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The Water Cooler
See other The Water Cooler Articles

Title: 2015 Texas Rangers
Source: N/A
URL Source: http://N/A
Published: Oct 14, 2014
Author: CZ82
Post Date: 2014-10-14 18:08:52 by CZ82
Keywords: None
Views: 377130
Comments: 1454

For those of you who would like to comment on what might happen with the 2015 version of the Texas Rangers or any other MLB team for that matter.


Poster Comment:

BTW Stone the Rangers are going to steal Cueto from the Reds!

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#766. To: CZ82 (#764)

Who is on pace for 45 RBIs and getting paid 16M a year, unless he shows in the last 1/2 of the season he still can hit it's time to let him go.

Now there's an article today (on the DFW site) where Beltre was asked if he should be playing with a bum thumb. He responded "don't know." I know what that means. He sees the team sinking in the standings and the pitching struggling each game. He's seen this movie before.

Regardless, in 3 of the past 4 games the offense has hit double digit hits. They drove in 7 last night with great base running. I think the late July offensive streak is cooking up...But the pitching will continue to struggle.

For the Rangers to properly compete they need Perez and Holland to be back to previous injury performance. Harry a wild card. Only way to get all three 'back there' is to pitch them. To pitch them means you 'break a few eggs' in the process and give up runs. But that is what rebuilding/retooling teams do to be better the next year and years ahead.

Now Beltre knows this I'm sure..He's a team player but would also like a shot at a WS ring. JD mentioned this as well and said he would not stand in his way. However, what team is going to pick up his salary, deal some youth for a rental with an option and bum thumb? What contender would do that? DH for the Houston Astros? Perhaps he is the vet they need in the line up and clubhouse. Time will tell, but I see Belts with us until at least this year. I think next year is an option year.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-21   9:31:01 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#767. To: CZ82 (#765)

By a team that stinks, when you score 7 runs you should win the game.

Looks to me like some of the coaches need to find a new place of employment next year.

Thought that about Maddux. But he's working with what he has.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-21   13:03:45 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#768. To: CZ82 (#765)

Morning read here:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sports/texas- rangers/headlines/20150721-grant-are-rangers-buyers-or-sellers-look-at-them-as- opportunists-looking-to-better-short-long-term-goals.ece

Well the bats came alive last night. Choo hit for the cycle...Perhaps the Rockies GM noticed and wants him:)

Harry got a bunch of ground balls (and pitched shutout innings) our guys actually caught and got outs. I'm sure he's happy that outing and did a lot to boost his confidence.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-22   8:52:56 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#769. To: redleghunter (#766)

However, what team is going to pick up his salary, deal some youth for a rental with an option and bum thumb? What contender would do that? DH for the Houston Astros? Perhaps he is the vet they need in the line up and clubhouse. Time will tell, but I see Belts with us until at least this year. I think next year is an option year.

Yes next year is an option year so he would only be a 3 month rental for 1 or 2 A or AA prospects. You never know somebody might want to pick him up as "insurance" not as a full time starter.

“Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rapidly promoted by mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end.”

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-22   17:27:15 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#770. To: redleghunter (#768)

Harry got a bunch of ground balls (and pitched shutout innings) our guys actually caught and got outs. I'm sure he's happy that outing and did a lot to boost his confidence.

His "heeter" also topped out in the low 90s which helps, of course keeping the ball down in the strike zone helps more.

“Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rapidly promoted by mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end.”

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-22   18:08:37 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#771. To: CZ82 (#770)

Scheppers needs a new zip code. He blew the first game in the bottom 9th and today gave up 4 runs in the 8th allowing the Rockies to tie the game. Elvis came through for two runs in the 9th and they won. What stinks is Scheppers got the win after blowing the lead!

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-23   0:20:09 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#772. To: redleghunter (#771)

You would have thought by now they would have sent him back to AAA (or another DL stint) and recalled someone else, how much worse could a "young'un" be??

It just seems amazing that this team has so many pitchers that have screwed up mechanics, grips and location of pitches. Is it the pitchers, catchers, coaches or all of the above??

“Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rapidly promoted by mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end.”

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-23   7:27:37 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#773. To: CZ82 (#772)

It just seems amazing that this team has so many pitchers that have screwed up mechanics, grips and location of pitches. Is it the pitchers, catchers, coaches or all of the above??

Maybe it's because we watch them so often we pick up on the above. Or it IS a problem and they can't see it themselves.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-23   10:52:50 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#774. To: redleghunter (#771)

Scheppers needs a new zip code.

He didn't give up any runs for the first time in awhile last night, guess that's an improvement.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick?? Hmmmmm

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-26   8:04:35 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#775. To: redleghunter (#773)

I think we need an upgrade at catcher to tell you the truth.

When a pitcher is on I don't think it really matters who the catcher is but when he isn't I think it makes a lot of difference. Especially when it comes down to strategizing how to get the opponent out, what pitch when and where.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-26   8:22:06 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#776. To: redleghunter (#773)

I'm not quite sure how but they've won 4 games in a row and are creeping back towards .500. So this makes me curious as too whether JD will be a buyer now since he sees improvement?? Or will he see it for what it is, the opposition isn't that tough??

"Evis" was his usual self last night making dumb plays (1st inning) that extend innings and give up runs, then does nothing to make up for it. Maybe JD will use him as part of the deal to get Hamels?? :) (we can only hope)..

Nice little deal the Astros did to get Kazmir only took 2 prospects, if JD would have done the deal he would have sent 4 or 5...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-26   9:16:08 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#777. To: CZ82 (#775)

The upgrade at catcher was supposed to be home grown with Alfaro. However he's injured and about a year out from the bigs. Plus his name keeps coming up in trade talks with Philly.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-27   15:18:08 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#778. To: CZ82 (#776)

I think JD is looking for controllable pieces and not rentals like Kazmir.

If they don't deal for Hamels I expect one or two starters from SD are in the cards. That might also include Elvis since SD needs a SS.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-27   15:21:05 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#779. To: CZ82, redleghunter (#776)

I'm not quite sure how but they've won 4 games in a row and are creeping back towards .500. So this makes me curious as too whether JD will be a buyer now since he sees improvement?? Or will he see it for what it is, the opposition isn't that tough??

HA! Great toon btw...

.500 is about all the Rangers can hope for this year. They've been treading water. Too bad they couldn't sweep the Angels -- THAT might have planted seeds of doubt for them.

Unless they grab David Price (who to me was THE biggest prize) and some real help in their lineup. Like table-setters. Delino DeShields. REALLY?? And is Beltre done? Choo's under-performing. Their pitching...is NOT good. The Yanks haven't forgotten the early season sweep. They'll present a good test for your Rangers.

Nice little deal the Astros did to get Kazmir only took 2 prospects, if JD would have done the deal he would have sent 4 or 5...

Kasmir was a STEAL. Did NOT like Cuerto (gone). Cole Hamels will be too expensive.

Liberator  posted on  2015-07-27   15:31:04 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#780. To: redleghunter, CZ82 (#766)

Now Beltre knows this I'm sure..He's a team player but would also like a shot at a WS ring. JD mentioned this as well and said he would not stand in his way. However, what team is going to pick up his salary, deal some youth for a rental with an option and bum thumb? What contender would do that? DH for the Houston Astros? Perhaps he is the vet they need in the line up and clubhouse. Time will tell, but I see Belts with us until at least this year. I think next year is an option year.

You have your Beltre problem and the Yanks have their CC Sabathia problem. Vets with clubhouse leadership qualities, but just not able to perform anymore.

Everybody loves CC and appreciates that leadership. But how much is it worth to the roster and team performance? The WC is gonna be tight; one or two game may make a difference. Same with the division (in the AL East anyway.)

The Yanks made a decision to run CC (and his 5.70 ERA) out there and send RH Adam Warren and his 3.50 ERA to the pen. The Yanks are loaded in their pen, but a but so-so on starters. CC pitches to an amazing .450 OPS to lefties, but is getting raked to a .900 clip to RH hitters. The pragmatic move is CC to the pen as a LH specialist, and Warren as starter. BUT...CC make a gazillion dollars (like Beltre) and the move would affect CC's ego leadership in the clubhouse. "What's best for the team" doesn't always apply, does it?

Liberator  posted on  2015-07-27   15:42:18 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#781. To: redleghunter (#778)

I was thinking Kazmir had another year on his contract but I just checked and he doesn't so that would explain how cheap he was..

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:02:27 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#782. To: redleghunter (#778)

If they don't deal for Hamels I expect one or two starters from SD are in the cards. That might also include Elvis since SD needs a SS.

That would be nice, I can't see paying $15 million to someone to play spotty defense and little offense. For that kind of money I expect a good starting pitcher or a position player that is "at least" a 20 HR 80 RBI guy.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:17:32 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#783. To: redleghunter (#777)

This is just a feeling but I don't think I would mind Alfaro being the lead piece in a trade for Hamels. The reason being it just seems like he's been in the minors way too long and only at AA, kinda makes you wonder about his skill at calling a game and his defensive abilities...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:27:43 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#784. To: redleghunter (#778)

Looks like Ohlendorf is now gone he's been Designated for assignment and they sent Bass down to AAA to get some rest I'm assuming...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:30:11 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#785. To: Liberator (#779)

Delino DeShields. REALLY??

Believe it or not they are about 8-10 games over .500 with him in the lineup leading off, his OBP is around .370 or so.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:47:10 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#786. To: Liberator (#779)

Cole Hamels will be too expensive.

I would say the Phillies think they are going to get 4-5 prospects for Hamels, I don't think they will get over 3.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-27   21:50:05 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#787. To: CZ82 (#784)

Yikes two horrible games in a row. Both from rehab pitchers.

Pen is smoked after tonight. Expect some DFAs to get fresh arms.

Banny may have pulled the trigger on Perez too soon. Wandy did worse.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-29   0:18:56 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#788. To: redleghunter (#787)

Banny may have pulled the trigger on Perez too soon.

15-19 mos is par for the course for that type of operation before they become effective again. SO that pretty much means he will be useless this year.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-29   20:35:15 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#789. To: redleghunter (#787)

This is just a feeling but I don't think I would mind Alfaro being the lead piece in a trade for Hamels.

Jonathan Lucroy: I think the Brewers right-handed catcher might be the one controllable position player (under control through 2017) conceivably on the market this summer who could significantly impact the Rangers’ lineup for the future. He’s also had a down year, so you might think: A buy low guy. If the Rangers were to add Lucroy, it makes giving up Alfaro in a Phillies deal that much easier. But indications are Brewers GM Doug Melvin would prefer to talk about any number of his wares ahead of Lucroy. My take: While pitchers seem to be the focus of the market right now, this might be an interesting conversation just ahead of the Friday afternoon deadline. If the Brewers play poorly between now and then, perhaps Melvin gets more motivated to make a deal. Jon Daniels and Melvin have a long amicable relationship when it comes to dealing. Keep an eye on this.

An excerpt from this article: http://rangersblog.dallasnews.com/2015/07/texas-rangers-trade-watch-update-will-team-land-cole-hamels.html/

And another article on Alfaro: http://gradingonthecurve.com/2015/07/26/texas-rangers-jorge-alfaro-may-be-more-valuable-in-trade/

Looks like I'm not the only one thinking about letting go of Alfaro to get Hamels.

Lucroy is on a reasonable contract (5yrs/11 million) and can hit for average and some power, good RBIs. The only thing I don't like is he's already 30 and what condition are his knees in???

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-29   20:48:55 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#790. To: redleghunter (#787)

Texas Rangers trade watch update: Dodgers get Latos; how does that impact Rangers?

Evan Grant/reporter Email egrant@dallasnews.com, July 29, 2015 12:00 pm

UPDATE (Wednesday, 11:34 a.m. CT): According to numerous reports, the Los Angeles Dodgers, one of the teams lurking in the Cole Hamels hunt, have acquired RHP Mat Latos from the Miami Marlins. First thought: They got their starter. But according to Southern California-based Scott Miller of Bleacher report, the Dodgers still “need another starter.”

My take: This doesn’t take the Dodgers out of the Hamels talks, but it might take them out of the market for Yovani Gallardo. As a reminder, the Dodgers and Toronto have been among the teams talking to the Rangers about Gallardo as something of “fall-back” option. The Rangers have been weighing whether to deal Gallardo or keep him, make him a qualifying offer after the season, and take draft pick compensation (assuming he turns down the deal).

UPDATE (Tuesday, 1:40 p.m. CT): According to a report from ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick (later confirmed by Fox’s Ken Rosenthal), the Houston Astros are “in the ballpark,” on the bidding for Philadelphia’s Cole Hamels, according to sources. We initially reported that Houston was potential competition for the Rangers last week and hypothosized on what the Astros’ involvement might mean. Crasnick suggested the Astros are making a “big push” for Hamels.

According to a tweet from Rosenthal, it’s too close to call the race for Hamels among the Rangers, Dodgers and Astros. Rosenthal suggested that the San Francisco Giants’ attempts may come up “just short.” According to my sources, both the New York Yankees and Boston are also lurking. The Red Sox, who have gone into full-scale sell mode this week, could be looking to 2016, much the way the Rangers, in a possible deal. Boston has a very strong farm system and could matchup with Philadelphia if inclined to get aggressive. ESPN’s Jayson Stark recently wrote that Hamels could wind up in Boston.

The Red Sox, however, are among the teams to which Hamels could block a trade, which makes the situation more complicated. Here is the list of teams to whom Hamels can not block a deal, according to a Crasnick tweet: Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Atlanta, Saint Louis, San Diego, Washington, the Rangers and Chicago Cubs.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that regardless of what teams or team officials say in public, Twitter and covering trade talks at the micro level, does create the ability to negotiate in public. A leak here or a leak there can be an attempt to influence the market, both by buyers and sellers.

Our original analysis of the trade market:

ANAHEIM, Calif. – With exactly one week to go until the trade deadline, the Rangers continue to flit between the worlds of buying and selling with no definitive mindset in place. As I wrote earlier this week, more than “buyers” or “sellers” I think you’d have to consider them opportunists.

The idea is still to improve the club and, on the great spectrum of championship windows, that means in the shorter-term rather than the long-term look at rebuilding. It means adding pieces that would help this team contend in 2016 — and potentially jump it back into contention in 2015. And to get better for 2016 means addressing a number of spots: starting rotation, right-handed power bat, bullpen help.

The Rangers brain trust will be in Anaheim this weekend to watch the team and meet about potential trade scenarios. There’s a lot to discuss. Here’s a look at what they must talk about internally and externally:

INTERNAL TOPICS

• Yovani Gallardo: Teams have contacted the Rangers about Gallardo, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, but he’s really a contingency plan for clubs right now. Johnny Cueto is the top rental on the market, so if he becomes a more viable trade option, it’s probably going to be after the Reds make a decision about Cueto. Also, there is this to consider: The potential return for Gallardo. The A’s got two mid-level prospects for Scott Kazmir. It’s hard to gauge, though, whether the A’s had to “settle” or if they got what they wanted because Billy Beane values guys differently than other clubs. But the question the Rangers will have to tackle is this: Is whatever they might get for Gallardo better than the potential of a compensation draft pick if he signs elsewhere after the year. The club would get a comp pick between the first and second rounds if it tenders him a qualifying offer (and it would). Right now, instincts tell me: “No, the return would not be as good as a comp pick.” My take: Hold him.

• Colby Lewis: Like Gallardo, he’s free after this year, but Lewis isn’t going to get a qualifying offer (he’s never made close to the $15 million qualifying offer range). And he’s so loyal to Texas that it wouldn’t surprise me that if he was traded, he’d sign another shared-risk, one-year deal for 2016 to give the Rangers more rotation depth. So, from a business standpoint, if you can get anything for him, you make the move. From a different perspective: Lewis is the most respected pitcher in the clubhouse. If the Rangers aim to still contend this year or finish strong, taking him out would be a blow to the entire pitching staff. Just don’t think the potential return outweighs the impact on other pitchers. My take: He stays.

• Mitch Moreland: Might be attractive to several teams seeking left-handed bats. But he seems to have finally turned a corner at the plate, is playing solid defense and would only make $5 million next year. And if the Rangers trade him, they’ve got to find a first baseman for 2016 because Prince Fielder is a DH now. Might be the route to get Joey Gallo to the majors for good. My take: You might get an overpay for him, but otherwise the affordable 2016 salary makes him part of the solution, not the problem.

• Leonys Martin: He’s lost the center field job and is eligible for salary arbitration next year coming off a $4 million salary. He’d be a nice fit for somebody as a fourth outfielder with good speed and good defense and a left-handed bat off the bench. And moving him now could save about $1.5 million. The question: Is anybody willing to take on an extra $1.5 million for a backup outfielder? My take: He gets dealt to an NL club with a bit of cash for a raw low-level prospect.

• Shin-Soo Choo, Elvis Andrus: Those are long, complicated conversations that require lots of consideration over how much money the Rangers are willing to eat in order to avoid paying the full freight for both guys, which right now is about $200 million remaining over the next seven years. They are the kinds of conversations that are hard to have during the July trade period. It’s a winter project. My take: The Rangers have to deal at least one and be willing to swallow at least $50 million, but it’s not happening until the winter. And Elvis is the more movable of the two, especially since the Rangers have potential shortstop solutions in the wings in Hanser Alberto and the recovering Jurickson Profar.

• Nomar Mazara, Nick Williams: Let’s see, the Rangers are too left-handed now. Their top hitting prospects in the minors are Joey Gallo (a lefty), Mazara (a lefty) and Williams — you guessed it: a lefty. They have to get more right-handed whether it’s this summer or over the winter. What it means is the club has to accept it has a surplus of talented left-handed hitting prospects and that it needs to balance out its roster. If that means including Mazara in a deal for a top-tier pitcher, it’s a fact the club is going to have to accept. Gallo seems to be off limits, though the more this season progresses, the over-thinker in me wonders if Mazara won’t be the better big-leaguer. My take: One of the three gets traded. If the Rangers are to acquire Cole Hamels, it happens this week. If not, they will make one available during the winter to address other significant concerns.

EXTERNAL TARGETS

The one constant here is that players must be controllable for at least 2016, hopefully beyond. With that in mind:

• Cole Hamels: I still believe that if Hamels gets dealt before the deadline, it is to the Rangers. The Phillies like the Rangers system. Hamels could not veto a deal to the Rangers. The Rangers have remained aggressive in conversations. That said, because of the money involved and the other teams potentially involved, I’d say that even with the best chance, it’s probably no better than about a 45 percent shot right now. It will require giving up either Mazara or C Jorge Alfaro and more below that. Also, there is the little issue of money. I don’t expect the Rangers to take on $75 million remaining (at a minimum). So that complicates things. My take: The Rangers land Hamels. It’s the best way they can make themselves better in multiple areas next year. A potential rotation trio of Hamels, Yu Darvish and Derek Holland would put less stress on the middle of the bullpen, which has struggled this year, and less stress on the offense. It’s the kind of creative deal this team needs to complete to get back in contention for 2016.

• Sonny Gray, Chris Sale: Apparently the former is not happening. On the latter, given all the parameters, you would think the club would prefer Sale: He’s still controllable, will cost less and has AL experience. But I’ve heard no indication the clubs are having any kind of significant talks. The White Sox seem more focused on moving Jeff Samardzija. He’s a rental, which makes the Rangers not interested. My take: Pipe dreams, like winning the lottery. And, while you have to buy a lottery ticket to have a chance at winning the lottery, you can’t afford to waste a lot of time planning on what to do with your winnings when you’ve got other more legitimate opportunities out there.

• Jonathan Lucroy: I think the Brewers right-handed catcher might be the one controllable position player (under control through 2017) conceivably on the market this summer who could significantly impact the Rangers’ lineup for the future. He’s also had a down year, so you might think: A buy low guy. If the Rangers were to add Lucroy, it makes giving up Alfaro in a Phillies deal that much easier. But indications are Brewers GM Doug Melvin would prefer to talk about any number of his wares ahead of Lucroy. My take: While pitchers seem to be the focus of the market right now, this might be an interesting conversation just ahead of the Friday afternoon deadline. If the Brewers play poorly between now and then, perhaps Melvin gets more motivated to make a deal. Jon Daniels and Melvin have a long amicable relationship when it comes to dealing. Keep an eye on this.

• Andrew Cashner, Tyson Ross: The Rangers talked about both, particularly TCU’s Cashner, during the winter when they believed San Diego should be in rebuild mode. Instead, the Padres went all in, created a giant mess of their organization and now are looking to move pieces. Ross has had the better year, but scouts have held that Cashner has the better stuff. Also, there is word that Cashner would love a return to Texas. Cashner is under control through 2016 and could be a buy-low guy right now. If AJ Preller wants to rebuild his farm system in San Diego after destroying it this winter, would he not covet guys he signed over the last five years the most? These guys would be fall-backs if Hamels doesn’t happen, but they’d give the Rangers a Gallardo-type commodity for next year: Established guys who could slide into the middle of the rotation and, in the case of Cashner, who might bring back a first-round draft pick after the season. It’s also not unrealistic to think the Texas native might be willing to sign a longer-term deal. My take: All depends on Hamels.

• Other pitchers: I’d love Aroldis Chapman, but not sure the Reds are even talking about him yet while figuring out the Cueto situation. Chapman is signed through 2016. A closer would be great, but Shawn Tolleson has been really good. The Rangers bigger need is controllable middle-of-the-bullpen guys. In the last decade, I think, the club has dedicated significant resources, financially or otherwise, to a reliever: Joe Nathan. Not sure if they are willing to change that philosophy even with the atrocious performance of the middle of the ‘pen this year. In general, paying a high price for relievers, whether in prospects or salary, rarely returns the desired value. My take: I’d think addressing the bullpen waits until the off season.

Good article, raises a lot of valid points.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-29   21:02:48 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#791. To: CZ82 (#788)

Yes all about making the rotation viable for 2016. Pitch the kid.

Hamels a Ranger and Harry goes to Philly with some good prospects. All in all everyone got what they needed. Hate to see Thompson go. Think he is better than Chi Chi.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-29   23:55:11 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#792. To: redleghunter (#791)

Hamels a Ranger and Harry goes to Philly with some good prospects. All in all everyone got what they needed. Hate to see Thompson go. Think he is better than Chi Chi.

Was kinda surprised to see Harry go but understand they needed to dump some salary somewhere to make this work, just suspected they would do it in another way. (Was hoping they would take "Evis"!! I know I'm dreaming again).. :)

Yea I agree I hate to see Thompson go he has the potential to be a very good pitcher, hope that part of the deal they won't regret.

Looks like they also got a reliever Jake Diekman, throw him out there and see how he does is all you can do.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-30   7:02:59 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#793. To: redleghunter (#791)

Yes all about making the rotation viable for 2016. Pitch the kid.

Yea sooner or later he will get his stuff back and he'll be alright, odds of that happening are good.

Still can't believe they are only 4 games out of the 2nd wild card spot...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-30   7:05:35 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#794. To: CZ82 (#792)

I guess Harry or some other starter had to go so the Phils have something to finish the season with. What surprises me is Harry was real careful when he batted against the Rockies. Hope he stays healthy doing it every 5 days.

Wish him well.

Yes it's all about 2016-17 now and getting the rotation there. They are still short a starter for 2016 as Darvish will not be back until after the ASB sometime.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-30   20:02:31 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#795. To: CZ82 (#793)

Yes the illusion of the second wild card.

Not an illusion if you can keep around .500 and have a hot September:)

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-30   20:06:14 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#796. To: CZ82, Liberator, tomder55 (#793)

Hammy walk off against the Jankees. Wonderful. We win that season series.

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.---John 1:17

redleghunter  posted on  2015-07-30   23:53:37 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#797. To: redleghunter (#794)

They are still short a starter for 2016 as Darvish will not be back until after the ASB sometime.

You hope Darvish is effective after he comes back I wouldn't count on it.

So lets see Hamels, Holland, Perez, Martinez, Gonzalez as starters in 2016 if you don't sign either Lewis and Gallardo who are gonna be free agents this year. I would at least resign Colby and maybe both cause I don't think the youngsters are ready to give you 200 innings. On top of that you know you are going to have some injuries maybe even Hamels!! And who else do they have in the minors that can be brought up to pitch, Tepesch, Renaudo?? Thompson is gone, Eickhoff is gone, Alec Asher is gone.

This deal was to save John Daniels job it had better work out, cause if it doesn't there are gonna be a whole lot of pissed off fans when this losing keeps going on and on and on.... And you can't do a damn thing cause the minors is bare pitching wise again and you have all of these big huge contracts to deal of which they already want to get rid of 2.

I can easily see this turning into a giant disaster.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-31   6:58:34 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#798. To: redleghunter (#796)

Hammy walk off against the Jankees. Wonderful. We win that season series

see ya in the playoffs if Hammels can drag you into a wild card hunt .

After this weekend the Yanks have no more road trips out of the eastern time zone ;and play the majority of their remaining games at home . Right now the Yanks are 13 over .500 which mean if they play .500 ball the rest of the season they'll have 94 wins .... probably enough to hold off their east div challengrs (only concern is 13 head to head games against Toronto).

Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?

tomder55  posted on  2015-07-31   10:37:59 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#799. To: tomder55 (#798)

(only concern is 13 head to head games against Toronto).

Which means they could very easily lose all 13 games since their starting pitching isn't that good and the Blue Jays are the highest scoring team in the majors. I wouldn't count on them making the playoffs if I were you, especially since they had to put CC back in as a starter since Pineda went to the DL.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-07-31   20:52:08 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#800. To: CZ82 (#799)

Which means they could very easily lose all 13 games since their starting pitching isn't that good and the Blue Jays are the highest scoring team in the majors.

yes possibly . Toronto also was very active at the trade deadline. Then again 7 of the 13 are at the friendly confines of Yankee stadium ;and 34 of their remaining 57 are home games. The rest of their schedule is not that intimidating . btw Yanks are 2nd in runs scored and RBIs to Toronto ;and 2nd to Houston in HR . So it's not like there is that big a difference in offensive output .

Quis custodiet ipsos custodes?

tomder55  posted on  2015-07-31   23:40:51 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#801. To: tomder55, redleghunter, Liberator (#800)

Which means they could very easily lose all 13 games since their starting pitching isn't that good and the Blue Jays are the highest scoring team in the majors.

yes possibly

But not very probable considering they have a decent team as you pointed out...

BTA didn't they go thru a 10-12 game losing streak earlier this year??? Some teams are what they are good or bad and some play way over/under their potential, you just never know.

Just like last night the Rangers were facing the Giants and LH pitcher Bumgarner, they have big issues with Lefties but they jumped all over him for 6 runs early to win the game, you just never know...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-08-01   9:08:09 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#802. To: redleghunter (#795)

The biggest issue (even if they play well) I see is there are what 5-6 teams ahead of them for that spot, guess we'll see what happens.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-08-01   9:23:47 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#803. To: redleghunter (#794)

I guess Harry or some other starter had to go so the Phils have something to finish the season with. What surprises me is Harry was real careful when he batted against the Rockies. Hope he stays healthy doing it every 5 days.

Seen on Quick Pitch in the middle of the night that the Phillies already put Harry on the 15 day DL with what they called "back inflammation"...

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-08-01   9:51:58 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#804. To: redleghunter (#794)

Rangers Trade For Reliever At Deadline

Home / KWTX - Sports / Headlines List / Article

The Miami Marlins traded right-handed reliever Sam Dyson to the Texas Rangers on Friday for catcher Tomas Telis and a minor league pitcher.

MIAMI (July 31, 2015) The Miami Marlins traded right-handed reliever Sam Dyson to the Texas Rangers on Friday for catcher Tomas Telis and a minor league pitcher.

Dyson was 3-3 with a 3.68 ERA in 44 appearances for Miami this season. He appeared in 80 games with the Marlins over the last three seasons, after breaking into the majors for two games with Toronto in 2011.

Telis has gotten limited action with the Rangers over the last two seasons, playing in 24 games with no home runs and 10 RBIs. He was signed as 16-year-old free agent from Venezuela in 2007, made 18 appearances last season and batted .182 in six games with Texas this year.

Telis will report to Miami. The Marlins also got left-hander Cody Ege, who was sent to Double-A Jacksonville.

Speaking of trades they snuck this one in within 5 minutes of the deadline.

“Let me see which pig "DON'T" I want to vote for, the one with or without lipstick??" Hmmmmm...

CZ82  posted on  2015-08-01   10:59:51 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#805. To: tomder55, redleghunter, CZ82 (#798)

After this weekend the Yanks have no more road trips out of the eastern time zone ;and play the majority of their remaining games at home .

Right now the Yanks are 13 over .500 which mean if they play .500 ball the rest of the season they'll have 94 wins .... probably enough to hold off their east div challengrs (only concern is 13 head to head games against Toronto).

They can win those 94 game. Might be good enough for a Wild Card. But thanks to GM Brian Cashman, they secured NO starting pitching for a staff already susceptible to injury, incompetence, and inconsistency.

The Yankees may score runs, but come the playoffs we know all that changes. In the recent past (the 2000s) the Yanks have nearly always been near the top in runs scored. Those bats went silent against playoff team starting pitching. And would againt this year. Only Yankee starters would get pounded.

Liberator  posted on  2015-08-01   11:19:47 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  


#806. To: CZ82, tomder55, redleghunter (#799)

They [the Yanks] could very easily lose all 13 games since their starting pitching isn't that good and the Blue Jays are the highest scoring team in the majors. I wouldn't count on them making the playoffs if I were you, especially since they had to put CC back in as a starter since Pineda went to the DL.

All true...

BUT, conversely the Bombers *could* beat up on the Jays, who've always had problems beating Yanks. Some team just have others' number. Yeah, I know this Jays team is altogether different, locked and loaded. But they still have their own pitching problems. David Price is just ONE starter. They did pick up great pen help -- Mark Lowe as well.

Considering all the moves made by all the teams, this looks like a stretch run that'll be memorable for whomever gets hot. OR fade. And that really could be ANY one. (Remember the A's epic fade last year?? And the Royals epic run?)

Liberator  posted on  2015-08-01   11:30:14 ET  Reply   Trace   Private Reply  



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