Bosox Board

Red Sox 2023 Season => Hot Stove => Topic started by: MongoLikeSox on December 27, 2022, 08:25:52 AM

Title: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on December 27, 2022, 08:25:52 AM
So, now - what to do at SS now that our anchor is gone? Several options I've seen discussed. In true Bloom fashion, the move will come along as one that will weaken another position. It might also include a questionable element, such as someone who has not played SS since Little League, but performed well during the now illegal defensive shifts when fielding the spot.

Options
Kike Hernandez - Can he start 145 games and do well at SS? What about CF? This move would weaken CF and give us average SS at best. Look for it to happen, right?
Trevor Story - I know this is not the most commonly shared opinion, but I think Trevor Story at 2B is a massive advantage over most competition when combining defensive and offensive production. His arm at SS puts him into the iffy category. So, we'd weaken one position to stop-gap solve another? A typical Bloom move. Perhaps he does intend on putting Enmanual Valdez in at 2b to sell the unpopular Vasquez trade.
Jose Iglesias - This is my favorite option. He's a proven professional that can hit a little bit. He'd be good for .260-ish, which is not bad in today's game. He's got very little power, though, and might not look great with some modern range stats as he ages. Still, he's solid and is low cost in both money and zero trade cost being a FA. He also allows zero disruption to CF and 2B as Kike and Story get to stay put. He's a ball player and Cora likes him. All this adds up to Bloom not doing this. Not his style. Bloom does not understand the value of a ball player.
Elvis Andrus - He's a Free Agent, but I'm not suere how/why. He passed the vesting option criteria. Odd. Anyhow. he's got a little more power that Iglesias. He did not hit for average well in Oakland. I do not recall his defensive prowess from his Ranger days and more recent stint with Oakland. This option might be more expensive than Iglesias. Again, straight up FA (no prospects lost)
Farm System Options - (Rafaela, Hamilton, Fitzgerald) Nothing's ready.
Trade Options - I've seen two names mentioned. Wendle from Miami, previous platoon 3b of the Rays is the scarier one. Adames of the Brewers, but I read the Brewers are not even considering the notion. Anything trade is scary right now because of who we have running the show.

I think after writing everything out, I like the least disruptive option(s) of Iglesias or Andrus. Leave existing strengths alone. BUT, I'm not as smart as Bloom.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on December 27, 2022, 09:22:14 AM
Ironically a good SS for Baltimore could very well be Jeter Downs, courtesy of the Sox.  I know he didn’t hit for crap in Boston, but he could find himself for a decent B.A. like Beni did with the Royals. Downs was picked near the top off waivers.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on December 27, 2022, 10:25:41 AM
I was thinking more along the lines of Kike at 2B and Story at SS which gives them an opportunity - or would if they had acted sooner, to add a bat and a legit CF.  I’m not sure what options outside the organization are right now, but they could fill some needs if the play it right.  Iglesias is an interesting option with some upside, but they really need to find a way to get some power into that lineup.  Going with Valdez almost seems like another white flag of surrender.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on December 27, 2022, 10:42:19 AM
From the list Mongo posted, I’m thinking Bloom follows the Trevor Story model â€" wait until the market has almost dried up and owners have shot their wad, and a bargain is left.  I’m thinking Andrus fits that Billy Beane template. 

Bloom is almost as devoid of rational thought, that he would soon trade Devers (unsignable in the Henry vs Boras market) for a 3B/OF and a pitcher.  Surely not!
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on January 11, 2023, 05:13:57 PM
Welp, that went to pot.

I'm all for not making this worse and hitting the trade button on anyone that has not played in the big leagues yet. This is no time to sell the youngsters. Bite the bullet, over-pay both Iglesias and Andrus and run with those two and Arroyo. If Miami wants to take a flier on Dalbec/Duran for their guy, fine. Otherwise, they can keep their SS.

BTW, anyone wondering on David Hamilton, he barely squeaked out a 250-ish average with a late season spurt. I didn't see enough of him to say anything different, but this is what SoxProspects say about the speedster's defense. "Field: Poor footwork and range and does not look comfortable at shortstop. Has a tendency to rush plays and has trouble fielding the ball on the run. At second base, is a bit robotic and only shows average hands. Footwork is sloppy there as well and it is unclear if he can stick there long-term. Speed and athleticism might be best suited for center field, where he has played a couple times in 2022. Potential below-average defender."  Nice trade, Chaim!

edit: One other thing to point out in all of this. When is the earliest we can ship a player to the 60-day IL? This could cause yet another DFA unless we can convince someone to take a MILB contract and an invite to Spring Training. You'd think doing that has limitations or everyone would be doing it for their January team shopping. 

Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on January 11, 2023, 07:26:44 PM
Mongo, the Dodgers traded with Marlins for Miguel Rojas today.

Also on the MLBTR podcast, they think Sox sign Elvis Andrus at SS.  He is a Boras client and may ask for 2-3 years.  Expected to make $6.1 m AAV.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on January 12, 2023, 06:55:49 AM
That looks like a decent trade for both teams, but especially for the Marlins. The prospect (Jacob Amaya) is supposed to be ready this year and is said to be a plus defender. Per the MLB scouting bio on their site, anyhow. He had only one glitch year offensively due to being homer pull-happy in 2021, but back to normal last year.

This is the type of trade one would have expected Boston to pull off last August' trade deadline if they were going to be serious about getting something in return for pending free agents.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on January 12, 2023, 08:38:11 AM
I'm guessing the plan is to wait until there are no other SS's left and then lowball Andrus? 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on January 24, 2023, 02:18:31 PM
The Sox may have addressed the INF depth issue, trading P Josh Taylor to KC for Adalberto Mondesi.  But yet another player coming off two major injurries in 2022.  The trade could be cancelled if Taylor’s medical shows his chronic shoulder problems.

The Boston Red Sox acquired shortstop Adalberto Mondesi from the Kansas City Royals for left-handed reliever Josh Taylor on Tuesday, providing middle-infield depth to buttress losses this winter to free agency and injury.

The Red Sox also will be receiving a player to be named or cash considerations as part of the deal.

The 27-year-old Mondesi, whose star-level tools made him a top prospect but whose inability to stay healthy has limited him to 358 games in seven seasons, is recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee and a shoulder injury same year.

Mondesi has fanned in 30.2% of his plate appearances against just a 4.4% walk rate, and he’s a career .244/.280/.408 hitter in the big leagues. That includes a rough .140/.204/.140 showing in 2022, though that came in a tiny sample of just 54 plate appearances.

Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on January 24, 2023, 02:24:07 PM
Bloom loves to troll for players who have come out of the used damaged and repair bin. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on January 26, 2023, 08:09:53 AM
A couple of days to chew on this trade has me a little less down on it than I was. I think it's taking this avenue when others supposedly existed with far less disruption and without giving up a player with value. Also, Mondesi has his own little $3M price tag and will be a FA after this season. If you were GM and had a SS hole to fill, $3M for a "toolsy" injury history type or $6-8M for a good veteran defender who can at least hit a little bit and stays healthy?

We'd spend far more than that difference replacing Taylor on the open market.   

On the trade itself, I hate to give up Taylor unless there was zero confidence with the back injury he had last season. A good lefty for 3 more years for one year of an injury riddled SS. Taylor did have a rough Pandemic season, but pitched 52 games after being called up in 2019 and 61 games in 2021 while posting a 3.40 ERA after that horrible start he had.

This just has being too creative written all over it. It could work, sure. But what do we get over a cheap FA option, even if it did work out?

edit: I just read on another thread that this injury-prone athlete won't even be ready for ST? We're taking over rehab on his ACL. Another little point I had forgotten was to add in his 34% K-rate for some more absolutely useless ABs. Why??????  The solution was so simple and stable. This guy will have to tap the fountain of glory years he never had to have enough impact to justify this. He has not played a full season yet. His high water mark is 110 games combined MLB and AAA in 2017.

Bloom might be so desperate that he needs one of these wild hair brained trades to work out in order to save his job. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on January 26, 2023, 09:58:16 AM
Mongo, I see that another thing Bloom saw as a shining light in the dumpster, Mondesi is a switch hitter. As bad as his bat is, he doe hit slightly better as a righty. 

Some rumblings today is Harrison would be a fallback to Mondesi, if he looks to be behind schedule in rehab.  Braves’ Acuna had an ACL and it slowed him down defensively and running the bases.  His bat was much the same, but he is a gifted hitter.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on January 26, 2023, 01:36:31 PM
Yeah, the Sox just love a switch hitter.

This is going to be one of those years where no one iteration of the lineup is used 5 times or more all year. Player collision scares galore. We're going to be holding our breathe on pop ups all year.

At least they have not brought in Santana yet. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on January 26, 2023, 03:36:11 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on January 26, 2023, 08:09:53 AM
A couple of days to chew on this trade has me a little less down on it than I was. I think it's taking this avenue when others supposedly existed with far less disruption and without giving up a player with value. Also, Mondesi has his own little $3M price tag and will be a FA after this season. If you were GM and had a SS hole to fill, $3M for a "toolsy" injury history type or $6-8M for a good veteran defender who can at least hit a little bit and stays healthy?

We'd spend far more than that difference replacing Taylor on the open market.   

On the trade itself, I hate to give up Taylor unless there was zero confidence with the back injury he had last season. A good lefty for 3 more years for one year of an injury riddled SS. Taylor did have a rough Pandemic season, but pitched 52 games after being called up in 2019 and 61 games in 2021 while posting a 3.40 ERA after that horrible start he had.

This just has being too creative written all over it. It could work, sure. But what do we get over a cheap FA option, even if it did work out?

edit: I just read on another thread that this injury-prone athlete won't even be ready for ST? We're taking over rehab on his ACL. Another little point I had forgotten was to add in his 34% K-rate for some more absolutely useless ABs. Why??????  The solution was so simple and stable. This guy will have to tap the fountain of glory years he never had to have enough impact to justify this. He has not played a full season yet. His high water mark is 110 games combined MLB and AAA in 2017.

Bloom might be so desperate that he needs one of these wild hair brained trades to work out in order to save his job.

I see no way Bloom can survive unless there is a 1967 type miracle season.  Henry was humiliated in public twice.  I don't think one forgets that.  Some one has to be the fall guy even if it is largely Henry's fault.
Moreover Bloom has won no friends among the media and judging by past leaks coming out the FO there are a lot of lower level insiders who are scratching their collective heads over some of his moves.
Finally there seems no one able to clearly articulate what Bloom's plan is. I sense there are a whole lot of folks on Jersey St.thinking WTF is next.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 16, 2023, 07:05:45 AM
Well, some SS news. Seems Iglesias went to the Marlins on a Minor League deal last week. We got Chang on an MLB deal a few weeks ago. The Sox did not want Iglesias, or visa versa? Chang did just win some honors in the WBC, but that's 16 ABs against who knows what for pitching. Word Cora said was Stronger. His team got eliminated, so we'll see him soon.

Mind you, he was nothing for us and was the last stop on a 4-team journey last season. So of course we sign him to a MLB spot. Duh!!!!
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 16, 2023, 02:24:28 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on December 27, 2022, 08:25:52 AM
So, now - what to do at SS now that our anchor is gone? Several options I've seen discussed. In true Bloom fashion, the move will come along as one that will weaken another position. It might also include a questionable element, such as someone who has not played SS since Little League, but performed well during the now illegal defensive shifts when fielding the spot.

Options
Kike Hernandez - Can he start 145 games and do well at SS? What about CF? This move would weaken CF and give us average SS at best. Look for it to happen, right?
Trevor Story - I know this is not the most commonly shared opinion, but I think Trevor Story at 2B is a massive advantage over most competition when combining defensive and offensive production. His arm at SS puts him into the iffy category. So, we'd weaken one position to stop-gap solve another? A typical Bloom move. Perhaps he does intend on putting Enmanual Valdez in at 2b to sell the unpopular Vasquez trade.
Jose Iglesias - This is my favorite option. He's a proven professional that can hit a little bit. He'd be good for .260-ish, which is not bad in today's game. He's got very little power, though, and might not look great with some modern range stats as he ages. Still, he's solid and is low cost in both money and zero trade cost being a FA. He also allows zero disruption to CF and 2B as Kike and Story get to stay put. He's a ball player and Cora likes him. All this adds up to Bloom not doing this. Not his style. Bloom does not understand the value of a ball player.
Elvis Andrus - He's a Free Agent, but I'm not suere how/why. He passed the vesting option criteria. Odd. Anyhow. he's got a little more power that Iglesias. He did not hit for average well in Oakland. I do not recall his defensive prowess from his Ranger days and more recent stint with Oakland. This option might be more expensive than Iglesias. Again, straight up FA (no prospects lost)
Farm System Options - (Rafaela, Hamilton, Fitzgerald) Nothing's ready.
Trade Options - I've seen two names mentioned. Wendle from Miami, previous platoon 3b of the Rays is the scarier one. Adames of the Brewers, but I read the Brewers are not even considering the notion. Anything trade is scary right now because of who we have running the show.

I think after writing everything out, I like the least disruptive option(s) of Iglesias or Andrus. Leave existing strengths alone. BUT, I'm not as smart as Bloom.

Leave Christian Arroyo alone.  If he can stay healthy he is a good hitter with clutch ability and is a very underrated second baseman.  My fear is that Cora is going to try and be the smartest man in the room again and give the job to Valdez which would also please Bloom no  end as well.  I would go Andrus as you would and keep Kiki in center field.  Then, again, who knows what drifts into the alleged minds of the boopsie twins?
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 16, 2023, 04:08:18 PM
Quote from: SeaBeachFred on March 16, 2023, 02:24:28 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on December 27, 2022, 08:25:52 AM
So, now - what to do at SS now that our anchor is gone? Several options I've seen discussed. In true Bloom fashion, the move will come along as one that will weaken another position. It might also include a questionable element, such as someone who has not played SS since Little League, but performed well during the now illegal defensive shifts when fielding the spot.

Options
Kike Hernandez - Can he start 145 games and do well at SS? What about CF? This move would weaken CF and give us average SS at best. Look for it to happen, right?
Trevor Story - I know this is not the most commonly shared opinion, but I think Trevor Story at 2B is a massive advantage over most competition when combining defensive and offensive production. His arm at SS puts him into the iffy category. So, we'd weaken one position to stop-gap solve another? A typical Bloom move. Perhaps he does intend on putting Enmanual Valdez in at 2b to sell the unpopular Vasquez trade.
Jose Iglesias - This is my favorite option. He's a proven professional that can hit a little bit. He'd be good for .260-ish, which is not bad in today's game. He's got very little power, though, and might not look great with some modern range stats as he ages. Still, he's solid and is low cost in both money and zero trade cost being a FA. He also allows zero disruption to CF and 2B as Kike and Story get to stay put. He's a ball player and Cora likes him. All this adds up to Bloom not doing this. Not his style. Bloom does not understand the value of a ball player.
Elvis Andrus - He's a Free Agent, but I'm not suere how/why. He passed the vesting option criteria. Odd. Anyhow. he's got a little more power that Iglesias. He did not hit for average well in Oakland. I do not recall his defensive prowess from his Ranger days and more recent stint with Oakland. This option might be more expensive than Iglesias. Again, straight up FA (no prospects lost)
Farm System Options - (Rafaela, Hamilton, Fitzgerald) Nothing's ready.
Trade Options - I've seen two names mentioned. Wendle from Miami, previous platoon 3b of the Rays is the scarier one. Adames of the Brewers, but I read the Brewers are not even considering the notion. Anything trade is scary right now because of who we have running the show.

I think after writing everything out, I like the least disruptive option(s) of Iglesias or Andrus. Leave existing strengths alone. BUT, I'm not as smart as Bloom.

Leave Christian Arroyo alone.  If he can stay healthy he is a good hitter with clutch ability and is a very underrated second baseman.  My fear is that Cora is going to try and be the smartest man in the room again and give the job to Valdez which would also please Bloom no  end as well.  I would go Andrus as you would and keep Kiki in center field.  Then, again, who knows what drifts into the alleged minds of the boopsie twins?

Fred, I saw that ChiSox signed Andrus about two weeks ago to play 2B.  Tim Anderson is their SS.  I think Bloom has a dream for Kike' at SS, with a parade of fill-ins atSS like Mondesi, D.Hamilton, and maybe he gets 4-5 weeks out of Story.  Heck, he even had Dalbec playing SS this week.  I have a bad feeling Duvall will be a strikeout machine, making him a platoon player in CF.  That may blowup Bloom"s plan to keep Kike at SS.  It's a real puzzle he has put together this year.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 17, 2023, 07:54:52 AM
I like the idea of Dalbec getting some ST reps at SS. He played once there last season and did OK. It might be his natural position like many Major League players growing up. I doubt that he will never be a weapon there, but the 3rd-4th option does not really have to be. 

Remember, this kid could yawn his way to 30 HRs if he ever learns and adjusts to MLB pitching.

Quote from: SeaBeachFred on March 16, 2023, 02:24:28 PM
......
Leave Christian Arroyo alone.  If he can stay healthy he is a good hitter with clutch ability and is a very underrated second baseman.  My fear is that Cora is going to try and be the smartest man in the room again and give the job to Valdez which would also please Bloom no  end as well.  I would go Andrus as you would and keep Kiki in center field.  Then, again, who knows what drifts into the alleged minds of the boopsie twins?
I agree with leaving Arroyo in place as long as he can stay off the IL for the longer stretches of time. While not a true weapon as a defender, he is very solid. I think last year he went over 100 games at 2B without an error. Might have combined some of 2021 to get there.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 17, 2023, 04:36:20 PM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on March 16, 2023, 04:08:18 PM
Quote from: SeaBeachFred on March 16, 2023, 02:24:28 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on December 27, 2022, 08:25:52 AM
So, now - what to do at SS now that our anchor is gone? Several options I've seen discussed. In true Bloom fashion, the move will come along as one that will weaken another position. It might also include a questionable element, such as someone who has not played SS since Little League, but performed well during the now illegal defensive shifts when fielding the spot.

Options
Kike Hernandez - Can he start 145 games and do well at SS? What about CF? This move would weaken CF and give us average SS at best. Look for it to happen, right?
Trevor Story - I know this is not the most commonly shared opinion, but I think Trevor Story at 2B is a massive advantage over most competition when combining defensive and offensive production. His arm at SS puts him into the iffy category. So, we'd weaken one position to stop-gap solve another? A typical Bloom move. Perhaps he does intend on putting Enmanual Valdez in at 2b to sell the unpopular Vasquez trade.
Jose Iglesias - This is my favorite option. He's a proven professional that can hit a little bit. He'd be good for .260-ish, which is not bad in today's game. He's got very little power, though, and might not look great with some modern range stats as he ages. Still, he's solid and is low cost in both money and zero trade cost being a FA. He also allows zero disruption to CF and 2B as Kike and Story get to stay put. He's a ball player and Cora likes him. All this adds up to Bloom not doing this. Not his style. Bloom does not understand the value of a ball player.
Elvis Andrus - He's a Free Agent, but I'm not suere how/why. He passed the vesting option criteria. Odd. Anyhow. he's got a little more power that Iglesias. He did not hit for average well in Oakland. I do not recall his defensive prowess from his Ranger days and more recent stint with Oakland. This option might be more expensive than Iglesias. Again, straight up FA (no prospects lost)
Farm System Options - (Rafaela, Hamilton, Fitzgerald) Nothing's ready.
Trade Options - I've seen two names mentioned. Wendle from Miami, previous platoon 3b of the Rays is the scarier one. Adames of the Brewers, but I read the Brewers are not even considering the notion. Anything trade is scary right now because of who we have running the show.

I think after writing everything out, I like the least disruptive option(s) of Iglesias or Andrus. Leave existing strengths alone. BUT, I'm not as smart as Bloom.

Leave Christian Arroyo alone.  If he can stay healthy he is a good hitter with clutch ability and is a very underrated second baseman.  My fear is that Cora is going to try and be the smartest man in the room again and give the job to Valdez which would also please Bloom no  end as well.  I would go Andrus as you would and keep Kiki in center field.  Then, again, who knows what drifts into the alleged minds of the boopsie twins?

Fred, I saw that ChiSox signed Andrus about two weeks ago to play 2B.  Tim Anderson is their SS.  I think Bloom has a dream for Kike' at SS, with a parade of fill-ins atSS like Mondesi, D.Hamilton, and maybe he gets 4-5 weeks out of Story.  Heck, he even had Dalbec playing SS this week.  I have a bad feeling Duvall will be a strikeout machine, making him a platoon player in CF.  That may blowup Bloom"s plan to keep Kike at SS.  It's a real puzzle he has put together this year.

Hey Dog, this time it might be a good idea for me to cram it.  After all, I was behind the curve again and unaware that Andrus had already signed.  Serves me right for missing the goings-on on this board daily.  Duvall will strike out a lot but he hits with power and we need RH power on our team this season.  Maybe he will hit enough taters and bring hone enough runs to make his strikeouts less onerous. It would held if Dalbeck could do the same.  Thanks for correcting me---and feel free to do so when I am in error.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 17, 2023, 04:39:32 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 17, 2023, 07:54:52 AM
I like the idea of Dalbec getting some ST reps at SS. He played once there last season and did OK. It might be his natural position like many Major League players growing up. I doubt that he will never be a weapon there, but the 3rd-4th option does not really have to be. 

Remember, this kid could yawn his way to 30 HRs if he ever learns and adjusts to MLB pitching.

Quote from: SeaBeachFred on March 16, 2023, 02:24:28 PM
......
Leave Christian Arroyo alone.  If he can stay healthy he is a good hitter with clutch ability and is a very underrated second baseman.  My fear is that Cora is going to try and be the smartest man in the room again and give the job to Valdez which would also please Bloom no  end as well.  I would go Andrus as you would and keep Kiki in center field.  Then, again, who knows what drifts into the alleged minds of the boopsie twins?
I agree with leaving Arroyo in place as long as he can stay off the IL for the longer stretches of time. While not a true weapon as a defender, he is very solid. I think last year he went over 100 games at 2B without an error. Might have combined some of 2021 to get there.

Interesting take on Dalbec my friend.  Who knows?  He might finally put his talents togeether and since we aren't going  deep into the playoffs this season or maybe not even getting there, well to me it would be fine to give Bobby another shot at success if it will keep Cora's new favorite Valdez out of Boston.
Title: Re: Pitchers
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 17, 2023, 06:29:24 PM
The Sox starting pitchers are still finding their way through Spring workouts.  Kluber had a good start this week, but he was throwing 87-88 luckily hitting his spots.  Pivetta did OK, but the AAA relievers have made a mess of things.  Shugart on Wed and the slime bucket named Ort imploded again today.  Houck did OK against Atlanta, but he ran out of gas stretching it through 5. 

Kluber is set to start the opener against Baltimore, Sale in game 2.  MGT and the fans will be holding their breath whan Sale goes out there.  I have no idea who pitches #4 or #5.  They say we won't need a #5 until about April 18.
Title: Re: Spring Game Sat.
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 18, 2023, 05:51:54 PM
Split squad game today with Balt. at Ft Myers.  Good news, the WBC guys are filtering back to camp.  Devers is having a good day with a couple hits.  Otherwise, Duvall has himself a two-run job over the monster, Arroyo with a couple hits.  Kutter Crawford had a good couple innings, but gave up some walks.  Last I looked it was 9-5 for Sox. A fly in the ointment, Joele Rodriguez was pulled after injuring his arm in relief.  Did not look good (to the IL?)  Who will step in as a lefty.  Bleier for one and for another maybe Sherriff.

The other club is at Rays with Winchowski pitching, also the young phenoms are playing with SS Marcel Mayer getting a hit.  Bleis is in CF today.

Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 18, 2023, 06:23:47 PM
I just read it was something in the torso and they should know something tomorrow.
Title: Re: Spring ball Monday
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 20, 2023, 02:04:49 PM
The Sox are at home today.  But there is evidence they have players playing out of position.  Sox gave up Pirates first three runs on three errors, by CF Duvall (fielding), SS Kike' (throwing), LF Tapia (fielding).  Now they are down 7-2.  Many folks say, Kike' is a better CF than SS, Duvall is better in LF than CF, and Tapia is risky playing anywhere in the field.  The parting of Bogaerts, coupled with the Story injury,
has caused a ripple effect out in the field as a result.

In better news today, Turner has returned to the lineup and has a hit and a walk in three at bats.  Duval has a double and an RBI.  Also in Sunday's game at Phillies' park, Brayan Bello returned to the mound and pitched two innings of no-hit ball with three K's.  Although those innings were against the Phillies AA and AAA batters.
Title: Re: Sox pitching?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 22, 2023, 06:59:42 PM
Sox pitching is getting rocked.  Jet Blue game Today Houck  has allowed 8 runs to Twins. in 4.2 IP.  Martin 2 runs in 1 IP.  10-0.

Yesterday Sale gave up 6 runs in 5. They play for real next week.  Buckle up, my friends.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 23, 2023, 07:47:19 AM
I actually watched some of this game last night as well as a couple innings of the Sale start. 'oy!!!  Pretty much a reminder whay I don't watch Spring Training.

Winckowski vs Crawford for the "temporary" spot until Whitlock gets back. Each are starting today with an A/B squad home and away thing. Both pitched well according to the stats sheet. Based on last year alone, I'd say Crawford. But I've seen neither this year and  no idea what each is sporting. My quotes for temporary is my faith in the other 4 starters actually making it to April.

Isn't it funny how the Red Sox BP falls apart with Joely Rodriguez out? That's the buzz. The hole left by Joely is what I keep seeing. He's been touted as one of the 3 big BP acquisitions for this greatly improved BP core. I don't get it. His last two seasons' ERA have been 4.66 and 4.47. The Sox were 14th in the AL in ERA last season with a 4.53. How, exactly, is Joely so damned important that we're talking like his injury is a blow? I'm very sorry for him that he's injured. I'm just not getting it.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 23, 2023, 08:41:29 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 23, 2023, 07:47:19 AM
I actually watched some of this game last night as well as a couple innings of the Sale start. 'oy!!!  Pretty much a reminder whay I don't watch Spring Training.

Winckowski vs Crawford for the "temporary" spot until Whitlock gets back. Each are starting today with an A/B squad home and away thing. Both pitched well according to the stats sheet. Based on last year alone, I'd say Crawford. But I've seen neither this year and  no idea what each is sporting. My quotes for temporary is my faith in the other 4 starters actually making it to April.

Isn't it funny how the Red Sox BP falls apart with Joely Rodriguez out? That's the buzz. The hole left by Joely is what I keep seeing. He's been touted as one of the 3 big BP acquisitions for this greatly improved BP core. I don't get it. His last two seasons' ERA have been 4.66 and 4.47. The Sox were 14th in the AL in ERA last season with a 4.53. How, exactly, is Joely so damned important that we're talking like his injury is a blow? I'm very sorry for him that he's injured. I'm just not getting it.

Actually a few of those BP guys give me pause.  Jansen is not exactly a spring chicken.  He's in the twilight of his career.  I'm telling myself that Bloom signed him BEFORE he knew there was a pitch clock, because Jansen's me chanics are almost the slowest in baseball.  Then he can only keep 10% of runners on first base, coupled with McGuire's inability to throw out base stealers!  Schreiber had his best year in 22 and is due for a come down.  Brasier will be Brasier,  Ort needs to leave town this week to let one of the youngsters get their time on this team.  Thank gawd they found that Bleier was available, as I think he will be the standout in the BP.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 23, 2023, 09:01:03 AM
There was not much on the market in the way of Closers once the Mets resigned Diaz in quick fashion. (What a gutwrendhing injury for them, btw. Ouch!)

Ort has an arm, but it just does not translate.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 23, 2023, 09:46:18 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 23, 2023, 09:01:03 AM
There was not much on the market in the way of Closers once the Mets resigned Diaz in quick fashion. (What a gutwrendhing injury for them, btw. Ouch!)

Ort has an arm, but it just does not translate.

Injury report on pitchers from Chad Jennings,
Short-term injuries are piling up on the Red Sox pitching staff.
Reliever Wyatt Mills is being shut down for several days with elbow inflammation. Like Whitlock, Bello, Paxton and Rodriguez, he isn't expected to miss a lot of time, but timing isn't great so close to Opening Day.

Joely Rodriguez is out for 6-8 weeks with the oblique. 
Title: Re: Thursday game
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 23, 2023, 03:15:10 PM
The Sox pitching bounced back today at Pirates park.  Winchowski pitched 4 and surrendered 2 runs. Bleier, Sherriff and Brasier pitched a shutout in their innings of work.  Somebody named Guerrero gave up 2 runs.   Final 7-4.

Sox bats - 2 run homers each by Dalbec, Alfaro and R.Hernandez.  Casas injured a finger in the Wednesday game, but came back today, started 1B and got two hits.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 23, 2023, 03:47:17 PM
Some guy(Joe Jaques) we picked up out of Indy ball k'd 3 in the last inning. I'm sure it was all minor leaguers at that point, but still...
Title: Re: Thursday game
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 23, 2023, 05:03:36 PM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on March 23, 2023, 03:15:10 PM
The Sox pitching bounced back today at Pirates park.  Winchowski pitched 4 and surrendered 2 runs. Bleier, Sherriff and Brasier pitched a shutout in their innings of work.  Somebody named Guerrero gave up 2 runs.   Final 7-4.

Sox bats - 2 run homers each by Dalbec, Alfaro and R.Hernandez.  Casas injured a finger in the Wednesday game, but came back today, started 1B and got two hits.

It would be nice to finish strong in the Grapefruit League instead of huffing and puffing into the real season.....ur team may be too fragile to handle another slow start.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on March 24, 2023, 06:21:36 PM
It seems tougher than ever to evaluate some of these guys.  They went from 2 innings to 80 pitches almost overnight so now guys are just throwing for endurance, not performance.  There are so many unknowns as guys are either new or coming off a bad season or had a good season and we’re waiting to see if it can be repeated. 

Good point someone made on Rodriguez as I had been thinking the same thing.  With him out 6 to 8 that’s a lot of time to cover for someone who may be the linchpin of that thing working. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 26, 2023, 09:03:02 AM
I just looked at Franchy's stats. 44 ABs he's hitting .432 with 2 HRs and "only" 11Ks.
He's also got 3 errors in 10 fielding games on the stat sheet.

Franchy will be Franchy. :)

Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 26, 2023, 09:57:47 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 26, 2023, 09:03:02 AM
I just looked at Franchy's stats. 44 ABs he's hitting .432 with 2 HRs and "only" 11Ks.
He's also got 3 errors in 10 fielding games on the stat sheet.

Franchy will be Franchy. :)

Yep, the season starts Thurs.  The real Franchy shows up.  Also sadly, the real Duran/Dalbec.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 26, 2023, 11:17:39 AM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on March 26, 2023, 09:57:47 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 26, 2023, 09:03:02 AM
I just looked at Franchy's stats. 44 ABs he's hitting .432 with 2 HRs and "only" 11Ks.
He's also got 3 errors in 10 fielding games on the stat sheet.

Franchy will be Franchy. :)

Yep, the season starts Thurs.  The real Franchy shows up.  Also sadly, the real Duran/Dalbec.
The yearly Spring Training articles on renewed approaches, re-focused and re-dedicated mantras by those who struggled last year articles. Duran, Sale, Paxton, Sale and now Chang. Oh, and the article on how much Turner understands the importance of the #2 uniform by 'Sox fans. Lots of fluff. I didn't read them this year, though. I lesrnt my lesson.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on March 26, 2023, 02:30:10 PM
This team is such a collection of mismatched socks (pun intended) I am surprised that they all appear game time wearing the same color jerseys.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 26, 2023, 03:33:27 PM
Quote from: elktonnick on March 26, 2023, 02:30:10 PM
This team is such a collection of mismatched socks (pun intended) I am surprised that they all appear game time wearing the same color jerseys.

Well Elk, how about doing me a favor and tell what the hell Caleb Ort is still doing on our team.  The stuck sucked big time last year, his ERA this Spring is around 10.00 and he looks worse than ever.  Does Bloomer Boy or the FRC even have the ability to judge talent anymore.?
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on March 26, 2023, 04:17:43 PM
Wife and I saw Ort and Mosqueada pitch the other night.  Neither has any business on a major league roster.  I swear Bloom.picks pitchers blindfolded by throwing darts  against a wall.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on March 26, 2023, 06:23:15 PM
Quote from: elktonnick on March 26, 2023, 04:17:43 PM
Wife and I saw Ort and Mosqueada pitch the other night.  Neither has any business on a major league roster.  I swear Bloom.picks pitchers blindfolded by throwing darts  against a wall.

But even worse, he ends up really sticking with the wrong guys. Ort makes no sense at all. Then again what looked like it may be an improvement in the pen looks shakier than ever. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 27, 2023, 07:15:20 AM
From doing the math, the ONLY value Ort has left is Bloom having to DFA two players to squeeze two other players onto the 40 man to start the season.  Two more arms  are needed to shore up the bullpen with Mills and JRod going on extended IL.  The easy DFA move going out is Ort for one, Brasier probably the other.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 27, 2023, 10:59:09 AM
Well, this was an easy prediction. Dalbec optioned to Worcester. The writing was on the wall, make that the MLB Red Sox site. They were pushing the Chang hype to no end. It's astonishing to me that he was where they landed.  :losers

What little I saw of ST, Dalbec showed no signs of plate management I was hoping he'd make. I could be wrong, of course. The even bigger decision for the Red Sox was that it would have cost us Chang. No options. Welllllll, whoooopde frigging do!!!! That would be a blow, right? Pfffttttttt
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 27, 2023, 12:33:48 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 27, 2023, 10:59:09 AM
Well, this was an easy prediction. Dalbec optioned to Worcester. The writing was on the wall, make that the MLB Red Sox site. They were pushing the Chang hype to no end. It's astonishing to me that he was where they landed.  :losers

What little I saw of ST, Dalbec showed no signs of plate management I was hoping he'd make. I could be wrong, of course. The even bigger decision for the Red Sox was that it would have cost us Chang. No options. Welllllll, whoooopde frigging do!!!! That would be a blow, right? Pfffttttttt

Well Chang is so talented that he could not get past immigration at the airport, coming back from the WBC in the homeland.  Visa problems.  I see that he did make the starting lineup against the Braves today, playing 2B and batting 9th.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on March 27, 2023, 01:02:25 PM
It seems like every time I've had a chance to watch the Sox the past week or two they've been losing.  Of course it's as important as them winning every game the first 2 weeks, but given what we saw last year, concerning nonetheless.  I've really been trying to be optimistic this season but between the injuries, guys out of position, poor defense overall and the recent performance by our core starters and relievers, it's hard to get up or these guys, other than the chance that at least technically on Opening Day, hope springs eternal. 

I realized this profound lack of excitement when looking up a schedule to print.  Usually it goes right up on my desk when football season ends.  This year I'm printing it out three days before Opening Day.

Good luck to us! 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on March 27, 2023, 01:46:19 PM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on March 27, 2023, 12:33:48 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 27, 2023, 10:59:09 AM
Well, this was an easy prediction. Dalbec optioned to Worcester. The writing was on the wall, make that the MLB Red Sox site. They were pushing the Chang hype to no end. It's astonishing to me that he was where they landed.  :losers

What little I saw of ST, Dalbec showed no signs of plate management I was hoping he'd make. I could be wrong, of course. The even bigger decision for the Red Sox was that it would have cost us Chang. No options. Welllllll, whoooopde frigging do!!!! That would be a blow, right? Pfffttttttt

Well Chang is so talented that he could not get past immigration at the airport, coming back from the WBC in the homeland.  Visa problems.  I see that he did make the starting lineup against the Braves today, playing 2B and batting 9th.

I'll have to tip my hat to Mr. Chang.  He broke up a no-hitter today in the 6th with a double.  Sox A team vs Braves A team.  Sox are apparently bored at the plate as Atlanta has shown them six different pitchers before our new guy figured out that the game is near stretch time.  Meanwhile Houck get bombed for six runs in three innings (three of those were long balls).    6-0 Bravos.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on March 27, 2023, 02:23:01 PM
I know it is only a ST game but in my entire 70 plus years of following professional baseball I never recall anyone batting out of order in a pro ball game.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 27, 2023, 05:34:22 PM
Quote from: longgame on March 27, 2023, 01:02:25 PM
It seems like every time I've had a chance to watch the Sox the past week or two they've been losing.  Of course it's as important as them winning every game the first 2 weeks, but given what we saw last year, concerning nonetheless.  I've really been trying to be optimistic this season but between the injuries, guys out of position, poor defense overall and the recent performance by our core starters and relievers, it's hard to get up or these guys, other than the chance that at least technically on Opening Day, hope springs eternal. 

I realized this profound lack of excitement when looking up a schedule to print.  Usually it goes right up on my desk when football season ends.  This year I'm printing it out three days before Opening Day.

Good luck to us!
I'm hoping for a super hot goalie and Aho to carry the team, and for both the 'Canes and Celtics to have long runs into the playoffs with schedules on alternating evenings.

<sigh> I know I'll end up turning the Red Sox on sooner than later. I'm taking the no XB thing much harder than I'm taking the no Betts thing. That, and knowing this team was just one simple low cost player away from having a solid defense to go along with the respectable, albeit not great offense. One frigging player away....
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 27, 2023, 06:40:31 PM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on March 26, 2023, 09:57:47 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 26, 2023, 09:03:02 AM
I just looked at Franchy's stats. 44 ABs he's hitting .432 with 2 HRs and "only" 11Ks.
He's also got 3 errors in 10 fielding games on the stat sheet.

Franchy will be Franchy. :)

Yep, the season starts Thurs.  The real Franchy shows up.  Also sadly, the real Duran/Dalbec.

and we must not do what we did when traded back fdor Jackie Bradley after the 2021 season.  It would be just like Bloomer brain to take that bum back.  He has now failed with four teams and we must never have him on our ballclub again.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 28, 2023, 07:50:39 AM
Well, there's no question that Franchy can hit big when hot. A perfect storm roster situation for him would be to get called up about 5 days into a hot streak and get sent down the morning after one of his 3-K's game pops up. Repeat again in 45-90 days. And of course, emergency fielding use only.

He sure was fun to watch once in a while. A gold standard for stats-cast verses ballplayer argument. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: elktonnick on March 28, 2023, 09:52:06 AM
Scoring runs will not be this teams problem. They will score especially against weak pitching.  Their problems are weak pitching and a slow porous defense.  Consider this.  Right now their best defensive player is Devers.  Every where else they are below average defensively.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on March 28, 2023, 04:08:35 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 28, 2023, 07:50:39 AM
Well, there's no question that Franchy can hit big when hot. A perfect storm roster situation for him would be to get called up about 5 days into a hot streak and get sent down the morning after one of his 3-K's game pops up. Repeat again in 45-90 days. And of course, emergency fielding use only.

He sure was fun to watch once in a while. A gold standard for stats-cast verses ballplayer argument.

No matter Mongo, the fact is that Franchy is a pitiful fielding first baseman, outfielder, base runner, and a strikeout machine who has now failed with the Padres, Royals, Red Sox and Orioles. If Bloom is  even dumber than I think and decides to give him another spot on our roster he should be fired at once.  What next?  Take Jackie Bradley Jr back too?
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on March 28, 2023, 06:54:02 PM
Quote from: SeaBeachFred on March 28, 2023, 04:08:35 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on March 28, 2023, 07:50:39 AM
Well, there's no question that Franchy can hit big when hot. A perfect storm roster situation for him would be to get called up about 5 days into a hot streak and get sent down the morning after one of his 3-K's game pops up. Repeat again in 45-90 days. And of course, emergency fielding use only.

He sure was fun to watch once in a while. A gold standard for stats-cast verses ballplayer argument.

No matter Mongo, the fact is that Franchy is a pitiful fielding first baseman, outfielder, base runner, and a strikeout machine who has now failed with the Padres, Royals, Red Sox and Orioles. If Bloom is  even dumber than I think and decides to give him another spot on our roster he should be fired at once.  What next?  Take Jackie Bradley Jr back too?

What’s scary Fred is that at some point they’re going to figure out they’re giving up too many runs in the outfield and they’ll make a bad move to “fix” it.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on March 29, 2023, 09:08:59 AM
The next group to interview for the upcoming vacancy has to describe baseball by way of explaining how Angel Hernandez could actually make 5 1B mistakes in the first few innings of a playoff or WS game a few years back. What are the odds, right? That's baseball. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 06:50:58 AM
I figured here is as good a place as any. We've been talking about the SS/2B situation all over the forum recently. Stuff's about to happen, what with the deadline looming, Story is on rehab assignment, Reyes coming back and the continuing saga of Kike Hernandez.

The first related transactions have occurred. Reyes has been reinstated, but the corresponding move to make room on the Active Roster is actually Walter. Nothing yet on who will be the odd man out in the MI. It could very well be Reyes. 

My biggest emotional fear is that Arroyo is the odd man out. Always hate to see a good ball-player go.   
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on July 25, 2023, 08:05:02 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 06:50:58 AM
I figured here is as good a place as any. We've been talking about the SS/2B situation all over the forum recently. Stuff's about to happen, what with the deadline looming, Story is on rehab assignment, Reyes coming back and the continuing saga of Kike Hernandez.

The first related transactions have occurred. Reyes has been reinstated, but the corresponding move to make room on the Active Roster is actually Walter. Nothing yet on who will be the odd man out in the MI. It could very well be Reyes. 

My biggest emotional fear is that Arroyo is the odd man out. Always hate to see a good ball-player go.

Looks like this week's trades could solve a lot of the mysteries.  As much as we need a pitcher(s), I've seen a lot of banter (reporting?) that Bloom could trade a package of Blaze Jordan, Arroyo or Kike', Wikelman or B.Walter to the Cardinals for pitcher Flaherty, INF DeJong, a switch hitter who also plays OF.

  Also rumors the Chisox may be talking the same package for Lance Lynn, Joe Kelly, and INF Tim Anderson.  It's going to be a crazy week in Beantown.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 08:40:14 AM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on July 25, 2023, 08:05:02 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 06:50:58 AM
I figured here is as good a place as any. We've been talking about the SS/2B situation all over the forum recently. Stuff's about to happen, what with the deadline looming, Story is on rehab assignment, Reyes coming back and the continuing saga of Kike Hernandez.

The first related transactions have occurred. Reyes has been reinstated, but the corresponding move to make room on the Active Roster is actually Walter. Nothing yet on who will be the odd man out in the MI. It could very well be Reyes. 

My biggest emotional fear is that Arroyo is the odd man out. Always hate to see a good ball-player go.

Looks like this week's trades could solve a lot of the mysteries.  As much as we need a pitcher(s), I've seen a lot of banter (reporting?) that Bloom could trade a package of Blaze Jordan, Arroyo or Kike', Wikelman or B.Walter to the Cardinals for pitcher Flaherty, INF DeJong, a switch hitter who also plays OF.

  Also rumors the Chisox may be talking the same package for Lance Lynn, Joe Kelly, and INF Tim Anderson.  It's going to be a crazy week in Beantown.
Holy smokes! How about no, no, no, no and less see - NO!  Oh man, that is some serious has-been dumpster diving. The best non-Red Sox name mentioned in all of that is Flaherty who's got worse control than Pivetta. Anderson's years are behind him and is hitting .230 something last look. Joe Kelly and Lance Lynn are up over 6 ERA. Is there a sign on some MLB GM bulletin board that says "Sure, we'll give up  2-3 legit prospects for your problem players."? We bench Arroyo because he's hitting 240, but will trade good prospects away for guys hitting even less. I hope these are rumors started by other teams beat reporters instead of legitimate  considerations by our crack squad. Whatever, This would put the icing on the cake.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on July 25, 2023, 08:51:36 AM
"Lance Lynn, Joe Kelly, and INF Tim Anderson"

That's a Bloom trifecta right there. Over the hill pitcher, former Sox guy and a guy who was the rage for all of one year but Bloom will be convinced he's the best option out there.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: Sea Dog 23 on July 25, 2023, 09:38:53 AM
Quote from: longgame on July 25, 2023, 08:51:36 AM
"Lance Lynn, Joe Kelly, and INF Tim Anderson"

That's a Bloom trifecta right there. Over the hill pitcher, former Sox guy and a guy who was the rage for all of one year but Bloom will be convinced he's the best option out there.

I think Lynn would be a serviceable back end rotation pitcher.  I saw him against Angels, and he overpowered most of their lineup.  He's 3-2 in the last 5 with wins over Angels, Braves and Red Sox.  The bad loss was with Twins.  He can pitch 5-6 innings.  He's 6-9 this year, but had good years for Chisox in 21 and 22.

Staying with White Sox, we aren't getting Giolito or Cease without giving up a lot of our good prospects.  And a biggie, I don't think Bloom is respected that much as an Ops guy to pull the wool over anybody's eyes.  Now if he can roll the dice for another injured pitcher like Paxson and an injured OF like Schwarber, he will have to get really lucky again.  I don't think the fans are going to go too far with a guy who wants to get lucky.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on July 25, 2023, 06:39:21 PM
Kike to Dodgers so there’s one part of the puzzle.  Two relievers in return.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on July 25, 2023, 06:44:09 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 08:40:14 AM
Quote from: Sea Dog 23 on July 25, 2023, 08:05:02 AM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 25, 2023, 06:50:58 AM
I figured here is as good a place as any. We've been talking about the SS/2B situation all over the forum recently. Stuff's about to happen, what with the deadline looming, Story is on rehab assignment, Reyes coming back and the continuing saga of Kike Hernandez.

The first related transactions have occurred. Reyes has been reinstated, but the corresponding move to make room on the Active Roster is actually Walter. Nothing yet on who will be the odd man out in the MI. It could very well be Reyes. 

My biggest emotional fear is that Arroyo is the odd man out. Always hate to see a good ball-player go.

Looks like this week's trades could solve a lot of the mysteries.  As much as we need a pitcher(s), I've seen a lot of banter (reporting?) that Bloom could trade a package of Blaze Jordan, Arroyo or Kike', Wikelman or B.Walter to the Cardinals for pitcher Flaherty, INF DeJong, a switch hitter who also plays OF.

  Also rumors the Chisox may be talking the same package for Lance Lynn, Joe Kelly, and INF Tim Anderson.  It's going to be a crazy week in Beantown.
Holy smokes! How about no, no, no, no and less see - NO!  Oh man, that is some serious has-been dumpster diving. The best non-Red Sox name mentioned in all of that is Flaherty who's got worse control than Pivetta. Anderson's years are behind him and is hitting .230 something last look. Joe Kelly and Lance Lynn are up over 6 ERA. Is there a sign on some MLB GM bulletin board that says "Sure, we'll give up  2-3 legit prospects for your problem players."? We bench Arroyo because he's hitting 240, but will trade good prospects away for guys hitting even less. I hope these are rumors started by other teams beat reporters instead of legitimate  considerations by our crack squad. Whatever, This would put the icing on the cake.

Hey Bloom,  DID YOU HEAR WHAT MY MAN MONGO SAID?????? Listen very carefully.  Do not take guys over the hill or on their downside.  And those White Soxers mentioned are on their downside and  two of them are attitude problems their team want to dump on some other team.  NO WAY!!!!!!
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 27, 2023, 06:53:32 AM
I think Sea Dog's point on Lynn has merit. We'd have to jettison Kluber to do so, which looks even more possible after his AAA rehab outing yesterday. Lynn has been no better recently, giving up 7, 9 and 6 runs (3 unearned) the past 3 starts. 

Tim Anderson's year so far defies all sorts of odds, pretty much like most of that team. I know neither of big HR guys, but I would not have believed you if you told me that Anderson, Andrus and Benetendi would combine to hit only 4 HRs by the end of July.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 30, 2023, 08:50:29 AM
Back to SS - Trevor Story said he is aiming for the Red Sox next home stand, which opens on the 4th, which is only about a week less than the maximum rehab stint. With that, we'll have one extra MI. Chang and Reyes are out of options. Someone has got to go.

#1: Is there any market for Yu Chang and Pablo Reyes? Low level minors type return?
#2: Assuming DFA, whom? Chang has looked out of sorts in the field at times, but has dialed back a teensy bit of his plate.  approach madness. Reyes appears to be the odd man out ATM. 
#3: This sort of relates to both 1 & 2. Is Chang being showcased much like Kike was?

I think we'll know all this in a week.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: SeaBeachFred on July 30, 2023, 12:04:09 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 30, 2023, 08:50:29 AM
Back to SS - Trevor Story said he is aiming for the Red Sox next home stand, which opens on the 4th, which is only about a week less than the maximum rehab stint. With that, we'll have one extra MI. Chang and Reyes are out of options. Someone has got to go.

#1: Is there any market for Yu Chang and Pablo Reyes? Low level minors type return?
#2: Assuming DFA, whom? Chang has looked out of sorts in the field at times, but has dialed back a teensy bit of his plate.  approach madness. Reyes appears to be the odd man out ATM. 
#3: This sort of relates to both 1 & 2. Is Chang being showcased much like Kike was?

I think we'll know all this in a week.

Why all this worry over Yu Chang?  He is a below average fielder and one of those "supposed glove types"who takes his hitting woes out to the infield with him.  Stop the nonsense and get rid of this bum once and for all.  We don't need another JACKIE BRADLEY TYPE 160 HITTER POLLUTING OUR LINEUP ANY LONGER.  Send him packing.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 30, 2023, 12:17:48 PM
Quote from: SeaBeachFred on July 30, 2023, 12:04:09 PM
Quote from: MongoLikeSox on July 30, 2023, 08:50:29 AM
Back to SS - Trevor Story said he is aiming for the Red Sox next home stand, which opens on the 4th, which is only about a week less than the maximum rehab stint. With that, we'll have one extra MI. Chang and Reyes are out of options. Someone has got to go.

#1: Is there any market for Yu Chang and Pablo Reyes? Low level minors type return?
#2: Assuming DFA, whom? Chang has looked out of sorts in the field at times, but has dialed back a teensy bit of his plate.  approach madness. Reyes appears to be the odd man out ATM. 
#3: This sort of relates to both 1 & 2. Is Chang being showcased much like Kike was?

I think we'll know all this in a week.

Why all this worry over Yu Chang?  He is a below average fielder and one of those "supposed glove types"who takes his hitting woes out to the infield with him.  Stop the nonsense and get rid of this bum once and for all.  We don't need another JACKIE BRADLEY TYPE 160 HITTER POLLUTING OUR LINEUP ANY LONGER.  Send him packing.
Good point, my friend.
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: longgame on July 31, 2023, 08:52:50 AM
Exactly Fred.  We get Story and Arroyo as full time 2B and SS.  Keep either Chang who can't hit or Reyes who's not as good defensively as a backup. 
Title: Re: Shortstop Possibilities?
Post by: MongoLikeSox on July 31, 2023, 09:07:10 AM
One side note on the utility infielder front. The Braves just got an OK backup versatile infielder type - Nicky Lopez - from the Royals for a guy they had just picked up from the Rangers DFA dumpster.

If Chaim Bloom still has any fantasy about his little army of versatile players being of any value, he needn't look any farther than this trade.