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Hall of Fame baseball writer Hal McCoy is in his 36th year of covering the Cincinnati Reds, the longest tenure for any active writer covering one team. Counting spring training and postseason games, McCoy has covered more than 7,000 major-league baseball games, written close to 18,000 baseball stories and eaten enough hot dogs to give Babe Ruth indigestion.Home > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2009 > April > 02 > Entry
Some unsolicited advice: Don’t sign Sheffield
At dawn’s early light, after a night of reflection, here’s my take on signing Gary Sheffield:
Don’t.
Why should the Cincinnati Reds take on a 40-year-old DH when the National League doesn’t have a DH? Sheffield has rarely played afield for three years and when manager Dusty Baker was asked if he can play left field, he shrugged and said, “I don’t know. I haven’t seen him.”
Nor has anybody else.
And Sheffield carries a rough and gruff reputation, something the Reds don’t need in their clubhouse. Why give playing time to a guy on the downside when so many candidates are on the upside of their careers with the Reds?
A better alternative, if they MUST sign a veteran? How about Geoff Jenkins, released this week by the Philadelphia Phillies. He would be more receptive to a bench and part-time role than Sheffield.
“He got released, too?” said Baker. “I better check on that.” General manager Walt Jocketty already is checking.
As for Sheffield, Baker said, “I’ve known Sheffield forever, ever since he came into the league with Milwaukee. He was real tight with a couple of my homeys from Sac. I’ve been knowing him a long time.
“I’m sure he has some offers,” Baker added. “I asked Walt for permission to make the call to him. I made the call and Walt talked to Bob Castellini. I talked to Jim Leyland (Tigers manager) just to see because Shef hasn’t played the outfield in a long time.
“I’m told his teammates like him, even though he is straight-forward and says what he wants, which is what he gets publicity for,” Baker said. “But I’m told he keeps quiet and is off to himself in a corner of the clubhouse.”
Then Baker got into the crux.
“I don’t even know if we’re in the running,” he said. “He wants playing time. I don’t know how much he’d get here - probably a ‘no’ against righthanders because Chris Dickerson has come a long way, coming quick. I’m not going to lie to him. I told him he might spell Joey Votto some at first base since Sheffield has played there. He’d play against some tough lefthanders and be a guy off the bench.
“Guys we have now are doing a heck of job, Jonny Gomes and Darnell McDonald,” Baker added. “That’s no slight against them because Gary Sheffield is available.”
Bottome Line: If that’s what Baker told him and Sheffield has opportunities elsewhere that includes playing time, he won’t come to Cincinnati.
And to me, that’s a good thing.
HOMER BAILEY took another gigantic stride Wednesday against the Astros in Kissimmee - two runs, four hits, one walk, eight strikeouts.
And you heard it here first: Bailey may beat out Micah Owings for the No. 5 spot. Nothing has been decided, but I detect a leaning that way.
“Bailey was getting some swings and misses I hadn’t seen before,” said Baker. “Might have been the best I’ve ever seen him.”
When told that, Bailey laughed and said, “Does that mean I need to send a crate of oranges to him.”
No, the messages on the mound have been enough.
“We have to confer with (pitching coach) Dick Pole, the coaches, Walt, me and a couple of advisors upstairs,” Baker said about name the No. 5 starter. “That’s how you do things. I’m the one talking to them, but it is a joint thing. If not, why have advisors if you don’t use them.”
And Bailey?
“I don’t want it easy,” said Baker. “Usually, they’ve been sifting to fill some spots, searching between who’s better. I don’t know if my partner, Hal (that’s me and I don’t remember becoming a partner, but I’ll look for the check) believed me or not, but I told him I was just going to give Homer the ball, ‘Here’s the ball.’ That’s all you can do is give them an opportunity and be as far as you can. The rest is up to them. You can’t pitch for them.”
Bailey was more thrilled with his one four-pitch walk than his eight strikeouts.
“I’m proudest of the fact I’ve walked only four guys this spring (20 2/3 innings),” he said. “That’s a big key, not giving up free passes. The walk yesterday was on four pitches so I guess if you are going to walk somebody you don’t want to wase seven or eight pitches. That’s the biggest thing. It shows fastball command and my offspeed pitches have been better.”
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Comments
By jason
April 6, 2009 12:35 AM | Link to this
i dont know about you hal, but im ready to “paint the town red!!!”By Buster
April 5, 2009 3:59 PM | Link to this
Mark - yep on McDonald, they kept him instead of Gomes because McDonald can play CF and Taverez is sick or something plus Gomes didn’t hit much in the last few weeks. Nix made the team and is the LH pinch hitter … Dickerson and Hairston are platooning in LF. I’m sure they tried talking Arroya to the DL so they could keep Bailey …By Mark in Sun Valley
April 5, 2009 3:21 PM | Link to this
Bray and Bailey both go to Louisville, along with Castillo and Rosales. The shocker? Gomes is sent to minot league camp! Does this mean McDonald takes his spot? And Nix is still in the mix.By BrarHopper a.k.a Lightnin' Rod
April 5, 2009 3:20 PM | Link to this
Yep, Kyle, unlike “others” on this blog, Buster is the Great Oracle. He can see into your heart (sorta like Bush could see into Putin’s soul, I guess). Yes, he knows what you’ve been thinking…he knows your thoughts. Watch out, those are the guys who can usually see either into your wallet or your pants. Hmmmmm, sounds kinda fishy.By Buster
April 5, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this
Kyle - Unlike others on this blog, I understood your question - they won’t cancel the game before the parade so the parade will go on, rain or no rain. I have been to many an opening day with bad weather like tomorrow’s appears to be and unless it rains during the game, they will play the game. Tomorrow will have rain in the morning and some rain/snow in the afternoon. It will be cold and the game should be played unless it starts raining hard around noon or so and doesn’t stop.By Mike-Dayton
April 5, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this
Over the Winter, EE signed a $7,6 million two-year contract - he hit 26 home runs last year … he is not going to Louisville this year regardless of how he starts the season.By HuberTucky
April 5, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this
Kyle, you’re too sensitive for your own good. You ask for feedback then go on the attack. If you don’t want replies, don’t ask for them. Go change your diaper. Your little baby whiny noises are not pretty.By mike cahill
April 5, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this
I would definitely have EE on a short fuse. If he doesn’t perform out of the box and by now then I think he needs to enjoy the splendor that is Louisville.I’m predicting 87 wins this year and I hope I’m being too conservative. This,I think, is a good team.By Kyle
April 5, 2009 1:42 PM | Link to this
Huber, do you get nosebleeds up on your high horse, or is it just a little hobby horse? Had you really read the question, you would see that I asked the likelihood of canceling the game. I can’t remember what weather it has taken in the past to cancel it. That then leads to…if it is canceled, does the parade still go on and all the festivities or would they try to coordinate that and cancel them both and reschedule them together. Of course, Huber is just one of the reasons I’ve stopped reading the comments and stick with Hal’s insight. I just thought I might be able to get some information from some of the more intelligent fans who comment. Gobucks1980, thanks for the suggestion.By HuberTucky
April 5, 2009 2:19 AM | Link to this
Kyle, if you’re the kind of Reds fan who considers selling your opening day tickets, by all means sell them. For a true fan that thought would never enter his consciousness. Same for your concern about the weather. Sell ‘em and perhaps someone who cares more about a unique opening day experience can truly enjoy them. You’ll have more fun with the $.By MAC
April 5, 2009 12:56 AM | Link to this
Totally agree w/ Bailey and Owens making the team; Massett hasn’t earned it. Likewise, I’d send EE down and hope he gets “it” together. Rosales should start @ 3rd IMO. Furthermore, have Coco, Arroyo, Harriston and Gonzales truely earned their spots; R they healthy enough to play?By gobucks1980
April 4, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this
Kyle, go and have a great time. It is an experience like no other.By Kyle
April 4, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this
Need an opinion from those of you with more hometown experience than me. I’ve got opening day tickets, but the forecast is horrible. Is it more likely that they will stick it out and try to play or cancel it? I’m trying to decide whether to sell me tickets or not. In fact, most of the first week looks dicey.By Ralphus
April 4, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this
Here’s my prediction. Bailey does indeed make the rotation…along with Owings. I believe Arroyo wi11 be put on the DL with his carpel tunnel problem, which frees up the remaining spot.By Ralphus
April 4, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this
Here’s my prediction. Bailey does indeed make the rotation…along with Owings. I believe Arroyo with be put on the DL with his carpel tunnel problem, which frees up the remaining spot.By Scott
April 4, 2009 7:41 AM | Link to this
Jim M: The reason no superstar athletes come to the region is because no one (society/media wise outside of those who are here already) feels like this region is “A-List” material. Look at all the concerts that come to the region. When do they play? Tuesday, Wednesday. Hardly, if ever, on a weekend. We are a speed bump to their next destination, and the same happens with sports athletes. Junior’s years here didn’t help because it seemed to be the only publicity the Reds ever got on a national level (example: breaking news, Jr hurt again). Also if Davey had played all his years in another town he’d be in the HoF already. This area is rich with history however no one outside the region gives this area (let alone Ohio) a chance at anything. This is why I appreciate those who stick around (like LeBron James in Cleveland, Barry Larkin, and so on). The only time the rest of the world cares about Ohio is during the election. Only we can change that point of view.By BrarHopper
April 4, 2009 2:37 AM | Link to this
Yep, and Arroyo and Cordero got rocked by their minor-leaguers in N Carolina 12-4. This certanly does NOT bode well for the Reds, especially after such a poor ST. Another 5th place finish looms on the horizon…I’m very concerned.By MAC
April 4, 2009 1:22 AM | Link to this
Wow, I guess many of U forgot how poorly the Reds R when it comes to simple baseball fundamentals…Kepp on the other hand is fundamentally sound & played hard at all times. That being said, I don’t recall anyone suggesting he was an All Star who was going to make or break the team?? Then again the poor performance of EE, Massett, Arroyo, Gonzales, Coco, ect…just might?By jim m.
April 4, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this
I just wonder how the other pitchers will pitch around Votto now.. Brandon isnt a #4 hitter and Sheffield would have been a better #4.. but i also wonder if any star will ever come to Cincinnati..or we will get teased to watch a star go to New York or Boston..sigh..By HuberTucky
April 3, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this
2009 Reds picked to finish 5th in NL Central, 5 games under 500 according to AccuScore. http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ys-accuscorenlstandings040309&prov=yhoo&type=lgnsBy Michael in Monterey, CA
April 3, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this
With Bailey and Owings pitching so well how long will the Reds run Arroyo and his kerosene can out to the mound? Cincinnati get ready for a three alarmer everytime he takes the mound. I hope he’s either on the block or an extremely short leash.By Buster
April 3, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this
Name your first three kids after me … you and Jeff be happy.By RC
April 3, 2009 6:09 PM | Link to this
Yes, Buster, because that’s exactly what I said - Keppinger = Gwynn. It’s so obvious. Have fun arguing with the voices in your head.By Buster
April 3, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this
Right RC … Tony Gwynn and Jeff Keppinger in the same sentence. You and Keppinger should get married and raise a family.By RC
April 3, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this
I’d imagine contact hitters would ground into more double plays on average than high strikeout guys. Tony Gwynn ground into 20 DPs three times in his career, and was usually at least in the teens. Adam Dunn has hit into 7 each of the last two years. You pay your money and you take your chances…By She'sBack
April 3, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this
Matt April 3, 2009 12:33 PM Heck I’d vote for Bush again if I could.By Get Real
April 3, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this
Keppinger was soooooooooooooooooooooooooo good, the Reds got a Minor League player to be named later for him. Maybe the Astro’s will send Berkman to AAA and we could get him for Keppinger.By Sal Monella
April 3, 2009 1:56 PM | Link to this
MAC, thanks for posting Kepp’s stats. The only downside I swa was hitting into dbl plays. He was solid dependable guy who had excellen bat control and pitch selection. There is no other player in my limited knowledge of this team who has any plate discipline except Joey. Lots of interesting comments on this blog. Loved what billy hustle said. Yep, many are a waste of time (mine included) but it’s like driving past a car wreck…you can’t help but look. Bottom line, on another crappy day in Dayton, this IS fun!By RC
April 3, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this
Allow me to repost some of Keppy’s numbers from 2007 - BA .332 - OBP .400 - OPS .877. His numbers were also pretty good last year before he got hurt. After, not so much. 2007 Keppy… I think I could find a spot on the field for that guy. (Just not at SS. Or 3B. If you get my drift.) But he got caught in a numbers crunch, and had a lousy spring. It happens. My expectations for this year… I always have hope. Our starting pitching has the potential to be one of the best in baseball. Bullpen - eh. Hitting - gah. The Reds could contend -if- a lot of things go right. Which they almost never do.By billy hustle
April 3, 2009 1:11 PM | Link to this
It’s a complete waste of time reading some of the back and forth banter between posters yet too entertaining to avoid. As for Kepp, I liked him for playing the game the right way and mostly for rarely striking out. However, I don’t think his departure will hurt the team a whole lot. Jannish can play defense, but I think I (one who hasn’t played baseball since LL)have a better chance of getting a hit. He should only play when Owings pitches so he can bat 9th. I’m trying to be optimistic but after ST it has become much more difficult.By Jack
April 3, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this
O-K….back to baseball. Kepp, Rosales, Jannish, EE…what they all have in common is mediocrity and none will be around when and if the Reds ever come around. Kepp was a good guy, sure, but just the same as what we still have. For opening day, we have 2 solid players, two with good possibility, and five that no other team would care about. This is the first year that I have had zero expectations and that is sad. Even last year, I thought if __, we could surprise.By RC loves me
April 3, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this
As opposed to the Bush plan of tax cut, borrow and spend. You ignorantly act as though Obama caused this train wreck. This is Bush failed economic policies and lack of oversight and the liar W’s (for War) stupid Iraq war coming home to roost. When will we all get it that both parties suck and they do the same stupid stuff year after year. “If republicans don’t send your jobs overseas, they’ll send your kids.” I detest all politicians.By Matt
April 3, 2009 12:33 PM | Link to this
Heck I’d vote for Bush again if I could. That $3.6 trillion budget that Obama submitted was 4 times (4 TIMES) larger than the highest budget that ole Bushie ever submitted. Looks like the plan is to tax and spend our way out of the recession.By RC
April 3, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this
Well, I intended to include that in the original post, but it slipped my mind - but still, you got me. That’s nice work outta you. And speaking of you - three similarly snide posts under three different names in under 20 minutes? Nice job of proving my point. You just couldn’t help yourself though, could you? Good sockpuppetry requires patience, my schizoid friend. Now, back to baseball talk.By James Bradley
April 3, 2009 12:06 PM | Link to this
I’ve been here since the beginning and NEVER comment, however…Speaking of self-contradiction and hypocrisy, RC — read your big-shot empty commitment of two minutes ago: “This is the first, last and only time I intend to address this” That lasted a long time. You’re such a dolt, I bet if you could, you’d go vote for Bush again. LOLBy B-Hopper
April 3, 2009 11:57 AM | Link to this
RC, we are very very grateful that you never post. Keep up the good work.By RC
April 3, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this
Oh, and I forgot to mention one of the most pricelessly ridiculous sentences I have ever read: “Why don’t you can the superiority trip your on, knock off all the criticism and caustic sacarsm, take a chill pill, give yourself an enema, and quit pretending you’re things you are not(Intelligent, no. Lonely, yes. Bitter, you betcha.)” Who’d have thought it possible to pack that much superiority and caustic sarcasm into a sentence criticising someone else for those very things? Self-contradiction, with a side of bad grammar thrown in to contrast with insulting of someone else’s intelligence… it’s a bloggy masterpiece! Bravo!!By Get Real
April 3, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this
WOW RC … you’re deep … so quiet and thoughtful … if this was a movie, the entire scene would revolve around the incredible experience of hearing you speak … you’re like a wizard … no wait an oracle … people probably climb mountains to ask for your thoughts on the meaning of life.By RC
April 3, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this
This is the first, last and only time I intend to address this. I’ve been reading this blog pretty much from the beginning, though I rarely comment on it. However, I have also noticed the stylistic similarities between numerous obvious sockpuppets on this blog, and I agree with Mr. R (O) that it’s most likely the work of one lone and lonely doofus. And the funniest part is that, although his/her posts are always nasty and insulting in tone, he/she cries like a whiny baby when anyone calls them on it or responds in kind. If you wanna dish it out, be prepared to take it yourself. Words to live by. PS - By all means, keep pushing the “Toothpick” thing, though. I’m sure it’ll catch on one of these days… yeesh.By Wizard
April 3, 2009 10:28 AM | Link to this
Jeanine April 3, 2009 2:26 AM “Mr. Redlegs Original — original what? Sin? Fool? Who cares except you? Mr Fragile Ego — are you a self-proclaimed super critic, blog cop/hog, or just a bitter old queen? Why don’t you can the superiority trip your on, knock off all the criticism and caustic sacarsm, take a chill pill, give yourself an enema, and quit pretending you’re things you are not(Intelligent, no. Lonely, yes. Bitter, you betcha.) Your charade is tired. Give it a rest, gramps. You take all the fun out of this usually fun blog. As a nurse I’m telling you that you need help. Take your lithium and go have a nice lie down.”—This is priceless! Well said,Jeanine!By Get Real
April 3, 2009 10:10 AM | Link to this
CDouble - There was no misconception about Sheffield … he is not worth taking a young player’s roster spot regardless of the price. Detroit thought so much of him, they essentially are paying him $13,600,000 to leave their team. Sheffield has never had the reputation of a Perez or Griffey Sr. and we laugh at your stupidity to believe Sheffield possesses any leadership skills that can be passed on to these young Reds. Sheffield has been on seven or eight teams in his career because he is a pain in the a*s and at age 40 with diminished skills, you are really dumb supporting him - but this blog expects that level of stupidity from you.By CDouble13
April 3, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this
Correcting a lot of misconceptions from some…Sheffield was released from Detroit, therefore, he only costs the league min. $400,000. If signed, he would be taking the role that Tony Perez and Ken Griffey senior accepted on the mid-to-late 80’s teams part time player/pinch-hitter. With the game on the line in the 7th,8th, or 9th inning and you need a homer or a extra base hit, which would the opposing team wish to see coming off the bench, what the Reds have now or Gary Sheffield? If Gary stinks, cut him and you only lose $400,000.By CDouble13
April 3, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this
Correcting a lot of misconceptions from some…Sheffield was released from Detroit, therefore, he only costs the league min. $400,000. If signed, he would be taking the role that Tony Perez and Ken Griffey senior accepted on the mid-to-late 80’s teams part time player/pinch-hitter. With the game on the line in the 7th,8th, or 9th inning and you need a homer or a extra base hit, which would the opposing team wish to see coming off the bench, what the Reds have now or Gary Sheffield? If Gary stinks, cut him and you only lose $400,000.By Mike-Cinci
April 3, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this
MAC’s argument for keeping Keppinger was well done but he made the case for his departure. Keppinger is just an average player proven by the fact he has never been given a full time job by any team. On a percentage basis he hits into more ground ball double plays than anyone in baseball. He is a role player and will be useful on a team like Houston who is short of back up infielders. The Reds should go with Janish and/or Rosales in the backup role. Both are solid hustling players who deserve a chance. Hairston can play both the indield and outfield and like Roslaes gives the Reds speed. Keppinger was offered to every team in baseball and the best offer came from the Astros….a minor league player to be named later. That says it all.By Sir Duke
April 3, 2009 8:01 AM | Link to this
The only thing you wrote that made any sense was your last line - he won’t be missed - nice player but Keppingers are all over baseball and at 29 he won’t be getting any better. Some of you on this blog believe Keppinger was going to be Barry Larkin/Joe Morgan good. Folks, he was a fair player but not that good. He was a role player, not a starter - we can live without him.By MAC
April 3, 2009 3:14 AM | Link to this
More “Good Stuff” on Keppinger who seemed to start the racial tirade? Keppinger, who turns 29 on April 21, hit .266 with three home runs and 43 RBIs over 121 games for Cincinnati in 2008. He struck out just once every 20.9 plate appearances, the best ratio in the Major Leagues last season. “He gives us a guy with experience all around the infield,” general manager Ed Wade said. “He’s somebody who’s played a lot at second, short and third. He’ll certainly be a factor at third with Boone out.” “He doesn’t strike out a lot,” Wade added. “He’s a rare player who has more walks than strikeouts every season. He’s a contact hitter, a blue-collar player and he fits perfectly on our club.” His big break came when he came to the Reds in 2007 and picked up 241 at-bats with Cincinnati. In total, he’s played in 243 Major League games with 876 at-bats and has compiled a .287 batting average. He’s walked 65 times and struck out just 49 in that span. An even bigger selling point: Keppinger hit .351 and slugged .515 against left-handers last year. He logged 94 hits in 268 at-bats versus lefties, recording 17 doubles, three triples, seven home runs and 35 RBIs. He drew 22 walks and struck out eight times. Not hard to figure out why knowledge baseball fans liked this guy and why he will be missed on a team that excells at base running blunders, inability to get a bunt down when needed, hit behind the runner and or put the bat on the ball w/ runners in scoring position w/ less than 2 outs and has major problems against LH pitching. Nah, no reason to miss a playa er like KeppBy Jeanine
April 3, 2009 2:26 AM | Link to this
Mr. Redlegs Original — original what? Sin? Fool? Who cares except you? Mr Fragile Ego — are you a self-proclaimed super critic, blog cop/hog, or just a bitter old queen? Why don’t you can the superiority trip your on, knock off all the criticism and caustic sacarsm, take a chill pill, give yourself an enema, and quit pretending you’re things you are not(Intelligent, no. Lonely, yes. Bitter, you betcha.) Your charade is tired. Give it a rest, gramps. You take all the fun out of this usually fun blog. As a nurse I’m telling you that you need help. Take your lithium and go have a nice lie down.By MAC
April 3, 2009 1:05 AM | Link to this
One, I can’t believe the racial remarks some R making here; some of these folks need to be removed from the blog! Secondly, Owens and Bailey have earned spots w/ the big team; Massett? has not. Who cares how much relief experience he has if he’s getting rocked everytime out!By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
April 3, 2009 12:36 AM | Link to this
Gee, Obama/Mister Red Legs (Extra Crisoy/M-Hopp, you’re as transparent as the daylight. Not even bright enough to cover up your syntax parallels from post to post, board to board. It’s like what the cops said of the Bill Pullman character in “Ruthless People”: “This could very well be the stupidest person on the face of the earth.”By Obama
April 3, 2009 12:25 AM | Link to this
Homey… What? Are you a racist. Trailer trash.By Mister Red Legs (Extra Crispy
April 3, 2009 12:22 AM | Link to this
Mr Red Legs, Do you need a nap? Some medicine? A drink?By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
April 2, 2009 11:56 PM | Link to this
Your ethnicity is a subliminal copout and your constant off-color remarks—evidenced by your ongoing postings amid outbursts of anger, the offensive and insensitive—amplify a lack of culture and couth. It’s all in your writin’ for all to see, homey, and usually has nothing to do with baseball.By Emily
April 2, 2009 11:54 PM | Link to this
Hear, hear, Mr. McCoy. You only speak the truth! (And thank you for it!)By B-Hopper
April 2, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this
Mr. R (orig recipe) you take yourself waayyy too seriously…like you matter or something. You don’t like my posts, skip past them, jagoff! Now, for your stupid information, my family is biracial AND we all share a common sense-of-humor, something your sensitive little self was obviously born without.By A Fan
April 2, 2009 10:35 PM | Link to this
Writing “sigh” is really, really gay.By Mark in Sun Valley
April 2, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this
As we head north, Batting Average, tied for last. OBP, tied for last. Defense, 24th, 35 errors in 33 games. Speed? stealing sucessfully only 63% of the time. Optomism? Mine is well below 10% that this team will compete. I still see a 72-90 team for 2009. Sigh.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
April 2, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this
Yeah, B-Hopp, there’s no racial overtone whatsoever in “His homeys? That who he be fishin’ wit?” Nope, none. But hey, you conveniently left out this portion of your retort of ignorance, which isn’t altogether surprising. Adding verifiable racist to your neverending portfolio of Baker rants is the top hat.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
April 2, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this
Nice act you got there “Mister Red Legs” Ron Johnson/NoCalRedsFan and about 500 other trolling aliases. You’re a real cut-up. Obsessed imitation is a diehard form of flattery … and mental disease. Only a complete dope couldn’t detect your spelling, punctuation and syntax. Be sure to call us when you get a job to occupy your time. You can call collect, too.By ctownboy
April 2, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this
Gee, imagine that, Baker asked Jocketty about going after Sheffield. Sheffield is just ANOTHER over the hill player whom Toothpick is trying to get one last big paycheck for before retirement) as he did with Patterson and Bako and twice with JHJ). For those interested, Sheffield has played 41 total Games in the Outfield during the past three seasons. In that time, he has two Assists and one Error. So, because of his shoulder injury, that cannon arm he USED to have is problaby no longer there. As far as First Base goes, he has played a TOTAL of nine Games there and that was with the Yankees in 2006.By Sir Duke
April 2, 2009 7:30 PM | Link to this
Dumb as hell to sign a 40 year old Sheffield to pinch hit and have him take some other player’s spot who has a future as a Red. Simply dumb as hell no matter what the price. Detroit is paying him $14 million a year and still cut him. Why would the team paying him that much money not have a use for him? I love the Reds but signing Sheffield’s dumbass might be the final straw on this team’s dumbness.By Matt
April 2, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this
I think that if Sheffield is available for the right price and is willing to fill more of a platoon or bench-type role then I think the Reds should definitely make a move for him. In no way, shape or form do I sign Sheffield to be an everyday player. He is clearly not what he once was at the plate, and his defense was never that great, and at 40 years old I’m sure he has slowed down even more. But yeah if he is willing to maybe make a start or two per week and be used mostly in pinch-hitting situations and things of that nature then I sign him. I don’t see any NL team signing him to play every day. Maybe an AL team might sign him and use him as a DH. But definitely not as an everyday outfielder I wouldn’t think. But that’s just my two cents.By Mister Redlegs
April 2, 2009 7:16 PM | Link to this
In all my years of covering baseball from my trailer..well my Moms..yeah yeah I will get a job. Ive seen great players have one more good year. Sheffield’s turn. same with Griffey -30-By Mike-Cinci
April 2, 2009 4:51 PM | Link to this
No Sheffield or Jenkins please. If Sheffield was any good he would still be in Detroit. If Jenkins was any good he would still be in Milwaukee or Philadelphia. Catalanotto might help but he too may be past his prime. Worth considering though.By B-Hopper
April 2, 2009 4:24 PM | Link to this
Great baseball blog post, mutantman. And you’re right about something, I am a great guy & a funny guy. You just don’t like my name because it offends your heritage. So bite me. With your teeth out, okay?By RC
April 2, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this
Shef hit .225 last year. Hurt maybe? But the prvious season was .265 - not a good trend line for a guy that was good for at least .290 every year. OBP .326 last year - pleh. Not interested. Jenkins - .246 and an eep .301 OBP last year. Also trending down for the last two years. Only if he’s cheap.By nick w
April 2, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this
I agree Hal shef would not be that much of help for this team. We had an aging outfielder with griffey and that didn’t work out. It would be good if we had a dh but we dont so it would be a waste of money if he comes and gets hurt or gets mad and complains that he is not getting enough playing time. We dont need that in the clubhouse.By Dave B
April 2, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this
Good article, Hal. I am in total agreement with you. What did Sheffield hit last year? I think it was below .250, 19 or 20 homers, 70ish RBIs. They have young guys already on the roster that are capable of that production and don’t bring a diva attitude to the locker room. I don’t see the Reds giving him what he wants - to play daily - so hopefully that will steer him away. You never know with Dusty, though.By Don Carpenter
April 2, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this
Hal, I agree that chemistry is indeed an important factor to any team and it makes a big difference in the attitude of the players. We just got rid of the cancer, why would we want more? Geoff Jenkins is a class act, a professional whose quiet leadershop could be very inspirational for the younger players.By phil
April 2, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this
I am not big on a head case who is going to mess up the locker room. But maybe he does have something left in him, when healthy. If he accepts the limited role we are supposedly offering him why not take a shot? The thing you all are missing is that it isn’t a big gamble on us. Pay him the min of $400,000. If it doesn’t work out cut ties and their is very little skin off our backs.By Mutaman
April 2, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this
Hey B-Hopper. you’re not funny, you’re not imaginitive, you’re not adding anything to the discussion, and you’ve clearly got some serious issues. But other than tha i’m sure you’re a great guy.By mike cahill
April 2, 2009 1:00 PM | Link to this
I agree that Sheffield may have too much baggage and would likely be a one season rental.On the other hand, he has much to prove and may well be on his best behavior. We need a right hander with some power but we don’t need anyone malignant and I’d hate for us to mess with the pitching staff in order to get a hitter,e.g Mathews. I’m willing to see how speed and defense can do this year. I think it could be a fun team to watch.By B-Hopper
April 2, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this
Oh gee, Mr. Redlegs (original), according to you, Dusty is racist saying, “He was real tight with a couple of my homeys from Sac. I’ve been knowing him a long time.” Get a life, Mister Original.By Mr. Redlegs (Original)
April 2, 2009 12:38 PM | Link to this
Gee, B-Hopp with another racial overtone comment about Baker. Who woulda guessed?By B-Hopper
April 2, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this
That’s correct, Monroe. Barry’s one of T-Pick’s homeys! According to the comments here and on yahoo, nobody seems to think Shef is a good fit for the Reds. Hmmmm, wonder what Castellini thinks? The most telling fact is that the Tigers released the roidster and still will pay, what, $14 mil? That alone speaks volumes!By Rick
April 2, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this
This team is supposed to be building with defense. My main concern now is having some lefthanded power coming off the bench. I don’t think Nix is the answerBy Monroe
April 2, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this
Please, no Sheffield. If the Reds are going to sign an ornery Roider they might as go with Bonds. At least in 2007, he raked to the tune of an 1.045 OPS. Sheffield is nowhere close (last year .726). As an added bonus, Barry’s a friend of Dusty too, apparently a major criteria for personnel moves in Cincy.By HavaKlu
April 2, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this
I too think Catalanotto is a better fit and hitter than Geoff Jenkins at this point.By econprof
April 2, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this
You’re right about Shef, Hal (I bet you don’t hear that very often from your readers!). Would Detroit release him if they thought he had anything left as a hitter (given that they still have to pay him 14 mil)? We’re all attracted to the Gary Sheffield of 5 years ago, but he’s gone.By Mark in Sun Valley
April 2, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this
Another option might be Of/1B Frank Catalanotto, released from Texas. He hit .300 this spring but was beat out by Andruw Jones because Texas has too many left handed hitters..By jefster
April 2, 2009 11:31 AM | Link to this
I’d bet that Marvin Benard could show up to ST today and ask Dusty, “you remember me”? And Dusty would say “sure, go play LF and leadoff today.By Cait
April 2, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this
Just say no! No Sheffield. Like you said, Hal, if we must have a veteran, then Jenkins is a better fit. Doesn’t he play a little first base as well as OF? In limited observation, he seems to have a better personality, too - nice guy, but a fiery competitor. Is that true?By bobs
April 2, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this
I would rather have Jenkins as that left handed bat off the bench and spot starter. Would be a nice upgrade from Nix. IF and big IF our catchers can actually hit this year, I wonder if you dont keep Jannish on the roster and bat him 8th. Gonzo is not long for this team as an injury seems to be a forgone conclusion. Edwin Error and one leg Gonzo make me a little nervous about the left side.By B-Hopper
April 2, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this
Hal stated that regarding Sheffield that Baker said, “He was real tight with a couple of my homeys from Sac. I’ve been knowing him a long time.” So this is the English used by a man paid $3.5 mil a year to “lead” the Reds? He could make more rappin’ as T-Pick. His homeys? That who he be fishin’ wit?