Who's ready for Spring Training?? The Padres are, and the rest of MLB is as well. Earlier today the Padres March schedule was released, and you can access it by clicking here.
The first game is March 4, 2010 in the annual charity game against the Mariners in Peoria, AZ. In fact the first four games of the Spring are against Peoria Sports Complex companion Seattle. The Padres will play each team in the Cactus League twice, with the exception of the Oakland A's. The Padres and A's meet just once, and it is at the A's training facility in Phoenix. The Cactus League welcomes a new member this season, the Cincinnati Reds have joined the Indians in Goodyear for the 2010 season.
If you're looking for a weekend to head to Peoria to check out the Padres, there are only 2 Saturday home games, one on March 6 against the Mariners, and one on March 27 in a split squad game against the Reds. The Padres have a stretch of 3 straight at home, March 14-16, with games against the Indians, a night game against the Giants and then face the Angels. The Dodgers make their only Peoria visit that same week, March 19 at 7:05.
We'll break camp on March 31, 2010, then travel to Anaheim to face the Angels on April 1 and head to Lake Elsinore to face the Storm on April 2, which will wind up the Spring Training schedule. The Padres will hold a workout at PETCO Park April 3, and then travel back to Arizona, to get ready to open the 2010 season against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field, April 5.
Gearing up for Alaska...
Ok, as you probably know, I grew up in Chicago, and am pretty used to Winter weather, but even I'm a little wary of what I'm about to face in Alaska! I'll head there with the USD Toreros Monday for the Great Alaska Shootout. I've never been to our 49th state, but hear it's a beautiful place. Now to gear up, I went out and purchased a winter jacket, hat, scarf, gloves and thermal socks. I hope it snows, since I haven't seen a good snowstorm in a few years. There's something so peaceful about a steady snow once in a while. I know many of you readers have never actually seen it snow, trust me it's pretty cool unless you have to fly or drive in it. Different story there!
Now as far as the schedule in Alaska, join me for our first broadcast as the Toreros (2-1) face Oklahoma, Wednesday November 25. Air time, is 10:30pm, with the game tipping off at 10:45pm on XX1090 and www.usdtoreros.com. USD is off on Thanksgiving and will partake in a team Thanksgiving meal. Friday the Toreros face Houston, that game tips at 8:30pm on XX1090. The team will play a game against a team TBD (Washington State, Nicholls State or Alaska-Anchorage) either at 2pm, 4:30pm or 7pm on XX. I hope you'll be able to join me for one or all of the games as you enjoy your holiday with family and friends.
Have a great night!
Andy
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
No News Yet...
So far, Adrian Gonzalez fans, the Gold Glove winning first baseman is still a member of the San Diego Padres. December 7-10 of this year, Indianapolis will be a buzz with baseball front office folks, agents, and maybe even a few players invading the Midwestern town.
It will be interesting to watch along with you to see what the Padres decide to do. New GM Jed Hoyer will undoubtedly receive many offers for his talented 40 home run guy, but he may hear some inquiries about a few other players as well. Here's my thoughts on who Mr. Hoyer may be asked about in Indianapolis:
1. Heath Bell, closer. Heath saved 42 games last year (in 48 opportunities) and stepped into a tough role in San Diego, replacing the great and future hall of famer, Trevor Hoffman. Bell is due a larger pay day in arbitration, which may not fit alongside what the Padres want to do this upcoming season. What also makes Bell attractive is he's under team control through 2011, so no free agency for a couple of seasons. The Padres have some internal candidates that could step into the 9th inning role, like Mike Adams, Ryan Webb, Luke Gregerson and maybe even Edward Mujica, though he projects more as a starter this upcoming season. Personally, I'd like to see the Padres hang on to Heath, but I understand if a move is made.
2. Chris Young, starter. CY had an injury plagued year, and had to be shut down with a shoulder injury. Young is emerging as a top of the rotation type of pitcher and is relatively inexpensive at around 6.2 million dollars. Young will more likely be a more popular player to other teams later in the summer, perhaps around the July 31 trade deadline, due to the uncertainty of his arm, and how he'll bounce back. But trust me, there will be opposing GM's asking about Young. My guess, is that Young stays a Padre through the season and that will be a good thing.
3. Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B. Kouz had one of his best overall seasons, since coming to the Padres from the Indians three seasons ago. Not only did he produce at the plate, he was a legitimate contender for the NL Gold Glove at third base this year. Kouz is still a young player, and again is a guy under team control and is only arbitration eligible, not a free agent. He has tremendous upside, and perhaps the Padres think that Chase Headley, is better suited to play third, to make him expendable. Realizing that with Kyle Blanks waiting to get an opportunity, if Adrian isn't dealt, one of the two, of Kouz or Chase could be dealt to open up left field for the rookie.
Ok as those seem pretty obvious choices, I realize that, just wanted to get my thoughts down on "paper" to let you know where I'm coming from. What about Hoyer's shopping list? What will he go to Indianapolis looking for? Here are my early thoughts...
1. Starting Pitcher. With the emergence of some of the young arms, (Clayton Richard, Wade LeBlanc, Tim Stauffer and Mujica) Hoyer may look for a veteran to help Young and Kevin Correia at the front of the rotation. There are some options via free agency, but a big money guy is unlikely. To be honest the free agent list in this category is not that impressive. Here's the list I looked at, courtesy of MLBTraderumors.com.
2. Catcher. Nick Hundley really improved both defensively and offensively this season. Unfortunately for him, the fastball by Chad Billingsley he took off his wrist cost Hundley about 2 months of the season. Henry Blanco proved to be a low cost, good option, as a back up, but he has filed for free agency. He could be re-signed. Not saying it's a top priority, but getting a good backup in the fold, could be something on Hoyer's list.
3. Outfielder. This one may not seem as obvious. No slight intended to Tony Gwynn Jr, but with a flood of young outfielders, Hoyer may choose to bring in a veteran outfielder to provide a little stability out there. Mike Cameron?
I'll certainly have more about this as the Winter Meetings approach. It's always fun to guess along at home!
Ok, that's it for today, I'm off to Stockton, CA with the USD Toreros (1-0), for tomorrow night's game at the University of the Pacific. The Toreros looked good in their season opener, a 77-64 win over Stanford at the JCP. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson each scored 18 points. A couple of other players were key contributors, Chris Lewis got the team off to a quick start, he scored 15 on 7 of 8 from the floor, and Roberto Mafra, went to work late in the game, with 2 key blocked shots and a big basket down the stretch to finish with 9 points and 5 rebounds.
I'll have the call on San Diego 1700 (XX1090's sister station), starting with the pre-game at 6:45, then the game at 7pm. You can also listen on the web, at www.usdtoreros.com.
Talk to you later...
Andy
It will be interesting to watch along with you to see what the Padres decide to do. New GM Jed Hoyer will undoubtedly receive many offers for his talented 40 home run guy, but he may hear some inquiries about a few other players as well. Here's my thoughts on who Mr. Hoyer may be asked about in Indianapolis:
1. Heath Bell, closer. Heath saved 42 games last year (in 48 opportunities) and stepped into a tough role in San Diego, replacing the great and future hall of famer, Trevor Hoffman. Bell is due a larger pay day in arbitration, which may not fit alongside what the Padres want to do this upcoming season. What also makes Bell attractive is he's under team control through 2011, so no free agency for a couple of seasons. The Padres have some internal candidates that could step into the 9th inning role, like Mike Adams, Ryan Webb, Luke Gregerson and maybe even Edward Mujica, though he projects more as a starter this upcoming season. Personally, I'd like to see the Padres hang on to Heath, but I understand if a move is made.
2. Chris Young, starter. CY had an injury plagued year, and had to be shut down with a shoulder injury. Young is emerging as a top of the rotation type of pitcher and is relatively inexpensive at around 6.2 million dollars. Young will more likely be a more popular player to other teams later in the summer, perhaps around the July 31 trade deadline, due to the uncertainty of his arm, and how he'll bounce back. But trust me, there will be opposing GM's asking about Young. My guess, is that Young stays a Padre through the season and that will be a good thing.
3. Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B. Kouz had one of his best overall seasons, since coming to the Padres from the Indians three seasons ago. Not only did he produce at the plate, he was a legitimate contender for the NL Gold Glove at third base this year. Kouz is still a young player, and again is a guy under team control and is only arbitration eligible, not a free agent. He has tremendous upside, and perhaps the Padres think that Chase Headley, is better suited to play third, to make him expendable. Realizing that with Kyle Blanks waiting to get an opportunity, if Adrian isn't dealt, one of the two, of Kouz or Chase could be dealt to open up left field for the rookie.
Ok as those seem pretty obvious choices, I realize that, just wanted to get my thoughts down on "paper" to let you know where I'm coming from. What about Hoyer's shopping list? What will he go to Indianapolis looking for? Here are my early thoughts...
1. Starting Pitcher. With the emergence of some of the young arms, (Clayton Richard, Wade LeBlanc, Tim Stauffer and Mujica) Hoyer may look for a veteran to help Young and Kevin Correia at the front of the rotation. There are some options via free agency, but a big money guy is unlikely. To be honest the free agent list in this category is not that impressive. Here's the list I looked at, courtesy of MLBTraderumors.com.
2. Catcher. Nick Hundley really improved both defensively and offensively this season. Unfortunately for him, the fastball by Chad Billingsley he took off his wrist cost Hundley about 2 months of the season. Henry Blanco proved to be a low cost, good option, as a back up, but he has filed for free agency. He could be re-signed. Not saying it's a top priority, but getting a good backup in the fold, could be something on Hoyer's list.
3. Outfielder. This one may not seem as obvious. No slight intended to Tony Gwynn Jr, but with a flood of young outfielders, Hoyer may choose to bring in a veteran outfielder to provide a little stability out there. Mike Cameron?
I'll certainly have more about this as the Winter Meetings approach. It's always fun to guess along at home!
Ok, that's it for today, I'm off to Stockton, CA with the USD Toreros (1-0), for tomorrow night's game at the University of the Pacific. The Toreros looked good in their season opener, a 77-64 win over Stanford at the JCP. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson each scored 18 points. A couple of other players were key contributors, Chris Lewis got the team off to a quick start, he scored 15 on 7 of 8 from the floor, and Roberto Mafra, went to work late in the game, with 2 key blocked shots and a big basket down the stretch to finish with 9 points and 5 rebounds.
I'll have the call on San Diego 1700 (XX1090's sister station), starting with the pre-game at 6:45, then the game at 7pm. You can also listen on the web, at www.usdtoreros.com.
Talk to you later...
Andy
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Gold for Gonzo, nothing for Kouz
Adrian Gonzalez won his second consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove at 1B today. Kevin Kouzmanoff fell short in his attempt to win his first. Here's the results of the final vote (and my thoughts):
C: Yadier Molina, STL (agree with this selection)
1B: Adrian Gonzalez, SD (agree with this selection)
2B: Orlando Hudson, LAD (I guess)
3B: Ryan Zimmerman, WAS (not sure why)
SS: Jimmy Rollins, PHI (agree with this selection)
OF: Michael Bourn, HOU (agree with this selection)
OF: Matt Kemp, LAD (agree completely with this selection)
OF: Shane Victorino, PHI (agree with this selection)
P: Adam Wainwright, STL (if it's not Maddux, who cares?)
Now as I discussed yesterday, a lot of times this award is based on anything but fielding. Reputation and even offense start to play a role in decisions to award the highest defensive honor in the game. Kouz on paper really deserved to take the award. He did miss some time down the stretch which may have hurt him, but still, the numbers don't lie. Congratulations to Adrian, and hopefully next year for Kouz!
The Silver Slugger awards are announced tomorrow, then we wait until Monday to find out the Rookie of the Year winners.
CY Ready...
For those asking about how Chris Young is doing, make sure you read this article in the Union Tribune, today, Bill Center gives you an update...and it's a good one. Think about what a healthy Young does to the emerging rotation for the Padres. He provides some nice veteran leadership, and a front end guy, combined with Kevin Correia and the rest of the youngsters, could be a good staff. We'll have to see if there's enough in the budget, or a deal is done by new GM Jed Hoyer to bring in another veteran arm.
Well that was....uneventful...
The GM Meetings have wrapped up in Chicago and there were no trades done in the three days. Not to say that groundwork hasn't been set for free agent pickups or deals down the road.
Getting UGLY in LA...
Padres fans know all too well about what a divorce can do to a team. The stage is setting for an ugly divorce between Frank and Jamie McCourt. Jamie was fired by Frank as the CEO of the team several weeks ago. She sued to get her job back but was unsuccessful. Now, she not only wants her job back, she wants to BUY the team. She claims that she's been running the team since day one. As she is quoted as saying...
Alright off to USD to watch the Toreros practice for the game coming up Friday night against Stanford!
Have a great day!
Andy
C: Yadier Molina, STL (agree with this selection)
1B: Adrian Gonzalez, SD (agree with this selection)
2B: Orlando Hudson, LAD (I guess)
3B: Ryan Zimmerman, WAS (not sure why)
SS: Jimmy Rollins, PHI (agree with this selection)
OF: Michael Bourn, HOU (agree with this selection)
OF: Matt Kemp, LAD (agree completely with this selection)
OF: Shane Victorino, PHI (agree with this selection)
P: Adam Wainwright, STL (if it's not Maddux, who cares?)
Now as I discussed yesterday, a lot of times this award is based on anything but fielding. Reputation and even offense start to play a role in decisions to award the highest defensive honor in the game. Kouz on paper really deserved to take the award. He did miss some time down the stretch which may have hurt him, but still, the numbers don't lie. Congratulations to Adrian, and hopefully next year for Kouz!
The Silver Slugger awards are announced tomorrow, then we wait until Monday to find out the Rookie of the Year winners.
CY Ready...
For those asking about how Chris Young is doing, make sure you read this article in the Union Tribune, today, Bill Center gives you an update...and it's a good one. Think about what a healthy Young does to the emerging rotation for the Padres. He provides some nice veteran leadership, and a front end guy, combined with Kevin Correia and the rest of the youngsters, could be a good staff. We'll have to see if there's enough in the budget, or a deal is done by new GM Jed Hoyer to bring in another veteran arm.
Well that was....uneventful...
The GM Meetings have wrapped up in Chicago and there were no trades done in the three days. Not to say that groundwork hasn't been set for free agent pickups or deals down the road.
Getting UGLY in LA...
Padres fans know all too well about what a divorce can do to a team. The stage is setting for an ugly divorce between Frank and Jamie McCourt. Jamie was fired by Frank as the CEO of the team several weeks ago. She sued to get her job back but was unsuccessful. Now, she not only wants her job back, she wants to BUY the team. She claims that she's been running the team since day one. As she is quoted as saying...
"I was handling everything from catsup dispenser to whether [manager] Joe Torre should be hired," McCourt, 55, told the Los Angeles Times in a column published Wednesday.This could get very interesting, stay tuned!
Alright off to USD to watch the Toreros practice for the game coming up Friday night against Stanford!
Have a great day!
Andy
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Random Musings...
To this point, there's been no huge news coming out of the GM meetings in Chicago, so I figured, I'd spout off about a few things...
Good as Gold?
Tomorrow we find out about the NL Gold Glove winners, and no doubt the Padres have two and maybe 3 legitimate candidates for the award. It's hard to figure though, since this award sometimes gets based on reputation, and yes, even offense. That makes no sense but it's true. Ok, back to the SD candidates...
Let's start with the obvious, and that's Adrian Gonzalez. He would win the award at 1B in back to back seasons. It seems as though, once you break through, you are in real consideration every year. He has the offensive numbers to back up the award as well. He fielded .995 this season, which was tied for fourth in the NL.
Now, the guy that should walk away with the Gold Glove at third base, Kevin Kouzmanoff. The question is will he? If I had a vote, it would go to Kouz with no questions asked. Watching him play the field this year was a true pleasure. Plus I know how hard he works at his craft. He is out well before batting practice taking grounders from infield coach, Glenn Hoffman, pretty much every day. Kouz had the highest fielding percentage in the NL, and set a record for a single season, fielding .990 at the hot corner. Now, will he win it? I think that the award will somehow elude Kouz, and go to Nationals 3B, Ryan Zimmerman. I don't like to say that, and certainly hope I'm wrong. Here's where reputation and offense will come into play. Ridiculous, I know. Let's see how it works out.
Also in consideration is Mr. Steady, David Eckstein, who made a league fewest 2 errors all season, and fielded .997. Will he beat out the rest of the field? Let's wait and find out. He should win it though, again having benefit of watching every game he's played as a Padre, his range is underrated, and his saving some of the young pitchers with the ability to turn double plays goes unnoticed too.
Revisit Replay?
Baseball's GM's did not take a vote on a chance to expand the use of instant replay after a season and post-season filled with horrible calls by umpires. I find this to be a shame. I realize that it's an uphill fight, since the man in charge, Bud Selig, sees no reason to expand the current replay system, but come on. Either improve the replay system, or improve the umpiring. There are guys out there on the field that display the body language, of "why am I here, do I really need to do this" and others look to pick fights and are so confrontational that it's disgusting. Mr. Selig, please do one or the other, PLEASE!
Will less $ = more deals?
Several teams have already indicated that they will not be big players in the free agent market, due to the economy and some of the big pay days that may be due to some of the top free agents. My thinking is there will be more trades to try and improve clubs, rather than big money free agent signings. Of course the big market teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers and others may buck that trend, but for the most part we may be looking at a much busier trade market when the teams get together in Indianapolis for the Winter Meetings next month. Just a thought.
Scully not silenced...
Dodgers long time play by play announcer Vin Scully may not walk away after next year as previously thought. Scully turns 82 soon, and made some statements in July that indicated he would be done after 2010. He immediately regretted those statements saying he still loves what he does and is leaving the door open for 2011 and beyond. Folks, this is a quality human being, not just a great announcer, but a great person. Scully is so friendly, and is always in a good mood. And why not? He's been with the Dodgers forever and like me, gets paid to watch baseball games for a living. I hope he keeps going as long as he wants.
USD...
Don't forget, USD opens up it's season against Stanford at the Jenny Craig Pavilion, Friday night. It's a young team, with a lot of potential, and some more athleticism than last year's team. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson are back and will try to lead the youngsters to a great season. Hope you can join us at the JCP, and if not, I'll have the call on XX1090, starting at 6:45 Friday night.
Alright, have a great day!
Andy
Good as Gold?
Tomorrow we find out about the NL Gold Glove winners, and no doubt the Padres have two and maybe 3 legitimate candidates for the award. It's hard to figure though, since this award sometimes gets based on reputation, and yes, even offense. That makes no sense but it's true. Ok, back to the SD candidates...
Let's start with the obvious, and that's Adrian Gonzalez. He would win the award at 1B in back to back seasons. It seems as though, once you break through, you are in real consideration every year. He has the offensive numbers to back up the award as well. He fielded .995 this season, which was tied for fourth in the NL.
Now, the guy that should walk away with the Gold Glove at third base, Kevin Kouzmanoff. The question is will he? If I had a vote, it would go to Kouz with no questions asked. Watching him play the field this year was a true pleasure. Plus I know how hard he works at his craft. He is out well before batting practice taking grounders from infield coach, Glenn Hoffman, pretty much every day. Kouz had the highest fielding percentage in the NL, and set a record for a single season, fielding .990 at the hot corner. Now, will he win it? I think that the award will somehow elude Kouz, and go to Nationals 3B, Ryan Zimmerman. I don't like to say that, and certainly hope I'm wrong. Here's where reputation and offense will come into play. Ridiculous, I know. Let's see how it works out.
Also in consideration is Mr. Steady, David Eckstein, who made a league fewest 2 errors all season, and fielded .997. Will he beat out the rest of the field? Let's wait and find out. He should win it though, again having benefit of watching every game he's played as a Padre, his range is underrated, and his saving some of the young pitchers with the ability to turn double plays goes unnoticed too.
Revisit Replay?
Baseball's GM's did not take a vote on a chance to expand the use of instant replay after a season and post-season filled with horrible calls by umpires. I find this to be a shame. I realize that it's an uphill fight, since the man in charge, Bud Selig, sees no reason to expand the current replay system, but come on. Either improve the replay system, or improve the umpiring. There are guys out there on the field that display the body language, of "why am I here, do I really need to do this" and others look to pick fights and are so confrontational that it's disgusting. Mr. Selig, please do one or the other, PLEASE!
Will less $ = more deals?
Several teams have already indicated that they will not be big players in the free agent market, due to the economy and some of the big pay days that may be due to some of the top free agents. My thinking is there will be more trades to try and improve clubs, rather than big money free agent signings. Of course the big market teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers and others may buck that trend, but for the most part we may be looking at a much busier trade market when the teams get together in Indianapolis for the Winter Meetings next month. Just a thought.
Scully not silenced...
Dodgers long time play by play announcer Vin Scully may not walk away after next year as previously thought. Scully turns 82 soon, and made some statements in July that indicated he would be done after 2010. He immediately regretted those statements saying he still loves what he does and is leaving the door open for 2011 and beyond. Folks, this is a quality human being, not just a great announcer, but a great person. Scully is so friendly, and is always in a good mood. And why not? He's been with the Dodgers forever and like me, gets paid to watch baseball games for a living. I hope he keeps going as long as he wants.
USD...
Don't forget, USD opens up it's season against Stanford at the Jenny Craig Pavilion, Friday night. It's a young team, with a lot of potential, and some more athleticism than last year's team. Brandon Johnson and De'Jon Jackson are back and will try to lead the youngsters to a great season. Hope you can join us at the JCP, and if not, I'll have the call on XX1090, starting at 6:45 Friday night.
Alright, have a great day!
Andy
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Turn up the Hot Stove...
I just love that term, "Hot Stove League", but what exactly does it mean? I took the time to look it up for you, and here are some definitions courtesy of Wikipedia...
Ok, now with that out of the way, it will get underway starting with the GM Meetings in Chicago, starting tomorrow morning. Some deals may get done, but more likely the groundwork for deals to be consummated at the winter meetings will be laid. Padres new GM Jed Hoyer will make his first official appearance representing the team, and it will be interesting to find out who he chats with and what his off season plan is.
Before being let go, Kevin Towers, had reportedly wanted to upgrade in a couple of different spots, including perhaps centerfield. There were also thoughts of trying to get another starter, to go along with a hopefully healthy Chris Young, and Kevin Correia. We'll see what transpires in that department.
Of course the other name that will keep fans on edge this winter, is that of Adrian Gonzalez. His contract is extremely manageable. Adrian is owed $4.75 million in 2010, and there's a club option for 2011 at $5.5 million dollars. This makes him good trade bait, but at the same time, good to keep. I'm not waffling, I just don't know what the plan actually is.
If it's me (and the decision is not mine!), I hang on to Adrian Gonzalez. I realize that you might be able to make a slightly lesser "Jake Peavy" type deal, and maybe get some pitching back for him, but I just like what Adrian brings to the team. A pure long ball threat, a walk and OBP machine, plus Gold Glove defense. I know, all of that makes him attractive to other clubs, but can you get equal value for his age (27) and relative cheap price tag? I know that all options will be explored, but I'd like to see the team hang on to Adrian.
I will try as best I can to keep you updated on what is going on at the GM Meetings, so check back during the day tomorrow as well...
How do rumors get started...
I mentioned the name Mike Cameron before, and now that he's expected to become a free agent, the rumor is he may be coming back to SD? Check out this link to mlbtraderumors.com where the writer makes predictions about where the top 50 free agents will wind up. Interesting stuff.
Only in New York...
When the Yankees "ticker tape" parade rolled through the streets of New York, some apparently ran out of confetti, so those in the high rise office buildings took matters into their own hands. They began tossing files and personal financial documents out the windows. Somebody walking around after the parade found sheets of paper that included personal banking documents, pay stubs, court files, and even law firm memos. Isn't the old saying, "Act like you've been there before?" Haven't they?
Football Sunday...Chargers with a Giant win...
What a big win for the Chargers today at the Meadowlands. Phillip Rivers led the game winning drive, hitting Vincent Jackson for the touchdown. Now the debate will always come up, whether or not the Chargers would have been better with Eli Manning or with Rivers. To me, and I know I haven't been in town all that long, I would always side with the guy, that is the warrior. Rivers throws his body around, plays hurt, makes the tough throws and is a leader. I take him. I know Manning has a Superbowl ring, but come on, give me Rivers everyday of the week and 2 times on Sunday.
Sunday bloody Sunday...
Now, the team I grew up rooting for, just didn't show up again. The Bears get blown out at home by the Cardinals and Kurt Warner who threw 5 touchdown passes. Tommie Harris gets kicked out of the game on the 4th play from scrimmage, and it was down hill from there. And to think I rushed to run some errands to get back and watch that game. Ugh.
You all remember the last time the Bears and Cardinals played right? It was in the 2006 season, when the Bears made that crazy come back and then Dennis Green melted down in the post game press conference. Well today, Ken Whisenhunt made light of it. Check out this tweet from my friend Zach Zaidman who is the Bears sideline reporter...
Good stuff Ken.
It's Torero Time...
Stopped by the Jenny Craig Pavilion last night to watch the Toreros in their only exhibition game this year, against Occidental College. The Toreros looked good in a 91-52 win. 5 USD players were in double figures. They are a much more athletic team this season, and are deeper. Coach Bill Grier went 12 deep on the bench, although the regular season rotation may be a bit tighter. Keep an eye on freshman guard Patrick McCollum from Tacoma. He has a ton of energy and just looks like a ballplayer. He could be fun to watch this season.
Along the equal time theory, as I know many of you are Aztec fans and they beat Cal Baptist in an exhibition game as well, 72-57. There was a great article about Aztec freshman Kawhi Leonard in today's Union Tribune. It kind of puts basketball into perspective for a young athlete. I highly recommend checking it out by clicking here.
Alright, that's it for me...have a great night and we hope to have more tomorrow on the GM Meetings!
Andy
The Hot Stove League is a baseball-related term, referring to the off-season. Therefore, it is not actually a "league", but the term instead calls up images of baseball fans, anxious for the start of the new season, gathering around a hot stove during the cold winter months discussing their favorite baseball teams. The term has also come to refer to the wave of off-season player transactions (trades, re-signings, free agency, etc.) that occur between seasons, especially during the winter meetings. Since most free agent signings and trades occur during the off-season, this time of significant player transactions (including rumors and speculation about possible trades), is often referred to as the "Hot Stove League" or sometimes more simply "Hot Stove". Essentially, teams continue competing, except it is the team owners and general managers who are doing the playing, with the score being in terms of human resource losses and gains.
Ok, now with that out of the way, it will get underway starting with the GM Meetings in Chicago, starting tomorrow morning. Some deals may get done, but more likely the groundwork for deals to be consummated at the winter meetings will be laid. Padres new GM Jed Hoyer will make his first official appearance representing the team, and it will be interesting to find out who he chats with and what his off season plan is.
Before being let go, Kevin Towers, had reportedly wanted to upgrade in a couple of different spots, including perhaps centerfield. There were also thoughts of trying to get another starter, to go along with a hopefully healthy Chris Young, and Kevin Correia. We'll see what transpires in that department.
Of course the other name that will keep fans on edge this winter, is that of Adrian Gonzalez. His contract is extremely manageable. Adrian is owed $4.75 million in 2010, and there's a club option for 2011 at $5.5 million dollars. This makes him good trade bait, but at the same time, good to keep. I'm not waffling, I just don't know what the plan actually is.
If it's me (and the decision is not mine!), I hang on to Adrian Gonzalez. I realize that you might be able to make a slightly lesser "Jake Peavy" type deal, and maybe get some pitching back for him, but I just like what Adrian brings to the team. A pure long ball threat, a walk and OBP machine, plus Gold Glove defense. I know, all of that makes him attractive to other clubs, but can you get equal value for his age (27) and relative cheap price tag? I know that all options will be explored, but I'd like to see the team hang on to Adrian.
I will try as best I can to keep you updated on what is going on at the GM Meetings, so check back during the day tomorrow as well...
How do rumors get started...
I mentioned the name Mike Cameron before, and now that he's expected to become a free agent, the rumor is he may be coming back to SD? Check out this link to mlbtraderumors.com where the writer makes predictions about where the top 50 free agents will wind up. Interesting stuff.
Only in New York...
When the Yankees "ticker tape" parade rolled through the streets of New York, some apparently ran out of confetti, so those in the high rise office buildings took matters into their own hands. They began tossing files and personal financial documents out the windows. Somebody walking around after the parade found sheets of paper that included personal banking documents, pay stubs, court files, and even law firm memos. Isn't the old saying, "Act like you've been there before?" Haven't they?
Football Sunday...Chargers with a Giant win...
What a big win for the Chargers today at the Meadowlands. Phillip Rivers led the game winning drive, hitting Vincent Jackson for the touchdown. Now the debate will always come up, whether or not the Chargers would have been better with Eli Manning or with Rivers. To me, and I know I haven't been in town all that long, I would always side with the guy, that is the warrior. Rivers throws his body around, plays hurt, makes the tough throws and is a leader. I take him. I know Manning has a Superbowl ring, but come on, give me Rivers everyday of the week and 2 times on Sunday.
Sunday bloody Sunday...
Now, the team I grew up rooting for, just didn't show up again. The Bears get blown out at home by the Cardinals and Kurt Warner who threw 5 touchdown passes. Tommie Harris gets kicked out of the game on the 4th play from scrimmage, and it was down hill from there. And to think I rushed to run some errands to get back and watch that game. Ugh.
You all remember the last time the Bears and Cardinals played right? It was in the 2006 season, when the Bears made that crazy come back and then Dennis Green melted down in the post game press conference. Well today, Ken Whisenhunt made light of it. Check out this tweet from my friend Zach Zaidman who is the Bears sideline reporter...
@ZachZaidman "The last thing I'd like to say is, we didn't let them off the hook," Whisenhunt joked at his postgame news conference.
Good stuff Ken.
It's Torero Time...
Stopped by the Jenny Craig Pavilion last night to watch the Toreros in their only exhibition game this year, against Occidental College. The Toreros looked good in a 91-52 win. 5 USD players were in double figures. They are a much more athletic team this season, and are deeper. Coach Bill Grier went 12 deep on the bench, although the regular season rotation may be a bit tighter. Keep an eye on freshman guard Patrick McCollum from Tacoma. He has a ton of energy and just looks like a ballplayer. He could be fun to watch this season.
Along the equal time theory, as I know many of you are Aztec fans and they beat Cal Baptist in an exhibition game as well, 72-57. There was a great article about Aztec freshman Kawhi Leonard in today's Union Tribune. It kind of puts basketball into perspective for a young athlete. I highly recommend checking it out by clicking here.
Alright, that's it for me...have a great night and we hope to have more tomorrow on the GM Meetings!
Andy
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Need Your Help...
From time to time, I'm going to ask for your help here at "Masur's Musings" and I have a couple of questions/favors to ask of you...
1. What are your early thoughts on my blog "Masur's Musings"? What would you like to read more of? Less of? I'm new to this blogging thing, so let me know your thoughts.
2. I'd like you to check out my official web page, located at www.andy-masur.com and let me know your thoughts on the site as well. I'm building it and updating it myself, so realize there are some limitations, but feel free to check it out and give me your thoughts.
Please respond with your comments here on "Masur's Musings" in the "comment" section just below this entry. I want this to be an interactive thing, and make it reader friendly and give you useful information.
Thank you kindly, and enjoy your weekend!
Andy
1. What are your early thoughts on my blog "Masur's Musings"? What would you like to read more of? Less of? I'm new to this blogging thing, so let me know your thoughts.
2. I'd like you to check out my official web page, located at www.andy-masur.com and let me know your thoughts on the site as well. I'm building it and updating it myself, so realize there are some limitations, but feel free to check it out and give me your thoughts.
Please respond with your comments here on "Masur's Musings" in the "comment" section just below this entry. I want this to be an interactive thing, and make it reader friendly and give you useful information.
Thank you kindly, and enjoy your weekend!
Andy
Friday, November 6, 2009
A Flurry of Activity...
This could be a very busy off-season. We are a weekend away from the GM's meetings in Chicago and already some deals have gone down.
To no real surprise, JJ Hardy was dealt by the Brewers, he heads to Minnesota in exchange for centerfielder Carlos Gomez. Hardy as you recall was demoted to the minors, just as the Padres came to town, and it created a major controversy. The move by the Brewers affected Hardy's arbitration status and the player was not happy. Also interesting to keep an eye on, now that Milwaukee has acquired an every day centerfielder, will Mike Cameron be elsewhere in 2010?
The on again, off again deal between the White Sox and Royals, seems to be on again, and has been completed. The Sox acquire Mark Teahen from the Royals for Chris Getz and Josh Fields. The White Sox plan to play the versatile Teahen at 3B, and move Gordon Beckham to 2B. The White Sox also plan to part ways with 2005 WS MVP, Jermaine Dye and will buy out his 2010 option.
Other random notes on a busy Friday: (from MLB.com's, Steve Gilbert) The Diamondbacks picked up the 2010 option on Brandon Webb. It's for $8.5 million.
The Phillies exercised the option on post-season hero Cliff Lee. It's a $9 million option. According to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, the Phillies would like to engage Lee in long term extension talks. That's a no brainer.
That's a quick look at some of the moves, and again, I'll try to stay on top of any Padres moves at the GM meetings in Chicago Monday. Haven't met the new GM, Jed Hoyer yet, obviously he's been a bit busy, getting to know the organization and preparing for his first big event as the GM. He does have some experience in this realm, since he represented the Red Sox at the GM and Winter Meetings when Theo Epstein walked away from the team briefly several years ago.
Some Padres news/notes...
According to the Union Tribune today, Nick Hundley underwent surgery for a sports hernia. He tells the paper he first was injured in May and played through the pain receiving treatment for the hernia.
Also in Padres news today, Brian Giles and Henry Blanco officially filed for free agency. There had been talk before Kevin Towers was dismissed as GM, that Blanco was a guy the Padres wanted to bring back. We'll see if that has changed now that there's a new guy in charge.
USD 6th Man Dinner, a big success...
It was my pleasure once again to serve as the emcee for USD's annual fund raiser, the 6th Man Dinner last night. The staff and crew of the Jenny Craig Pavilion make the building over, and turn it into an elegant banquet hall. It's hard to believe every year that we are doing this event in a basketball arena. Kudos to them.
This year the committee brought in a guest speaker, and Steve Lavin, the former coach at UCLA and now college hoops analyst for ABC/ESPN was the guy. Lavin watched practice yesterday and offered his thoughts, he addressed the team, and spoke about the importance of being a student/athlete. A very good talk from Lavin. He also talked extensively about Bill Grier's ability to coach, and how he is able to adjust during games to what is going on. He also mentioned that Grier felt that San Diego is a place he'd like to lay down roots, and not be a "one hit wonder". Let's hope that's the case. Grier is not only a good coach, but a great person to be around. He certainly makes my job as the play by play voice much easier, allowing me access to the team and it's practices.
Also coach Grier addressed the gathered crowd, and introduced his 2009-10 team on stage. Fans, from first glance, it's a young team, with a good mix of some veteran leadership. This team has some speed and can get up and down the floor. Grier made it known that it is great to have Brandon Johnson back in the fold after his season ending injury of last year, but that BJ is only operating at about 75 percent. It will just be good to have him on the floor, as he's one of the fiercest competitors I've seen. All you have to do is look back to the game in the 2007-08 season, at the WCC Tournament, playing all 50 minutes in the come from behind, double overtime win over St Mary's. Amazing.
The Toreros only exhibition game is tomorrow night, at the JCP, 6pm against Occidental College. Then it tips off for real, a week from today, against Stanford in the home/season opener at 7pm.
Alright, a lot to digest, perhaps more later...
Andy
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