Re: New GM/Cubs Future News Articles

[jersey cubs fan]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

There's a reason Goldstein isn't a businessman, then.

 

i wish my school offered business 101

[CubsWin]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

[shnsajax]

In the off chance the Cards win the WS, I would like for this announcement and press conference to come 10 minutes after they win. Have Theo hold a blank check with Pujols name on it. Edited October 17, 2011 by shnsajax

[sweetpeteman]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

 

I could easily see Josh Byrnes being named GM this year, and next year having Theo be named President if this does happen. I wouldn't be surprised if this is what the plan is now, Theo being named President and hiring Byrnes to be "GM."

[squally1313]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

My only issue with this is that I don't know how comfortable I am with Ricketts hiring someone to just be a stop gap for the year. In my opinion, it just pushes back the whole "rebuilding" process (I know, we don't need to "rebuild", but you get the point).

[erik316wttn]

we should just trade them Garza.

 

The Red Sox actually asked for him.

 

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/10/red-sox-wanted-garza-for-epstein-.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Edited October 17, 2011 by erik316wttn

[C.C.]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

 

I could easily see Josh Byrnes being named GM this year, and next year having Theo be named President if this does happen. I wouldn't be surprised if this is what the plan is now, Theo being named President and hiring Byrnes to be "GM."

 

I'd get behind this.

[C.C.]

we should just trade them Garza.

 

The Red Sox actually asked for him...

 

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/10/red-sox-wanted-garza-for-epstein-.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

Is this shocking? Why not ask for him. Might as well start high and work yourself down the ladder.

[C.C.]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

My only issue with this is that I don't know how comfortable I am with Ricketts hiring someone to just be a stop gap for the year. In my opinion, it just pushes back the whole "rebuilding" process (I know, we don't need to "rebuild", but you get the point).

 

I think sweetpea post is the best I've read so far on the "What if we don't get him"

[ScrubMD]

They should just hire Byrnes as GM now. That would take away most of Boston's leverage and demonstrate that Theo coming here is not a lateral move.

[erik316wttn]

Assuming the deal "falls through" and we have to wait out a year for Theo, how can we be so sure we'll get him then? Right now we're the only ones in contention, but with the knowledge that one of the best GM's in the game wants out bad and is a FA himself after next season, I'm sure there will be other bidders and other opportunities that he may be interested in.

[CubsWin]

Kevin Goldstein w/Baseball prospectus:

 

The Epstein holdup:

 

 

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15316

 

Make no mistake, the Red Sox have the leverage here simply by holding the most desirable asset in the negotiation. That's business 101. Adding to the difficulty for the Cubs is that Ricketts has now wasted more than a week with the promise of a new savior of a general manager, yet in reality, he doesn't have him in the fold.

 

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

 

I could easily see Josh Byrnes being named GM this year, and next year having Theo be named President if this does happen. I wouldn't be surprised if this is what the plan is now, Theo being named President and hiring Byrnes to be "GM."

 

I'd get behind this.

Absolutely. That's why I think Boston holds no leverage. They don't want him back and the Cubs don't have to get him this year.

[erik316wttn]

we should just trade them Garza.

 

The Red Sox actually asked for him...

 

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/10/red-sox-wanted-garza-for-epstein-.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

Is this shocking? Why not ask for him. Might as well start high and work yourself down the ladder.

 

I guess I could see it happening, but to me I wouldn't want to start off negotiations in which I hold little leverage asking for a price that high. Seems to me all that does is show that they're not serious about the negotiations and just want to waste time.

Edited October 17, 2011 by erik316wttn

[CyHawk_Cub]

Ehhh, it's obvious some seem to want Epstein w/out even knowing WHY he's a great GM. All they can articulate is that "he ended the curse in Boston" as the reason for acquiring him.

[minnesotacubsfan]

we should just trade them Garza.

 

The Red Sox actually asked for him.

 

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2011/10/red-sox-wanted-garza-for-epstein-.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

 

next time I'll post it in green.

[Vinestal]

Assuming the deal "falls through" and we have to wait out a year for Theo, how can we be so sure we'll get him then? Right now we're the only ones in contention, but with the knowledge that one of the best GM's in the game wants out bad and is a FA himself after next season, I'm sure there will be other bidders and other opportunities that he may be interested in.

There is really nothing out there that's like the Cubs job and he'll know we tried but Boston was trying to rob us blind. If he wants to come now he'll want to come in a year. I dont think it'll go down like that I think eventually Boston will just take what it can get.

[erik316wttn]

Assuming the deal "falls through" and we have to wait out a year for Theo, how can we be so sure we'll get him then? Right now we're the only ones in contention, but with the knowledge that one of the best GM's in the game wants out bad and is a FA himself after next season, I'm sure there will be other bidders and other opportunities that he may be interested in.

There is really nothing out there that's like the Cubs job and he'll know we tried but Boston was trying to rob us blind. If he wants to come now he'll want to come in a year. I dont think it'll go down like that I think eventually Boston will just take what it can get.

 

I think Boston will eventually come around, too, forgetting they're not negotiating with Jim Hendry. I was just saying on the off chance it doesn't happen, a year is a long time for things to drastically change.

[Hairyducked Idiot]

A transcript of the negotiations.

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom Ricketts: 'Sup Theo, do you like my brilliant plan for turning the Cubs into the NL's premiere franchise, beginning with doubling your salary?

 

http://bosoxinjection.com/files/2010/07/THEO.jpg

Theo Epstein: I'm not sure, lemme think.

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Have you considered my smile?

 

http://www.bleachernation.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/theo-epstein-smile-300x203.jpg

Theo: I'm in.

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Alright, lemme call your boss.

 

http://www.coolgadgetconcept.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/coolest-phones2.jpg

 

http://www.encouragedinheart.org/wp-content/uploads/hamb1.jpg

Larry Lucchino: *answers phone* Robble robble gimme?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Larry, Theo wants to come work for us like we talked about. We'll throw you some cash to be cool. K?

 

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100410145138/uncyclopedia/images/0/07/Hamburglar.gif

Larry: Robble robble gimme Garza? Robble robble gimme Garza!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: That's ridiculous. I guess if you insist we could consider some low-level prospects, but realistically this is a non-lateral move that Theo has agreed to, and we have already offered you some cash.

 

http://edge.ebaumsworld.com/mediaFiles/picture/699509/80533077.jpg

Larry: Robble robble gimme McNutt and Szcur robble robble!

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: That's absurd. What are you going to do if we don't agree?

 

http://saveud.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/money-burning-300x244.jpg

Larry: Robble robble leverage!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I have a book that might help you out, Larry.

 

http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l89e35IfuZ1qdzrdwo1_250.gif

Larry: Robble robble gimme! Gimme gimme gimme robble!

 

http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/replicate/EXID16041/images/Six_Steps_in_the_Negotiation_Process_Mini_Poster.jpg

 

http://paxholley.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/hamburglar_stripes2.jpg?w=200

Larry: Robble robble gimme McNutt!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: This is getting us nowhere. Mr. Commissioner, can you step in?

 

http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/files/2010/05/bud-selig.jpg

Bud: What?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I said can you help us come to something reasonable here.

 

http://luminousroc.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Bud_Selig.jpg

Bud: Sure thing, Tom.

 

....

 

http://sadhillnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mcdonalds-grimace-character-hamburglar-mayor-mccheese-happy-meal-toy-sad-hill-news001.jpg

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I don't see how that helps, bud.

 

http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/files/2010/05/bud-selig.jpg

Bud: What?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Cubs fans, are you cool if I just go hire Rick Hahn and still spend a billion dollars a year in the draft and international free agency?

 

http://mlblogsvineline.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/rally11.jpg?w=432&h=288

Cubs fans: We love you, Tom!

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Suck it, Larry. *click*

 

[C.C.]

Assuming the deal "falls through" and we have to wait out a year for Theo, how can we be so sure we'll get him then? Right now we're the only ones in contention, but with the knowledge that one of the best GM's in the game wants out bad and is a FA himself after next season, I'm sure there will be other bidders and other opportunities that he may be interested in.

There is really nothing out there that's like the Cubs job and he'll know we tried but Boston was trying to rob us blind. If he wants to come now he'll want to come in a year. I dont think it'll go down like that I think eventually Boston will just take what it can get.

 

But is McNutt robbing us blind?

[Hairyducked Idiot]

But is McNutt robbing us blind?

 

For a non-lateral move? Yes.

[chuckywang]

They should just hire Byrnes as GM now. That would take away most of Boston's leverage and demonstrate that Theo coming here is not a lateral move.

 

Why? Boston has no leverage here. What are they going to do, take Theo back for 1 lame duck year?

[shnsajax]

Assuming the deal "falls through" and we have to wait out a year for Theo, how can we be so sure we'll get him then? Right now we're the only ones in contention, but with the knowledge that one of the best GM's in the game wants out bad and is a FA himself after next season, I'm sure there will be other bidders and other opportunities that he may be interested in.

There is really nothing out there that's like the Cubs job and he'll know we tried but Boston was trying to rob us blind. If he wants to come now he'll want to come in a year. I dont think it'll go down like that I think eventually Boston will just take what it can get.

 

But is McNutt robbing us blind?

 

Blind, no. Over paying, yes. And losing a potentially valuable piece towards the 2013 season. I'm glad he is holding out.

[Irrelevant Dude]

What Kevin Goldstein fails to understand is that while refusing to let Epstein go gives Boston the appearance of leverage, it is only real leverage if they truly want to keep him. Clearly, they don't. They let Theo interview, and they will be paying Theo 6.5 to 7 million dollars to be a lame duck GM for one more year all after effectively naming Cherington their new GM. Theo would then leave next season, and presumably take the generous offer from the Cubs, while Boston would be out the 6.5 to 7 mil. So long as Ricketts is willing to wait a year to get his man, the Sox hold none, NONE, of the cards at this poker table.

 

PR wise, it's an easy out for the Cubs. We have to wait a year for our "savior" because the Red Sox are being f*#@wads about this. Instead of mortgaging a decent part of the Cubs future, we'll call their bluff. However, this is a PR nightmare for Boston. They are already looking like an organization in disarray after a bad September collapse, firing their manager, leaks about what was going on in the clubhouse, apparently bad mouthing of Francona and Epstein, and then keeping Epstein around for one pointless season at the expense of 6.5 to 7 million bucks.

 

If Ricketts isn't willing to wait a year to begin rebuilding and for some reason feels the need to get this done, then he will cave, and then and only then, does Boston have any leverage. But if Ricketts is willing to call their bluff, Boston will fold like a piece of origami.

 

Boston's choice is clear. Accept something reasonable in exchange for Theo or pay him big bucks for a very uncomfortable year and then let him walk for nothing.

 

 

I could easily see Josh Byrnes being named GM this year, and next year having Theo be named President if this does happen. I wouldn't be surprised if this is what the plan is now, Theo being named President and hiring Byrnes to be "GM."

 

I'd get behind this.

Absolutely. That's why I think Boston holds no leverage. They don't want him back and the Cubs don't have to get him this year.

As much as I do want Epstein, I'm coming around to this idea. If the Red Sox aren't going to be reasonable, call their bluff. They clearly want to get rid of the guy, so why should Ricketts cave and give them any of the Cubs' top prospects?

[C.C.]

They should just hire Byrnes as GM now. That would take away most of Boston's leverage and demonstrate that Theo coming here is not a lateral move.

 

Why? Boston has no leverage here. What are they going to do, take Theo back for 1 lame duck year?

 

Under normal circumstances I'd agree with you, but this owner is a [expletive] nut. So who knows...

[Andy]

A transcript of the negotiations.

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom Ricketts: 'Sup Theo, do you like my brilliant plan for turning the Cubs into the NL's premiere franchise, beginning with doubling your salary?

 

http://bosoxinjection.com/files/2010/07/THEO.jpg

Theo Epstein: I'm not sure, lemme think.

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Have you considered my smile?

 

http://www.bleachernation.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/theo-epstein-smile-300x203.jpg

Theo: I'm in.

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Alright, lemme call your boss.

 

http://www.coolgadgetconcept.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/coolest-phones2.jpg

 

http://www.encouragedinheart.org/wp-content/uploads/hamb1.jpg

Larry Lucchino: *answers phone* Robble robble gimme?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Larry, Theo wants to come work for us like we talked about. We'll throw you some cash to be cool. K?

 

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100410145138/uncyclopedia/images/0/07/Hamburglar.gif

Larry: Robble robble gimme Garza? Robble robble gimme Garza!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: That's ridiculous. I guess if you insist we could consider some low-level prospects, but realistically this is a non-lateral move that Theo has agreed to, and we have already offered you some cash.

 

http://edge.ebaumsworld.com/mediaFiles/picture/699509/80533077.jpg

Larry: Robble robble gimme McNutt and Szcur robble robble!

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: That's absurd. What are you going to do if we don't agree?

 

http://saveud.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/money-burning-300x244.jpg

Larry: Robble robble leverage!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I have a book that might help you out, Larry.

 

http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l89e35IfuZ1qdzrdwo1_250.gif

Larry: Robble robble gimme! Gimme gimme gimme robble!

 

http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/replicate/EXID16041/images/Six_Steps_in_the_Negotiation_Process_Mini_Poster.jpg

 

http://paxholley.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/hamburglar_stripes2.jpg?w=200

Larry: Robble robble gimme McNutt!

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: This is getting us nowhere. Mr. Commissioner, can you step in?

 

http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/files/2010/05/bud-selig.jpg

Bud: What?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I said can you help us come to something reasonable here.

 

http://luminousroc.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Bud_Selig.jpg

Bud: Sure thing, Tom.

 

....

 

http://sadhillnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mcdonalds-grimace-character-hamburglar-mayor-mccheese-happy-meal-toy-sad-hill-news001.jpg

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: I don't see how that helps, bud.

 

http://blogs.ajc.com/jeff-schultz-blog/files/2010/05/bud-selig.jpg

Bud: What?

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Cubs fans, are you cool if I just go hire Rick Hahn and still spend a billion dollars a year in the draft and international free agency?

 

http://mlblogsvineline.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/rally11.jpg?w=432&h=288

Cubs fans: We love you, Tom!

 

 

http://www.thesportsbank.net/core/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/tom_ricketts.jpg

Tom: Suck it, Larry. *click*

Well done, sir.