Wednesday, January 17, 2007

FINALLY! Gonzalez for Laroche! And more...

The much rumoured, denied, speculated trade of closer Mike Gonzalez + a piece for Adam Laroche seems to finally have happened! As of yet, the piece going to Atlanta with Gonzalez has not been identified, and both teams are not confirming it as of yet. The Braves now have Bob Wickman, trade pick-up Rafael Soriano and Gonzalez in a re-built bullpen after leading the league last year with 29 blown saves. The Pirates finally acquired the lefty power bat they have coveted all off-season to compliment outfielder Jason Bay. I think this is one of those deals that helps both sides and fills a need for both. This clears a spot at first base with the Braves for canadian Scott Thorman..I don't think much of a stat evaluation needs to be done on this...but check back later :)

J.P. denies the Wells rumours, they're only "kicking the tires". The Jays have also signed catcher Sal Fasano to a minor league deal. Should give some competition to Phillips but I don't think he'll make the team. He doesn't have much of a bat left...
Ken Rosenthal (Again) talks about many teams lacking a starter, including the Jays. I don't think the Jays could have gotten Billingsley...and if so...wow! Last season, in 90 innings he had an ERA+ of 121 last season at the age of 21!

Neyer examines D-Mat while
Sean McAdam examines the Boston closer situation

An interview with Twins GM Terry Ryan



Finally, Harball Times looks at rotations...again..check comments for updates throughout the day

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Just wanted to let you know that I love your page...please keep it up...much appreciated...

Dan Julien said...

Thank you, good to hear, let me know if you have any suggestions

Dan Julien said...

Fasano about his facial hair:
“I’m going to go back to the Fu Manchu. That’s my standard look anyways. I’m growing it out now, getting it ready for the season.”

Dan Julien said...

Wells is contemplating an offer from the Padres

Dan Julien said...

An article about the Mets unable to find starters...goes well with the Jays off-season also

Dan Julien said...

Two AL East tidbits from si.com

With Mariano Rivera nearing retirement in New York, the Yankees are already said to be eyeing the Angels' Francisco Rodriguez as a potential replacement. Rodriguez could command a deal in the four-year, $38-million range.

There are several teams such as the Marlins, Braves and Dodgers that they still appear to match up well with the Devil Rays. But reality is that the Rays would want so much in return for CF Rocco Baldelli (like two young starters) that a trade before the start of spring training is very unlikely.

Dan Julien said...

Rod Barajas could impact Barry Bonds and Bonds does his best to keep McGwire and Rose out of the HHOF...by supporting them.