Trotwood-Madison vs. Winton Woods
2009-10 UD men's basketball
Pyramid Hill lights up
GM McCoy's plan: Keep Dunn, trade Hamilton, get pitching
Sunday, October 07, 2007
> What are your thoughts about the Reds?
For one day, and one day only, I have appointed myself general manager of the Cincinnati Reds, so Wayne Krivsky gets today off. My cell phone is at my elbow, my coffee cup is full and I'm ready to wheel, deal and steal.
The first call is to owner Bob Castellini, and he must be convinced to remove the "interim" from Pete Mackanin's title and make him manager. Why go outside looking for the so-called name manager? Why start all over again? Mackanin proved he knows what he is doing, and along the way he earned the admiration and respect of the players.
Extras
Did they not play hard for him, even when they were 20 games under .500 when he took over, and even to the bitter end when injuries left him outgunned and undermanned?
The next call is to Adam Dunn's agent and only one sentence needs to be said, "We're picking up his $13 million option." Every team needs a guy who hits 40 home runs, drives in 100 runs, scores 100 runs and walks 100 times (Dunn has done that three years now). Every team needs one, but few have one. A no-brainer.
Now we get to the sticky wickets.
The Reds have more usable outfielders than a peanut butter sandwich left outside has flies. And the best may be waiting in the wings in Jay Bruce.
This move is painful, but the Reds need pitching, pitching and more pitching. Josh Hamilton, pack your gear. Yes, he is a five-tool player with a chance at stardom, but so is Bruce. Call any GM with good pitching, and a package with Hamilton as the keystone will draw interest.
Another outfielder to make available is Ryan Freel. Like Hamilton, Freel is injury-prone. Norris Hopper proved that he not only can fill in for Freel, he is a better hitter and a better fielder. To trade Freel, though, the Reds probably need to eat some of his contract.
That leaves the team with an outfield of Dunn, Bruce and Ken Griffey Jr., with Hopper as No. 4 — a No. 4 who would play a lot while the team eases Bruce into the mix.
And let's silence the Dump Griffey chit-chat. As a tenured player, he has the right to say no to any trade. And he'll say no. He has one more year on his contract and he'll finish with the Reds. He played 144 games this year and hit 30 homers and drove in 93 runs.
What some fans forget, too, is that he remains the team's No. 1 draw — still bringing in more fans wearing "Griffey" jerseys than Brandon Phillips, Dunn or cover boy Bronson Arroyo.
If I could trade Alex Gonzalez, I would. But to sign him, Krivsky had to give him a three-year contract on which two years remain. A team in desperate need of a shortstop might take him. If that doesn't work, third baseman Edwin Encarnacion could be part of a package to get pitching.
Dealing either Gonzalez or Encarnacion — an enigma who on some days resembles a superstar and on other days resembles a disinterested superdud — would make room for Jeff Keppinger.
Keppinger is an anti-Red, a guy who puts the ball in play (only 12 strikeouts in 276 plate appearances) and is the best situational hitter to wear a Cincinnati uniform since Barry Larkin.
It was no accident the Reds made a catcher their No. 1 draft pick this year. Even if Dustin Mesoraco is the next coming of Johnny Bench, he is three or four years away. How long can the team go with a .203 hitter (David Ross) and a guy who threw out five of 44 base-stealers (Javier Valentin)? Get a catcher.
Mark down Aaron Harang, Bronson Arroyo and Homer Bailey in the rotation next year. Mark down Jared Burton as the set-up guy in the bullpen and David Weathers (he is under contract) as the closer. Mark everything else on the pitching staff with a gigantic question mark.
The problem is finding pitching. It isn't yet being developed in the minors (how far away is Johnny Cueto?). Teams don't trade top-notch pitching. It is mostly gained through free agency, and that takes more money than the Reds usually spend.
And when somebody says Kyle Lohse might be the best free-agent pitcher available, well, Castellini might do well to keep his wallet in his pocket. We've already been down Lohse Road and it was bumpy and rocky.
Now, how much does an interim GM get paid for one day?
Contact this reporter at
hmccoy@DaytonDailyNews.com.
| Yearly attendance | ||||
| The Reds have not had a winning season since moving into Great American Ball Park in 2003. How they've fared, and how fans have responded: | ||||
| Year | Record | Division Average | ||
| attendance | ||||
| 2003 | 69-93 | Fifth | 29,077 | |
| 2004 | 76-86 | Fourth | 28,238 | |
| 2005 | 73-89 | Fifth | 23,989 | |
| 2006 | 80-82 | Third | 26,351 | |
| 2007 | 72-90 | Fifth | 25,415 | |
| Monthly checkup | ||||
| The Reds' record and where they stood in the National League Central on the final day of each month during the 2007 season: | ||||
| Date | Record | Place | Games | |
| behind | ||||
| April 30 | 12-13 | Third | 4.0 | |
| May 31 | 21-34 | Sixth | 9.5 | |
| June 30 | 31-50 | Sixth | 16.5 | |
| July 31 | 45-62 | Fifth | 13.0 | |
| Aug. 31 | 62-73 | Fourth | 7.0 | |
| Sept. 30 | 72-90 | Fifth | 13.0 | |
Comments
By Byron Park
October 13, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this
Once again remember Brian Sabian is going to trade for position players. Every year good starting pitchers are acquired through trades. It is the great young starters who in somecase are still making close to league minimum salary who should be the target. The Giants, Twins, Angels, maybe Dodgers, San Diego etc. may all match up in trades. Last year the Royals got Brian Bannister from the Mets. Cain, Lowry, Lincecum or Correa could all help the Reds rotation. At least 1 will be traded.
By Shane
October 13, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
The only way to acquire pitching these days is to build your own pitching from within the organization. “Every team needs a 40 HR 100 RBI guy?” Tell that to the D-Backs. The Reds must build pitching from within and trade for pitching wherever possible. A manager? Can Baker, LaRussa, MacKannin, etc. Pitch?
By frank
October 13, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this
I think the reality is that the reds cant/wont spend the money it takes to get a #1 pitcher. Its easy to say go get a #1 but then think of who is available and what it would take and it aint gonna happen. I think compared to the rest of the division the current rotation is OK. I agree Belisle is a wild card but IF he could become consistent then they should be OK. Baily was certainly not ready this year but should progress next year. Good bullpen in 07 and the Reds win the division.
By Byron Park
October 12, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
I don’t believe Reds fans are being honest about how poor the Reds starting rotation is. Harang is great. Arroyo pitched like a 4th or 5th starter in ‘07 but I believe he is better than that. If Belisle pitches in ‘08 like he did in ‘07 he won’t start in the majors in ‘09. Bailey has much promise but was overhyped (not ready). That makes me doubt how ready Cueto is. The Reds have about 8 position players who can hit 25-30 HRs, but without trading some of that power for starters it won’t matter.
By Byron Park
October 12, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
I believe that the Reds relief corps is young and improving and, relivers can be had free-agency (please get Linebrink). If Belisle pitches like he did this year he isn’t good enough to be a 5th starter. Bailey and Cueto should both probably start at AAA. All three WLW Reds announcers agreed after the last game that the #1 priority was 1 or 2 starters between Harang and Arroyo. If the Reds don’t give up some young hitters to get some good starters this team will have another losing season.
By frank
October 12, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this
Pitching is the key but given their payroll they must focus on the bullpen so as not to give up those precious leads the starters may get. The rotation (Harang, Arroyo, Baily, Belisle, 5th starter TBD) is good enough in this division. A couple of solid pitchers that throw hard out of the pen and perhaps an established closer and their staff will be good enough. I agree with Hal. Keep Dunn and trade Hamilton and Freel. Griffey is the man and must stay.
By terry
October 11, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Hey Brian! I remember you. You’re the little jerk who sat in the last row in class and corrected every little mistake the teacher made. Griffey jakes (slang) it, sets a bad example for others and needs to go.
By nick l. dadabo
October 11, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this
Before anyone invests money in season or single game tickets, they should let the Reds first show what they have to sell to the baseball buying public. A song come to mind here…” We won’t get fooled again” by The Who! Same goes for the Bengals. Once these sports entertainment companies have your money, it’s all over but the shouting…or should I say….booing! One should see the product on the field and that they sufficently show that they are competent and able to hold up their end.
By Don
October 10, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
My 2008 starting lineup: 1B Votto, 2B Phillips, 3B Encarnacion, SS Keppinger, C Valentin, LF Dunn, CF Hopper, RF Griffey/Hamilton, Bench- Hatteberg, Gonzalez, Freel, Cantu, Ross. SP- Harang, Arroyo, Belisle, Bailey, ?, Relief- Burton, Salmon, Coutlangus, Gosling, Shearn. Closer- Weathers (please trade for proven closer and put Weathers back as setup). MUST GO- Majewski, Stanton, Coffey, Milton and Ramirez. The new/young players livened up the ballclub by their aggresive play. GO REDS IN 08’
By Greg Garland
October 10, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
Hi Hal! I have been a Reds Fan since 1955. I am greatly disapointed by what some the fans who think they know baseball are writing in response to your column. While I think your idea has some merit, and I respect your opinion, here is some food for thought. I would like to Pete stay as manager. He’s earned it and the right man for the job and the players respect and want to play for him. Secondly, Adam Dunn has the highest market value in a trade. Why not market him in a deal Brandon Webb
By Byron P.
October 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
I don’t think anyone on the Reds is arrogant, especially Griffy. Griffy can’t play full time. That isn’t a knock. Also, Griffy is more valuable to the team as a third/fourth outfielder than as trade bait. Teams won’t give you much in a trade for Griffy, not because they don’t like him, but because noone really knows from year to year just how much he will be able to play. He’s not part of a team for the future. That doesn’t mean you get rid of him but you ensure you have three future OF’s
By Brian
October 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this
Maybe if we trade Griffey, we can sign Gary Sheffield, or Barry Bonds. I wonder if Jason Giambi would like to play in Cincinnati? Maybe we can talk Carl Everett out of retirement? Whaddaya think? By the way Terry Graham, irregardless is not really a word. You can hold something in irregard, like I do with your moronic comments, but irregardless is slang/jargon. Intelligent people don’t say it. Well, in that case, you go right on ahead pal. HA! B,YGJB! Sick burn!
By Brian
October 10, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Who doesn’t want their hero to be arrogant, or “sure of themselves”? I know I do. My generation has seen and embraced the most arrogant athlete ever. He is also responsible for single-handedly changing the way his game is played and evaluated. He influenced our economy, transcended race & culture and eventually became his own brand. But, the majority of his teammates hated him, even when they were winning championships because of him. Must be tough to be Michael Jordan, huh? LEAVE GRIFFEY ALONE!
By Brian
October 10, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this
Who doesn’t want their hero to be arrogant, or “sure of themselves”? I know I do. My generation has seen and embraced the most arrogant athlete ever. He is also responsible for single-handedly changing the way his game is played and evaluated. He influenced our economy, transcended race & culture and eventually became his own brand. But, the majority of his teammates hated him, even when they were winning championships because of him. Must be tough to be Michael Jordan, huh? LEAVE GRIFFEY ALONE!
By Brian
October 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this
All the Griffey bashing is ridiculous. The man plays HIS way. He doesn’t have to play how YOU think he should. He is a future Hall of Fame player and a Superstar. Injuries have robbed him of some of his natural -not steroid-aided- talent. But, even when injured, he works hard to rehab and play the game he loves. So what if he’s cocky? You don’t think Ryan Freel is cocky? Adam Dunn? Cal Pipken, Jr.? Tony Gwynn? Guess what, arrogance is part of the package when it comes to prfessional athletes.
By Tyler
October 9, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
Hal, Sounds like a good plan. If the Reds are in contention near next season’s trade deadline, trade Junior or Dunn to serve as a DH and receive some young pitching. By the way, I live in Reading, PA, where Maloney spent the majority of the 2007 season for the Phillies organization. He is the real deal, expect him in the rotation for September call-ups 2008 and a middle of the rotation guy for 2009!
By Brent Harder
October 9, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
What the Reds fans, including me, don’t understand is that as long as your buying tickets to see a mediocre team, then that is what you’ll get. It is a business and profit is important. As long as the owners are making a killing off the fans with an average product, why improve and hurt your margin? What were we all promised with the new stadium? A better team? Keep Griffey, Dunn and Hamilton. Trade Freel, Encarnacion, and Hattiberg. Put Keppinger at 3rd. I may even package Arroyo!
By Cait
October 9, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
I’m with Hal. Love Hamilton, but he was never healthy in the minors & drugs cause permanent body damage. Package him with Freel for a SP. Keep Belisle for now. He showed flashes & it was his 1st year starting. Griffey only has 1 year left, so keep Dunn sign him long-term. Hopper & Bruce can fill in the rest, and Votto proved serviceable in LF as a #5 OF. The Reds are close. Kep can play all INF like Freel. Catching does stink. McKinnon is OK - interview him and others, pick the best one.
By Marge
October 9, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
If I were the GM, I would give the Angels a call and try to trade Encarnacion, Freel, and Stanton for one of their quality starters. Dunn should stay - NO DOUBT. All you Griffey haters, stop your pissing and whining-he will be gone in another year after his contract expires. Then, you can all yell at the Reds when they don’t resign him & he goes to an AL team as a DH and hits 50 homeruns. ALl you fat lazy bear gutted rednecks who say he doesn’t run out every fly ball can go pound sand.
By Spuds17
October 8, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this
To all of the idiots who are doubting Hal’s opinion, he’s in the hall of fame, while you are waiting in the wings for the hall of know nothing couch potatoes to open the doors. Your opinions are as clueless as they are classless.
Bruce and Dunn should play next year, and there is no proof that Hamilton is not a younger version of what Griffey is now. Good for about 100-120 games.
By Byron Park
October 8, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this
Another thing to consider is to trade Jay Bruce and sign Dunn to a long term contract. An outfield of Dunn, Hamilton, and Hopper would not be bad. The main thing is to do what it takes to get two major pitchers, including considering trading Bailey and Cueto in packages for young #1 starters. If you were trading for Ian Snell, Chad Billingsley, Dustin McGowen, Matt Cain, Jake Peavy, Eric Bedard, Brandon Webb or Fausto Carmona just who would be untouchable?
By sean
October 8, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
we have to much outfield depth not to trade dunn.16 million could go to a pitcher. but hamilton we must keep. he hasnt played in 5 years and still almost hit 300 with power, speed, and defense. plus more important…..he’s cheap, and he has 4 more years on his contract. small market teams keep players like that, and theres a reason. trade freel, keep griffey and hopper, trade hatteberg and bring up bruce. just make sure we get somthing in return for our trades, not like lopez, kearns trade!
By Mike W
October 8, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
One of Reds’ most glaring defficiencies Hal overlooks is outfield defense. Griffey was poor in right, Dunn was better than in previous years but still below average in left & the Reds have no true CF. Bruce & Hamilton are cheap & need to play. That Griffey is the Reds’ biggest draw is a myth. Fans don’t come to see Griffey. They’d rather see a hungry, young team with a chance to win. Trade Dunn or Griffey, get a solid No. 2 pitcher for the money saved by and sign 2 more quality bullpen pitchers.
By Chelsie
October 8, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
I like Dunn , but its broke so lets fix it. Obviously the whole hit homeruns and outscore the other team thing isn’t working, so why do we keep all of these homerun strikeout guys? PITCHING PITCHING & yes more PITCHING is right. We need a ton of that and the only player who is going to get us that is Dunn.
By Chelsie
October 8, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
I like Dunn , but its broke so lets fix it. Obviously the whole hit homeruns and outscore the other team thing isn’t working, so why do we keep all of these homerun strikeout guys? PITCHING PITCHING & yes more PITCHING is right. We need a ton of that and the only player who is going to get us that is Dunn.
By Sharon Salazar
October 8, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this
I think those are some good moves to get the Reds better. Dunn I am glad you are keeping. If it takes trading Hamilton to get so better and more pitching, then go for it. I am glad you plan to keep Griffey, Jr. He is a drawing card to the ballpark and should remain a Red. I hope some good moves helps the Reds to have a winning season next year and a chance to finally take the NL Central and go to the playoffs after so long.
By Byron Park
October 8, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this
The thing about Hamilton, he’s an Andruw Jones, Vernon Wells, Barry Bonds type of guy, in the sense that as he adapts he is a primary defensive weapon as well as an offensive weapon. You can’t play Dunn in center field. I believe that Hamilton will be a power guy that will permit you to play a Dunn or Carlos Lee in left because he can cover enough of their territory. Hamiltons are rarer than Dunns. But if Hamilton is what it takes to get a Matt Cain, Ian Snell, Chad Billingsly, just do it!
By Ross
October 8, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
I agree 100% with Hal. I would keep Adam Dunn and trade Hamilton..I believe this guy will stay hurt..some little thing was always popping up with him..Dunn is a superstar 40 bombs, 100 Rib eye steaks, 100 runs, and 100 BB…a superstar…
By D Shook
October 8, 2007 6:46 AM | Link to this
Trade Encarnacion, Hamilton and Coffey and/or Dumatrait to Florida for Dontrelle Willis.
Also,if Jon Garland is available, make him the 3rd or 4th SP. Keep Dunn and JR. Let Hatteberg retire. Votto at 1B and Keppy at 3B. The more Hopper the better.
Say goodbye to Stanton, Guardado and Belisle.
By JayThe Red
October 8, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this
To the poster near the top that said that you cannot get pitching from power hitters where do you think we got Harrang and Arroyo. Aaaon came from giving Oakland Jose Guillen, and Arroyo came from sending Pena to the Red Sox. Grffey is probably not going anywhere unfortunately, I am kinda interested in seeing what we could get for Hamilton even though I love his play this past season. Obviously we need bullpen help but you have to give up something to get something.
By JayThe Red
October 8, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this
To the poster near the top that said that you cannot get pitching from power hitters where do you think we got Harrang and Arroyo. Aaaon came from giving Oakland Jose Guillen, and Arroyo came from sending Pena to the Red Sox. Grffey is probably not going anywhere unfortunately, I am kinda interested in seeing what we could get for Hamilton even though I love his play this past season. Obviously we need bullpen help but you have to give up something to get something.
By JayThe Red
October 8, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this
To the poster near the top that said that you cannot get pitching from power hitters where do you think we got Harrang and Arroyo. Aaaon came from giving Oakland Jose Guillen, and Arroyo came from sending Pena to the Red Sox. Grffey is probably not going anywhere unfortunately, I am kinda interested in seeing what we could get for Hamilton even though I love his play this past season. Obviously we need bullpen help but you have to give up something to get something.
By Bill
October 8, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this
The best “sticks” are Phillips/Hamilton/Votto/Keppinger/Hopper/Bruce!
Best Pitchers are Harang/Arroyo/Bailey/Cueto/Burton!
Get a catcher and closer for Dunn/Griffey/Encarnacion—and McCoy!
By Byron Park
October 7, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
I would prefer to trade Dunn instead of Hamilton for three reasons: 1.I believe Hamilton will hit as many HR’s next year as Dunn. 2.Hamilton will play better defense than Dunn, better arm (though I’m not down on Dunn.) 3. By trading Dunn and playing Hamilton you could actually pay a Johan Santana for the year prior to free agency if you could trade for him.
By Old Reds Fan in MI
October 7, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this
Well, the Tigers are actively looking for a left handed hitter to play left field, and havegood starting pitching coming out their ears down in Toledo, (AAA). Hamilton might be a good fit at Comerica and would probably fetch a guy who can start right out of spring training.
By Tim Phillips
October 7, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this
The lineup is set for next year. CF- Hamilton/Hopper 1B - Votto/Cantu RF - Bruce 2B - Phillips LF - Dunn 3B - Encarnacion SS - Gonzalez C - Ross/Valentin Bench - Keppinger, Coats SP - Harang, Arroyo, Bailey, Cueto, Maloney Closer - Weathers Setup - Burton, Guardado Others - Bray, Salmon, Belisle, McBeth
Trade Griffey (not much value), Freel, Hatteberg, Coffey for a number 4 or 5 starter and another RP in case the others can’t cut it.
By Byron Park
October 7, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
GM’s don’t trade one good for 10 so, so’s. The Reds have the following players capable of hitting 25 HR: Dunn, Griffy, Phillips, Hamilton, Votto, Bruce, Cantu, Ross and I belive Encarnacion. I don’t think they really need that much power. I’m watching the Angels lose because they have no power depth. That’s the stuff trades are made of. There’s been talk of them trading Kelvim Escobar though the last two years they have resisted the idea of trading pitching. This might change that.
By HuberTucky
October 7, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Keep Josh (an awesome surprise this year!), dump Junior, Freel, Coffee, Stanton, the other dud relievers with BIG ERAs, trade our junk for a decent #3 starter who can chew up innings, get a couple of decent relievers, Keep Dunn, use Kepp at 2nd, Phillips SS, platoon 1st with Hatty & Cantu, EE is ok @ 3rd, trade 2 so-so cathers for 1 good one, keep Pete as manager and give him a chance to continue his good work, & get rid of Wayne. Spend some $ and pray for team chemistry and A+ can-attitudes!
By Byron Park
October 7, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
More on trading for pitchers: Last year the Reds Were offered Jake Westbrook for Austin Kearns. While Westbrook has been injured this year, it still should ave been done. The Angels were offering starting pitching for Tiexiera including Joe Saunders. The Twins may well trade a youngster with Liriano coming back and Matt Garza and Scott Baker look pretty good. I expect the Giants, Dodgers, Twins, Angels and White Sox to trade, Maybe the Pirates. But you ave to give up a premium player.
By Byron Park
October 7, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Last year Kansas City traded for Brian Bannister. Just this last week Brian Sabean indicated that he would probably trade more than one of his young ptchers. Can anyone say Cain, Lowry, Lincecum Correa? You can see teams that have good young pitchers the way the Reds have outfielders but there aren’t many. The key is you give up what they want: Dunn, Hamilton, Encarnacion, Votto, Bruce or Phillips. If they don’t trade for pitching it’s not because they can’t it’s because they won’t.
By ROGER DOTY
October 7, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
ALL THESE COMMENTS ABOUT TRADING SO AND SO FOR PITCHING ARE TOTALLY OFF TARGET.THE FACT OF THE MATTER IS THIS:
YOU EITHER GET THEM FROM FREE AGENCY OR YOUR OWWN FARMS. SORRY FOLKS—-BUT THAT’S REALITY.
By Vivster
October 7, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
(Needed more space) Now you argue, “The Reds don’t have $30 million to up the payroll.” Well, my argument is, “Yes, they do.” It’s called “Deficit Spending”, perfect for heavily-Republican Cincinnati. Deficit Spending or Betting on the Market of turnstiles humming with A-Rod and Griffey there. Then A-Rod remains with developed pitching and Dunner. Sell off the plastic parts (Gonzo, Hamilton, Freel, Saarloos, etc.), you have the iron-clad motor if you sign A-Rod.
By Vivster
October 7, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
(Needed more space) Now, I’m not nuts: I know NYC and Cinci-Nasty are world’s apart, but look at it this way. A-Rod was hastled by the NY media, no worries in Redland - we got Griffey and Dunn apologists by the barrelful. You argue that Cincy is too small for a superstar: Mr. “Prime-Time,” Deon Sanders himself loved playing here because people didn’t bother him too much. Griffey will lure him if the Reds make the overture. He’s solid at SS - where he wants to play - for years to come!
By Vivster
October 7, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
Hal, you’re right- Hamilton should go now, sad as it is to see him and Freel go. He’s worth a lot now even though he broke down. I can’t believe the Dunn (Media?) Rehab Tour I’m seeing now, but the numbers don’t lie: a keeper. The best coup the Reds could do is… GET A-ROD! Need a shortstop: CHECK. Need a solid bat without injury history: CHECK. Need good pitching: not going to get it in free agency or development yet. Need ticket sales: DOUBLECHECK! Now there’s $ for pitching. Shoot your wad!
By DALE CAMPBELL
October 7, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
HAL I disagree trade Junior if he will not accept a trade DFA let him become someones elses headache .He is not a team player . The only way to get pitching probably will to trade for it . Minnesota and Okland are looking for offense . This team is not looking for a number one pitcher a third or fourth starter at best let Bailey and BELISLE and Cueto and the pitcher they got for Lohse fight it out in spring training .
By dickg
October 7, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this
I am so glad that none of you have the power to do anything but rant, including Hal. You all act like thgere is someone out there that wants to help the Reds. The The pitching we need is in the minors!!
By boxter
October 7, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
Get ird of GRIFFEY TOADY! He is a loser and a cancer on every team he has played. Hamilton can not play every day. His past drug years are breaking his body down. Get rid if Freel. His “hustle” is a joke. He is a .210 hitter if he plays daily. KEEP DUN! Who is going to drive in 100 w/ 40 bombs a year on this team? The Reds are what they are. Over priced tickets for AAA baseball team. Unless someone gives you tickets, you are a fool to go there.
By Boondoggle
October 7, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
I actually think it would be best for the reds to stand pat this season and go into next off season when the free agent market is vastly better.
No reason to resign Dunn to a long term contract just yet. I am really afraid he might break down soon. Guys his size dont normally last.
By boxter
October 7, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
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By jeff
October 7, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
Hal,
This proves you are waay too mold for your job.Quit being an apologist for Griffey.He’s a has-been with a lousy rotten,me-first atttude.
By jeff
October 7, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
Hal,
This proves you are waay too mold for your job.Quit being an apologist for Griffey.He’s a has-been with a lousy rotten,me-first atttude.
By Steve
October 7, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this
I think your glasses have fogged-up Hal. Get rid of Griffey. He’ll be 38 years old…hello! Dunn’s the enigma. He’s a classic DH. I’d rather see him at 1B so we can have an OF rotation of Votto/Hamilton/Bruce-Hopper. Trade Hamilton! Are you daft? With his arm! 5-years out of baseball and he put up wonderful numbers. No way. Freel=goodbye. Bye Hatty-keep Cantu. Move Phillips to SS, trade Gonzo. Kepp to 2B, EE stays at 3B. Find a cather-I agree. Load-up on pitching with all trades.
By Ted Lawson
October 7, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
Its time to trade Jr.. Dunn, Hamilton and Bruce in the outfield with Hopper being the 4th outfielder. Trade Freel along with Griffey.Keep the shortstop and hope he has less to worry about next year with his son on the road to recovery. Keep Edwin. Best Hitter we had in the 2nd half. Baily as the the 3rd starter to begin with and bring up Cueto whenever he’s ready. Sign new relief pitchers anyone they sign can equal Stanton, Coffee and some others. Groom Burton as eventual closer.
By Bobby S
October 7, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Dunn has consistently put up High OBP, even with a semi-lower BA. He began walking a lot in the second half, being the hitter we all thought he could. He cut back on his Ks, increased BA, OBP, SLG, all in the second half. If he hits the market he’ll make up to 16 mil a year (Carlos Lee) and we can get him cheaper. Hamilton is a young quality position player, but we need pitching. Send him to Oakland, Minnesota, Florida, anyone that needs a power hitter. 09=Righty RF
By terry
October 7, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this
Carl, I didn’t miss the point. While Junior can’t be traded without his consent, he also wants a ring which isn’t going to happen with the Reds in his future. So, mid-season next year, providing he’s healthy, he could very well have some acceptable suitors.
By John Zappley
October 7, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this
Trading Hamilton would be a big mistake. I say trade Griffey back to Seattle to hit his 600th. He loves the city and they love him. Look what happened when we played a 3 game set there this year. He was all choked up and couldn’t even talk afterwards. We can take a good middle reliever for him. Someone who can get some people out, plus we pare of his salary too. It’s a no brainer. My outfield would be Dunn, Hamilton and Bruce.
By Jerry
October 7, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
You have to give up something to get pitching with any value. I like Hamilton but a package of him and either Gonzo, Bray, Coutlangus, EE, and Freel could bring a very good starter and or a front line closer.
By Bob
October 7, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
Jr. should have been dumped long ago, but this past summer was the only time anyone would have had him. Probably was no takers. I’m too old and stupid to quit the Reds now after 56 years of being a fan, but if Hamilton goes and I have to watch Jr. lob a rainbow in as an attempt to throw someone out, I’ll switch to badminton. Oh, I forgot Jr’s clubhouse presence. He told Freel last summer, after he’d made all those great catches, “that one might have made my TOP 10.” Now’s a real teammate!
By Don B
October 7, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this
You sure Krivsky et al didn’t write this? This is the case for the status quo. This is the most conservative, most innocuous, most undramatic plan that could be concocted. The ship has gigantic holes, has been taken on water for years, is, on paper, sinking according to your own fan attendance numbers, and what do you and the crew decide to do? Yep, let’s throw some lawn chairs over the side, keep pumping out water, and throw some mattresses over some of those big, gaping gashes. Fired!
By Butch Smith
October 7, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this
Wow! Someone who thinks like I do. I thought I was the only one who wanted to keep Dunn and trade Hamilton and Freel. My reasons are little different though, Dunn is a proven commodity and Hamilton seems a little bit cocky, comment he made after the previous manager Narron was fired about not getting rid of his brother or he was gone, for some good young pitcher and a catcher. I like Freel but he is better trade bait than an everyday player. Space is too limited for the rest of my comments.
By Roland
October 7, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this
That’s right, Reds need to keep Dunn. Why go to a farm and pick up cow turd for free when you can re-sign one for $13-mil a year?
Ownership and management have as much interest in winning as they do in burning their money. Turnstiles is what it’s about - and making sure drunk fans who get orgams from meaningless solo home runs keep those turnstiles spinning. Anyone who believes otherwise is terminally naive.
Reds are going to be very bad for a very long time. Get used to it.
By Ken lewis
October 7, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Who do you expect to get for Griffey in a trade, teams that have good pitching will not trade it for an aging superstar in the last year of their contract, you would have to give him away, last time i looked Griffey still puts up respectable numbers. The best time to trade a Griffey is during the stretch run when a team needs a little more firepower to get over the hump, the trick with Griffey is to get it done before he gets injured.
By Hudy
October 7, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Hal either needs thicker glasses or to just hang up his typewriter. Dunn’s offense (when he doesn’t strike out) will be missed but $13 million will bring a much needed arm to the pitching staff. Keep Hamilton and Griffey. Fire Tom “Boom-Boom” Hume. His bullpen is a train wreck. Get rid of Guardado, Majewski, Coutlangus, Stanton, and Coffey. And put Belisle on notice, either pitch consistently or pack your bags. I’m sick of losing seasons. Hire Tony LaRussa or Buck Showalter.
By Lora
October 7, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this
I agree that we need to keep Dunn, but getting rid of Hamilton would be a mistake. The Reds need the kind of well-rounded, all-out play and positive influence he provides. The Reds also need someone (besides Griffey) that the fans can really cheer with their hearts, and they have already shown how they feel about Josh Hamilton and his journey back to baseball.
By Steve S
October 7, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this
Keep Dunn & Griffey. The proof is in how poorly the team did offensively the last couple weeks of this season without them. All I heard from TV and radio host was how the Reds were undermaned offensively while these two were out-and they were all correct. The numbers speak for themselves.
By Trev
October 7, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this
Hal, a GM has to work hard, don’t be a slacker. You can’t designate only 5 pithcers as keepers. You’re not going to be able to trade for 7 of them especially when the success rate is less than 50%. Do the hard work of projecting & keeping some of the other guys in the present pool. Eliminate these 3: Majewski, Saarloos, Stanton. This forum does allow enough space to provide reasoning but here are the keepers. Belisle, Maloney, Cueto, Guardado, Coutlangus. Go make trades for 2 spots, not 7!
By Ron
October 7, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this
Trade Dunn, Freel, Gonzales and the older first baseman ! Get some decent starting pitchers!
By Bob
October 7, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this
Hal I think you are right on. I am sick of these naysayers who want to dump Griffey and Dunn. Pitching is a wishfull thinking. Very few teams are going to give up a good pitcher regardless of who you offer as trade.
By Save America
October 7, 2007 6:52 AM | Link to this
I think your too close to the scene to make those decisions. Griffey and Dunn must go. Pitching,defense and speed wins championships.If you unload those two, that will free up a good amount of cash to go after pitching.The defense in the outfield would improve greatly and you would put on some base runners capable of stealing a few more bases and and going from first to third on a single. You would open the door to play small ball and possibly win a few more of those close well pitched games.
By Carl Beyer
October 7, 2007 6:42 AM | Link to this
Terry, you missed the main point of Hal’s comments on Griffey: As a tenured player Griffey can say “no” to any trade and that’s what he’ll do. The Reds couldn’t trade him if they wanted to. So that’s a dead issue.
By terry graham
October 7, 2007 5:27 AM | Link to this
Last off season Hal was advocating trading Dunn—-now it’s Hamilton. Hal, shuck your sentiments and realize it’s Griffey that needs to go! How many times to we have to see Junior jog to first or turn a sure double into a single? I challenge you to conduct a fan poll and see how many are in favor of trading Griffey—that sould tell you if he’s selling tickets. Irregardless, he is not in the Red’s future and at the least they should unload hin by mid-season if not sooner.