Stoney: Furcal over Giles

[Andy]

One of my friends worked at ESPN Radio 1000 over the summer and he said that Len Kasper was one of the nicest people you'll ever meet, which made me like Len all the more. He's a great announcer and the Cubs got a steal with him. Too bad they can't do that at some on-the-field positions...

[danonwaveland]

Don't like Len and Bob? Well, remeber, things could be worse -- a lot worse. We could have those two clowns from the south side -- Harrelson and Jackson. Ugh.

[St.Paul Cub]

Len and Bob are alright, but Stone was one of the best.

 

The guy knows a lot about baseball and I think he brings up a good point about Giles age, especially if you're looking at 4/$50mill, despite how good his OPS and other numbers are.

 

I know a lot of guys have a jones for Giles, but just because Stone isn't driving the bandwagon, he's not qualified as a GM, manager, and now wasn't a good announcer? C'mon.

 

If I had to chose I'd select Furcal too. Scared about Nomar's health and I want a leadoff hitter and dependable shortstop. Both would be fine, but I agree with Stone's point.

 

I want no part of Damon.

[Andy]

I want no part of Damon.

I don't either, and I don't think many on this board do, especially at the price that Johnny wants.

[Blueheart05]

I love Stone, grew up watching him and Harry. That being said, Stone's attitude and approach has been off since the whole debacle last season. I think he's dealing with some sour grapes, and to me, it seems he'll make a stupid comment to take a jab when he can. Just my thoughts.

 

I totally agree. Stone makes some nasty comments about the Cubs just to get reactions from the Score hosts...

[Blueheart05]

Stone's arrogance wouldn't work as either a manager or as a gm. In fact, Bob Brenly is a better on the air analyst than Stone ever was. He has insights in all facets of the game, not just pitching.

 

I like Dusty, but if he doesn't last the season, we could do lot worse than Brenly as manager. Look what he did with the D-backs.

 

That's quite a stretch. Kasper is great. But Brenly is run-of-the-mill, at best.

 

Stone was far more insightful.

 

That said, I agree with the majority here that he wouldn't make a good GM or manager.

 

Stone is a former pitcher and Brenly is a former catcher. As such, they both have unique insights into in-game strategy. The difference, I see, between them is Stone reads signs and acts as if he's a genius by calling pitches, pitchouts, and other plays ahead of time while Brenly will say he has read the sign and knows what's coming...

[ZMovieman]

If Stoney's outlook hadn't been soured, can you imagine the tandem of Kasper and Stone? Pretty solid, if you ask me.

 

In regards to Len, I agree with everyone here. While he admits he didn't grow up a Cubs fan, he seems to genuinely wants to be one. Part of the joy of listening to him this year is that, with each passing game, his love for the Cubs increased. It's refreshingly natural and unforced. He's got a bright future in PBP and will easily be remembered as one of the best in his generation of announcers if he continues to grow. Plus, I have to show a little love to a Marquette alum from a Marquette student.