Essentially, I’m utilizing our depth and turning it into quality WAR players. Here goes. 

Free Agency: Angels sign Prince Fielder to an 8yr/160M deal. Mark DeRosa to a 2yr/2M deal. Jorge Posada 1yr/1M deal. Francisco Rodriguez (K-Rod) to a 1yr/$7M deal.

Trades:

Angels Get (17.5M):

Matt Cain 15M – 5.2 WAR

Pablo Sandoval 2.5M – 5.5 WAR

= 10.7 WAR

Giants Get (20.9M):

Mark Trumbo 414K – 2.3 WAR

Ervin Santana 11.2M – 3.2 WAR

Erick Aybar 5M – 4.0 WAR

Alberto Callaspo 3M – 3.6 WAR

Kaleb Cowart 414K

Garret Richards 414K

Tyler Chatwood 414K

= 13.1 WAR

Fills Needs for both clubs. Angels get another 1-2 type pitcher and a power hitting 3rd baseman. Giants get a legitimate power bat at 1st base. The very affordable Aybar is a much cheaper option than Reyes and Rollins and provides a quality long term solution at SS w/out breaking the bank. Plus, The Giants SS last season were a combined minus .3 WAR. Santana is a cheaper option than Cain this season and may actually fare better in the NL. Callaspo can be a natural NL player and their 3rd baseman till Cowart is ready. Richards and Chatwood would serve as competition for their 5th slot come spring. Aubrey Huff was Minus .6 WAR last season at 1st base so it’s an instant upgrade w/ Trumbo and on the cheap. 

 

Cubs get (Angels eat 10M of Wells 2014 salary):

Vernon Wells 21M 

Angels Get (18M in 2012 and 19.25M in 2013 once trade is completed. Plus, we eat 10M of Wells 2014 salary):

Carlos Zambrano 18M 

            Zambrano, like Lackey, will never be able to pitch in their respective cities again due to their childish and selfish antics. The probability of them doing better with a fresh start is inevitable. How much better is unknown but it’s obvious both need fresh starts. The Cubs have a need for a power hitting RF. Plus I believe they’ll be so happy to be rid of Zambrano that they’ll agree to the 2014 Wells salary agreement I’ve placed on there.

The Line-up and 25 man roster:

1.  Peter Bourjos CF 414K

2.  Howard Kendrick 2nd 5M

3.  Torii Hunter RF 18M

4.  Prince Fielder 1st 20M – 3.2 higher WAR than Trumbo.

5.  Kendrys Morales DH 3.5M

6.  Pablo Sandoval 3rd 2.5M – 1.9 higher WAR than Callaspo.

7.  Maicer Izturis SS 3.8M

8.  Hank Conger C 414K – 1.2 higher WAR than Mathis.

9.  Mike Trout LF 414K - .5 higher WAR than Wells.

 

Bench 1: Bobby Wilson C 414K

Bench 2: Mark Derosa UTIL / OF 1M

Bench 3: Bobby Abreu OF/DH 9M

Bench 4: Jean Segura or Alexi Amarista 2nd/SS 414K

Bench 5: Jorge Posada C/DH/1st 1M

 

SP1: Jered Weaver 17M

SP2: Matt Cain 15M

SP3: Dan Haren 12.75M

SP4: Carlos Zambrano 18M - .4 WAR lower than Piniero but higher than Wells.

SP5: Jerome Williams 500K

BP1: Rich Thompson 418K

BP2: Bobby Cassevah 414K

BP3: Hisanori Takahashi 4.2M

BP4: Scott Downs 5M

Set-up: Jordan Walden 414K

Closer: Francisco Rodriguez 7M

 

2011 Team Salary: $139M

2012 Team Salary: $143M

With the $56M we have coming off the books in 2013 (Kendrick, Hunter, Izturis, Abreu, Posada, Cain, Takahashi), we should be able to use that for resigning the likes of Kendrick and Cain and maybe add a Matt Kemp or Andre Ethier type guy if the Dodgers are dumb enough to let them hit the market. Tell will tell.

Feel free to dig in.

Trying not to get too far ahead of things considering that we are still in the thick of a division race this year. But I can't help but think of this coming off-season and what it'll bring. Who wouldn't love to have CC Sabathia if/when he opts out? Who wouldn't want to sign CJ Wilson? Or Pujols, Fielder, or Reyes for that matter? I'm saying we will get none of them... and really don't need one of them.

I recommend three FA signings this off-season and one blockbuster trade that I believe is realistic. I'm going to keep the payroll in mind as well. This seasons payroll is $139M. When I first drafted next seaons team, the payroll ballooned up to just over $171M... but I managed some of my expectations and brought it down to just about $149M, just $10M over where it is this season. And with some creativity by one Tony Reagins, namely offsetting contracts, it could be a lot lower. But I know there are some creative minds on here that can figure all that out, but to make it easier on me, I'll go w/ the average number of dollars over the years. Ready, here goes.

Sign one of these two starting pitchers; Ryan Dempster for 2yrs/$18M, or Aaron Harang for 2yrs$14M. This signing represents are 4th starter behind Weaver, Haren, and Santana.

Sign relief pitcher Jeremy Affeldt for 2yrs/$6M. Affeldt represents more of the above average reliever. He fits in nicely, and adding a huge boost to a bullpen in need of an upgrade.

Sign Mark Kotsay to a 1yr/$500K contract. Kotsay fills a need at 1st base and in the outfield as a fill-in and the occasional off day.

Trade Peter Bourjos ($800K), Erick Aybar ($5M), and Tyler Chatwood ($500K) to the Mets for David Wright ($15M).

Lastly, you'll see one prospect brought up in Jean Segura. Maicer will groom him for 2013.

Here is my 25 man roster along with 2012 salary (Including assessed arbitration dollars):

C. Hank Conger - $600K

1st. Mark Trumbo - $1.2M (Kendrys Morales received a simliar salary after his break-out season).

2nd. Howard Kendrick - $5M

SS. Maicer Isturis - $3.8M

3rd. David Wright - $15M

LF. Vernon Wells - $21M

CF. Mike Trout - $400K

RF. Torii Hunter - $18M

DH. Kendrys Morales - $3M (Can't see him getting a notable payraise based on injury).

Bench 1. Bobby Wilson - $480K (Realistically, it'll be Mathis due to Scioscia's love for him... One can dream).

Bench 2. Bobby Abreu - $9M

Bench 3. Alberto Callaspo - $3.5M

Bench 4. Mark Kotsay - $500K

Bench 5. Jean Segura - $420K

SP1. Jered Weaver - $17M

SP2. Dan Haren - $12.75M

SP3. Ervin Santana - $11.2M

SP4. Ryan Dempster -  $9M (Or Aaron Harang at $7M).

SP5. Garrett Richards - $500K (or Jerome Williams at $500K have open competition in ST for the 5th slot).

BP1. Rich Thompson - $450K

BP2. Bobby Cassevah - $450K

BP3. Hisanori Takahashi - $4.2M

BP4. Jeremy Affeldt - $3M

Set-up. Scott Downs - $5M

Closer. Jordan Walden - $600K (May be higher).

 

The line-up should look like this:

1. Maicer Izturis

2. Howard kendrick

3. David Wright

4. Kendrys Morales

5. Mark Trumbo

6. Torii Hunter

7. Vernon Wells

8. Hank Conger

9. Mike Trout

 

I'd love to see Trout be able to bat 3rd one day and bump everybody back one.

Dear Mr. Arte  Moreno,

I'll start with the Front Office and Coaching Staff:

1. Fire Reagins, and hire me for $60,000 a year. It's quite a pay cut for me but to be honest, I would make a better GM than this dick.

2. Fire the whole coaching staff. Hire Bobby Grich as the Manager. Hire Tim Salmon as the bench coach. Hire Garret Anderson as the hitting coach. Hire Darin Erstad as the 3rd base coach. Hire David Eckstein as your 1st base coach. Hire either Chuck Finley or Troy Percival as your pitching coach.

Now, onto the roster:

1. Trade Torii Hunter for Joe Blanton. With Dominic Brown struggling in RF for the Phillies, Torii could provide offense and solid defense in RF. It also takes some of the pressure off Dominic. Raul Ibanez will be a Free Agent next year and Torii could be there almost like a Free Agent acquisition next season for them and allow Dominic Brown to try again. Subtracting Ibanez salary and inserting Hunters is $6M plus for the Phils but also shedding Blantons $10M so it is good for them still financially. As for us, acquiring Blanton and his $10M saves us $8M next season, and will fill a hole in our rotation as you will see below.

2. Trade Erick Aybar, Ervin Santana, Bobby Wilson, and a minor leaguer to the Mets for SS Jose Reyes. Re-sign Reyes to a 7year/$120M deal equalling roughly $17M per. It evens out for the next two seasons given the players you traded away in salary. It fills a void in SS with Aybar for them. Gives them a little stability for their pitching staff which is very much needed. Wilson can step in behind the plate for them or at least serve as a back-up catcher. I say give them there choice of one of our AAA starters.

3. Trade Bobby Abreu to the Red Sox for whatever you can get for him. Crawford just went down with a hamstring injury. J.D. Drew and Mike Cameron are somewhat fragile with their injury history. Plus, Drew will be a Free Agent next season. Abreu would be a very nice addition for any club contending as he provides flexibility in the outfield and at DH. Additionally, it free's us up $9M next season.

4. Thank the good Lord that Kazmirs and Matthews Jr. combined contract totaling $24M is coming off the books. With the above 3 trades and Kaz and GMJ, plus Rodney becoming a FA next season, we save a combined $46M.

5. Sign Albert Pujols this off-season to a 8yr/$216M deal, which equals $27M per. Basically, offer to build him and his family a home, give him free rides on a private jet, plus incentives for hitting career milestones and all-time milestones.

6. Re-sign Jered Weaver to a 6yr/$126M deal equaling $21M per. He may sign as a local product and waiting to stay in SoCal plus, proving to him we are committed to winning with the additions of Reyes and Pujols.

7. Sign Jason Giambi as the 25th man on our roster for power coming off the bench.

 

Here is the line-up:

1. Jose Reyes SS

2. Howard Kendrick 2nd

3. Kendry Morales DH (We'll see how he comes back from the injury).

4. Albert Pujols 1st

5. Mark Trumbo 3rd (If he wants to play ball for us, he has to learn to play 3rd base. He's young enough to learn).

6. Vernon Wells LF

7. Mike Trout RF (The Prodigy will be ready by then).

8. Hank Conger C

9. Peter Bourjos CF

 

Bench:

1.Callaspo

2. Izturis

3. Mathis

4. Pettit

5. Giambi

 

Starting pitching:

1. Jered Weaver

2. Dan Haren

3. Joel Piniero or Mark Buerhle (Sign one of them to 3yrs/24M to be our #3 guy).

4. Tyler Chatwood

5. Joe Blanton (Signed through 2012 only).

 

Bullpen:

1. Hasanori Takahashi

2. Between Jepsen, Thompson, Bell, Kohn, or another minor league arm.

3. Between Jepsen, Thompson, Bell, Kohn, or another minor league arm.

4. Between Jepsen, Thompson, Bell, Kohn, or another minor league arm.

Set-up: Scott Downs

Closer: Jordan Walden

 

This team is a hot mess right now, and being run into the ground financially. The Angels spend like they are a 100 win team with serious opportunities of winning the World Series, but in reality they are a .500 team and not a win better. Please consider this fan's, along with many others a plead for a change in the right direction.

 

Happy Fathers Day.

Just reading up on Pro Sports Daily: MLB Rumors and it said the Rays want pitching prospects and a SS of the future for Matt Garza. Either they mean that's want they want for Garza and it would take a whole helluva lot more for Longoria, or that's simply what they would want in any deal. Evan Longoria is a fan favorite (Yes, all 73 of them... at least that's what they pack the stands with). So is it unrealisitc to think he couldn't be had for the right package of players? If so, what would that package look like?

 

Considering what the Angels have and what the Rays need actually matches up pretty well. I refuse to believe the Rays are thrilled about entering next season with John Jaso as their starting catcher. We have Mike Napoli to give them. They're light at 1st base. We have Mark Trumbo to offer them. They want a shortstop of the future. We can offer them Erick Aybar. If Longoria was dealt, they could use Ben Zobrist 3rd. That provides a hole for them in RF. Dare I say it? Why not? We can offer Mike Trout. Evan Longoria is beyond ridiculously cheap... right now. Will the Rays be able to afford him? Is it guarenteed he'll want to stay if the team is last or next to last w/out the likes of Pena, Crawford, Balfour, Wheeler, and Soriano? It's anybody's guess. Longoria is also from Downey, CA and Anaheim is real close to home. They want cheap starting pitching. We have Tyler Chatwood, Trevor Reckling, Garret Richards, ect. If out of the 7 players I mentioned the Angels could choose as trade bait for Longoria, what is the most realistic package it would take?

 

I would assess the package would have to include Trout, Aybar, Napoli, and two of the pitchers I mentioned. Honestly, I'd do the deal today.Trout is the #1 prospect in all of baseball, yet unproven at the major league level. We have Izturis who could probably start at SS for a lot of teams. Sure, health is a concern, but we also have Callaspo and (Gulp!) Brandon Wood. Napoli is expendable w/ Conger poised to get a shot at catcher. And our pitching staff is really set for a while. We're trading away $6M and getting only $1M in return. Long term, yes it's going to cost, but Longoria is the young premier 3rd baseman in baseball and worth it. The Rays fill their glaring holes with talent and we restock their farm a little, and all at a cheap cost. Instead of paying Beltre $16M, we get Longoria and save $15M for a year or two till his contract is up. Next year, we couldf after Jose Reyes or Jimmy Rollins or whoever you want next off-season.

 

Yes, my idea is highly unlikely, but not completely impossible. 

Looking back now that I've had some time to relax on the news that the Angels failed to land their #1 target in Carl Crawford, I'm thinking it was a blessing. No doubt, he could have been the cog in our line-up that could return us to offensive relevance over night. But his contract would have severely handicapped us for a few years. Likely around the time Weaver, Haren, and Morales would be due for their big payday. I would hate to lose any of those three because of what we had foolishly done a few years previous to fix a hole that we can likely fix internally over the next few years (i.e. Trout, Trumbo, Grichuk, ect). 

 

Now I think we move on to the rest of the off-season... rationally. The likelihood of Cliff Lee becoming an Angel is slim to none, and that would also severely handicap us for the next 7-8 years. While he'd be welcomed by this fan with open arms, it also means the Angels would be cheap elsewhere on the diamond. I could care less about tickets being bumped up $10 a ticket or a beer, hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, or crackerjacks being $2-$3 extra. In reality, that's all things would go up, probably not enough to bankrupt the fans. For the sake of reality though, I'm going to exclude Cliff Lee from my off-season.

 

The catcher position could change given the quantity we have... and some quality. We're set at 1st with Morales. 2nd base is good with Kendrick. I am not a fan of Aybar at SS so I'm going to seek a trade below. We're in shambles at 3rd so I'm seeking a FA below. LF has options and I'll explain below. We're good in CF with Bourjos. RF is set with Hunter. DH has options as well. Starting pitching is set. Bullpen is taking shape nicely though I'd like to add one closer via FA.

 

Addressing some of the FA's needs and monies allocated to those needs, I would say 3rd base is our most glaring hole and offer Adrian Beltre a 5 year/$80M deal. I would like to think Scott Boras would accept that. The other offer I make to solidify our bullpen is 4 years/$36M to Rafael Soriano. That's a $2M raise from last year with the Rays. Simply based on the rumblings I've heard that Soriano is not garnering that much attention, I'm thinking his agent Peter Greenberg would accept it. I say, why wait till the market heats up for him? If you can get him now, get him. Offer Jim Thome a 2 year/$5M deal to be our full time DH. Our big holes are now filled.

 

The trade market: I am not a huge fan of Erick Aybar. He's serviceable but hardly what I'd like to think of as my franchise shortstop. I like to build the middle of my field with strength. Our future is with Hank Conger, Howard Kendrick and Mike Trout up the middle, I'd like to add the Mets shortstop Jose Reyes. There are mixed reports whether he is available or not. Looking at the Mets depth chart, their shortcomings are at catcher, 1st base, RF, starting pitching, and of course SS with Reyes departing. While I don't think Reyes is THE premier SS in baseball anymore and his OBP is not of a typical lead-off catalyst, he does change the game with his speed. His speed is something we were seeking in Carl Crawford. His durability is a concern to some, but not for me. The only year where he played less than 130 games was 2009. Additionally, his contract could be percived as unattractive to some. He will be a FA after the 2011 season. But his agent is not Scott Boras, it's Peter Greenberg. So as part of the trade, sign him to a long term deal at 5 years/$70M. In return, trade Erick Aybar, Mike Napoli, Juan Rivera, and their choice of Tyler Chatwood, Trevor Bell, or Garrett Richards. I'm asking for Jose Reyes and a lesser prospect than what we gave them in terms of pitching.

 

My line-up:

1. Jose Reyes SS

2. Bobby Abreu LF / RF / DH

3. Kendry Morales 1st / DH

4. Torii Hunter RF / CF / LF

5. Jim Thome DH / 1st

6. Adrian Beltre 3rd

7. Howard Kendrick 2nd / 1st / DH

8. Hank Conger C

9. Peter Bourjos CF / LF / RF

Reserve 1: Jeff Mathis C

Reserve 2: Macier Izturis 2nd / SS / 3rd

Reserve 3: Alberto Callaspo 2nd / 3rd

Reserve 4: Mark Trumbo 1st / LF / RF

Reserve 5 : Reggie Willits OF

SP1: Jered Weaver

SP2: Dan Haren

SP3: Ervin Santana

SP4: Joel Pineiro

SP5: Scott Kazmir

BP1: Jordan Walden

BP2: Hisanori Takahashi

BP3: Scott Downs

BP4: Fernando Rodney

Set-up: Kevin Jepsen

Closer: Rafael Soriano

 

For the money acquired via trade with Reyes and his new deal at $14M per year, that money is slightly offset by trading Aybar, Napoli, and Rivera which totals about $10M. I feel the FO was ready to take the 2011 budget higher anyways so I feel the additions of Beltre, Thome, Soriano, Downs, and Takahashi were allocated in the budget. Worse case FA scenario, take Soriano out and use Rodney and Downs as the situational closer, and add either Jason Bulger or Michael Kohn to the bullpen. That does save you $9M a year.

It's been mentioned by ESPN, Hardball, and Yahoo that the Brewers cannot afford to keep Prince Fielder AND Ryan Braun. Obviously, Braun is more talented and sought after than Prince. Fielders weight is obviously a concern for any team, the man stands at 5'11, 270lbs. He turns 26 May 9. His dad, Cecil, began to break down after the 96' season at age 32. If it truly is, like father, like son, Prince has 6 years before his decline. Perhaps ironic, that in Prince's first 4 full years in the bigs, he's hit 158 homeruns. Dad, Cecil his 160 homeruns in the same span. Cecil went on to have 6 more productive seasons, even though he got off to a little later start than his son, Prince (4 years). So is it reasonable to say Prince has 6 good years in him? I say yes. I also say, he could be the new face of our franchise from an offensive standpoint. We would need that extra power output come playoff time.

 

What could we offer the Brewers? Mike Napoli is as good of place to start as any. The Brewers have Greg Zaun and George Kottaras as their catchers. Napoli is ovbiously a huge offensive upgrade and eases the sting of losing Prince's power. I'd also offer Jaun Rivera. He can play RF for them. Corey Hart hasn't hit since 2008. As for replacing Prince at 1st, I'd offer up Mark Trumbo. Rivera is a solid 20HR, 80RBI, .280BA guy. Napoli is a 20HR, 75RBI, .270BA guy. I believe Trumbo could eventually be a 20HR, 80RBI, .260 BA guy. We've got strength to deal from and that's catcher, 1st base, and outfield. I want to put Prince at DH, and Matsui in LF. If need be, Morales has played some corner outfield before.

 

So in short, would a package of Napoli, Rivera, and Trumbo be enough for Prince Fielder?

 

1. Aybar SS

2. Abreu RF

3. Hunter CF

4. Fielder DH

5. Matsui LF

6. Morales 1st

7. Kendrick 2nd

8. Wood 3rd

9. Mathis C

 

How does that line-up sit with you? As for the future, we have youth on the way in Burjos, Pettit, Evans, Grichuk, and Trout. On the immediate horizon is Bourjos, Pettit and Evans. We can live with Matsui in LF for the rest of this year. Flipping Fielder and Morales every few games at DH and 1st base would keep them both refreshed.

There is a really good article on ESPN right now about where positional value is in the draft (historically and by trend analysis). In other words, how many of each position drafted in the 1st round and how many Pro Bowls have resulted.

I'll start at the top and work the way down:

Round 1. LB, RB, OG, QB, OT, TE, DE, WR, DT, DB, C.

Round 2. OT, RB, C, LB, DB, OG, WR, TE, DE, DT, QB.

Round 3. C, RB, OT, OG, TE, DE, DT, LB, WR, DB, QB.

Round 4. DE, LB, OT, DB, RB, WR, TE, DT, QB, OG, C.

Round 5. DE, C, OG, DT, TE, RB, LB, DB, OT, WR, QB.

Round 6. OG, LB, QB, TE, C, DT, DB, RB, OT, DE, WR.

Round 7. DE, LB, DB, OG, OT, QB, WR, RB, TE, C, DT.

 

As for the Broncos, most would agree, we need help at Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Inside Linebacker, Defensive Line, and Safety. I am NOT a fan of drafting a WR but the most value for WR is in the 4th and 2nd round. Obviously depending on needs on what players are available, you may be able to justify taking Arrelious Benn with the 43rd or 45th overall. Unless you had a guy like OG/OT Vladimir Ducasse, OT Bruce Campbell, and/or OG Jon Asamoah still available. Especially considering that USF WR Carlton Mitchell will likely be available in the 4th round. Lastly, I don't believe Bronos really need an offensive tackle, especially over OG and C. The Guard and Center positions seem like a more pressing need. Additionally, we already have Ryan Clady. Plus, I have to ask, is there a reason we haven't talked to Jared Gaither other than he's a RFA? We have 2nd round picks to trade if need be.

Here is my draft based on this theory. First, without trades.

1 (#11). ILB Rolando McClain - #1 LB on the board. 

2 (#43). OT Bruce Campbell - At this point, best Tackle available. Very aware of his surroundings at Tackle.

2 (#45). CB Chris Cook or Safety Nate Allen - Both of best CB and Safeties on the board.

3 (#80). C J.D. Walton - Said to be the 2nd best Center in the draft.

4 (#114). WR Carlton Mitchell  - At almost 6"3 and 216lbs, he's a helluva target.

6 (#183). OG, Shaun Lauvao - Doubt he drops this far... perhaps a bit of a pipe dream.

7 (#220). DT Michael Neal - Bull rusher and takes good angles on RB's. He's from Purdue.

 

Now, w/ trades I could see happening:

Denver trades the #11th pick to the NY Giants for the #15th and #76th overall.

Denver trades Tony Sheffler to Rams for the #99th overall. 

Denver trades their #183 and #220 and next years 6th round pick to the Washington Redskins for #135.

1 (#15). C Maurkice Pouncey - This goes against the grain of the positional draft value, however, when you have the opportunity to the best center in the draft, you do it. Especially when he's a stud, and fills a major need.

2 (#43). OG Vladimir Ducasse - At this point, best Guard available. Plus, he can play guard or tackle.

2 (#45). CB Chris Cook or Safety Nate Allen - Both of best CB and Safeties on the board.

3 (#76). OG John Jerry - Fits McDaniels scheme for big lineman plus this seals the deal for OL a possible decade with absolute quality. Ducasse Clady Pouncey Harris Jerry... pretty nasty. 

3 (#80). WR Brandon LaFell - Big WR with soft hands and a great blocking WR. Tough to tackle.

4 (#99). ILB Patrick Angerer - Emotional and vocal leader plus a very instinctual player.

4 (#114). DE Alex Carrington (Love to see him fall to us here along with Koa Misi, but the more likely choice is Greg Hardy from Mississippi) In that order.

5 (#135).  RB LeGarrette Blount - I know he's some had issues, but at 241lbs, that's just beastly. What a great 1-2 punch, Knowshon and Blount. Wow.

 

With trades is my ideal draft. Less than 5 days away will tell the tale, but I cannot wait!!! I like the idea of trading down.

Hat's off to Sayre Bedinger for his round 1-3 mock draft. Very interesting picks in there.

I'm going to give you my darkhorse draft and a brief reason why.

1.  St. Louis Rams:  Russell Okung, OL, Oklahoma State  - The Rams know they can get QB Colt McCoy in the 2nd round and drafting a franchise OT in the draft is always a must if available. Plus, who would protect Bradfords' back? 

2.  Detroit Lions:  Trent Williams, OL, Oklahoma - The very same reasoning for Stafford, who is going to protect his back? In reality, you need to protect your investment. Franchise QB's are an investment. That's why I see the top 2 picks going to the very best lineman this draft has to offer. 

3.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  Ndamukong Suh, DL, Nebraska - If Tampa has the option of Suh or McCoy, I believe they will choose Suh based on the tag "The best interior DL to come into the league in the past 30 years.", and Suh is the superior run defender of the two. Tampa was last in run defense last year.

**Trade:  Denver Broncos trade Brandon Marshall and pick #11 to Washington Redskins for pick #04, and #103**

4.  Denver Broncos: Gerald McCoy, DL, Oklahoma  - McCoy is a better pass rusher than he is stopping the run. If we had the option of McCoy or Suh, I'd like to think we'd take Suh but Tampa has the same needs Denver does (Stopping the run, Denver ranked 26th in the stopping the run). McCoy goes a long way in helping rectify that issue.

5.  Kansas City Chiefs:  Eric Berry, S, Tennessee - There is a major need at safety, and he is the very best available.

6.  Seattle Seahawks:  Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma - Seahawks, thrilled Bradford is still available, and select their new franchise QB. The good thing is he will not start right away w/ Matt Hasselbeck starting and teaching the young QB.

7.  Cleveland Browns:  Dan Williams, DL, Tennessee - They'll need to find a long-term replacement for current NT Shaun Rogers and Williams gives them that.

8.  Oakland Raiders:  Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers - Some experts have said he's the best pure blocker in this years draft, and I think they really want to give DeMarcus Russell all the tools to succeed. They invested a lot of money in him. 

9.  Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame - They need a long term fix a QB and he is the best available.

10.  Jacksonville Jaguars:  Earl Thomas, S, Texas -Best safety available, plus, they ranked 27th in pass defense last season.

11.  Washington Redskins: Bryan Bulaga, OL, Iowa - They've traded for McNabb and given him a #1 receiver in Brandon Marshall. they'll need to protect him and Bulaga is the obvious choice here at #11.

12.  Miami Dolphins:  Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech - With the impending departure of Jason Taylor, they'll need a guy that can rush off the edge with speed and power and Morgan is that guy.

13.  San Francisco 49ers:  Joe Haden, CB, Florida - They need help on the OL and they can't justify taking Iupati or Campbell at #13 so I believe they'll take the best CB in the draft, and a steal at #13.

14.  Seattle Seahawks: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State - What better way to build an offense than picking the #1 QB in Bradford and #1 receiver in Bryant.

15.  New York Giants: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama - No secret the Giants are coveting him and are thrilled to get him here at #15.

16.  Tennessee Titans: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida - They would like another Jevon Kearse type player.

17.  San Francisco 49ers:  Mike Iupati, OL, Idaho - He instantly imporves the OL, by playing multiple positions.

18.  Pittsburgh Steelers: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida - Best C in the draft and with the woes with Big Ben, they may want to run the ball a little more. Pouncey strengthens the interior line to pound the rush.

19.  Atlanta Falcons:  Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan - DE size at 270lbs, and an OLB speed at 4.72 in the 40. Perfect fit for the Falcons. 

20.  Houston Texans:  Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama - They need to replace Dunta Robinson and Jackson is the best CB available.

21.  Cincinnati Bengals:  Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma - A bit of a stretch here at 21 but the Bengals need passing help for Carson Palmer,a nd he's the best TE available.

22.  New England Patriots:  Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas - He's versatile and the exact need at OLB for the Patriots. What a combo, Kindle and Mayo.

23.  Green Bay Packers:  C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson - I think'd they'd be thrilled if Spiller falls to them at #23 (If the 49ers do not select him). He'd be a great back teamed up with Ryan Grant.

24.  Philadelphia Eagles:  Taylor Mays, S, USC - They'd like a bone crushing safety like Mays to take the place of the 2009 departure of Brian Dawkins.

25.  Baltimore Ravens:  Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State - With the addition of Anquan Boldin, the passing game need is no longer warranted, and they'll need to keep up their defense witha solid CB and Wilson fits the bill.

26.  Arizona Cardinals:  Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri - The Karlos Dandby departure makes this pick neccesary.

27.  Dallas Cowboys:  Charles Brown, OL, USC - A natural fit as they need help on the O-line.

28.  San Diego Chargers:  Jahvid Best, RB, Cal - Experts say this may be a reach for Best, but I don't think so, he's the best RB behind Spiller. Best was named 2009 Elite Running Back Trophy recipient of the College Football Performance Awards.

29.  New York Jets:  Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame - What is the more pressing need, WR or DE? I think Tate is a solid pick her and matching up with Edwards is a solid pick and gives young QB Sanchez more to work with.

30.  Minnesota Vikings:  Jared Odrick, DL, Penn State - There is a need on the interior DL, though the injury to EJ Henderson may also neccesitate a need at LB. I think Odrick is an excellent value at #30.

31.  Indianapolis Colts:  Brian Price, DT, UCLA - Great pick to work between Freeney and Mathis.

32.  New Orleans Saints:  Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU - The departure of Scott Fujita creates this pick. They have needs at DT and safety (Possible departure of Sharper), but as far as quality at 32, I think Hughes is the best pick for their biggest need.

 

I didn't work trades into this very much except for what I can see the Broncos doing. I'd Also trade Tony Scheffler to the Rams for their 4th round #99 overall, or thr Bills 4th rounder at #109. Scheffler would help any young quarterback (Namely The Rams with my assessed draft position #1 of the 2nd round), or Claussen with the 9th overall). As a result of the trades, Denever would have

#04: Gerald McCoy, NT, Oklahoma - (See above).

#45: Vladimir Ducasse, OL, UMass - Great news is, he can play Guard or Tackle.

#80: J.D. Walton, C, Baylor - Ranked at #2 Center in this years draft and it’s a need for us.

#99 (From the Rams for Scheffler): Patrick Angerer, ILB, Iowa - Excellent coverage LB, and a leader. Love this guy!!!

#103 (From the Redskins for Brandon Marshall): Anthony McCoy, TE, USC - Solid blocking TE w/ very soft hands.

#114:  Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi or Brandon Lang, DE, Troy - One of these guys should fall to us.

Trade #183 and #220 as high as we can go in the 5th for LaGarrett Blount, RB, Oregon. Solid 1-2 punch with Moreno, and Blount.

 

Lastly, to fill the void left by the Brandon Marshall tarde at WR, sign Terrel Owens. 

I'll start this post off with that I have a shit eating grin on my face while I write this as I'm giddy with excitement. As our current line-up stands, with Napoli and Mathis as our starting catchers. Morales our 1st baseman. Kendrick at 2nd. Aybar at SS, and Wood at 3rd. River, Hunter, and Abreu filling the OF slots and Matsui as the DH.

 

1. Aybar SS

2. Abreu RF

3. Hunter CF

4. Morales 1st

5. Matsui DH

6. Rivera LF

7. Napoli C

8. Kendrick 2nd

9. Wood 3rd

To me, this is a solid and dangerous line-up capable of hitting us to the World Series. But this isn't the point of my post. I'm 3 years from now and how our team will look diffeent, especially in the OF. Let's face it, our outfielders are aging and we have young talent coming up in Grichuk out in LF with power, Bourjos the slick fielding speedster in CF, and Trout combining speed with developing power in RF. Trout and Bourjos are both CF's but one will have to give way and I think Trout has the build for a RF (stated as built like a RB) and Bourjos, a CF (6'1, 195lbs). The only other change I see in the next 2-3 years is our catcher spot and Hank Conger is the obvious choice. With the scouting report indicating him being ready for MLB pitching today, there is still a alot to be desired defensively. He did show some growth last year behind the dish according to Scouting Director Eddie Bane. Here is how I see our line-up in 2013 and ballpark projections.

1. Aybar SS (.300 BA, 10 HR, 55 RBI's, 20-25 SB's, .380 OBP, over 100RS)  Gold Glove

2. Kendrick 2nd (.290-.310 BA, 12-15 HR, 65-75 RBI's, 10 SB's, .360 OBP, 90RS)

3. Wood 3rd (.275 BA, 25 HR, 80-90 RBI's, .510 Slugging)

4. Morales 1st (Pretty much in-line with what he did in 2009, plus or minus a few in each category)

5. Grichuk LF (.270 BA, 20-25 HR, 80 RBI's)

6. Napoli DH (.270 BA, 25-30 HR, 80 RBI's)

7. Conger C (.290 BA, 15-20 HR, 70-80 RBI's)

8. Trout RF (.265-.275 BA, 10-15 HR, 55-65 RBI's, 15-20 SB's)

9. Bourjos CF (.265-.275 BA, 5-10 HR, 50 RBI's, 30-40 SB's, .350 OBP, 70-80RS)  

The reason I placed Grichuk ahead of Napoli was his speed rating over Napoli. Very reminiscent of Anderson, Edmonds, and Salmon. The elder statesman being Napoli being 32 at that time. Our starting nine average age would be 26.77 years old.

 

As for our pitching currently sitting at:

SP1. Kazmir

SP2. Weaver

SP3. Santana

SP4. Saunders

SP5. Pineiro

BP1. Stokes or Palmer

BP2. Bulger

BP3. Jepsen

BP4. Rodney

Set-up. Shields

Closer. Fuentes

Still a very formidable staff. I expect to see more growth from Kazmir and Weaver this year, both battling to see who the ace is. Santana has the stuff to be an ace, and in my opinion has the most electric stuff of our staff. Saunders is Mr. Reliability who will always keep you in games and has the potential to shit opponents out on any given night. Pineiro is a little up in the air, and I hope to see him build upon last years success, however, I'm a little cautious as in came in NL. I still feel he'll be a cery capable $5, but nothing to retain long term. Which brings me to the future pitching staff. No projections as pitching there are too many anomalies.

SP1. Kazmir or Weaver (Both capable aces)

SP2. Weaver or Kazmir (See above)

SP3. Santana or Saunders (Whomever has more value in 2013)

SP4. Trevor Reckling (Our young left hander who has a very hign upside)

SP5. Jordan Walden (Young fire balling right hander)

BP1. Bulger

BP2. Arredondo (Hopefully able to rebound from TJ Surgery and resign with us)

BP3.  Mosebach, Rodriguez, Kohn, Bachanov, or another prospect coming up.

BP4. Garrett Richards (One of the organizations harder throwers)

Set-up. A veteran set-up reliever (Shields should be done by 2013 as he'll be 37)

Closer. Jepsen

I am thinking about this season and I'm stoked it's just around the corner, but the future has me absolutely thrilled. Hopefully, all my projections come to fruition. Imagine how many titles we'll contend for in the twenty teens. Plus I think with that team, we'd have a ton of money left over for a superstar reliever or even a starting pitcher if Walden or Reckling don't work out.

I bring this up now because everywhere I read, John Lackey comes out as the clear cut #1 pitcher to be a free agent during the 2009-2010 free agency period. Not only is he the #1 pitching free agent, but teams are mentioned that may be vying for his services. Namely, the Angels, Braves, Cubs, Dodgers, Mariners, Mets, Orioles, Rangers, Red Sox, and the Yankees. Some of these teams have very deep pockets, and there are very few are type A (In other words, that talented) pitchers like Lackey.

I was also reading about Brandon Webb, and his option possibly not being picked up by the Diamondbacks this winter due to his injured shoulder.

http://www.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090922&content_id=7100104&vkey=news_ari&fext=.jsp&c_id=ari

I understand wanting to know if a pitcher would be healthy prior to picking up a $8.5M option. But that still seems well below market value for a pitcher of his caliber. He has already had the surgery on August 3rd, and appears to be motivated to get healthy, stick to a training program, pitch at a high level again. Now, the Diamondbacks don't have the same money available that the Angels do, so my question to HH is, do you think Webb would be a solid plan B (If Brandon Webb's option is not picked up), if we cannot sign Lackey?

    

"Chapman has been called one of the "three great pitchers in the world right now who are not in the majors,"[1] along with Yu Darvish and Stephen Strasburg, who was drafted first in the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft."

-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aroldis_Chapman-

 

ESPN sites the Angels, Dodgers, and Red Sox, Yankees will at least show some initial interest. A 6'4", left hander, who throws gas is definitely worth the look. Anyone know if Kendry Morales knows him personally? Maybe that could the Angels a leg up on the competition... who knows.

 

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4491904

Anyone interested in Marvin Harrison? I know he hasn't signed with anyoen yet and he may waiting for training camps to begin, for the reason of injuries and maybe soem people aren't working out as well as the teams thought. But, given outr situation with Brandon Marshall, don't you think it'd be wise just to visit the possibility? I mean, from what I've read, he's healthy, and looking to get on a contender. I think the Broncos are on the verge of becoming a contender for the Super Bowl in next two to three years. I believe this team will need some time to gel.

 

I believe there is a rumor out stating the Vikings might be trying to sign him as of June 25th. I'm speculating it's the request of Brett Favre. Maybe je wouldn't even want to come here, but I haven't seen aything on it so I'm hoping someone will shed some light on it for me. Thanks.

In the article, it mentions notjhing regarding the Angels being interested. But directly after Uggla, was Freddy Sanchez of the Pirates and it is said that it could be a big upgrade for the Angels. Now, I'm not into Freddy Sanchez as he's already 31 years old, but Dan Uggla is intriguing.... he's on pace for 30 homers, and 100 RBI's. Granted his avergae is .226 and OBP is .336, but those power numbers make you take a second look.

 

Could Howie Kendrick return to form like we all hope he does? Yes. Is it guaranteed that he will? No. Please people, don't tell me why the Angels will never deal with the marlins again because everyone here knows the reasons or excuses. Instead, I'll ask what is fair value for Uggla and what could the Angels part with and still keeping the team in tact for a title run?

 

I'd consider trading Brandon Wood for him. Uggla has proven it at the MLB level, Wood has not. Wood, Aybar, and a AAA arm (Not one of our top guys... someone projected as a low #2 future rotation type). Who's to say Uggla couldn't move to 3rd if HK picks himself back up. Without a SS beyond Izturis, Figgins can play SS. I think that's fair trade value.

http://bases.newsvine.com/_news/2009/06/24/2965677-10-most-likely-to-be-traded-infielders?category=sports

This is the first time I've seen anything like this directly linking Matt Holliday to the Angels. It appears to be typical LA  Times speculation, but nonetheless, news for the Angels. If the link doesn't work, paste into your browser and shoot me later.... But anyways, here is the link below:

 

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/Could-Matt-Holliday-end-up-with-the-Angels-?urn=mlb,171608

 

Anyone out there with opinions?

Here is what's left. This is from ESPN.com with what I cleaned up. The statement is always made, "We're always looking to make our club better..." So my opinion is simple with a little input for some. Would they make us better.

 

Bobby Abreu, RF - Free Agent (A) - NY Yankees - Yes for his ability to hit in the 2 hole.

 

Moises Alou, LF - Free Agent (B) - NY Mets - No.

 

Garret Anderson, LF - Free Agent (B) - LA Angels - I'm sorry GA. You’d make us better right now, but we just can't ask you to come back.

 

Luis Ayala, RP - Free Agent (B) - NY Mets - I believe we're set in the pen.

 

Denny Bautista, RP - Free Agent - Pittsburgh - Same as above.

 

Joe Beimel, RP - Free Agent (B) - LA Dodgers – Same as above.

 

Matt Belisle, SP - Free Agent - Cincinnati - Same as above.

 

Emil Brown, LF - Free Agent - Oakland - No.

 

Paul Byrd, SP - Free Agent (B) – Boston – No.

 

Orlando Cabrera, SS - Free Agent (A) - Chicago Sox – He makes us better right away, but I can’t see the Angels asking him to come back… especially after the trade was awash.

 

Bartolo Colon, SP - Free Agent - Boston - No. 

 

Alex Cora, SS - Free Agent - Boston - No.

 

Craig Counsell, 3B - Free Agent - Milwaukee - No.

 

Joe Crede, 3B - Free Agent - Chicago Sox - No, you would hinder Wood's growth.

 

Juan Cruz, RP - Free Agent (A) - Arizona - No.

 

Adam Dunn, LF - Free Agent (A) - Arizona - Absolutely. I'd do the deal today.

 

Ray Durham, 2B - Free Agent - Milwaukee - No.

 

David Eckstein, SS - Free Agent - Arizona - It would be great to have you back and I suppose it could happen if Figgins was dealt along with Aybar/Izturis. You could be our leadoff hitter again and a fan favorite. However, highly unlikely.

 

Jim Edmonds, CF - Free Agent - Chicago Cubs - Always remember "The Catch", but our relationship has run it's course.

 

Cliff Floyd, DH - Free Agent - Tampa Bay - Left handed DH fits our need, but I can't see him as an Angel. Nor, would I want him.

 

Eric Gagne, RP - Free Agent (B) - Milwaukee - Haha.... no.

 

Freddy Garcia, SP - Free Agent - Detroit - Could be a nice low risk option for the 5th slot in the rotation.

 

Nomar Garciaparra, SS - Free Agent - LA Dodgers - I'd take you for what Quinlan does. Ship Q, and bring in Nomar. Great back-up.

 

Jon Garland, SP - Free Agent (B) - LA Angels - I love the workhorse mentality, but you don't make us better.

 

Tom Glavine, SP - Free Agent - Atlanta – Another veteran lefty... recovering from injury. I'll pass on you.

 

Ken Griffey Jr., RF - Free Agent (B) - Chicago Sox - Would fit our need with a left handed bat in the DH slot but I can't see you as an Angel. But yes, he would make us better.

 

Mark Grudzielanek, 2B - Free Agent (B) - Kansas City - No.

 

Eddie Guardado, RP - Free Agent - Minnesota - No.

 

Livan Hernandez, SP - Free Agent - Colorado - No.

 

Orlando Hernandez, SP - Free Agent - NY Mets - No.

 

Eric Hinske, RF - Free Agent - Tampa Bay - No.

 

Orlando Hudson, 2B - Free Agent (A) - Arizona - Yes, but where? So no.

 

Jacque Jones, LF - Free Agent - Florida - No.   

 

Gabe Kapler, CF - Free Agent - Milwaukee - No.

 

Jeff Kent, 2B - Free Agent (B) - LA Dodgers - He would make us better today, but not tomorrow. Strictly as a DH, he has some value left in him.

 

Mark Kotsay, CF - Free Agent - Boston - No.

 

Jon Lieber, RP - Free Agent - Chicago Cubs - No.

 

Paul Lo Duca, C - Free Agent (B) - Florida - No.

 

Braden Looper, SP - Free Agent (B) - St. Louis - No.

 

Derek Lowe, SP - Free Agent (A) - LA Dodgers - Yes, and the more I look at this, the more I'm beginning to believe he'll be part of our rotation next year. He'd be solid for us.

 

Brandon Lyon, RP - Free Agent - Arizona - Yes, if Speier doesn't return to form.

 

Pedro Martinez, SP - Free Agent - NY Mets - I don't like his injuries, plus we’ll end up playing the Yanks and I don’t want to hear their his daddy… so no.

 

Guillermo Mota, RP –Free Agent – Milwaukee – No.

 

Mark Mulder, SP - Free Agent - St. Louis - My darkhorse. I'd like to see it on a 1 year deal w/ a possible for two. 1M$ tops. He's still young enough and I think he can bounce back. Sue me HH.

 

Will Ohman, RP - Free Agent - Atlanta - Yes, again, pending Speier.

 

Oliver Perez, SP - Free Agent (A) - NY Mets - I think Adenhart would be just as good and he’s a class A, so no.

 

Andy Pettitte, SP - Free Agent (A) - NY Yankees - He could help us. He's better than Adenhart at this moment so yes.

 

Mark Prior, SP - Free Agent - San Diego - Interesting but no.

 

Manny Ramirez, LF - Free Agent (A) - LA Dodgers - Obviously. He alone makes us have serious offense. The only FA left that allows us to make that jump. 

 

Dennys Reyes, RP - Free Agent (B) - Minnesota - No.

 

Juan Rincon, RP - Free Agent - Cleveland - No.

 

Ivan Rodriguez, C - Free Agent (B) - NY Yankees - No.

 

Kenny Rogers, SP - Free Agent - Detroit - No.

 

Takashi Saito, RP - Free Agent - LA Dodgers - No.

 

Ben Sheets, SP - Free Agent (A) - Milwaukee - He makes us better instanntly too but I've noticed the halos don't keep people around who have a recent history of injuries, especially pitchers.

 

Frank Thomas, DH - Free Agent (B) - Oakland - I'd take a flier on him for DH on a 1 year deal for $1M and incentives. Again... sue me HH.

 

Juan Uribe, 3B - Free Agent (B) - Chicago Sox - No.

 

Jason Varitek, C - Free Agent (A) Boston - No.

 

Omar Vizquel, SS -  Free Agent - San Francisco - No.

 

Ty Wigginton, 3B -  Free Agent - Houston - No.

 

Brad Wilkerson, RF - Free Agent - Toronto - No.

 

Randy Wolf, SP - Free Agent (B) - Houston - He makes us better today, not tomorrow. Plus, his contract will be greater than his value.

 

Gregg Zaun, C Toronto - No.

I've been mulling this over and over all night trying to figure out ways to get better besides the typical Dunn and Burrell conversations. I know Peavy is still a hot topic around here. First, the signings I would like to see happen:

1. Sign Mark Mulder for the 5th spot in the rotation. The most recent reports on ESPN is that he's healthy and has figured out the delivery issue. Angel pitching coach Mike Butcher has done a solid job cleaning up pitchers mechanics the past two seasons and I think he'd work well with Mulder. Back in Oakland, he wasn't the ace (Hudson and Zito)... the big three. In St. Louis, he was asked to lead a rotation due to the injuries to Carpenter and Wainwright. Maybe he's the kind of guy who needs more around him, which we obviously do. He's likely low cost too and that's a plus.I was thinking 1year for $1M-$2M base filled with incentives.

2. Sign Jason Varitek. The Red Sox just signed Josh Bard (formerly of the Padres) to be their catcher, and rumor has it they're still trying to trade with the Rangers for one of their young catchers. Tek would be able to spell Napoli in the event of injury or just a day off and play better than average defense. His big plusses are his invaluable leadership on and off the field. His game calling ability is amazing. He may be able to help us against the Red Sox in terms of how to approach their pitchers and hitters. No, he's not the hitter he once was, but that's not why I want him signed. I want the leadership and defense. 1-2 year deal max for $2M-$4M per.

3. Sigh, if we must, then we  must, sign Fuentes for no more than 3 years at $8M per. If he really to be an Angel, those are our terms... take it or leave it.

Now for the trade, my one and only trade:  Mathis, Morales, Wood, Adenhart, Weaver, and Willits to the Padres for Jake Peavy and Adrian Gonzalez. It fills holes for the Pads and they get young players who won't cost them for a few years.

My line-up:

1. Figgins 3rd

2. Izturis SS

3. Guerrero RF/DH

4. Gonzalez 1st

5. Hunter CF/DH

6. Rivera LF/RF/DH

7. Kendrick 2nd

8. Napoli C

9. Matthew Jr. LF/CF/RF/DH (When healthy)

Bench: Evans, Rodriguez, Aybar, Varitek, Quinlan, Brown.

SP1. Lackey

SP2. Peavy

SP3: Saunders

SP4: Santana

SP5. Mulder

BP: Arredondo

BP: Spier

BP: Oliver

Set-up: Shields

Closer: Fuentes

If  you want one more in the pen Jespon till/if Escobar comes back. Or if you feel Jepson is expendable, insert him in the deal minus Willits so we don't have to carry Evans on the 25 man roster. I know Reagins said we're going with a youth movement, but I'm not especially sold on it. If we ever have the abiity to obtain Peavy and Gonzalez, for the above mentioned guys, better damn well do it. Good trade for both clubs.

Good day all,

   I'm beyond excited for the winter meetings to begin today! And I imagine there is going to be a lot of chatter this week, so I propose we use this post strictly for the winter meeting week... if  you all want to keep each story completely separate, cool, just a thought.

Anyways, I came across this shit on mlbtraderumors.... God I hope not. Not even at half the salary.

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2008/12/astros-willing.html

With the Angels getting rid of Tex ($12.5M), GA ($12.6M), Garland ($12M), KRod ($10M), and Rivera ($2M), it frees up $49.1M. Next year, with Vlad ($15M, and Escobar ($9.5M), that's another $24.5M. All together, that's $73.6M off the books. But I'll start with this year. I've ballparked these numbers in other posts, but never in this detail. Everything I read, fans discuss money, not more than players, but enough to see that it's of genuine concern. Perhaps due to our own economic futures.

This is simply a suggestion, and I think it's moving in this direction or somewhere thereabouts. There are obviously some intangibles that we as fans, are not permitted to see or hear until the time is right. But this is what I see happening;

1. Prior to any Sabathia deal, the Angels will trade the San Diego Padres for Jake Peavy ($11M - 2009, $15M - 2010, $16M - 2011, $17M - 2012, and a $22M option for 2013)  and Khalil Greene ($6.5M). We'll centerpiece our deal around Jared Weaver ($435K), Brandon Wood ($390K), Nick Adenhart (Unknown), Gary Matthews Jr. ($10M 2009 -no trade clause, but I think he'd waive it. $11M - 2010, $12M  - 2011... and the best part... his no trade clause goes away after 2009. He'll only be able to block deals to 4 teams after that.) We'll have to eat half his salary each year. Erick Aybar ($415K), and Ryan Budde ($380K). We're sending $6.62M to them and we're getting $17.5M, a difference of $10.88M.

2. After that happens, we're going to sign CC Sabathia for 6 years $130M-$140M. That's $21.66M-$23M per. For my point, we'll go with $23M.

3. People can argue for or against Adam Dunn... it doesn't matter which side you're for, the fact remains, we just let go of our left handed bat in GA, so we're going to want another one. You don't have to like it, but I do.  I'll bet 99% of you don't know his stats measure up to Reggie Jackson.

Adam Dunn has averaged .247BA, 40HR, 96 RBI's, .381OBP, 180 K's, and .974 fielding percentage; per every 162 games played.

Reggie Jackson averaged .262BA, 32HR, 98 RBI's, .356 OBP, 171 K's, and .967 fielding percentage; per every 162 games played.

Like it or not, it's in the numbers folks. We'll likely sign him for 3 years $36-39M.

4. I like this next one, haven't seen it, or heard about it but, Frank Thomas.  He made $12.5M last year but only played in 71 games. In 2006, he signed for $500K and played in 34 games the year prior. Maybe he'll sign for $2.5M base, with incentives.

5. Resign Darren Oliver for $2M.

With everything from Greene, Peavy, Sabathia, Dunn, Thomas, and Oliver, we've only overspent on Arte's budget by $2.25M.

1. Chone Figgins (3rd)

2. Howie Kendrick (2nd)

3. Vlad Guerrero (RF/DH)

4. Adam Dunn (LF/DH)

5. Frank Thomas (DH/1st)

6. Torii Hunter (CF)

7. Khalil Greene (SS)

8. Kendry Morales (1st)

9. Mike Napoli (C)

Bench: Reggie Willits, Jeff Mathis, Sean Rodriguez,  Maicer Izturis, Robb Quinlan

SP1: John Lackey

SP2: CC Sabathia

SP3: Jake Peavy

SP4: Ervin Santana

SP5: Joe Saunders

BP: Justin Speier, Darren Oliver, Kevin Jepson, Shane Loux, Scot Shields.

Closer: Jose Arredondo.

Last time I posted something like this, I saw it MLB.com (The Angels site), plagiarized by beat writer Lyle Spencer three days later. The Epic Rotation. That was mine folks.

I know it's long but, I put a lot thought into this. It can work... just have to be a little creative with the money.

Plan A without a doubt is Tex, right? I think we're all in consensus here. What about Plan B? What is our Plan B?

Could the Angels be setting up for more pitching? No Tex so we go after Sabathia? Then we could trade a few of our prospects and Weaver for Peavy? A rotation of:

SP1: John Lackey

SP2: CC Sabathia

SP3: Jake Peavy

SP4: Ervin Santana

SP5: Joe Saunders

Wow.... impressive. Plus for those concerned about money, I think it's more economical than Tex, and/or Manny. At that point, do we run the risk of becoming the Atlanta Braves of the 90's? Is that a bad thing? Could Matt Brown, Brandon Wood, or Freddy Sandoval be as productive, or close to GA? Can Morales be as productive as Tex is just stupid... but could he be as, or more productive than Kotch? Hmm, good questions to ponder. I want Tex back in Anaheim real bad, that's a helluva Plan B.

Your thoughts and opinions...

 

The good news is John Lackey has this year guaranteed with us at 7 million . The club has an option for 2009 at 9 million. Seems like a pretty damn good deal to me. But in the wake of recent signing the past few years;

1. Santana - 23 million per
   
2. Zambrano - 18.3 million per
   
3. Zito - 18 million per

and then the bargains;

1. Lackey - 7-9 million per
   
2. Escobar - 9 million per
   
3. Beckett - 10 million per
   
4. Halladay - 13 million per

Now I guess my question is in 2010 when Lackey becomes a free agent (barring we don't extend him before that), what dictates a players value, previous contracts in history or the current availability of a pitcher of their caliber? John Lackey is as good as Carlos Zambrano, better than Barry Zito. Not better than Beckett, Santana, or Halladay. Can we expect Big John to ask for a 18 or 20 million per? When he becomes a free agent, he'll only be 31 years old. Is he worth that kind of money? Or, is he worth keeping from other clubs  and also based on the fact that we can't afford to not have a pitcher of his caliber throwing the ball for us?

Vlad will be 33 when next year starts, and he is a free agent. Is he worth 18-25 million per as I expect him to ask for??? Or like John, pay him because we can't afford to not have him?

Can someone please explain to me why Rob Quinlan is projected to be on the opening day roster over Kendry Morales? Or an even better question, How is Reggie Willits on the opening day roster over him? If your concern is a backup leadoff hitter, GMJ can fill the hole. If your concern is Kotchman going down, please, I'd take Morales any day over Quinlan. Per the Willits roster spot... fine Scioscia, you got a hard on for Quninlan... but Willits? Really? A distance 5th OF at best. You already have Vlad, GA, Hunter, and GMJ rotating. Rivera obviously makes the team.  That's 5 right there. An injury happens, Figgins can play out there, Aybar, Izturiz. Hell, if you told Jeff Mathis to grab an OF glove, he'd do it. Willits is just not talented enough for the Angels make a case for carrying 6 outfielders. That's just a joke. The Angels need to have Morales on the roster over Quinlan and Willits. It would be a major disservice.  

http://www.latimes.com/sports/baseball/mlb/angels/la-sp-angels14feb14,1,1877814.story?ctrack=7&c set=true

Maybe I just didn't know this... but I read on the Angel homepage that the Angels are planning on adding a third piece to the competition with young Brandon Wood. So... now it's going to be between Brandon Wood, Erik Aybar, and Macier Izturiz. Did anyone else know this was the plan or am I just retarded?

"According to MLB.com's Corey Brock and the AP, the Padres are nearing a two-year, $11MM extension with shortstop Khalil Greene.  That would simplify things for '08 and '09 but wouldn't buy out any years of free agency.

Back on January 19th, Padres GM Kevin Towers spoke candidly about the Greene situation.  He wondered aloud whether Greene might prefer to be near his family on the East Coast once his commitment to the Padres ends."

I wonder if this could be a sign and trade for us? If it is, I'd like him to sign a longer deal.

Or has anyone else heard that the Angels have gained interest in Bedard? I can't imagine giving up too much for the guy. Santana has a high ceiling, Saunders is probably the best #5 in baseball, or at least one of the top 3. What could we give? Rivera? But even if we aquired him, Santana and/os Saunders would be in the deal. And plus, they'd want more than those two, likely with Willits, and or Rivera. Hmm...

Juan Rivera, Reggie Willits, Joe Saunders, and Ervin Santana for Erik Bedard. Hmmm...

SP1: John Lackey
SP2: Kelvim Escobar
SP3: Erik Bedard
SP4: Jon Garland
SP5: Jered Weaver

That's a helluva 1 thru 5. Without a doubt, the best in baseball. Injuries??? Mosely... perhaps Bootcheck filling in. Maybe bring Adenhart up like we did Saunders the past two seasons. It frees up our logjammed outfield. Could this deal get done? Even better question, would the rest of you like it?