazquez.
I’ll take Vasquez for a year. Trading Swisher to do so doesn’t save Atlanta that much money, so I think Swisher would be safe. Probably Melky is more likely.
But it may not be with Atlanta…
CWS may look to free some revenue and trade one of their top 2 pitchers. KC is always a possibility, as I’ve posted previously that they are actively shopping for a CF.
Derek Lowe is not an option and he’s not intriguing……He certainly gets a lot of positive attention for a guy coming off a dreadful year in the NL East. NO thanks on JV either.
Unless this is a deal for a good pitcher (and I don’t mean a #4 type), then the Yanks should just go with Joba and Hughes.
“Josh Johnson (Florida) would be pretty awesome…”
So would the cost.
Pass on all those guys. Lowe is on the downside, and we’ve been there done that with Javy Vazquez. I’m hoping for someone like Roy Oswalt.
Its reported as a non-salary dump trade. Lowe and Vazquez don’t fit that profile.
Derek Lowe has no business in the AL anymore. I laugh at the idea that he’s an actual option they’d consider. I don’t think it’s him.
Vazquez? He didn’t take to warmly to being traded the first time by us. I don’t think it’s him either.
Harang? He’s been hurt (still is hurt?). He’s too much of a gamble when we’re looking for a guarantee.
One would think that if they make a trade for a pitcher then it would be for one that is better than what they can get on the free agent market.
Its Joe Blanton of philly
repost:
December 22nd, 2009 at 12:13 am
“To get Boras to move on Holliday or to let Sheets know that the train is leaving the station?”
Yeah. They may have told some free agent that we have a certain amount of money. We’ll give it to you under this deal but you need to make a decision. If you can’t we’ll have to move onto other business. Once we make that next “big” move we’re done.
Just a guess.
It isn’t Lowe,Zambrano, or Harang. That has been made clear in lots of reports. On top of that, Vasquez is only likely to be moved for a bat, presumably a right handed outfielder. The Yanks could conceivably move Nick Swisher, but that’s doubtful. Plus, the Braves would want a bigger impact bat, which the Yanks can’t offer.
If its either of them, I personally don’t view that as substantive, unless you are calling the salary for Lowe substantive.
Seems to me that the “big” term would be more of an impact.
I think any of these talks can heat up really quickly. All it takes is a “how about we include…” and the thing can take a life of its own.
Also, with the holidays coming up, and MLB commissioner closing up shop for the following week, teams might like to use this time to get things done and then relax on the off days.
Oswalt makes a ton of money:
10:$15M, 11:$16M, 12:$16M club option ($2M buyout)
They’d probably have to send salary back.
sorry didn’t see new thread….
miggs – GTLU Reigning Champion
December 22nd, 2009 at 12:07 am
These trade rumors are absolutely fascinating. Usually when the Yankees are going to make a signing or a trade you hear SOME details by now. A name, a team, something.
I got home about an hour ago and started checking my regular websites. Hit MLB Trade Rumors then once I saw the trade tweets immediately came here. I’ve been reading through the comments and there are some really interesting guesses by some posters (and some awful ones as well).
A few points I’d like to make (and a few guesses of my own).
1) I believe this trade will be with a team with a surplus of pitching (Atlanta, SF, Florida) and we will be trading at least one ML bat (just a guess).
2)I feel, like others, that we aren’t giving up Hughes or Joba unless its Josh Johnson, then all bets are off. The only pitchers more valuable than Halladay, Santana, etc. are YOUNGER CHEAPER pitchers on that level like Cain, Lincecum, J Johnson, Felix. I think Johnson is the only one of those 4 that MAY be in play. If not Johnson, Hughes and Joba stay.
I don’t think its going to be for a guy with a huge contract. They already have 3 starters making 12+ million/year. I find it hard to believe they are adding a fourth. This should eliminate Lowe, Zambrano, Harang.
It won’t be from an AL contender. You can eliminate the Sox, Angels, Rays, Mariners (IMO). And what AL team that isn’t a contender has a surplus of pitching? Not any team that I can think of.
So its an NL team with a lot of pitching.
You can eliminate the Phillies and Mets.
So you have the Giants, Braves, Pirates, Marlins, maybe even the Dodgers. You could argue it could be a Padres, Astros, or Brewers also.
My guesses?
1) Jurrgens
2) J Sanchez
3) Webb
Why would Cash leak this to get Sheets to sign quickly?
Would they even want Sheets without knowing what his stuff or medicals look like? He is willing to have a throwing session. Doesn’t it make sense to see how he looks before deciding how much to invest in him?
Unless Sheets is dying to be a Yankee or something, why would he respond to these rumors? Either way, he is only going to a team for 1 yr then going back out on the market next year, so he will have plenty of options if his stuff looks good.
Don’t think this is a leverage move.
It’s not oswalt. Drayton McClane won’t trade him.
This is Cashman’s design.
In consultation with great baseball minds.
And people worry.
Do you have to agree with the SPECIFIC choice, or
Is the overall construction of the Machine more important.
Fear not. It will be built within specifications.
AND it will do it’s job PERFECTLY.
The names of the people have been left out to protect the innocent.
Answers soon.
6Pound,
Lilly is interesting but reports are that he may not be ready until May 1 after shoulder surgery. I’d think that would preclude a deal. Also, Cubs have starting pitcher depth questions of their own.
Abd,
“substantive” is totally a subjective term. In my mind, that means it’s a ‘name’ player in this case as opposed to a filler-type deal (i.e. Mitre, Gaudin-level spring training competitor).
I doubt the braves would trade Jurrjens.
“Its Joe Blanton of philly”
Boy, if Cash trades for a guy like him, or if his ilk, it sure shows how little he thinks of the kids. Unless this guy is a stud, or potential stud (Sheets), we have no business trading for him.
Lowe isn’t any better than what they have and makes a whole lot more money.
CB or anybody with knowledge,
Is Sanchez of the Giants good?
You may not agree with the specific answers BUT it will ALL be GOOD.
At peace in the knowledge,
Nite all.
How ’bout Bonderman from Detroit?
This had to have been a hoax or something. Nothing now for almost 90 minutes. Are they resuming talks in the morning or something or are all parties “sleeping” on the potential deal before making it?
“Why would Cash leak this to get Sheets to sign quickly?”
Because he might have felt comfortable taking a risk on Sheets at say $8M but not $12 and he wants sheets to make a decision now or know they are moving on.
They know what Sheets medicals look like. In general injured pitchers frequently don’t throw for teams before signing. In fact they try to avoid it if at all possible – that is if they think there’s enough demand for them at the price they want. For example, Harden didn’t throw before the Rangers signed him.
It would be his way of letting sheets know there is opportunity cost associated with your desire to continue to wait for $12M.
Sam, I know substantive is subjective, but this is the Yankees that we are talking about.
Mitre/Gaudin deals take even less time than Lowe/Harang trades. I don’t who it is, but I still think it could be misdirection.
If the Phils could have traded Blanton (payroll)…Lee would still be a Phillie.
Bonderman? Ugh no……If the Yankees move Joba or Phil to the pen, it actually has to be for a good pitcher, not bums.
Ian, I can see this falling apart…….either that, or it’s just a very complex trade.
I know, if I were a Red Sox fan, I’d be very nervous right now.
Anyone else getting very tired of MTU’s posts? At first, they were mere speed bumps as I breezed right past them without reading. Now they are just obnoxious and annoying. Please stop.
Unless there is a stud starter that is mysteriously available that we have not heard about (Haren, Webb, Billingsly, Jurjens, etc.), there is really no one that seems available that is better than Hughes/Joba.
If Cash trades for a Vasquez/Blanton/Harang type pitcher, I am going to be ticked. You are better off going with the kids.
Kei Igawa for Ian Kennedy.
Webb is coming off shoulder surgery.. It’s not going to be him
the Millwheel turns grinding on ever exerting pressure, pressure, more pressure until the grain is refined. And suddenly it stops.
if he trades one of melky/swisher expect Damon back
CB,
But how would Cashman know what $$$ figure to give him until he see him throw? What if his stuff looks severely reduced?
Doesn’t it behoove all parties to have a throwing session to see what he looks like now?
The other side is….who is leaving?
You can eliminate A Rod, Jeter, Posada, Tex, CC, AJ, Andy, Granderson and Mo immediately.
Logic dictates (although you never know depending upon the size of the move) that Cano, Hughes, Joba are also safe.
I think Melky, Swisher, or Gardner could be moved. All ML bullpen arms besides Mo could be in play.
Regarding prospects, again logic dictates a catcher would be included since 5 of their top 10 prospects play behind the plate. Just hopefully not Montero. Anyone but Montero.
Another trade piece could be one of the 4 utility infielders included on the 40 man roster in the above thread.
Again, the pieces all depend on the size of the move.
Its gotta be a guy better than Hughes or Joba or a deal makes no sense. Conversely, I find it hard to believe an ace is coming here. Most likely its a middle of the rotation starter, maybe as high as a #2 for certain teams.
Just so interesting to ponder the possibilities.
It is the Braves…
The Braves realized they cannot afford Halladay, so they are shipping him to us and paying $2mil/year of his contract.
HR Javy?
Please, please no!
I think the M’s will trade Lee to Yanks for Joba, Melky, Romine and another prospect… so long as the Yanks get a window to sign Lee.
‘Webb is coming off shoulder surgery.. It’s not going to be him”
Webb was also one of the best in baseball before his surgery and he has a good contract for next year. If its not Webb then I would say its not the Yankees that are holding it up unless the asking price is high.
Miggs-
Or it may be nothing but the sounds of the chirping birds.
“The Braves realized they cannot afford Halladay,”
Halladay isn’t on the Braves. Boy the wackos sure have come out on this one…
Webb’s shoulder was scoped and they cleaned it out but they found no major structural damage or tears. Nothing was reportedly “repaired” so as far as shoulder surery’s go it was as minimal as it gets.
If it was a hoax, then 4 reliable sources would not have reported the same thing (Olney, Rosenthal, Feinsand, Heyman). I doubt all these guys get their info from the same guy. They probably have different variety of sources in the Yankees to get their info.
It may not be a hoax, but it may be something that was purposefully orchestrated by the Yankees to “send a message” to someone, as CB hinted at.
CB, would the Dbacks consider Webb a salary dump or do you think the Yanks would have to give up a lot to get him?
Just FYI, I added this to the original post in response to a few emails:
UPDATE, 12:25 a.m.: I know that Josh Johnson is a name that has been mentioned and bandied about both tonight and over the past month or so, and it’s interesting to hear that Johnson was apparently very angry about the Marlins reportedly offering a five-year deal to Aroldis Chapman.
That said, Florida has Johnson under control for two more years and has indicated previously that they aren’t interested in dealing him. Back in November, Johnson’s agent, Matt Sosnick, gave this fantastic quote to Fox Sports: “I’d be less surprised if Elijah showed up at my parents’ house this Passover than if they trade (Johnson) before the start of the season.”
(For those not getting the reference, here’s a quick primer.)
What about this wacky idea…. Felix Hernandez for cano, montero and Hughes or chamberlain….. Just throwing it out there
So Davidoff, Olney, Fiensand, Rosenthal, and Heyman could not even get a clue of names? With all the sources that they have between the 5 of them?
Something is fishy….
Brian in NJ December 22nd, 2009 at 12:30 am
“The Braves realized they cannot afford Halladay,”
Halladay isn’t on the Braves. Boy the wackos sure have come out on this one…
—
Doh, Phillies, of course.
Thanks for the wacko comment, good to know you can’t have a brain slip on this board…
It was a joke, but apparently that evaded you.
Im thinking Hideki Irabu is on the way
“Something is fishy….”
Yup, as in they all took the bait.
CR9…He threw a no hitter this season…..Besides that He is good with the potential to be even better
“But how would Cashman know what $$$ figure to give him until he see him throw? What if his stuff looks severely reduced?
Doesn’t it behoove all parties to have a throwing session to see what he looks like now?”
Many pitchers are signed without throwing sessions. It really depends on what the demand for the pitcher is, what their injury was, and how much they are asking for.
Sheets only planned on this throwing session because no one met his $12M demand. If someone had then he wouldn’t have bothered.
Rich Harden was hurt yet again in 2009 – but he signed with Texas without having an open throwing sesssion for teams because he put more value in signing quickly. Conversely, Texas may have felt the risk was worth it after review of his medicals given that Harden was willing to sign for $7.5M.
The pitcher that routinely have throwing demonstrations are the ones coming off serious injuries. Sheets has been trying to argue that because he didn’t have full blown TJ his health isn’t that bad and he’ll be ready. Andy had the same surgery and sheets has used andy as a comparison.
This seems like a false alarm.
Either that, or we’re all going to be disappointed and we’re going to end up with some scrub like Zach Duke….
Something stirring with Yanks…a move will occur…
Something stirring with RedSox…a false alarm will occur…
“Andy had the same surgery and sheets has used andy as a comparison.”
Except that Andy has been durable throughout his career and Sheets hasn’t been, as I’m sure you know.
“would the Dbacks consider Webb a salary dump or do you think the Yanks would have to give up a lot to get him?”
In between. Again, all of this is gross speculation but it’s potentially possible that Arizona picked up Webb’s option in order to see if they could trade him.
It was a big uncertainty if the d’backs would pick up his option. His scope was ok – not great so they shelled out the $8.5M.
Again – he is the face of the franchise so i doubt he’s going anywhere. But the d’backs are really hurting, arizona’s economy is in chaos, and that team is going nowhere this year.
It seems we won’t be finding out tonight… errr this morning.
“Webb was also one of the best in baseball before his surgery and he has a good contract for next year. If its not Webb then I would say its not the Yankees that are holding it up unless the asking price is high.”
No doubt he was and I wouldn’t mind him on the team but I don’t think they’d gamble on a guy who hasn’t pitched since his surgery. Especially after the Wang saga.
This is weird that nobody even has an inkling of a name.
Bringing Josh Johnson into this is like telling me you heard Jessica Alba likes me. Don’t toy with me like that. I don’t know which Brave pitcher I would be less exited to have blech to both of them. As matter of fact after 04 never ever let Javier put our uni on again. nuff said
real, not a hoax — not a message for other agents/players — but the details won’t be out for another 24-48 hrs — lots of pieces and salary considerations involved.
“Except that Andy has been durable throughout his career and Sheets hasn’t been, as I’m sure you know.”
Rich,
Not my argument – that was Sheet’s. And I think we know why he didn’t get $12M despite Andy getting it.
Sheets really put up a ridiculous number.
I really don’t know what they are doing in his camp. I can’t believe they turned down arb last year only for him to miss the entire year and essentially lose out on a year of income at $14M or so.
Let’s think about this. If it’s a trade, it’s not going to be with boston, Tampa Bay or Toronto. But let’s look at the rest of the AL.
Baltimore? Just traded for Kevin Millwood.
White Sox: Jake Peavy? Unlikely. Mark Buehrle? Maybe.
Cleveland: Justin Masterson.
Detroit: We fleeced them already. I mean traded with them.
KC: Gil Meche, but he’s injured. Robinson Tejeda?
Twins: Francisco Liriano? Injury prone. Bad season, but was a rising star.
Angels: NOT.
A’s: They don’t trade young pitchers.
Mariners: Cliff Lee jumps out at me. Maybe he’s unhappy in the North West. Ian Snell? Yanks thought about him last year.
Rangers: Don’t see it.
Very tough to figure out.
All the sources say it is not a salary dump (i.e, no Lowe)
It would go against anything Cashman has done to make a blockbuster trading several key prospects (so no Josh Johnson, Cain, or basically any young stud)
I would doubt it is some NL pitcher like Vasquez, Blanton, Harang or some mediocre guy like Meche. Why even trade for them when you don’t know if it will be an upgrade over the kids?
Where does that leave you? Webb? But why would they want to trade him after acquiring Jackson? And I’d imagine they would want something good, and why would we give that up for a guy who is going to be a FA?
Banks
I hope its Z Duke, as long as we didnt give up one of the big three that would be great. Why you hating on Duke? Great guy ,Great pitcher.
if the yankees are leaking this info it has to be a major trade it can’t be a zach duke or ian snell it would be setting themselves up for scrutiny way too much hype
Z Duke isnt a great pitcher but he would be a solid move.
Is Dan Haren on the block? I imagine he could command an awful lot, if he is.
If haren became a yankee i would be speechless. But say bye to Montero, Hughes etc. Not gonna happen.
Duke wouldn’t be a good move if it takes Hughes or Joba out of the rotation.
Duke had a 4.06 ERA and .285 BAA in the NL Central. How would he help us? It’s not like he has the stuff to pitch out of the pen and we can’t stash him anywhere.
Here’s another crazy name – Chad Billingsley. The dodgers are really handling him badly and seem to have no idea what they want to do with him.
I believe he’s arbitration eligible and the dodgers are in a financial mess.
This trade is the 1st step of a two part process.
It will probably be for a pitcher with a reasonable contract that would allow us to go after Holliday.
If it’s Swisher it will not be Lowe, Zambrano, Zito, Lee[Mariners were to busy with Morrow],Wandy Rodriguez[don't need an OFer or 1st baseman],Carpenter.
Braves and Cubs want Gardner or Cabrera. Maybe all it is possibly Gardner for Randy Wells.
This blog has become twitter happy!!! Now I can’t go to sleep!! LOL
Sam- Just a minute ago there was a knock on my front door but no=one was there-thought I saw a wisp of something enter-Elijah perhaps??????
Billingsley is a beast when healthy.
CB,
I thought about him… but again, his price tag must be pretty high.
Would something like McAllister + Romine or something get it done? They would be selling awfully low on him.
2 questions:
1 – Is poster petea the former master of this site?
2 – petea speaks as though he is a team official as his statement about the size and financial considerations and the time it will take to do the deal indicate he is.
I pray it’s not Lowe. Could the Yankees be that stupid?
That being said, the only pitcher from the Braves it could realistically be, is Vasquez. I’m ok with that. He struggled his first time around, but he’s a more mature pitcher now. He’s a solid middle of the rotation #3 in the AL I think.
Other possibilities would be Gil Meche from KC. Harang or Arroyo from Cincy. Maybe Mark Buerle from the Chisox, but I doubt it.
I’d take a flyer on Sheets, but not for $12 million. Maybe half that.
Javy “Grand Slam” Vazquez? NO THANKS.
“Would something like McAllister + Romine or something get it done?”
Eric,
That should not even be close to enough. They would ask for montero I’d think.
But I just threw it out there because it seems like the dodgers have some kind of problem with him and that franchise is a zoo right now, so if there’s someone who might do something really head scratching its the dodgers.
Who could it be? You figure someone young or someone who is an FA at the end of the year from Sam’s comments…
Who it isn’t?
Zambarano – Won’t wave no trade
Oswalt – See above.
Who I hope it’s not:
Vazquez – Best game he ever pitched in Yankee Stadium were the first 6 innings of the David Cone perfect game for the Expos.
Lowe – I’m not a numbers geek but some of the “fancy” numbers on this guy are scary. Has Kevin Brown written all over him (except Lowe’s a nice guy)
Harung – Cincy is a hitter’s park but those aren’t hitters lineups in the NL Central.
My guess? They are going to get the “J” man Jair Jurrjens for prospects… They have a young future ace in Hanson but they wouldn’t move him. He has blah numbers, but other than Hanson who else would the Yanks be chasing on that team?
I would like Lilly
Stay away from anyone from the AL unless they are some young stud like Billingsly or Cain… or a guy like Johnson/Webb/Haren… guys you know will have the stuff to translate to the AL East.
No Vasquez, Lowe, Harang, Blanton, Duke, etc. Stay away from Zombrano as well, though his agent already said he isin’t coming here.
I honestly don’t see what Cashman’s motivation would be to do any deal unless he can steal some stud like Billingsly or Webb for B-level guys. If he even considers any of those mediocre NL guys in the Lowe/Harang ilk, he is delusional.
Lilly wouldn’t be a bad guy at all especially if it only costs you one of the CFs and a mid-level prospect
For the last time, Lilly is injured.
He has a bad shoulder and isn’t expected to start the season.
Again, Lilly had minor shoulder cleanup surgery on his pitching shoulder and won’t be ready until early May.
BTW-any word on Johnson having his physical today?
CB, I immediately thought of him, but there is no word out here about the Dodgers doing anything until the court hearing…..He’s a rising star, has some control issues when he tries to pump it a notch which he really doesn’t need to do…..I wonder if there really is any validity to this…Maybe it’s like you mentioned earlier, Cashman is playing hard ball and is turning up the heat …..
Didn’t one of the insiders already shoot down Harang and Lowe?
I keep thinking Blanton (hope not), but is he blocking someone that we don’t know about in Philly? He is an expiring contract and has actually been pretty good for him. Why would get rid of him?
Vasquez would be a disaster unless you can get him for Gardner or someone. Giving anything of value for him is dumb.
CB,
what would be the ideal package for Billingsley?
Montero not involved — payroll leeway is 10ish — that’s all I know for sure.
Mark Feinsand
@PatrickMoranBSD Ha. Nice one. From the info I’m getting, it’s not a salary dump. Lowe is the textbook definition of a salary dump. 4 minutes ago
Nothing new. That doesn’t do much for us though… that only takes Lowe, Zombrano (who wasn’t coming here anyway), and Harang out of the mix. Blanton/Vasquez are not salary dumps. Aren’t they FAs at the end of the year?
Chad Billingsley isn’t going anywhere.. stop
Braves want a bat, preferably right handed for OF corner or 1st base.
It will not be Jair Jurrjens or Tommy Hanson. Off limits!!
Maybe it’ll be Japanese pitcher Kenshin Kawakami a 6M dollar pitcher per year?
Billingsley normally would cost Joba Chamberlain or Hughes plus more. But the Dodgers put him in the dog house this past year. He is an ace in the making. I dont see it happening.
I think it’s a hoax.
I don’t see the Yankees trading anything of value for a back of the rotation type.
They are not going to take on a salary dump type player.
Front line starters don’t appear to be available.
This is a negotiation tactic in my opinion. Someone is getting the screws put to them by Cashman and he’s seeing if they think he’s bluffing or if they take the deal he’s offering.
This rumor has been out for hours now. The Yankees would never leak “we’re close to something big” until it was done, otherwise it’s alerts their rivals that “something big” is still available to them as well.
Another note is that information that has been going around is that this deal will not be a salary dump. So it’s either for a young cost effective player or a high salary for another high salary player. However I don’t see any Yankee leaving except for Swisher that makes decent money. But I don’t see the Yankees parting with him.
Josh Johnson is mad at the Marlins, so I’m hoping they’re getting a divorce and it’s him. Have to trade them w/e they want if he’s available.
I know it seems like a wild idea, but what about Zack Greinke? I know, very wild, but after a Cy Young year, he’s due big bucks, and maybe KC ships him off sooner rather than later.
But again, that begs the question, who do we give up to KC?
If guys like Billingsly, Haren, or Cain are available, wouldn’t the teams make it public and let every team bid for them? I’d imagine they could get quite a lot. Why would we not have heard they are on the block?
Same holds true for Webb, even though he is a FA next yr… wouldn’t other teams get in the mix as well for him?
This has to be some kind of leak to send a message to someone.
Randy Wells for Gardner is a salary neutral move to allow us to go for part 2-signing Holliday.
If it was possible to keep Montero out the deal i’d be all for Johnson. I just dont see it though.
The Better question is. Who are the Yankees giving up? I do not want to see Joba, Hughes or Montero traded away. Anyone else fine but not those three.
Giants will not give up Cain, when they can get a bat thru FA.
A look at NL Possibilities:
Atlanta: Vazquez and Lowe. Previously discussed by all.
Florida: Josh Johnson – not happening. Ricky Nolasco?
Metsies: No one there to trade.
Phillies: Jamie Moyer? Cole Hamels?
Nats: That Tyler Clppard just keeps improving…
Cubs: Ted Lilly, Ryan Dempster
Reds: Aaron Harang, Bronson Arroyo
Astros: Not with the Yankees.
Brewers: Jeff Suppan? Hope not.
Pirates: Ross Ohlendorf, Zach Duke
Cardnials: Not
Arizona: Brandon Webb
Rockies: Jorge De La Rosa?
Dodgers: They need pitching…have none to trade.
Padres: Kevin Correia, but he just resigned.
Giants: Jonathan Sanchez
Blanton wouldn’t take this long.
OK so it’s Wandy Rodriguez and Hunter Pence for Joba and Swisher.
No seriously!!!!
It isn’t Blanton.
If NYY is going for a pitcher that is good and reasonable, I’d go for Aaron Cook of Colorado. He’s only 31, pitches well and keps the ball in the park, especially that park.
Cole Hamels does seem possible since his exploits during the world series. The Team doesn’t like him right now, but that would be a huge gamble on the Yankees part. If he pitches like he did last year the Yankees lose big time. If he pitches like the year before the Yankees are World Series Bound.
Poster Petea just said no Montero that means this is a pretty big trade. Poster Petea seems to have some inside info ,actualy quoting times and numbers. Im still thinking either Joba or Hughes the Yanks org now know wich one to deal wich one to keep . I think thiis is gona be a big trade meaning who we get back is gona be better then Andy and Lackey.
Swisher is too much to give up for Vasquez.
Gardner for Vasquez, I would do.
A look at NL Possibilities:
Atlanta: Vazquez and Lowe. Previously discussed by all.NO LOWE!
Florida: Josh Johnson – not happening. Ricky Nolasco?- NO!
Metsies: No one there to trade. Definitely -NO!
Phillies: Jamie Moyer? Cole Hamels? -Wrong again!
Nats: That Tyler Clppard just keeps improving…
Cubs: Ted Lilly, Ryan Dempster -Nope!
Reds: Aaron Harang, Bronson Arroyo-Kidding, right??
Astros: Not with the Yankees.-Why not??
Brewers: Jeff Suppan? Hope not. -Another joke, right?
Pirates: Ross Ohlendorf, Zach Duke- Pleeeease!
Cardnials: Not
Arizona: Brandon Webb-HMMM!!
Rockies: Jorge De La Rosa? -Not a chance!!
Dodgers: They need pitching…have none to trade.
Padres: Kevin Correia, but he just resigned.
Giants: Jonathan Sanchez-Don’t think so!!!
Just my lack of sleep thoughts.
Joba is very tradable AT…he’s done nothing as a starter and he looked very average as a reliever last year. If you can get something of value, he’ll be a part of the deal
“This is a negotiation tactic in my opinion. Someone is getting the screws put to them by Cashman and he’s seeing if they think he’s bluffing or if they take the deal he’s offering.”
That’s what I was saying in the last thread and I think that’s more likely now.
It’s funny – all hot stove the two messages we’ve heard from the yankees has been, “pitching, pitching, pitching” and “budget, budget, budget.”
Yet in substance – most of their actions have been focused on their position players – particularly making them younger and more athletic.
All we’ve gotten in pitching was the quick – and completely expected signing of Andy.
And over the past week there has been a serious of active leaks from the yankees that their next priority is absolutely pitching.
To the point where – today – the post actually gave a deadline by which they wanted a new pitcher – new years.
And now these curious leaks.
And there is no clear target that would be a good value in terms of pitching.
The yankees want it to be known publicly that they are looking for pitching and are ready to execute a deal. They want that out there.
And if is someone getting the screws put to them – I don’t think it’s a pitcher.
It more likely to be a position player to whom the yankees have said: Look our main priority here is pitching and that’s where we have been planning on focusing our resources this summer. But we might be able to squeeze you in rather than investing in the pitching. But we need to make that decision quick. Because otherwise there are no other position players available we’re interested in and we are going to stick to our primary strategy – which was pitching. The ball is in your court but you need to decide.
Webb could be a possibility.
But doesn’t the Edwin Jackson trade signal that they want to win now and compete in a wide open division? Why would they give away Webb after trading Scherzer?
I hope we didn’t acquire someone like Bannister or Joe Saunders, who probably won’t even pitch better than Joba/Hughes this year. Whatever move we make, it should be for a guy who will have a legit shot to be a stud (Sheets, as a FA signing for example). Not some average innings eater.
Again, the Braves want a bat, not a singles hitter-so it won’t be Gardner for Vazquez.
How about the American League Yankee Trader? I like no one on that N.L. List other then JJ but he isn’t going to be traded. Hamels looks like a huge gamble on the Yankees part.
Bottom line -
The young kids should not get booted out of the rotation for the Gil Meches or Joe Blantons of the world. If you are going to delay putting both kids in the rotation again, at least do it for a guy with a high upside.
CB
So if i am understanding you correctly you think this is completely aimed at Holliday nothing to do with Sheets.Am I correct in my understanding?
Best way to develop a starter is to go one at a time. With a strong 4 man rotation. Then the following year see if your other prospect can do it and so forth and so on. Unfortunately the Yankees tried to do that but with two pitchers at a time.
I think this is all about Holliday.
It does seem odd how quickly 5 different sources (Davidoff, Olney, Rosenthal, Heyman, and Feinsand) all latched on to this story and reported the exact same thing…. and none of them could get any names. Despite the fact that all of them have Yankee-links and a variety of league sources, no one got any names. They all posted this story on their twitters within minutes of eachother.
Seems more and more like a purposeful leak.
what deal do you guy think is going down? i am not caught up on the comments…
i believe we have 3-4 very good catchers in the organization, JR murphy, montero, romine….and some good young arms..
why not make a package of one of them (not montero) + 2 young pitchers for billingsley or webb
Vasquez or Lowe (hopefully not the latter) for Swisher with Holliday signed. Hmmmm!!!
For the love of God will people stop saying Lowe. His last two years in the A.L have been 4.42 and a 5+ Era along with a 4+ Era last year. Yeah, no thank you.
It makes little sense for people in the Yankees org to confirm “something big about to happen”.
Why would they ever do that unless it was meant to send a message to a player they could sign w/o trading.
That’s not from the book of “stealth Cashman”.
However, wrapping up Matt Holliday because of this leak is from the book of “stealth Cashman”.
Right now, I’m sure Theo is on the phone with every GM trying to figure out what is going on.
I expect by morning that the truth will come out. If the Yankees aren’t really close on anything trade wise for a pitcher, that’s enough time for all the other GM’s to talk to one another and shoot this down.
What I find truly interesting is the Cubs leak re: Zambrano.
If the Cubs would help the Yankees by leaking that info who would it hurt the most?
The Cards. The Cubs division rival.
Maybe the Yankees are trading the Cubs their next CF in exchange for a prospect and a media leak on Zambrano to push Holliday over the goal line to Yankee Stadium?
Day started with the NY Post report about Zombrano and how Cashman wants to get a starter by New Years
During the day, Rosenthal reported that we we are not actively shopping Swisher, but are willing to move him.
Then the Braves rumors for Lowe/Vasquez arrived.
Then the report that Justin Duchester was deciding between 3 teams and wants a team this week.
Then Olney reported we are activley in talks for pitching. Davidoff chimes in and confirms. Heyman chimes in and confirms. Feinsaid confirms and says it is not a salary dump. Rosenthal said it is a trade, not FA and it is not Harang. None of them could provide names. All agreed it is not a salary dump.
Now for the past 2 hours? Silence.
Let’s connect the dots together, shall we? Are there even any dots to be connected?
Sacrificefly,
This is all speculation, but there’s likely some kind of logic here and I think there is a real possibility this is intended for Holliday and Boras to hear.
Now that’s not to say that the yankees aren’t really working on a trade for a pitcher – I’d guess they are.
But I do wonder if they’re basically saying that we need to move on now because if you [the position player] don’t want to sign now the opportunity cost is just too high because we’ll lose out on the pitchers we can otherwise get.
Now Holliday may just see this as a bluff or he might simply say forget it – I am not ready to do a deal. In which case the yankees may just decide to move on.
But the yankees are orchestrating something. They wanted 5 guys in the press to start reporting on this tonight but didn’t want to give them any substantive information outside that fact that a process was engaged.
Why Webb? He didn’t pitch om 2009 and he’s a FA in 2010. That’s too much to give up for a wing and a prayer,
Why leak false info for Holliday? The Yankees actually need a pitcher and dont need him.
The interesting part of the Zambrano conversation was that he was quoted back in 07 saying he doesn’t want to play for the Yankees because we have “too many rules”. Today his agent comes out and again says he will not waive his NTC to come here.
Very odd. Why was that name the one that was leaked when he wouldn’t even approve a trade here and said as much in the past?
And I agree with G.Love’s point – the yankees don’t benefit in any way from letting it out that they are working on a trade.
It makes even less sense for them to characterize the trade as “big trade” which is a theme we’ve now heard several times.
How many times have you heard a trade rumor where there are no player names but instead it’s said instead that the trade is “big?” Why even use these adjectives?
One thing I do know… its late and I am working in the AM. I doubt anything new will be learned at this time. Possibly something will break in the normal morning hours, even if they are finalizing anything, the reporters are all probably asleep.
I think Cash is involved in getting a pitcher and Holliday. They’ve been mostly in lockdown since last Monday, with the exception of the Granderson presser and Cash on Kay. Since then we know they’d added Towers and Nick Johnson, but they haven’t announced either… this is pure jedi-ninja Cash.
CB
I agree 90 percent just I believe this is aimed at Sheets the Yanks dont want to get in a bidding war.Not there style any more. I think there trying to make him make a decision before his set up bullpen session with multiple teams viewing. Thanks for your info.
I think it’s Ted Lilly.
Zach,
Don’t forget…. this talk of a “big trade” actually started at a Mets Blog this morning. It was a mystery why Cerrone, a guy who blogs for the Mets, would have any connection to the Yankees FO.
Was he in on this too?
Somewhere Scott Boras is smiling.
CB,
I mentioned much earlier today on my blog that the Yanks saying, “we’re want another starter by New Year’s” made no sense, and didn’t sound like the Yanks.
For all the world, Jacoby Ellsbury looks like he’s a defensive star. His diving grabs make regular appearances on top-10 lists, he has speed enough to cover the large territory in center, and he’s not prone to careless drops or tragic misplays. And yet, advanced defensive metrics will tell you that he is in fact the single worst center fielder in the majors. Observing the young speedster in action will reveal that the reason behind this—as has been discussed so many times before—is that he gets bad breaks on balls, often having to completely reverse direction after the ball is in the air, costing him valuable time and wasting much of his speed and glove.
Ben Buchanan with some objectivity.
They haven’t announced Nick Johnson because they’ve come to an agreement with Damon, and are signing him, spinning off Johnson to a team for Pitching.
Kind of funny how a guy on a Mets blog was the first one to get this scoop. He got it like 12 hours before everyone else.
Johnson couldn’t be traded till June.
CB
The thing that makes me agree with you the most about being aimed at Holliday is how did we not get involved in Morrow from the Mariners. For Brandon League plus a prospect, better be a amazing prospect. He is going to be a number two starter worst case. How no talks of us trying to beat that package.Ecspecialy if were in talks for a starting pitcher right now.
without his permission.
Anyone think Morrow could have been our target?
Since that trade with Toronto was announced, we have not heard a thing about the Yankees and their “big trade”.
Seems kind of odd, but who knows.
He just took less money and gave up playing first regularly to return to his beloved Yanks. He’s not saying yes.
As good a talent as Morrow seems to be, he has a lot of health issues attached. I would have preferred League. I don’t think that Morrow has the stamina to be a starter.
I have it on good authority that earlier this evening Brian Cashman went to 7-Eleven and bought milk. Mrs. Cashman confirmed they they indeed needed milk, but those in the know see through the carefully orchestrated facade.
Cashman is sending a message Boras to know he’s going about his business and will not be highjacked by Matt Holliday’s demands.
And we haven’t even talked about that parent-teacher conference at this kid’s middle school that he just “happened” to schedule for tomorrow.
If Cashmen goes to see Avatar Wednesday night as recently rumored, Holliday will be ours by Christmas.
Cashman will have Ben Sheets signed before xmas
The Giants need a 1st baseman, as they were all over Johnson….Does Swisher satisfy that need ??? I’m still with CB, that this is a power play attempt by Cashman to get Holliday to fish or cut bait…..
GB7
I respect your opinion over a lot of people on here but didnt Morrow get drafted before Lincy. Seems way to early to give up on the guy. Also I hope you are having a speedy recovery and wish you the best in health.
If Cashman went shopping to get milk, that means he’s out of milk. Cabrera’s gone, so he’s looking for a replacement.
Dr. Mustard, Are you inclined to think that Cashman waould sign Sheets without seeing him throw, or would med reports suffice on a free agency contract ????
Sacrificefly
December 22nd, 2009 at 1:52 am
GB7
I respect your opinion over a lot of people on here but didnt Morrow get drafted before Lincy. Seems way to early to give up on the guy. Also I hope you are having a speedy recovery and wish you the best in health.
————————————————————
Thanks for the thoughts, SacFly. Not sure of the draft order, but, between Morrow’s arm issues and needing to wear an insulin pump when he pitches, I’d pass on him.
Id say Cashman has seen his latest medical reports….no other FA pitcher can make the impact Sheets can if he is healthy…6mil with 5-6mil incentives
We may aswell let Hughes or Joba start in the 5 spot, trading for a back of the rotation guy is a waste of time
GB7
Was not aware of all the issues Morrow had. Still you have to admit Jays got a steal on that deal. Your prob right on how it would have been a bad deal for the Yanks to get involved. Also see the post by petea think thats the one and only. lol He does seem to have legit info though.
Not sure of the draft order, but, between Morrow’s arm issues and needing to wear an insulin pump when he pitches, I’d pass on him.
Believe me, Mariner fans know the draft order all too well. Bavasi chose Morrow (5th) over UW local Lincecum who went (10th) to the Giants.
Brandon is diabetic (as is Mark Lowe) but I haven’t heard that he actually wears an insulin pump…
some speculation on the possibilities re: the Morrow trade…
http://mynorthwest.com/?nid=422&sid=260556
GB, he wears an insulin pump only when he pitches?
I don’t see the desperate need for a starter, definitely not enough of a need to give up major prospects.
I’m sure I’m a bit of a prospect hugger, but I’d rather see both Joba and Phil in the starting rotation than a major trade that requires giving up major talent.
I know Pat M. and others hate the idea of 2 unproven starters in the rotation, especially given the results last time Cash tried it, but I think this is a very different situation. Joba and Phil have much more experience now than Phil and IPK did then, plus, there are much better back-up options. Gaudin, Mitre and Aceves are a whole lot better subs than Chase Wright, Matt DeSalvo, Jeff Karstens and some of the others who were thrown to the wolves in 08.
Generally, I’m just a whole lot more worried about who we might give up than who we’d get. So I hope CB is right and this is just a negotiating ploy.
Diabetic or not, Morrow almost no-hit the Yankees. Would like to see if the prospect they’re receiving is any better than Miranda.
Dasaint007
My guess is there prospect is not better then Miranda. I also brought this up earlier for a trade but was laughed at. Oh well.League is at best a set up guy. Not even realy just a bullpen guy. Makes me think maybe Yanks arent as involved in getting a starting pitcher right now as there saying. how did we let that slip by us. What you think.
Rosy, Morrow does indeed wear a pump. This is an article from April.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/.....id=4034892
yankee sign c mike river…
HOORAY!
*Yankees sign C Mike Rivera to a minor league deal.
HOORAY!
DaSaint007
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:16 am
Diabetic or not, Morrow almost no-hit the Yankees. Would like to see if the prospect they’re receiving is any better than Miranda.
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Yes and he could barely pitch after that game. He’s best used as a reliever, not a starter, It’s a pity because he’s a real talent. Has everything but health.
GB you’ve got an amazing memory if you remembered that article! Yes, I agree that he’s best suited as a reliever. I had proposed that he would strengthen our pen, figuring that Miranda would be a good trade chip.
BTW, what rank were you when you left the service?
Boo Mike Rivera!
Cervelli is awesome and deserves the backup role!
DaSaint007
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:31 am
GB you’ve got an amazing memory if you remembered that article! Yes, I agree that he’s best suited as a reliever. I had proposed that he would strengthen our pen, figuring that Miranda would be a good trade chip.
BTW, what rank were you when you left the service?
————————————————————
Command Sergeant Major, Saint.
Clare. Considering that there really isn’t any options I view better than Joba & Young Master Hughes…Sheets could be the signing of the winter if his medicals read good…..Him not throwing for scouts until sometime in January is unsettling…..I’m still concerned about the pen, and if Cashman is seeling out another starter it’s because he also has reservations….Joba / Hughes will once again be the 8th inning setup arm….Can Robertson hold up for the entire season, or is Marte going to continue is rebirth as he did in October/ November ???? Hughes & Joba are better than most 4-5 guys minus the Red Sox and that could be the issue…..The only arms that are attainable via the trade process are likely not as good nor have the enormous upside that a Joba / Hughes have to offer……Cashman made pitching and then catching the foundation to rebuilding the organization, and that time has come……Lokk what Ian was able to bring to the Bronx, Curtis Granderson, with an assist from Austin Jackson…..
There was speculation that the Yanks would get an established catcher to be the back-up in AAA. I guess that’s Rivera. I still think Cervelli has the back-up job.
HellGB, I pity the young cannibals that landed in your outfit…..Any Mayo type stories to share ???? Pizza with galic, mushroom & anchovies yet ????
Cervelli is till the back up catcher. I guess Rivera is this season’s Kevin Cash
Dasaint007
Are you the saint over at mlbtr. Just reading the Luke Scott poster comment. lmao
TheSaint
Acquiring Rivera’s a good insurance policy at Scranton. He’s ok defensively, but, he’s got some power. He also knows Sheets and Sabathia from Milwaukee.
Well G’night Sergeant Major, and all. We’ll see if there was substance behind these feints tonight.
Pat M
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:43 am
HellGB, I pity the young cannibals that landed in your outfit…..Any Mayo type stories to share ???? Pizza with galic, mushroom & anchovies yet ????
————————————————————
LMAO. I treated the young lads like fine Austrian crystal, Pat. There mothers weren’t as good to them…the little SOBs.
As soon as I lay down, I’ll end up checking MLBTR on my phone, possibly every hour on the hour.
Damn Yankees…
Sacrificefly
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:44 am
Dasaint007
Are you the saint over at mlbtr. Just reading the Luke Scott poster comment. lmao
———————————————————-
Nope. But I read his posts also.
Pat M.,
I agree, there are definitely question marks, in the bullpen especially. And I love Granderson already. Even though I was a fan of both AJax and IPK (and think he’s going to be a lot better than most people think), I don’t regret that trade. I just don’t see any potentially available pitchers that are at the Granderson level.
GB7,
Hope you’re feeling better. I saw that you were in Cape Coral – my family calls it Cape Coma. I own a house there, which is unfortunate since it’s in the foreclosure capiital of the country.
Clare…..I was most vocal from day one about Curts Granderson, of course I still have some welts from the eggs, tomatoes and rocks that were thrown in my direction….Not as bad as least winter in regards to picking up the over rated Mark Texeria……People complain about players without ever seeing them more than of Basball tonight…….You still living in Bronxville ????
Is Cashman reading my posts request, I remember somewhere this season when the rumors of trading Joba came I said
Why can’t they make a deal like the Red Sox did w/ for Beckett, this is the difference blah blah blah…we can’t get a King Felix a Josh Johnson…a vuala…The Yankees are talking Josh Johnson…
DO IT!
My guess? After we trade Joba + Melky + prospect for Josh Johnson, we replace Melky with Johnny Damon.
Lineup:
Derek Jeter
Johnny Damon
Mark Teixeira
Alex Rodriguez
Jorge Posada
Curtis Granderson
Nick Johnson
Nick Swisher
Robinson Cano
Rotation:
CC Sabathia
Josh Johnson
AJ Burnett
Andy Pettitte
Phil Hughes
Clare
December 22nd, 2009 at 2:56 am
Pat M.,
I agree, there are definitely question marks, in the bullpen especially. And I love Granderson already. Even though I was a fan of both AJax and IPK (and think he’s going to be a lot better than most people think), I don’t regret that trade. I just don’t see any potentially available pitchers that are at the Granderson level.
GB7,
Hope you’re feeling better. I saw that you were in Cape Coral – my family calls it Cape Coma. I own a house there, which is unfortunate since it’s in the foreclosure capiital of the country.
————————————————————
Thank you, Clare. Feeling better, when I can stay awake. My brother said the housing has collapsed and tool the sub-contractors like commercial plumbers with it. Something on the order of 50% drop in prices just to unload the homes.
Pat M.
I really hope you’re as right about Young Master Hughes as you were about Teixeira.
I think you have me confused with someone else. I was in NY for a year (but not Bronxville), but now I’m back in Texas.
collapsed and ***tool***
TOOK
Special K…..Great cereal by the way……I somethng like that were to happen, the Bombers would be adding a few more top level A / AA players and cash considerations….I think 1 million is the most that can change hands….Even though clibs do it all the time in eat salaries….
GB7,
That’s okay, I knew what you meant. And we’d all assume it was an imposter if there weren’t any typos.
Your brother is so right. It’s one of the worst housing markets in the country, and it’s taking everything down with it.
Brandon AWESOME! (BECAUSE watching “Raising Helen” is not what dreams are made of!)
December 22nd, 2009 at 3:08 am
Is Cashman reading my posts request, I remember somewhere this season when the rumors of trading Joba came I said
Why can’t they make a deal like the Red Sox did w/ for Beckett, this is the difference blah blah blah…we can’t get a King Felix a Josh Johnson…a vuala…The Yankees are talking Josh Johnson…
DO IT!
————————————————————
I think that Cashman’s laughing too hard at the suggestions to read much to or make a trade.
GB, is it X-mas come early if tomorrow in the afternoon you hear Joba/Montero to FLA for Josh Johnson almost done?
Clare
December 22nd, 2009 at 3:20 am
GB7,
That’s okay, I knew what you meant. And we’d all assume it was an imposter if there weren’t any typos.
Your brother is so right. It’s one of the worst housing markets in the country, and it’s taking everything down with it.
————————————————————
LMAO. Is there nothing sacred to believe in anymore. I always thought that you were above taking a shot for the cheap laugh by making fun of my typing.
Wonder what Homer Bailey would bring back….He pitched well to close out the season……He was a top tier talent just a few years ago, it was him & Hughes
Brandon AWESOME! (BECAUSE watching “Raising Helen” is not what dreams are made of!)
December 22nd, 2009 at 3:29 am
GB, is it X-mas come early if tomorrow in the afternoon you hear Joba/Montero to FLA for Josh Johnson almost done?
————————————————————
No way that I’d include Montero in that deal. I’d send Romine and McAllister with Chamberlain, though. I’d even send Nova or Noesi anf Nunez if FL would include Ross.
I could live w/ that.
Clare, I find myself being confused more and more often especially after I take my nightime pian suppresnt medications
It’s been a strange off-season. It’s hard to believe just how fast a team that was within 2 wins of a WS berth has fallen. The Angels are in near collapse. When have you seen such major turnovers wuth the two WS teams in the same year?
The Angels are a very resillient club and they still have avery good core….Beltre or Brandon Woods @ 3rd base…They do have outstanding pitching depth,althpough Oliver going home to Texas id a ding…..Closer is a concern though……I expect them to be the team to beat once the bell rings in the AL West, never dismiss them…They are a very solid organization
Pat M
December 22nd, 2009 at 3:55 am
The Angels are a very resillient club and they still have avery good core….Beltre or Brandon Woods @ 3rd base…They do have outstanding pitching depth,althpough Oliver going home to Texas id a ding…..Closer is a concern though……I expect them to be the team to beat once the bell rings in the AL West, never dismiss them…They are a very solid organization
————————————————————
I just can’t see how they allowed 3 major pieces walk out the door without replacements. That bullpen took a major hit with Oliver gone and Arridondo out for 2010. Shields is a questionmark. No replacement for Lackey. Both Weaver and Sanders were all but told they’d get moved in a deal with Toronto and elsewhere. Wood has had three cracks at the majors, but, failed. He has to make it now. What really hurt was two of those players going to division rivals.
Josh Johnson would be one of the only acceptable options if we lose Swisher. Do you people realize that Swisher is performing somewhere near Jesus Montero’s 80% PECOTA projections? Even in an almost-best-case scenario, Montero isn’t going to be as valuable as Swish, and I LOVE Montero. I wouldn’t trade him for almost anyone. I’m just saying, if we trade Swish, it should be for someone friggin’ good. That is all.
i think there is a rule in mlb that a team cannot field two players with the same last name at the same time, this may eliminate the Florida pitching phenom.
Interesting discussion. No one seems to know. Here’s a guess. Cash is making a BIG trade for . . . . Santana.
Sure wish there was a quicker resolution for 2010 selections. I check the Yankee sites at least 5 times a day hoping that Joba has not been traded.
Ok. so i woke up extra early to find out about the big trade.
and nothing. its ok . . i’m ready for round 2
SANTA brings us SANTANA!
Yankees just picked up a minor league catcher. Why? Because they likely just traded one of their minor leaugue catchers.
Yankees talking to Atlanta? Because likely Atlanta has a piece that the Yankees can acquire to trade for a pitcher, not a pitcher. What does Atlanta want? A RF. The Yankees have a RF to trade–Melky, not Swisher.
Yankees catcher, Braves piece to somewhere for a SP. Plus, if they’re thinking of trading OF to Braves, then they have likely signed Holliday.
Just a thought.
I don’t know why there isn’t talk of a star pitcher. Its really the only thing we need.
PittsburghYankeeFan
which Braves pitcher then?Lowe?Vasguez?
Montero is worth so much more then those guys and someone like Jurrjens isn’t getting traded
Or would it me Romine?
me=be
Mike Rivera was picked up as an emergency catcher to play at Scranton and to help school Montero. If Posada or Cervelli gets hurt, Rivera has ML experience.
No. Not a Braves pitcher. A piece to trade somewhere else for a sp.
If it takes Joba, Montero,and 2 B prospects for Johnson you have to make that move….
GB
Agree with your logic, but why announce it now? Timing is suspect.
And the beat goes on.
Yea I think Rivera is just a depth move and doesn’t neccessarily mean that they have traded a catcher..
I’m thinking that if there was a deal being discussed last night then either its been called off or its one that has several moving parts.
Mike Rivera = Chad Moeller, Kevin Cash, etc
a signing like this is common and ordinary
Can the Yankees make a trade for a non-FA and offer cash instead of giving up the kids??
Correct me if I am wrong, but Joba was not in the trade package for Santana. Then he was an intouchable. His name seems to have come up as trade bait in 2009.
People are willing to give up Joba+Montero+B Prospects for JJ
But are you willing to give up Hughes+Montero+B Prospects for JJ??
But are you willing to give up Hughes+Montero+B Prospects for JJ??
- Yes !
“i think there is a rule in mlb that a team cannot field two players with the same last name at the same time, this may eliminate the Florida pitching phenom”
It sure would be very funny if MLB actually had a ridiculous rule like this. I can see it now “we can’t draft that Rivera guy to play LF since Mariano will still be pitching when he is major-league ready”!
It’s a three way, most likely. I also agree with the minor league catcher depth move, but why announce now?
I haven’t seen JJ pitch a lot but i’ve seen his numbers.And just like Hughes and Joba he won’t be giving you any more then 5 or 6inn.
I know he’s good.But giving up Joba/Hughes and Yankees best prospect seems a bit too much for a guy who gives you 5 or 6inn a game
Why is he soooo much better then Hughes?
JJ is a stud. However I honestly think Hughes can be nearly that good if given the opportunity and when you factor in montero then its a no for me.
Roger – - Joba is better than Hughes. Johnson is good but I can’t see giving up Joba, Phil or Montero.
petea
December 22nd, 2009 at 12:41 am
real, not a hoax — not a message for other agents/players — but the details won’t be out for another 24-48 hrs — lots of pieces and salary considerations involved.
—————————————————–
petea
December 22nd, 2009 at 1:00 am
Montero not involved — payroll leeway is 10ish — that’s all I know for sure.
——————————————————
1 – is this the Pete A?
2 – if so, no need to answer this question, but if not, anyone know if this guy has proven to be credible in the past or does he speak as though he has insight often despite knowing the same as the rest of us, not much?
I would be so down with getting Vazquez back, he’s a great pitcher and he never got a fair shake in NY
No 2 the same names on 1 field?????????????
Andruw and chipper jones!
Is there any possiblility of this blockbuster trade?
Johan Santana and a small amount of cash from the Mets to the Mariners.
Cliff Lee from the Mariners to the Yankees.
Joba Chamberlain, Brett Gardner and lotsa cash from the Yankees to the Mets.
Lol JeterJoba…Joba is not even close to Hughes at this point and time and he will never be Josh Johnson– while Hughes at least has the potential…Joba is a failed starter and an average, if not failed, reliever…He might become a great reliever again, but he’ll never be a consistently great starter…mark that down…Hughes wasn’t great as a starter either this year but according to almost everyone, he has the potential and he was one hell of a reliever until he got a tired arm in the playoffs. If you’re going to trade one of them for JJ, try and make it Joba.
“Is there any possiblility of this blockbuster trade?”
Nope
“No 2 the same names on 1 field?????????????
Andruw and chipper jones!”
It’s a joke (presumably) – even the Yankees have had two Riveras in recent years.
Jpb, the Yankees can get cliff lee next year and give up nothing. Also I don’t know why the mets would make that deal when Santana is their only quality starter. You know they want to compete in that new stadium.. Fun proposal though.
So, nothing yet? I’ll bet it’s just a trade for a mediocre pitcher who shouldn’t come close to replacing Phil or Joba.
DJ
-
Joba is a failed starter
Really ???? ask Tom Glavine how his first couple of years started. Ask him how it ended up !
One year and Joba has failed !~.. WOW
DJ: lol back atcha. Phil suffered from a tired arm in the playoffs – is that a fact from the Yankees. I think he choked. When Joba is in the same line up as Phil, IMO Joba always fares better.
Joba suffered from a shoulder injury which most experts say takes at least a year to heal. 2009 was the ONLY season that wasn’t up to par and a lot of that had to do with the Joba Rules. Phil will suffer from the Phil’s rules in 2010.
Only if he is injured again should Joba go to the pen.
If Cashman “kicked the tires” with the likes of Carlos Zambrano and possibly, Josh Johnson, then what about the possibility of him talking to Arizona about Dan Haren?
I dont know if there would be any correlation, but the Yankees did just complete the 3-way trade for Curtis Grandeson which involved dealing with Arizona.
Is it possible that Cashman layed the groundwork for a follow up deal for Haren while the first deal was being completed?
If he ever were available and good be acquired, what an enormous addition he would be … just look at his strikout and ERA stats … his strikeout totals continue to go up every year and his ERA continues to go down every year. Plus, he is a power pitcher who doesnt walk hitters … over 200 strikeouts last years with less than 40 walks.
Yeah, I think he would fit in nicely … but it would take the usual Hughes/Montero package-type package to get it done.
I think the “sources” were pulling our legs last night. I notice that all of the tweets and leaks identified who were weren’t getting…but none suggested who we would get. The Yankees don’t operate that way. If there are leaks from the Yanks you’d know exactly who we would get.
Cash is trying to solidify the rotation this year, why would he take on a pitcher (example Billingsley) who wouldn’t do that? Obviously the kid must be some kind of project, albeit a hugely talented one. I don’t want Vasquez and definitely not Lowe………..there aren’t that many pitchers I can think of who would be available and for whom I would push Joba/Phil out of the rotation
Mike,
Thank you! Well said.
DJ: And why would the Yankees put so much effort into Joba if he was highly valued as a starter. Though one year younger, Phil has been in the system longer. He has already failed once. Remember he and Kennedy?
I am not saying that Phil is not good and he and Joba can be the head of the rotation for good decade.
Neither Joba or Hughes have the natural Velocity of JJ…they just don’t….if you can get him for Montero and Joba, you have to make that move….he is only 26, 2 year older then Joba….Montero might turn into something special or might turn into Ruben Rivera…im willing to take that chance
If the Yankees are in fact trying to get Lowe, that would be as disastrous as a baseball decision can be. He had a higher ERA in the NL East than ‘failed’ starter Joba did in the AL East. Plus he costs nearly as much per year as Holliday would.
So, we would be taking out Joba or Hughes, w/o giving them a real chance, and starting an old pitcher who is no better now than Jason Marquis. And using Holliday’s money to do it.
This move would be a fireable offense. Cashman is smarter than this, so no way it happens.
Jpb, the Yankees can get cliff lee next year and give up nothing. Also I don’t know why the mets would make that deal when Santana is their only quality starter. You know they want to compete in that new stadium.. Fun proposal though.
——————————————————-
It seems to me that the Mets are acting like they are financially broke. If thats the case they could free up a lot of cash by moving Santana. Besides acting like they are broke, I don’t see the Mets becoming competitive soon. Maybe they would want to let Johan move on and try to get younger.
At any rate, its a whole lot better speculating about the Yankees hot stove possibilities than those of the Mets.
Good Morning one and all.
As the end of my assignment grows near
I have once again consulted the Oracle last night during my slumber as I am wont to do.
I am to convey the following:
That the end is in sight.
That there is nothing to fear but fear itself
That their is joy to be found in Laughter
That their is real power in belief
And that their is courage to be found in conviction.
My task has been self-assigned
No one has asked me to do it.
Others have come before me
To do my job.
I was necessary to be:
A jester
A beacon
And finally
A gatekeeper.
It is almost done now.
It is ALL GOOD.
Soon I will forced back to the shadow.
And I wanted to convey one final Message:
“All these Worlds are yours”
“I give them to you”
“Use them in Peace”
The Oracle has spoken thru me, and I have re-learned what i almost had forgottten. It has been a pleasure.
Their cannot be any further communication.
Enjoy your passion which is Baseball.
“Is it possible that Cashman layed the groundwork for a follow up deal for Haren while the first deal was being completed?”
Anything’s possible, but that would be an expensive proposition for the Yankees prospect-wise, IMO. He’s locked in thru 2013 (’13 is a team option year), and it’s a pretty team-friendly deal, with the guaranteed portion $34M or so over the next three years. For a 29 year old innings eating monster at that price, you’re probably talking about moving Hughes and Montero. Can’t see Cashman going that far.
jpb1973-
I think the “sources” were pulling our legs last night. I notice that all of the tweets and leaks identified who were weren’t getting…but none suggested who we would get. The Yankees don’t operate that way. If there are leaks from the Yanks you’d know exactly who we would get.
—
Cashman was pretty upset when the Granderson trade was leaked.
I think the “sources” were pulling our legs last night. I notice that all of the tweets and leaks identified who were weren’t getting…but none suggested who we would get. The Yankees don’t operate that way. If there are leaks from the Yanks you’d know exactly who we would get.
—
Cashman was pretty upset when the Granderson trade was leaked.
====================================================
Mike in RI,
As careful as Cashman is, he can’t keep trade partners or the front office from leaking. I believe that if we haven’t heard anything specific by now, then nothing will be happening any time soon. I expect there won’t be any Yankee moves, now, until after Christmas.
http://www.nydailynews.com/blo.....nt=Twitter
Quote:
Are Yankees getting ready to make a move?
By Mark Feinsand
The Yankees appear to be on the verge of adding a starting pitcher, though it remains unclear who Brian Cashman is targeting.
A source said Monday night that Cashman was closing in on a deal, one that isn’t simply a salary dump. While we sit here and contemplate the possibilities, let’s take a look at some of them:
Josh Johnson: This is clearly the most intriguing one, though it would also prove to be the most expensive in terms of the players the Yankees would have to deal. The Marlins have said publicly and privately that they don’t intend to deal Johnson this winter, though things like that are always subject to change. The Yankees would need to package Hughes or Joba with Jesus Montero, then probably add another prospect or two.
Carlos Zambrano: The Yankees contacted the Cubs recently about Big Z, but as of late Monday night, Zambrano’s agents had not been contacted about waiving his no-trade clause. Despite his enormous contract, the Cubs don’t seem too eager to deal Zambrano, though they do remain interested in either Melky Cabrera or Brett Gardner. Which brings us to….
Ted Lilly: The Yankees have already brought Nick Johnson back, so why not bring Lilly back, too? Lilly is set to make $12 million this season, but the Yankees would gladly pay that now that they’ve secured Johnson as their DH for only $5.5 million. Dealing one of the center fielders with a mid-level prospect could get it done for the lefty.
Roy Oswalt: The Astros have been reluctant to deal Oswalt in the past, but he’s owed a guaranteed $33 million over the next two years. I’d be hesitant about a guy who has spent his entire career in the NL, especially a 32-year-old coming off his worst season. I’m not sure this one makes much sense.
Derek Lowe: If the deal isn’t going to be a salary dump, then we don’t have to spend much time on Lowe. A 36-year-old making $45 million over the next three years is the textbook definition of a salary dump.
Javier Vazquez: If they can’t unload Lowe, the Braves may consider trading Vazquez, who is owed $11.5 million this season before he becomes a free agent. Vazquez was hurt during the second half of 2004, which is why he was so dreadful after having a pretty good first half. I think he’d be better this time around if he was to return to the AL, but I’m not sure Cashman would be willing to risk it. Unlike Lowe, Vazquez would command a decent return, whether it was Nick Swisher or some legit prospects.
Bronson Arroyo/Aaron Harang: We seem to hear these two names all the time, but I don’t think this is the move. Harang is due $12.5 million this year (plus another guaranteed $2 million for a buyout of his 2011 option), while Arroyo is slated to earn $11 million this year with the same buyout for 2011. If the Yankees are going to spend this kind of money, wouldn’t they be better off getting Ben Sheets or Justin Duchscherer?
Brandon Webb: Another intriguing option, but given that he’s coming back from shoulder surgery after missing most of 2009, it’s hard to imagine the Yankees would want to count on him taking 30-plus starts in 2010. Webb is set to become a free agent next year, so if he can prove himself in 2010, he’ll cash in big-time.
Felix Hernandez: Keep dreaming. If Cashman can pull this one off, he deserves a five-year extension.
I think fans are underestimating Joba (and Hughes). For his age, Joba was better than most pitchers that go on to be stars. Sam with Hughes, who was the youngest pitcher in MLB when he first was called up, and remains a very young starter. Nearly all great pitchers take time to mature at the major league level. These guys will easily mature into solid back of the rotation guys, and both are likely to move up to at least middle of the rotation starters.
I agree with CB’s speculation.
these “leaks” were orchestrated to apply pressure to team Holliday.
in other words: we have room for you now. If you don’t sign the contract in the next days, we’re moving on with the balance of off-season moves (for a pitcher etc) and then all bets are off.
I would prefer Vazquez. Younger, cheaper and proved to be a good pitcher in his time in NY. If I recall, he was an All Star in 2004 while with the Yankees. Cashman has made a point of saying he’s managing to a budget. Let’s assume its Swisher for Vazquez. Swish is due $16m over the next 2 years. Vazquez is due $12m next year. As much as I love Swish, this saves the Yankees $4m over the next 2 years and brings them a solid #4 starter. As for the OF, they could start with Granderson, Gardner and Cabrera. And with Hoffman, sign a low budget ($5m or less) guy to round out the rotation.
I don’t think that I would want Vasquez back in NY. Couldn’t handle it last time, why chance that he could handle it now.
Ted Lilly is an interesting name. Would not cost a lot and the Cubs do need an outfielder. The Yanks have Melky, Gardner and Swisher-either of whom they would be willing to move for the right deal.
PLEASE NO TO VAZQUEZ, I just got over 2004.
I wouldn’t mind Lowe, an effective sinkerballer would be nice to have in the rotation, especially for home games.
It’s strange that there hasn’t been any leak from either side.
Something smells fishy about this rumor.
Jpb, it not that the Mets will be comoetitive, its that with a new Stadium they have to give the illusion that they are trying to win. Trading Santana would lead to some bummed out Met fans, and bummed out fans don’t come to games.
Mark, surely to goodness they won’t deal for Lowe. It makes no sense for what they are trying to do. Even if the braves paid most of his contract lowe is still a downgrade over what they have or what they could get in Sheets IMO
“Mike in RI,
As careful as Cashman is, he can’t keep trade partners or the front office from leaking. I believe that if we haven’t heard anything specific by now, then nothing will be happening any time soon. I expect there won’t be any Yankee moves, now, until after Christmas.”
Yet, no names have been listed which means Cashman is doing a lot better controlling the leaks than most other GMs.
“these “leaks” were orchestrated to apply pressure to team Holliday.
in other words: we have room for you now. If you don’t sign the contract in the next days, we’re moving on with the balance of off-season moves (for a pitcher etc) and then all bets are off.”
Could be, but if the Yankees tell Holliday there’s no room at the inn, he always has the Cardinals to fall back on.
“I have once again consulted the Oracle last night during my slumber as I am wont to do.”
You speak with Warren Buffett in your dreams?
If Vazquez pitches like he did in 2009 he’s far more than a #4.
Also I don’t see the sense in weakening the offense to improve pitching. I wouldn’t trade Swisher for Vazquez.
“Yet, no names have been listed which means Cashman is doing a lot better controlling the leaks than most other GMs.”
Certainlt nobody saw that Mike Rivera deal coming.
Frank – yes. except, it will be:
A) less moeny
B) the bronx/yankees are his preferred destination
* CertainlY
my crystal ball says it’s the duke guy.
Buster_ESPN
to the Pirates about their SP: Maholm, Duke, Ohlendorf. Is this what the Yankees are working on now? Not sure yet. But they are working.
—-
hey if you can get Duke or Maholm on the cheap…i would not mind at all….Lets say Z-Mac and Melancon for either of them…I would do it
Pat-
There can be no further communication.
But it is important for you to believe so I am allowed to say
these few things in the hope you will be convinced:
“NOW is the winter of our discontent”.
“Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be,
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance,
I have winced but not cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance,
My head is bloodied but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears,
Looms but the horror of the shade.
And yet the menace of the years,
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.”
There can be no further communication.
It has been MY pleasure to serve you.
Go in peace.
Feinsand’s posting is well written and thought out, but I just don’t think it is any of those guys. Doesn’t feel right. Call me crazy, but is Johnson really worth Joba + MOntero + maybe somebody else ? Joba has shown flashes of brilliance obviously, both starting in the pen. People forget he was a legit starter in 2008, before he got hurt. I don’t know if I want to include Montero there too. Seems high.
I’d rather give Melky or Gardy for Lilly than Swisher for Vazquez.
Trading Swisher for Vazquez does not save the Yanks $4M over the next 2 yrs. Javier is only under contract for 1 season. The Yanks have 5 starters. It would open a hole in the OF.
If the Yanks sign a pitcher, it should be a significant upgrade, or a low-cost high risk high reward guy.
“my crystal ball says it’s the duke guy”
——————————————-
i see you and Jimmy Rollins get your crystal balls from the same supplier
jonmorosi
One source says the #Yankees aren’t trading for Duke or Maholm of the #Pirates. So, I suppose the search continues.
—-
just gets better hahaha
“Feinsand’s posting is well written and thought out”
————————————————–
and also useless
These “experts” have no clue. Got to give credit to Cashman.
One of these four from my understanding if it’s a trade,
Josh Johnson
B-Webb
Haren
Oswalt
It won’t be Duke, Lilly or Zambrano.
If its an FA it will be Dusches~
Haren would be SICK !!
If the Yanks go with an OF of Granderson, Melky/Gardner, and Hoffman…
They might actually let the Sawx off the hook for weakest hitting OF in the majors among legit contenders.
Morosi says it’s not Duke or Maholm.
I am not seeing any pitchers available that look better than Joba and Phil. Unless Cash can pull off a deal for an ace pitcher, I hope the young guys get a chance. Either can be moved to the pen for a mid season replacement.
OK, I’m trying to catch up. Is the general feeling that something’s going down today???
Haren is the kind of guy Arizona wants.
Trading him would be akin to trading Adrian Gonzalez….
Possible – if you want to pay a kings ransom.
So… don’t get your hopes up.
Jpb, it not that the Mets will be comoetitive, its that with a new Stadium they have to give the illusion that they are trying to win. Trading Santana would lead to some bummed out Met fans, and bummed out fans don’t come to games.
—————————————————-
Blake, I understand that and I think you might be right. Nonetheless, the Mets are doing a poor job of giving any sort of illusion to their fans. Most fans are so upset that even the wasteful signing of Benjie Molina and Jason Bay isn’t going to bring them out. They might be better retooling with younger players.
“Frank – yes. except, it will be:
A) less moeny
B) the bronx/yankees are his preferred destination”
Vinny:
I don’t really buy that his preference is the Bronx. Saying that is standard fare for anyone trying to score a big contract. Gotta have the Yankees involved. Don’t think he has anything against the Bronx, but I think he has even less against the team offering the most money/best deal. If that’s the Yankees, which means $17M+, then he probably ends up here. If the Yankees offer is the same $16M that St. Lou’s is, he probably stays there.
As for less
Yeah Erin, we’re trading for a SP apparently.
It’s not a salary dump, so it is most likely something worth prospects/trade.
Yanks being secretive though, helps them negotiate better so others don’t get involved.
Most Mets fans are pretty down right now… and rightfully so.
But trading Santana might cause alot of Mets fans to abandon ship.
The Mets still have a formidable core (wright, beltran, reyes, krod, johan)…. if they could just get rid of Minaya!
Olney says:
16 minutes ago
@Buster_ESPN Apropos of something, or maybe nothing:As part of their process about evaluating possible starting pitcher targets,the NYY have talked to the Pirates about their SP: Maholm, Duke, Ohlendorf. Is this what the Yankees are working on now? Not sure yet. But they are working.
Frank: fair enough, bro. Prior to this off-season it had been reported how much Holliday’s father wanted him to be a yankee. And now we have the ‘Lost’ reports. Add 2 + 2 and i come up with 4. But i concede, it could be 5 : )
MTU
Mixing Richard III and Invictus never ends well.
“Call me crazy, but is Johnson really worth Joba + MOntero + maybe somebody else ?”
Florida turned down an offer of Smoak & Feliz for Johnson. If Joba and Montero is a better package than that, it is only marginally so. Florida seems genuinely unmotivated to trade Johnson.
Erin,
another theory is that the Yanks want Matt Holliday and are leaking rumors to get him to cave in and sign.
At that point, perhaps they spin Melky or Gardner for a #4 or #5 starter (Lilly?)
If they’re trading Montero plus Joba, I want Koufax.
Thanks Kelvin.
Very interesting. I wonder who it’s going to be.
It’s Pedro
Pat-
“There can be no further communication”
The Oracle has spoken. The Wisdom you seek is THERE.
Boston Dave – XXVII
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:00 am
Erin,
another theory is that the Yanks want Matt Holliday and are leaking rumors to get him to cave in and sign.
At that point, perhaps they spin Melky or Gardner for a #4 or #5 starter (Lilly?)
**********************
Thanks Dave! This is what I get for not checking the blog at all last night!
And for you Damon fans out there . . . .
Johnny Damon was awarded the Post Season Play of the Year by MLB.com for his dash from 2nd to 3rd. Watching that play never gets old.
Cliff Lee.
“NYY have talked to the Pirates about their SP: Maholm, Duke, Ohlendorf.”
Why, is Sidney Ponson no longer available? Maholm and Duke would both be an unmitigated disaster anywhere in the AL, let alone the AL East.
I would actually prefer Ohlendorf of those three, but the Yankees already determined he wasn’t a SP option. If they are giving up next to nothing for him, I guess he is worth a shot.
Sounds like smoke screens everywhere.
Just caught up on last night’s megapostings!
Guess I’ll keep checking throughout today. That Cashman just gets stealthier and stealthier. Talk to everyone, so anything is a possiblity.
JeterJobaCanoFan2010
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:05 am
And for you Damon fans out there . . . .
Johnny Damon was awarded the Post Season Play of the Year by MLB.com for his dash from 2nd to 3rd. Watching that play never gets old.
*********************
Awesome! Congrats to Damon
bottom line
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:00 am
If they’re trading Montero plus Joba, I want Koufax.
Ahhh!!! Josh Johnson is close to Koufax! Actually he is much better at the same age, but he isn’t LH. Josh is an amazing SP!
latest from buster:
Buster_ESPN Brian Cashman’s M.O. is to go big-game hunting (Vazquez, Weaver in 2003, etc.) — and the best young SP to grab is Josh Johnson.We’ll see…
2 minutes ago from web
Buster_ESPN
Brian Cashman’s M.O. is to go big-game hunting (Vazquez, Weaver in 2003, etc.) — and the best young SP to grab is Josh Johnson.We’ll see…
—
God, I hope so….JJ would be sweet
Well, Im glad I didn’t stay up waiting fo this “trade” to happen.
I see they did sign somebody named Mike Rivera?
just to clear everything up for everybody…
…yes, joba, montero, plus other prospects is worth josh johnson…
…even if you have concerns about him holding up health wise.
Carten on the FAN mentioned that he received a text that the Yankees inquired on the availability of Cliff Lee.
“I would actually prefer Ohlendorf of those three, but the Yankees already determined he wasn’t a SP option. If they are giving up next to nothing for him, I guess he is worth a shot”
————————————————
he could be a target. Boston already signed Boof Bosner and have one upp’ed us in dorky names this winter
Yankees signed Mike Rivera a catcher to a minor league deal
Making room for Montero’s absence?????
half of these guys being mentioned are nl upgrade over what they have and require giving up either prospects or melky/swisher.
If its a trade a think it might be for a significant pitching upgrade (at least I hope). Otherwise IMO it would be better to just stick with what you have or sign one of the FA guys.
Doreen,
I’m not an avid ‘tweeter’ but I was on Twitter last night and the yanks rumors turned the place into a circus…
Hundreds of tweets from yanks fans, yanks haters, and the like.
“who is the mystery man?!?”
“what are the Yankees up to?”
it was wild. I didn’t want to go to sleep.
So, excited to wake up and find out I grabbed my laptop and low and behold….
Mike Rivera!!
Guess I’ll have another day full of suspense today!
Exactly 12 hrs. after I saw the first twit(sic) nada. Unless you count the fact Nostradamas is now commenting on the LoHud Yankees Blog. I know its really him too because he speaks in riddles & yet says littles (sic). . ..
Cash did say anyone was tradeable for the right player.
A 26 yr old RH SP ace in Josh Johnson to go with LH CC & RH AJ would be incredible. Josh is what we all hope Joba or Phil will be. If I’m the Yankees, I would trade Joba & Montero & 1 or 2 other prospects for Josh. I’d hate losing those guys, but the upside is huge with JJ!
Maybe it’s Swisher, Romine, McAllister and Melancon for Cliff Lee. Holliday is then signed, using up all the free $$$ left lying around and the folks in Bahston are apoplectic.
They’re not trading Montero.
Brian “Black Ops” Cashman. Never know when or where he’ll strike.
That would be wild if it was Cliff Lee, I mean the M’s have been wheeling and dealing this offseason and they know that Lee is a one year rental. However the price may be high considering that they apparently want to compete badly this year.
“God, I hope so….JJ would be sweet”
——————————————
then you’re ok with losing Montero?
no way in hell, would i give up Montero for a starting pitcher. We already have young all-star caliber pitching (and virtually no young position players in the system). And if Josh Johnson gets hurt (likely for pitchers) we have nothing. Keep Montero
Yanks do love Cliff Lee…
But he’s just a year away from free agency and trading for him would likely require a big longterm deal as it is.
Why trade a top prospect for a guy they can have “for free” in a year?
Hmmm….
“They’re not trading Montero.”
Probably not. But then it also probably isn’t Johnson, Haren, or someone of that ilk coming back.
I don’t see the Yankees getting Cliff Lee.. Why would Seattle trade him, after just acquiring him? They are clearly making a run at the division.
Patrick, Vasquez in the AL East would be a completely different story. No thanks on Ohlendorf (lol), Duke and Maholm. Unless it’s Sheets or a stud, no pitchers have the upside of Phil or Joba – just say not to mediocre pitchers. I would be extremely disappointed in Cash if all got was a bum…it would say a lot of about the Yankees inability to develop starting pitching (and it would also tell me they were fools not to trade Phil or Joba)
nyp_joelsherman #Yankees working hard to re-acquire Javier Vazquez, I have learned, link to follow soon
1 minute ago from web
================
WHY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Somebody remind me what Lee is owed next season.?
I’m stating the obvious, but it will either be a non difference maker or Johnson. Either way, somebody cheap.
I can’t see any other possibilities. I say a non difference maker b/c the Yankees probably owe around $45m to the front 3, so how much more will they take on ? Johnson would be an exciting pick up and a difference maker, but he is pretty cheap.
Ironic as it was, Nick Johnson was traded to Montreal for Javy Vasquez prior to the 2004 season.
If in the ALCS Tony Clark had hit the ball on the fence rather than bouncing over it for a ground rule double, George Steinbrenner might not have traded Vasquez to Arizona in a panic move insisting on getting Randy Johnson.
Pitching coach Don Cooper of the White Sox spotted a flaw in Vasquez’s delivery and it made a difference. Whatever flaws he has left could be picked apart by Dave Eiland.
Avoid trading Melky or Swisher if possible but give the Braves Gardner, Mitre, Edwar Ramirez, and Albaladejo for Vasquez and call it a deal.
The Braves get salary relief and the Yankees get breathing room for another year with Joba and Hughes and just (maybe) enough $$$ to sign Holliday or Damon.
I call it a creative deal.
http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/....._id=134320
This from Joel Sherman…
nyp_joelsherman
#Yankees working hard to re-acquire Javier Vazquez, I have learned, link to follow soon
Joe from CT
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:10 am
Yankees signed Mike Rivera a catcher to a minor league deal
Making room for Montero’s absence?????
********************
I certainly hope not
nyp_joelsherman
#Yankees working hard to re-acquire Javier Vazquez, I have learned, link to follow soon
—-
please no
I don’t see Seattle trading Cliff Lee at any price.
with the Angels dismantling, Seattle finally has a window to win the division
Cliff Lee? Intriguing.
Given the late hour of the first hint of rumor, I was thinking west coast team but never even considered Lee was a possibility.
Swisher to Braves for Vasquez ?
Holliday to Yankees ?
vasquez again? really?
I must repeat the transmission but I am allowed to convey one last message:
“What will happen ?”
Answer:
“Something WONDERFUL”.
“Behold, The Red Dragon”.
Message repeats:
“All these Worlds are yours”
“I give them to you”
“Use them in Peace”
End Transmission.
If its swisher for vaz, then Holliday is coming to town. mark it down
Sherman’s Twitter:
#Yankees working hard to re-acquire Javier Vazquez, I have learned, link to follow soon
4 minutes ago from web
http://twitter.com/nyp_joelsherman
nyp_joelsherman #Braves have always liked Nick Swisher and Melky Cabrera, but haven’t been able to determine yet who #Yankees would surrender
“Avoid trading Melky or Swisher if possible but give the Braves Gardner, Mitre, Edwar Ramirez, and Albaladejo for Vasquez and call it a deal.”
Atlanta is not going to trade him for a conglomerate of crap. They are looking for a bat. If it is Vazquez, I believe it’s light’s out on Swisher’s time as a Yankee.
While I have faith in Cash – can someone just make sure he hasn’t hurt his head and still thinks it’s 2003???
nooooooooooo
#Yankees traded Nick Johnson to get Vazquez, and now might have both on team
why why why?
I agree that it makes no sense to inquire about Lee. There’s no guarantee he goes FA, but it’s likely – why trade the farm for him?
While I have faith in Cash – can someone just make sure he hasn’t hurt his head and still thinks it’s 2003???
—————————————–
lol
Javy had a very good season last year. What happened ? Granted it is the NL, but still. Beware the curse of Atlanta pitchers coming off of career years!! Who was that relief pitcher we signed to replace Stanton. He threw a 75 change up. Chris Hammond, right ? Ugh!
CB- (if you are around)
I’m curious from your expected wins perspective, what would be expected from a Yankee team with Vasquez and Holliday (but no Swisher). Figure an outfield of Granderson, Melky, Holliday and starters of CC, A.J., Vasquez, Pettitte, Joba/Hughes.
Cash must see something we dont. I still wouldnt trust Vasquez in a playoff clincher.
Making a move for a starting pitcher? Sure … but my bet is still on Cashman pulling a Matt Holliday deal out of his magic hat.
That would free up a couple OFs who they can trade for a guy who can give them 200 innings & 15-17 wins. Just a guess but I’m thinking they’ll give up Swisher & either Gardner or a selection of prospects to get it. I think they’d move Melky over to RF if Holliday & Granderson are both here.
Like to see them keep either Gardner or Swisher as the 4th OF though.
I’d be surprised if it’s Vazquez.
ok, make your predictions:
will the yankees lose Swisher or Melky in this deal ?
make your pick
Wait, NJ for VAsquez? Ugh
Hmph. If that is indeed the move, Javier Vazquez, it makes me wonder if there is another to follow.
Also, if that is who they are getting, or trying to get, how is it that no one was able to get this last night. This doesn’t really strike me as “big”.
If coupled with Holliday being signed though it would be a huge.
tex’s friend
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:23 am
Cash must see something we dont. I still wouldnt trust Vasquez in a playoff clincher.
*******************
join the club
OOps, I misread that……What a terrible move if it’s Vasquez.
i don’t trust Vasquez period. nevermind the playoffs
MTU, I just received an e-mail from the Oracle. She wants her stash of Acapulco Gold back, or, she’s sending the Kraken out to get you.
Yeah, Vasquez did GREAT in the AL – I’m surprised Cash would do this.
Sherman has been right a lot this offseason. I don’t think Melky will get it done for vaz, it’ll probably be swisher who would clear more payroll for a Happy Holliday.
“What will happen ?”
Answer:
“Something WONDERFUL”.
“Behold, The Red Dragon”.
Message repeats:
“All these Worlds are yours”
“I give them to you”
“Use them in Peace”
End Transmission.
My guess is Melky and cash to the Braves.
“sunny615
why why why?”
Because because because because becausssssssseeee……
Because of the wonderful things he does………..
Vazquez is not upgrade… why why why?
I still don’t think Vasquez was horrible first time around, but I know I’m in the minority. I think he was victim of the “first season in NY” blues and if he was not traded would have been okay. Again, I realize I’m in the minority, so don’t slam me.
Melky is cheaper than Swisher, so he may be the player that’s moved in any deal.
i think i’d rather have Lowe
You guys realize that the Yanks are looking for a #3/#4 type that eats innings, right? Vazquez fits the bill perfectly.
“All these Worlds are yours”
EXCEPT EUROPA. ATTEMPT NO LANDINGS THERE
Atleast Vazquez throws strikes…. How isnt he an upgrade over what Joba, Mitre and Gaudin did in 2009? You could argue he’s atleast as effective as Burnett.
If it’s for Vazquez, I see Melky going.
They’re working on getting a pitcher and an OF who can hit.
the deal is for f.H. I have inside info. got to go to mo’s family member
Vazquez had a 2.88 era last year…that being said, we all know how he handled nyc pressure….
SI_JonHeyman #yankees closing in on deal for javier vazquez, si.com learns. story up soon. good job by @nyp_joelsherman to name javy.
less than 20 seconds ago from web
=====================
it’s real…
2.87 ERA, 238 SO’s, 44 BB’s in Atlanta last year.
Swisher has to be going back in that deal.
I’m surprised that the rumor is Vazquez only because he was very vocal after he was traded last time.
Regardless though, Vazquez isn’t that bad of a choice. He’s exactly the type of pitcher we are looking for. His worst year, aside from his first 2 seasons just happens to be the 04 season.. other than those he’s been able to go the distance every year.
if they trade Melky or Gardner or Swish for Javy, then does that mean Damon comes back?
Vasquez would be a huge plus in the rotation; his 2004 was a mess but the guy got a raw deal in New York. All people remember is his poor performance down the stretch & in the 2004 playoffs, not how well he pitched in the first part of that season, and how consistently well he’s pitched over his career, including in the AL (200 strikeouts are pretty commonplace for him, which the Yankees undoubtedly love). Adding him to the rotation would make the Yankees starting staff, once again, better than Boston’s. I have a feeling it would be Melky and prospects getting dealt and not Swisher, although if it is Swisher (who the Braves are enamored with), than I think Scott Boras & Matt Holliday will get an offer from the Yankees.
As long as the Yanks dont give up Montero, Hughes or Joba, it’s a solid deal. I’d like them to keep Romine too…but he would be an acceptable loss.
repeat transmission:
The wisdom you seek is here.
Consult the Oracle.
“What will happen ?”
Answer:
“Something WONDERFUL”.
“Behold, The Red Dragon”.
Message repeats:
“All these Worlds are yours”
“I give them to you”
“Use them in Peace”
End Transmission.
Goodbye Nick…thanks for the laughs.
Josh Johnson makes 1.4 M,ERA 3.40,turns 26 Jan 31st,He has a lower ERA than anyone in the Yankees starting rotation,and hit 3 HR last season.
Cliff Lee is still available at the end of next year.
If Joba or Phil are still only lukewarm, I’d also guess that if there’s a shot at locking Lee up I could see a trade deadline deal happening with Joba or Phil involved. Hopefully not both. Better to get him as a FA rather than losing talent for him.
BTW … there are also injury recovery signings they can still make. Offer a deal heavy on incentives to a guy who’s done well but is coming off injuries … Wang, Sheets or Deuscherer?
Go into spring training ’10 with 7 starters: CC, AJ, Pettitte, Joba, Phil, plus (Lowe, Harang or Vazquez) plus (Wang, Sheets or Sir Deusch)
Not bad. I like our chances.
Go into spring training ’11 with that lot plus Lee, but perhaps minus Pettitte given his year-to-year status.
Again, not bad. I like our chances.
I think it is Javy. Let’s keep in mind what Cash wants. That’s credible innings. That’s all. We have $45m committed to CC, AJ and Andy. #4 is Joba or Phil. That leaves #5 wide open. In theory, you could be filler there – Sergio Mitre.
But you can’t.
Why? B/c AJ and Andy are not likely to give you 60+ starts again. So you need somebody “dependable” that will give you a chance to win.
Javy will do that. He’ll put up a 4.50 ERA, so nothing spectular, but he gives you 200 + innings. In fact, he’s done that for every year from 2000 – 2009 (1 year he had 198). That has a value to this team.
CountryClub
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:31 am
You guys realize that the Yanks are looking for a #3/#4 type that eats innings, right? Vazquez fits the bill perfectly.
—-
Good point…. Vazquez would be better anyone currently on the Yankees for that 4th spot.
Ken_Rosenthal
Yankees in serious talks for J. Vazquez, as first reported by NY Post’s Joel Sherman. Braves’ target is M. Cabrera, not Swisher.
All he needs to be is a #4.. if the other 3 pitchers step up, he might not be used much in the postseason.
HORRIBLE Horrible, Cashman…..I’m sure he was so impressed with VAzquez last go round. The guy is an NL pitcher…….this stinks
Vasquez??????????????????????
WHY??????????????
I just erased 95% of my 2004 memories!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!
What did that Sherman post even mean?:
#Yankees traded Nick Johnson to get Vazquez, and now might have both on team
Does anyone speak Shermanese?
I don’t think this matches up to the chatter about it being substantive. While that word, as was noted earlier by Sam, is subjective, this can’t be construed in any way to live up to more than blah.
“Swisher has to be going back in that deal.”
Agreed. Braves are seeking offense. Melky doesn’t cut it.
Braves aren’t dumping salary here. They are trading a legit pitcher and expecting a legit bat.
1 other thing about Javy. He is only owed $11.5m for 2010. Then he is gone. B/C of that, you will not pay a lot. Melky + some B prospect, maybe ?
SI_JonHeyman
#yankees, #braves deal will send vazquez, boone logan to ny for melky, lhp mike dunn and a prospect. si.com story up soon
SI_JonHeyman #yankees, #braves deal will send vazquez, boone logan to ny for melky, lhp mike dunn and a prospect. si.com story up soon
1 minute ago from web
checking Vasquez’s stat’s he really is a strange pitcher. His periperhals have always been outstanding, but his ERA doesn’t match. Last year in Atlanta, being an exception. That said, would much rather have him over Lowe
Melky, not Swish, does make something of a difference…and that would mean we’re getting a LF. I still don’t like Vasquez….
RMEL
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:35 am
Ken_Rosenthal
Yankees in serious talks for J. Vazquez, as first reported by NY Post’s Joel Sherman. Braves’ target is M. Cabrera, not Swisher.
***********************
OK, I can live with this. I really didn’t want to see Swish go. Vazquez really wouldn’t be that bad-I think I’m just only remembering the playoffs in ’04.
Bite my tongue.
It’s Melky, Dunn and a prospect according to baseball talking heads.
dunn and melky?
back to one lefty in the pen?
Repeat transmission:
“What do you see ?”
Answer:
“My G-d. It’s full of Stars !”
End Transmission.
If they can’t fit Holliday in as it is, how is trading Swisher for Vazquez going to make it more affordable?
Swisher makes @7M, Vazquez makes @12M. So now the payroll is 5M higher, and they are going to add Holliday’s 17M?
If they are doing this trade for Melky, it could make some sense from a baseball perspective. But it still doesn’t appear to lead to Holliday.
I also think that Vazquez would, regardless of last season’s success, turn back into the AL pumpkin that he is.
If it’s Melky, then doesn’t that open the door for the resigning of Damon? Or would it be a grander Matt Holliday?
Javier makes 11.5 mil next season.
I dont think The Braves are going to take on the remaining 22 mil of Swish’s contract.
Holliday for left ? Who plays it now ?
Repeat transmission:
“A pitcher and a BAT”.
End Transmission.
deal will send vazquez, boone logan to ny for melky, lhp mike dunn and a prospect
http://espn.go.com/mlb/players/stats?playerId=3786
238 Strikeouts to only 44 walks last year ? even in the NL, he played on the Braves and finished 15-10 ?….He is definitely an upgrade over Joba and Hughes !
Vazquez is a decent NL pitcher, not a very good AL EAST pitcher.
Lowe had close to a 5.00 ERA last season in the NL, is owed alot of $, & will be close to 40 when the remaining 3 yrs of his contract are up.
I hope it isn’t one of these guys especially if we have to give up something in return, Hughes & Joba have alot more upside & potential than JV & DL.
Unless its a front of the rotation type pitcher (not an ACE, but at least a #2 or #3) I would not give up Swisher.
Swish is a high OBP guy with power, a switch-hitter, & a very popular club house guy who is signed to a very reasonable contract. He’s also only 29 just now reaching his prime baseball yrs. as a hitter.
Hope they are not giving Nick up for either JV or DL. That would be a waste.
That was via Heyman
Carlos Zambrano is a clear cut smokescreen to get attention away from what Cashman really has going on in his stealth mind.
To get Zambrano and his ridiculous salary would require the team hiring a full time psychiatrsy from Bellevue.
Mike Dunn?? Weren’t the Yankees high on this guy? Melky, Dunn, and a prospect for a 1 year rental??!!
MTU, Space Odyssey quotes?
Both both 2001 and 2010?
Repeat transmission:
“Behold, a Red Dragon”.
Jeter
NJ
Tex
A-Rod
Matty
Po
Grandy
Cano
Swish
End transmission.
Josh Johnson is a great talent, but Florida isn’t trading him unless its for a kings ransom like Joba, Montero and more… I’m not doing that.
Javy Vasquez was never given the chance to settle in here and he a better, more mature pitcher now. No one has a better 3,4 in their rotation than Pettite and Vasquez. He’ll cost about the same as Pettite this year when he turns 34. It may be a one year deal, they may try to sign him long term, but getting him strengthens the 2010 pitching staff and ensures some flexibility for the FA class next year.
MTU
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:37 am
Repeat transmission:
“What do you see ?”
Answer:
“My G-d. It’s full of Stars !”
End Transmission.
————————————————————
That’s a pretty bad head injury that you suffered. You just ain’t right.
Boone logan is a slug though…
You guys are fools if you dont like this deal. Fools. Over the past 10 years, Javy hass thrown 200 innings 9 times. Theone year he didnt he threw 198. He has made 30 plus starts every year since 2000.
He is a #3/4 starter in our rotation. You get 200+ innings of mid 4 ERA from your #3/4 starter in the AL East and you are in good shape. He has the potential to be better than a mid 4 ERA as well.
Here is the way I look at it.
Javy has only 1 year on his contract, and even if he is not great, he will still be a Type A free agent.
So, in essence, we get a year of a pretty good pitcher, and 2 draft picks out of Melky Cabrera. That is not too bad.
I just hope the prospect is peanuts.
Betsy -
If there ANYBODY the Yankees could get that would satisfy you ? Maybe a pitcher with the last name of Negativity ?
The only concern with Vazquez is his high home runs allowed totals.
Javier Vasquez ’10 – 11.5 million
Nick Swisher – ’10 – 5.35 million (AAV)
Matt Holliday – 5/65 (13 million AAV)
Brings payroll to around 200 million. Vasquez is also a FA after 10, leaving many possibilities on the table.
J Vazquez ERA 4.19,turns 34 in July,Nick Johnson with 2 other were traded to Expos for Vazquez,Dec 2003.He couldn’t handle the pressure of NY.
better get another lefty for the penn with coke and dunn traded off. marte doesnt stay healthy.
just hope the prospect is peanuts.
__
Vizcaino?
Was on the top 10 prospect list no?
Boone Logan is a lefty and will be a compliment to Marte.
Can anyone say innings eater? can’t even see him doing that well.
Maybe if we all say & think Vazquez part 2 will be a suck-quel, he’ll prove us wrong. First Nick “DL” Johnson and now this? Is Cash trying to recreate the Boston Massacre those guys missed out on?
Vasquez was the best name out of many bad ones being thrown around in here last night like Lowe, Zambrano, Harang etc.
He had the best year of his career in 2009 and now he’s entering his walk year. He’s also a perennial 200 inning guy and a strikeout pitcher.
And something tells me he’s going to enjoy playing for Girardi much more than for Torre.
But is Brett Gardner now their starting Left Fielder?
And if this deal is indeed done?
The payroll is very close to that 200 mil threshold.
So withstanding all the “seers” and “anonymous drone” insiders pushing the eventual Holliday signing, can we at least admit that this trade probably just killed that possibility. Please?
@CR9
well made point – still I guess… oh never mind
Please no NL pitchers in the AL East please.
Vasquez was awful first time around with the Yankees and he was much younger. He was an average NL pitcher last year so that translates into below average in the AL east