Well Mr. Miles...what's the Cubs next move?

[Ding Dong Johnson]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here... Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker...

 

You know, we like you a whole lot better when you stop by to give us good news. :lol:

[Balsa]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Move them for what?

 

A defensively-minded 2B is my guess.

[Keener98]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Move them for what?

 

A defensively-minded 2B is my guess.

 

Yup, so we can have an even weaker lineup.

[goonys evil twin]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Move them for what?

 

A defensively-minded 2B is my guess.

 

Yup, so we can have an even weaker lineup.

 

That is Neifi's job to lose.

[ryno-mvp23]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Move them for what?

 

A defensively-minded 2B is my guess.

 

Yup, so we can have an even weaker lineup.

 

That is Neifi's job to lose.

 

how could he lose it....he saved us last year

[Keener98]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Move them for what?

 

A defensively-minded 2B is my guess.

 

Yup, so we can have an even weaker lineup.

 

 

That is Neifi's job to lose.

 

Thats wrong Goony, thats Neifis job. You know Baker wont pull him even if he sucks, so its not his to lose. Its his no matter what.

[vance_the_cubs_fan]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

[SouthSideRyan]

So should we assume payroll is being lowered this season?

[Blueheart05]

So should we assume payroll is being lowered this season?

 

 

No, I don't think it will be lower.

Edited December 21, 2005 by Blueheart05

[Transmogrified Tiger]

So should we assume payroll is being lowered this season?

 

It may be lower than last season, but not because it was "lowered", if that makes any sense. I think Hendry had the same payroll to work with, and as of now he isn't going to use all of it, although there won't be a huge drop from last year to this year.

[goonys evil twin]

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

The Cubs don't care about OBP and SLG, Walker's biggest strength. And they've been focusing on defense this year, Walker's biggest weakness. I think they want him gone. It's just like when they focused on chemistry last year and forced guys out no matter their production.

[Ding Dong Johnson]

The Cubs don't care about OBP and SLG, Walker's biggest strength. And they've been focusing on defense this year, Walker's biggest weakness. I think they want him gone. It's just like when they focused on chemistry last year and forced guys out no matter their production.

 

Is that what we have to look forward to, THEMES?

[Mark_R]

If we were so concerned about defense at second base, we should have put together a better package than that less than stellar one from the Twins for Luis Castillo.

[goonys evil twin]

If we were so concerned about defense at second base, we should have put together a better package than that less than stellar one from the Twins for Luis Castillo.

 

Unfortunately all the focus was on Furcal at the time.

[abuck1220]

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

The Cubs don't care about OBP and SLG, Walker's biggest strength. And they've been focusing on defense this year, Walker's biggest weakness. I think they want him gone. It's just like when they focused on chemistry last year and forced guys out no matter their production.

 

the cubs went for a good clubhouse in '05 after the red sox won the WS and were the craziest bunch of bestest buddies you ever did see in the clubhouse. now the cubs are going after speed and defense after the white sox won the world series with dashing wizards who darted about the diamond faster than the eye can see and scooping up every ground ball in sight.

 

 

of course, both teams hit a boatload of homers, but nevermind that.

[brfahey]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

[Cubzfan64]

Personally I don't think the Cub organization likes the way Walker "tells it like it is" to the media. I'm sure they'll talk about how it's his defensive weaknesses and other gobbledygook, but when it comes down to it, I just think they have a problem with him personality-wise.

 

Maybe I'm wrong, but it feels like that whenever you read between the lines.

[E.J.]

This offseason sucks. :cry:

[CubfaninCA]

If we were so concerned about defense at second base, we should have put together a better package than that less than stellar one from the Twins for Luis Castillo.

 

I was a little ticked they missed out on Castillo, but wonder what type of package would have been needed considering what was dealt for Pierre.

[Bruce Miles]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.

If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

[CuseCubFan69]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.

If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

 

Thanks Bruce....very interesting stuff.

[CardsFanInChiTown]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.

If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

 

What do you think they are going to try and aquire for him? Thanks!

[WrigleyField 22]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

 

That is interesting to hear. I suppose it possible there is a reason no one wants him. Can't imagine what that reason is.

[Bruce Miles]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.

If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

 

What do you think they are going to try and aquire for him? Thanks!

 

I wish I knew. It looks to me like they now need a right-handed hitting backup outfielder. The Tejada thing is still alive, at least as far as the Cubs are concerned. Hendry hasn't ruled out more pitching help. How it all gets packaged (taking into account Patterson and prospects, too) I'm not certain.

[Mark Priors Calves]

The Cubs didn't give Jones $16 million to platoon him. The Cubs will probably try to see what the O's want for Tejada, but I don't see Baltimore doing a deal for some of the names bandied about here. They probably want a big name in return. (If they were smart, they'd load up with prospects because I don't see them having much of a chance in 2006.) Beyond that, Hendry will try to move Walker and Patterson.

 

Bruce, why is Hendry still set on moving Walker? If he were the trade chip for a rightfielder, I could understand...but that spot is filled. What beneift could the Cubs get from trading him?

 

Is there something about him that we don't know, or is Hendry that clueless?

 

Boy would I love to hear a candid answer tothat question.

 

I always give candid answers, both here and in the newspaper. The Cubs, as Goony mentioned, are stressing defense, for better or worse. They don't seem to like the way Walker plays the position compared with other second baseman. There are pitchers who've also voiced concern about the defense behind them. The Cubs feel, again right or wrong, that if the defense can turn the double play instead of extending the inning, their pitchers will have a better chance.

I, too, am dismayed by the Cubs' seeming lack of emphasis on OBP and OPS. From an offensive standpoint, Walker certainly would look good in the No. 2 spot. And for the money _ and considering what they spent for a lot of mid-level guys _ Walker is an absolute bargain.

Walker might annoy them with some of his comments to the media from time to time, but that really has no bearing on them not wanting to keep him. It's interesting to note, however, that Walker has worn out his welcome with other teams.

If he does go, I'll miss him, not only because he provides provocative and juicy quotes. He's one of the best guys I've dealt with.

 

What do you think they are going to try and aquire for him? Thanks!

 

I wish I knew. It looks to me like they now need a right-handed hitting backup outfielder. The Tejada thing is still alive, at least as far as the Cubs are concerned. Hendry hasn't ruled out more pitching help. How it all gets packaged (taking into account Patterson and prospects, too) I'm not certain.

 

I'm expecting a Todd Walker for Kevin Mench before opening day.