adam kennedy and kip wells reportedly signed by cards

by lboros on Nov 28, 2006 3:06 PM EST in News Comment 157 comments

posted 15 minutes ago by bernie miklasz at the pressbox:

Adam Kennedy in as 2B; can't verify money... (reportedly 3-15).
Kip Wells in the back end of the rotation...
Gary Bennett re-signed as backup catcher...
Eli Marrero signed to a minor-league deal.

here's the link: http://www.stltoday.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=422546.

i'll withhold judgment until i have a chance to do a little research and see the exact dollar amounts. i also want to see the rest of the cards' moves.

none of these players costs the cardinals a draft pick.

Update [2006-11-28 15:11:39 by lboros]: here's the 1st bit of good news: ken rosenthal says the cards got kennedy for 3 yrs / $10m, a decent enough deal for the club.

Update [2006-11-28 17:18:4 by lboros]: wells signed for one year, $4m. bennett will make $900K.

Update [2006-11-28 15:17:18 by lboros]: kennedy's ZIPS projection for 2007 is pretty flimsy: .277 / .335 / .370. last year's PECOTA numbers for kennedy project him to .267 / .326 / .385 . . . . if anybody has bill james' projection, please put it in the comments.

Update [2006-11-28 15:23:43 by lboros]: kennedy did not hit left-handers in 2006: .193 / .256 / .277 vs them last season (83 at-bats). that's well below his career performance vs lhp and probably just an aberration. vs right-handers last year, kennedy hit a robust .291 / .351 / .408; his career line vs right-handers is .287 / .338 / .417.

Update [2006-11-28 15:35:27 by lboros]: wells looks like this year's version of sidney ponson --- a groundball pitcher with a big body whose last good season was 2003. here's his career mark, vs jeff suppan's career mark when he signed with the cardinals:

	w-l	era	whip	k/9	k/bb
suppan	62-75	4.90	1.42	5.0	1.7
wells	57-74	4.46	1.49	6.6	1.6

Update [2006-11-28 16:7:51 by lboros]: scouting report on wells, from baseball prospectus: "wells doesn?t have an outstanding pitch, but he can get to the mid-90s with his sinking fastball, though his comfort zone is lower. He also has an average curve and average slider, but he lacks a change or split to keep hitters off-balance. When Wells keeps the ball down consistently, he can win." his comparables at baseball prospectus: #2 is jason schmidt, #3 is russ ortiz, and #20 is ernie broglio.

Update [2006-11-28 16:17:9 by lboros]: here's a scouting report from stats inc.: "Wells has the arsenal to be a very successful starting pitcher in the major leagues. He has a lively fastball that routinely is in the 91-93 MPH range and can be dialed up to 96 MPH when he needs a little something extra. Wells also has a hard slider with good late bite and a curveball that he throws at varying speeds, though he sometimes has a problem controlling it. His changeup is serviceable and would be even better if he didn't tend to overthrow it in tight situations. Wells is not the innings-eater type you look for in a potential No. 1 starter, as he tends to lose his effectiveness around the 100-pitch mark."

Update [2006-11-28 16:4:24 by lboros]: back to kennedy for a second --- his defense isn't so hot, according to various diff'nt systems. both chris dial's Zone Rating Plus and david pinto's PMR estimate that kennedy cost his team 6 runs in 2006. he fares better in chris davenport's system --- 11 runs better than the avg 2b. the most recent UZR rating i could find for kennedy dates to 2004; he was 2d best in the league at his position, saving an estimated 12 runs.

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Rosenthal is reporting

3 years for 10 mil

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6216252

"The good Lord was good to me. He gave me a strong body, a good right arm, and a weak mind." -Dizzy Dean

by vince eating tarp on Nov 28, 2006 3:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Ken Rosenthal

says the Kennedy deal is 3 years, $10 million.

by DCGreg on Nov 28, 2006 3:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

at that price

i like this deal a lot. more than that was going to hurt bad.

Rabid Redbird

by gthedamned on Nov 28, 2006 3:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

wow

That's a GREAT deal! 3.3 each year for Kennedy. I'll take that any day.

Wells scares me though, unless we got for good money. I'd personally much rather have Lilly.

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 28, 2006 3:07 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

we can still...

get lilly because we still have two more rotation holes to fill

by cards4ever on Nov 28, 2006 3:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

That's what I'm hoping for.

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 28, 2006 3:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Thank God

Finally some action. I was concerned this year was going to end up like last when we couldn't get anything done.

It's not all that's needed, but I'm glad to see this much.

I'm particularly glad to see Wells cheap and Bennett back catching.

Don't stop now, Walt!

by glamberson on Nov 28, 2006 3:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I like it alot

Always liked Adam Kennedy, actually picked up Kip Wells for my fantasy team a few years ago when his ERA was pretty low, but then he sucked for me. So no picking him up as a Cardinal. Now let's go get Ted Lilly!

In Albert we trust.

by Mr Redbird on Nov 28, 2006 3:10 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Schmidt

At this point, couldn't we afford Schmidt?

by Fitz on Nov 28, 2006 3:13 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

It would make sense

especially if all this talk about a $100M budget is true--the big offensive names are already signed, and here are two relatively cheap signings to help round out the starting 8 + rotation.

Go get Zito, Walt--please?

by Valatan on Nov 28, 2006 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Kennedy

made $3.35 mln last year. In this market, I'm surprised he'd sign for basically the same salary. Wouldn't surprise me if Rosenthal were off on the numbers, especially given that Bernie was talking $15 million for three years.

by DCGreg on Nov 28, 2006 3:15 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

for wells

i'm hoping for something that wolf got

by cards4ever on Nov 28, 2006 3:17 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

It's a start..

I like the kennedy deal, Werlls is alright for the back-end of the rotation....now let's get Lilly, and get this line-up pieced together.

go crazy folks..........

by wwbd on Nov 28, 2006 3:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Good and bad

I am glad to see we got Kennedy and for that price.

I also like Eli comming back to the Cards. He was a great utility guy. Played all over the place.

Kip Wells is a decent 4 or 5. I want to see the money though.

I don't like the signing of Bennett to be the back up. He helped us while Yadi was hurt, but that was a spoof and I don't see it happening again. I would have rather used Rose from Memphis

Play hard, play to win, but make it fun!

by Edmonds is baseball on Nov 28, 2006 3:21 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

rose

he signed with cleveland, and bennett is one of yadi's best friends, why would you be mad over a guy that won't play much

by cards4ever on Nov 28, 2006 3:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I also like the Marrero signing

Former Cardinal, had a breakout year a few years ago, has slid since. Signing him to a minor-league deal (a la Spiezio 2006) is basically no-risk.

In Albert we trust.

by Mr Redbird on Nov 28, 2006 3:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Is Kennedy really worth...

that much more than Miles?

$400,000 and change for a .270/.320/.360 season or $3.3 million for a .275/.330/.380 season? What was the point?

by Bivouac77 on Nov 28, 2006 3:23 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I don't think so

but if it's not going to slow us down for getting pitching, then I'm happy with it. If it is though, then I am not a happy camper.

by Pujols4Pres on Nov 28, 2006 3:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

if the cards really spend $100m on payroll

then this signing shouldn't prevent them from spending whatever they need to on pitching

by lboros on Nov 28, 2006 3:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Payroll

I agree 100%. I was doing some rough math and I figured with the current players we have signed plus bench players, the current salary is around 80-83 million. Thats gives them a good 20 million to go spend on two starters.

by its in the cards on Nov 28, 2006 5:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

It shouldn't. It's just my defense mechanism kicking in. I would love to see a Schmidt and then signing of Padilla/Lilly/Weaver or trade Jennings/Westbrook.

by Pujols4Pres on Nov 28, 2006 6:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Man I hope Kennedy's defense doesn't make me frown

n/t

by sdrone on Nov 28, 2006 3:25 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I suppose...

... one has to account for Miles spending some time in Coors, and I don't really have the defensive numbers, but my cursory evaluation is that this one is a head-scratcher.

by Bivouac77 on Nov 28, 2006 3:26 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Walt musta

seen my rant in the last thread concerning 2B, lol.

by cardsrul on Nov 28, 2006 3:32 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Bill James Projections on Kennedy

.281 / .341 / .390

by glamboomer on Nov 28, 2006 3:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Larry

please stop feeding us these Kennedy stats -- I used to be happy about that deal!

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 28, 2006 3:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Bill James...

Kennedy 505 PAs, .281/.341/.390...65 RCs

Wells 24 GS, 138 IP, 144 Hits, 99:63 K:BB, 16 HRs

by RedbirdRay on Nov 28, 2006 3:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

ZiPS

Kennedy .277/.335/.370

ZiPS not out on the Pirates yet.

by RedbirdRay on Nov 28, 2006 3:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Just read this on the ESPN.com article...

Agent Paul Cohen said Kennedy turned down more money from two other clubs that had an interest. The Toronto Blue Jays are believed to be one of those teams.

In Albert we trust.

by Mr Redbird on Nov 28, 2006 3:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

a bargain

If that's the case, and if indeed it is $10 million, it's hard to fault this deal. Take bargains where you can get them, and use the savings to overpay a Schmidt or, failing that, a Lilly or Meche.

by DCGreg on Nov 28, 2006 3:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Kennedy

Via Jerry Crasnick:

Agent Paul Cohen said Kennedy turned down more money from two other clubs that had an interest. The Toronto Blue Jays are believed to be one of those teams.

"Adam's going to the World Series champs, to one of the two or three best baseball cities in America, to a place where he's been and he knows well,'' Cohen said. "On a 1-10 happiness scale, he's like a 12 right now.''

Kennedy is a .280 hitter over eight big-league seasons with the Cardinals and Angels.

This is good to hear, IMO.

by silent_bob on Nov 28, 2006 3:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

THis makes me

shrug my shoulders and go "eh.." I mean it's okay, but it isn't really mindblowing. I just don't understand why we are progressing backwards. Why are we filling the back-end of the rotation first? Wouldn't we want to lock up the 2 spot first? Anyways at least we got one down. Also can Eli still play catcher?

Here Comes the King! Here Comes the Big #1! Budweiser Beer the King is Second to None!

by OKCardsfan on Nov 28, 2006 3:52 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Marrero not really a C anymore

he's only caught a TOTAL of 53 innings behind the plate since the 2002 season, including zero innings in the 2004-5 seasons.

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 4:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It would...

really be nice to have an emergency 3rd catcher so we could ph for Yadi in key situations...

[Meat's sig www.baseball-reference.com/teams/STL/2006.shtml>youneverknow</url]

by guayzimi on Nov 28, 2006 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm in the same place. My question

is whether Kennedy would be considered an "average" 2nd baseman, all things considered. If so, I'm fine with it; there's nothing wrong with having average players on the field. The killer is having too many BELOW-average ones. And I'd say Wells fits the bill as an average 4 or 5 starter. So we're freed up to make a big splash on some impact players, right?

But please, let's not oversell Eli Marrero. He's not even Larry Bigbie, fer chrissakes.

by MdRedbirdFreak on Nov 28, 2006 9:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I like this..

Kennedy and Eck will do good out there. I always had a feeling Kennedy would come back..

This does save us some money to use for someone else.

by birdsonthehat on Nov 28, 2006 3:58 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Not to mention

they were the DP combo for the Angels at one time. There's that level of familiarity I was taking about in the other thread.

by cardsrul on Nov 28, 2006 4:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Does anyone know

the financial terms for Wells? And what this puts our payroll at?

by El Schweenador on Nov 28, 2006 4:08 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Eckstein and Kennedy...

as our middle infielders.

I propose we borrow a nickname and start calling them the "Vanilla Midgets" now.

Obsessions of a Cardinal Fan
Redbirds Fun

by Quietude on Nov 28, 2006 4:11 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

958 3Y OPS against LHP

Brilliant signing of Marerro. His 3Y OPS against LHP is 958 for NOTHING. Makes you think Duncan is here to stay in the outfield (i.e. this is Dunc's obvious platoon partner).

Kennedy was cheap and will be able to fill the 7 or 8 slot (and there are no better prospects coming up soon). 3 for 10 is at least not overspending which is good.

Wells' salary figure will be interesting. I gotta believe it is about 3/20. Anyone else want to hazard a guess before it becomes public?

Bennett - Well the guy did single handedly allow us to make the playoffs. Lifetime pass!!! Although I was pining for J.R. House.

Back to work before I am caught! This will make for outstanding speculation on the big fish as these minor moves make you think that there is a big move in the works (Dontrelle???)

by Lawless on Nov 28, 2006 4:17 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Type of free agent

Anyone have the info on what type of free agent Kip Wells and Adam Kennedy are? Hopefully not A as they are definitely not first round draft pick (18 overall!) worthy. Akin to giving of Sinkbeil or Bard or Drabek - not a good trade...

by Lawless on Nov 28, 2006 4:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

types

Kennedy is a type B; Wells isn't ranked.

The 18th pick is still secure.

by edgesofsanity on Nov 28, 2006 4:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

That OPS split

..is heavily influenced by an aberrant 2004, Marrero's fluke career year.

he was 4-for-29 vs. lefties in '06;
22-for-89 (.247) vs. lefties in '05;
then a crazy .415 (44-for-106) vs. LHP in '04;
but a pedestrian (if even that) 28-for-123 (.228) during 2002-03.

Does NOT seem like a good platoon bet vs. LHP in 2007...

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Glad someone else noticed...

how good the Marrero signing turned out to be. I was all for signing Cruz Jr., but Marrero could definetly turn out to be our lefty-masher and will come at a significantly lower price.

by El Schweenador on Nov 28, 2006 4:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Marrero vs. LH, not incl. 2004

If you throw out Marrero's aberrant 2004, his career line vs. kefties, in 546 plate appearances:

.233/.307/.431

I don't know what I'd call that except that I wouldn't use any form of the word "mash."

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 4:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

E-lie

The year with the greatest sample is aberrant?

by Jonathan23 on Nov 28, 2006 5:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Yes he had the most PA in '04

But still, those 118 PAs vs. LHP amount to just 17.8% of his career total, and two years before that, in 114 PAs vs. LHP, he only hit .227...

That makes his .414 avg vs. LH in 2004 aberrant, compared to his hitting .233 vs LH in the other 82.2% of his career.

Are you really arguing that the fluke season Marrero had in 2004 is really indicative of his talent/potential going forward?

Including 2004, Marrero has a career OPS+ of 85. He's 33 years old. He may turn out to be the '07 version of Scott Spiezio v.06, but more likely, he'll be the Eli Marrero of 2005-06, except worse.

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 6:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Hmm

I'm not saying '04 should be indicative of future performance, but how can you you throw out the largest single season sample size then show his career numbers? 20% of someones total plate appearances seems like way to many to throw out completely.

Throw out his aberrant '02-'03 (which are, fairly, less recent than '04) and he's a .315 hitter against left handers.

Additionally, '04 he had more plate appearances than the other years, save '02, so maybe this is more indicative of his actual results when healthy? Or maybe '04 is more indicative of how he'll hit when he's not catching, than say '02, when he was splitting time there and his body was taking the usual beating?

I think there are much better reasons to lable years abberant than because it was a successful year.

by Jonathan23 on Nov 28, 2006 6:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Technically

If we are to throw out his best year, we'd also have throw out his worst with a similar sumber of at-bats.

So yeah, I agree, we can't just go around tossing away certain years at will.

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 29, 2006 1:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Correction

"a groundball pitcher with a big body"

Wells doesn't have a big body (6'3 205) and won't have the same conditioning problems that ultimately brought Ponson to the DFA platter (and to other literal ones). I've been pumping Wells for a few weeks (and called that we would sign him in June), as long as it's around 2 or 3.5 guaranteed, it's a good high reward/low risk deal for a 5th starter.

Pujols > God

by joker24 on Nov 28, 2006 4:18 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Kennedy over Miles

OPS+, last three years (2004, '05, '06):

Miles: 86, 75, 75

Kennedy: 98, 97, 90

Let Miles play vs. lefties

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 4:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

press conference

when will it be held it said 3pm but its past now

by cards07 on Nov 28, 2006 4:33 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

mighty mice

eck, miles, now kennedy...our middle infield keeps getting smaller...good the beasts of pujols and rolen are on the corners to protect the little guys in the middle

by MarcGldstn on Nov 28, 2006 4:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Kennedy is 6'1"

That's probably about the same as Belliard.

by ryanisforever on Nov 28, 2006 4:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Belliard

was closer to 5'9"

by Pujols4Pres on Nov 28, 2006 4:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

really?

i guess i should look at the data first, he just seemed like a little guy to me...shows how much my 5'9" self knows

by MarcGldstn on Nov 28, 2006 4:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

he was short

but in no way small :)

by Pujols4Pres on Nov 28, 2006 4:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

550

Mike Claiborne said that the Wells deal was 1 yr, don't know the dollar amount.

by Pujols4Pres on Nov 28, 2006 4:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

in other cardinal news

anyone think mcgwire has a chance of making the HoF in the next 5 years?

by MarcGldstn on Nov 28, 2006 4:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

yes

but not this year.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 5:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Does he have a chance?

Yes. Will he? I think the odds are long. However, once Bonds is in then Mark and Sammy will be a year or two later.

by Ignatius J Reilly on Nov 28, 2006 5:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Don't you only have six years w/ the writers?

Barry won't be eligible for at least another six years

by Valatan on Nov 28, 2006 6:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It's 15 years

as long as you get at least 5 percent every year.

The 26th Man

by 26thMan on Nov 28, 2006 7:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

don't believe the systems

I've seen Kennedy play well over 300 games the past few seasons on TV. MLB Extra Innings is awesome. His defense is much better than Miles and Belliard. He's quick on the turn and has a better arm that you'd think. I love the signing and feel those various systems used to measure fielding skills are way off. Don't let the stat geeks fool you - Kennedy will be a great signing and the price is fantastic.

So, does the Kennedy signing in effect make the trade...Bottenfield for Edmonds? =p

Bench Juan Encarnacion!

by STLCardinalsFan on Nov 28, 2006 4:44 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Bennett $

According to AP, he'll get $900,000, or $450,000 for every game-winning hit against the Cubs.

by DCGreg on Nov 28, 2006 4:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

those were walk-offs...

... and it's not my money, so i think it's well worth it.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 5:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm fine with Kennedy

I'm sure ownership is glad that it wouldn't go over one year and some piddling dollar amount for Grudz a year ago.

by tdawg on Nov 28, 2006 4:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Kip Wells?

Kip Wells??? What, was Jose Lima not available?

I'm happy with the other moves and some ex-Cards coming back, but... ugh.

by madding on Nov 28, 2006 4:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Wells is a perfect fit for Duncan

I'll say right now, if he stays healthy, wins 15 games next year.

by mdarshan on Nov 29, 2006 1:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

contract details for all of them

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;_ylt=AmQ23rIic__.KIXYTd_HbN2FCLcF?slug=ap-cardinalsmoves&prov=a p&type=lgns

wells, 1 year $4 million. bennett, 1 year $900,000

by fpslackers on Nov 28, 2006 4:54 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

really can't complain about that Wells contract

And we really should have some money laying around to fill out the rotation and maybe get another OF now.

by tdawg on Nov 28, 2006 4:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

cards signings

we really only spent a combined $7.5M on four players today, as wells is for $4M and kennedy in 07 will be paid $2.5M, so we still have plenty of room for a big starter or bat, i really want the cards to get padilla (he won 15 games in that park, so i think he can win about 17 or 18 here under duncan and in a more friendly ballpark)

by cards4ever on Nov 28, 2006 5:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Too much guaranteed by a bit

Not such a good deal. If he pans out, we probably won't be able to keep him in '08, if he doesn't, we're on the hook for 4 mil. Meh. Depends on what Meche and friends get, though if Eaton's 8 mil is any indication, I guess it's the market inflation.

Pujols > God

by joker24 on Nov 28, 2006 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

a team can absorb a 4 M dollar hit

if its one season. That's the key to this contract is keeping the years down. Eaton got 3 years @ 8M and has about as much upside as Wells. I think this signing is better than the Kennedy one by far. In '08 there will be a different set of FA and some of our farmhands could be closer to fruition (Hawksworth comes to mind).

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 5:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

On the Other Hand

We if he plays, we get a great deal for a year. And it gets back to the incentive to pitch well. The one year deal basically requires him to pitch well if he wants money next year. Yes, if he does we may not get a chance at him, but again, we could also negotiate something during the 2007 season.

I like it simply b/c it's cheap and provides him incentive to prove something.

by DuncanDipper on Nov 28, 2006 5:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Something in the high minors

If the Cards really believe that Wells is a 4 or 5 (essentially he plays to his prior numbers) then we simply replace him next year with the one of four triple A arms that works out (Hawksworth, Lambert, Parisi, or Pomeranz). Nothing much to lose...

by Lawless on Nov 28, 2006 6:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, but

if he DOESN'T pan out, then we're NOT on the hook for another year, and all is well.

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 29, 2006 1:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Wow if that's the money

on wells, that's a steal. I'd be okay with that given the market to round out the back of the rotation. It's not so much the $$$ that makes it a good contract but only 1 year. That's a low risk move like Ponson was last year.

I'm not thrilled by Kennedy. The $$$ and years don't bother me, 10/3 isn't bad but I just don't think he can hit and at best he's a nuetral fielder imo. If they platoon him religiously with Miles, that may suffice but I'd have liked to get a better production line out of 2b. I also wonder if the team doesn't plan to take a look at Brendan Ryan at SS next year depending on how his AAA goes this year. He's done well in the AFL but it could be a fluke.

Bennett and Marrero get a 'who cares' as far as I'm concerned. The only way we were going to upgrade at C was Piazza to share time and Marrero seems like Timo Perez from last year.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 5:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Backup Catcher

I thought Todd Greene would've been a decent enough upgrade, both with the stick and controlling the run game. I didn't realize until a few weeks ago just how awful Bennett had been at handling baserunners in 2006. Snowcones caught only 3 of 29 sack-gafflers, and Greene's got 100 points of career OPS on him. That and he could have been had for half as much as Bennett--just a guess. It's not a bad move, though. Backup catcher's a 1/3<sup>rd</sup> time role at best behind Molina and Bennett's said to contribute a lot from the bench.

The Kennedy deal is surprisingly reasonable. If his bat bounces back, it'll be a steal. I'm sure he'll outplay Mark DeRosa for cheaper in 2007.

Was poking through some stats earlier and noticed that AAA FA Tim Redding, five years removed from big prospect status with the Astros, had put together a nice season with the White Sox IL affiliate last year:

<center>Stats | Splits</center>

He'd add good depth to the rotation. Can't hurt to approach him now with a minor-league contract.

by liam on Nov 28, 2006 6:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

too late

the nats already got him.

http://sportsline.com/mlb/players/playerpage/212037

by lboros on Nov 28, 2006 6:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Ah, right

How soon do I forget the Nationals' Great AAAA Dragnet of 2006. The other guy in there who had some eye-popping numbers was TJ Nall.

Former Cubs/Jays RHRP Hugo Castellanos put up some pretty attractive numbers starting in Mexican ball last season as a starter and carried it over in the winter.

by liam on Nov 28, 2006 7:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Nice

Appreciate the usage of "gaffle."

The 26th Man

by 26thMan on Nov 28, 2006 7:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

gaffle

I haven't heard that since about 3rd grade.

"you got gaffled."

by mdarshan on Nov 29, 2006 1:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It's not that we couldn't have a better backup

but if they are going to play Yadi even when he is so woeful at the plate, the impact of making anykind of upgrade at backup catcher is minimal at best. There are certainly a lot more options than Bennett but I don't think the backup catcher is really going to impact this team one way or the other.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 8:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I seem to remember

a certain few games in August when a certain not starting catcher carried us. Just sayin'

by viva el rojo pajaro 42 on Nov 28, 2006 8:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sorry...

But I've been calling this Kip Wells deal forever. I'm just feeling kinda happy right now. I think he has the traits that the Cardinals want, and I think he'll have a fine season.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:07 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

if not

someone will try to dredge up your remarks later for you...

...coming from someone who knows :o)

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 5:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I feel confident...

The first post I can find advocating Wells is October 30, despite everyone really ignoring him and focusing on Lilly, Wolf, and Eaton, I stuck by him. His signing is a good decision, and I'll eat all the crow in the world if I'm wrong.

I'm just looking for props in vain to calling this signing.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

i agree

i like the signing and he fits the profile of successful Duncan reclamation projects.

$$$ and years are completely satisfactory imo

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 5:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

i got your props

I too was wanting Walt to take a chance on Kip. I like the contract, just wish we could have got an club option for a second year.

Bring Back Drew!!!

by TheFranchise9 on Nov 29, 2006 1:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

adam eaton and ted lilly got all the attention...

but K-I-P Wells...

he's the cheapest young sinkerballer out there.

I'm happy with the signing and feel confident that he is the type of pitcher duncan work with... i.e. already a groundballer. eaton, lilly and wolf never really fit this mold. also, the one year deal allows the cardinals to bridge the gap to more promissing pitchers next offseason... Jake Westbrook, Jason Jennings, and Mark Buehrle.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

I hope you're right

b/c he's pitched like a dog for about 3 years. He is 29, around the age where pitchers start to figure it out and he's out of recent baseball purgatory (i.e. Pittsburgh) and he's w/ Duncan so maybe... I'll also say I have more faith in him than I had in Ponson last year though that's not saying much.

by chuckb on Nov 28, 2006 5:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

stat wise...

I agreed with ponson. the same way that stat-wise a i agree in some ways with Jason Marquis, they both, over their respective careers have produced the qualities that the cardinals tend to look for in their pitchers. the problems... jason marquis was a stubborn head case and sidney ponson was a violent drunk. by all accounts i've heard, Kip Wells is a good person.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

LB...

... think we can get an updated roster matrix?

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 5:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

LBoros Already Did a Roster Matrix with Kennedy

back on Nov. 6.

It's here.

Incidentally, the title of that Roster Matrix was "Acquite Jason Schmidt!!" Just noticin' . . . .

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Nov 28, 2006 5:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

full update on the matrix

coming tomorrow

by lboros on Nov 28, 2006 5:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

thanks.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 6:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

forgot about it...

... that matrix has Kennedy making 3 million (actually 2.5 this year), and Baptista @ 4 million instead of Wells.

it also has Schmidt @ 13 million. i think it'll take at least 15 million now... maybe more. but the total was at 94.7 million.

it's starting to look realistic. substitute Wilson's presumed 2.5 million for Spiezio, add one million to Edmonds' price, and we're just about there. a few hundred thousand here or there, and the roster has held fairly close to reality.

which means that, if we could sign Schmidt, we'd still have 6-8 million left over for spare parts or another starter.

of course, we can't sign Schmidt, because he wants to play in Seattle. but the money is probably there.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 7:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Right

So why don't we move on to say . . . Barry Zito and possibly a one year with Mulder as well? It'd be possible with those figures. . .

Carpenter
Zito
Reyes
Mulder
Wells

(Wain as closer)

Any other fans of that out there?

Acquire Barry Zito!

by aet15 on Nov 29, 2006 1:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

quick numbers

just doing some quick numbers the cards payroll looks to be still < 85 mill.. That's a nice chunk of wiggle room.

by Birds on the Matt on Nov 28, 2006 5:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

from my research

you are right, i get $83M with about 20-25 left

by cards4ever on Nov 28, 2006 5:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Two more starters and possibly a LF for that

not too bad--I wonder what's on tap with Walt. There's certainly room to go and get one impact signing

by Valatan on Nov 28, 2006 6:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Can we get a Kip Wells Post??

I've been trying to sing this guy's praises forever, but no love. He's on the team now, we've got to love him... at least for a little bit.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:24 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I'll volunteer to do it?

A guest post?! It'd be a dream come true. I'm sorry I'm so giddy, but I spent forever staring at free agent lists and stat sheets and I'm really happy to have called and stood by the Wells signing since the offseason began.

I'm sorry, I'm not trying to be a nuisance, but I'm very excited about this deal, and excited by the possibility that maybe I do, in fact, understand a very little something about baseball.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

just put up a diary

i'll weigh in tomorrow

by lboros on Nov 28, 2006 5:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

then lets

make a run at zito or schmidt (tho it probably wont pay off)

by MarcGldstn on Nov 28, 2006 5:25 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Regarding Wells:

Let's hope that his season is closer to his first name, than to his last:

First Name: 9 K / 9 IP..... pretty darn good

Last Name: Just 1 W for every 2 L's.... .333 ain't gonna cut it.

by salvomania on Nov 28, 2006 5:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

niiice.

well done.

o8o88o888o

by ilillillli on Nov 28, 2006 5:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Not thrilled with Kennedy

If we didn't have an Eckstein type player already and had a power hitting SS, it would be ok I guess, but count me in as not really liking Kennedy at 2nd.

My main concern is he is just not a good productive hitter. And unless Yadi can have a big improvement hitting next year, the bottom of our order will be a black hole.

I just can't imagine opposing pitchers getting too worried facing Juan Enc, then Yadi, then Kennedy then the pitcher.

Unless Jocketty has something up his sleeve as far as a trade for a power hitter for LF, I am not impressed with a big chunk of our line-up. Let's pray Edmonds has a huge comeback year and Rolen stays healthy!!!

by KYCards on Nov 28, 2006 5:49 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Typical Cardinals

nothing flashy, but good solid players signed today. kennedy is "home" and happy. I'd still would have rather had Gansta Luv at 2nd. Duncan has yet another project to work with. Eli should be good off the bench. and Wild Turkey Shooters for everyone in 2007!

nothing flashy, but the needs were filled. Typical Cardinals.

The 2006 St.Louis Cardinals. WORLD CHAMPIONS OF THE WORLD. My Blog: And That's A Winner!

by gdm426 on Nov 28, 2006 5:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Lineup...

Where does TLR put Kennedy in the lineup? 2,7 or 8?

I see him in the seven spot, unless Yadi hits better this year moving Kennedy down to #8.

Eckstein 290/345/360
Duncan 275/350/485
Pujols 331/425/650
Rolen 305/395/560
Edmonds 265/375/520
Encarnacion 280/320/450
Kennedy 302/355/375
Molina 265/330/425
Pitcher

by cardzfanbub on Nov 28, 2006 6:02 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

where are you getting your numbers from

Kennedy's career line is .280/.332/.398

are you just making guesstimates at what they will do next year. I don't think Kennedy is gonna hit .300 next year.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 8:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry...

that was my projections for next year. It would put Kennedy at something of a career year, but he has put up these numbers in the past...

.312/.345/.449 2002
.300/.355/.370 2004

So, I think it's within reason. Maybe not from the seven hole, though...

by cardzfanbub on Nov 29, 2006 8:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It won't be at 2

Kennedy doesn't have the power for "damage" potential TLR is so infatuated with for that #2 spot in the lineup. I'm half expecting him to bat #8 and Yaddi at #7, especially if Yaddi's post-season carries over into a decent spring. My Christmas wish is for Yaddi to improve enough at the plate to be able to bump up to #6 and keep the free swinging, never liked him, never will, JuanE as far down the lineup as possible. That is, if he has to be in the lineup at all.

Baily

by Baily on Nov 28, 2006 10:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

my 2 cents..

I think you can forget ANY trade of Duncan...that kid is going to be taking fly balls in the spring till he drops, and will be one of our starting outfielders....with that said?...I wouldn't be writing in Encarnacion's name on the line-up card just yet....I think he is on the trading block and will be moved before camp starts...just a hunch but I think it will happen.
As to Kennedy....I've watched him here in LA since he came over..not the best fielder I've ever seen..but he will be a decent defender and I think we will see some timely hits out of this guy. I like the pick-up but I'm sure going to miss the Gangsta B!...

by Timbo02 on Nov 28, 2006 6:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Why?

it makes a lot more sense to trade Duncan, whose percieved value likely exceeds his actual value. Also, his low salary will give a lot more flexibility in acquiring a pitcher, as well.

by Valatan on Nov 28, 2006 6:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

You are assuming that his perceived value

is less than his actual value, not equal to or more.

Walk your dog, not Pujols.

by Hardcore Legend on Nov 28, 2006 7:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry, I tried to be clever and backfired

you are actually assuming that his percieved value is higher than his actual value.

Walk your dog, not Pujols.

by Hardcore Legend on Nov 29, 2006 12:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Duncan stays

It makes perfect sense until you factor in all of the management's affinities towards a player like Chris Duncan, and to Chris Duncan himself for that matter. He's LaRussa's type of player, tends to get some key hits, plays two positions (sort of). He's management's type of player, cheap young talent that gives his all. A player who came up through the system who they know and feel comfortable with. And he is the pitching coaches son. I know business is business, but when it comes to some players, there's a mutual affection between player and management (and town). That's why Mabry, Marrero, Kennedy and others have come back, why others have signed for cheaper, and why many veterans have wanted to come here. Love it or hate it, it's Cardinal baseball.

Now watch them trade him. :)

"The good Lord was good to me. He gave me a strong body, a good right arm, and a weak mind." -Dizzy Dean

by vince eating tarp on Nov 28, 2006 10:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

er

If cheap young talent that gave their all was management's kind of player, they wouldn't have signed a parade of aging, useless backup catchers over the last ten years or so.

by DanUpBaby on Nov 29, 2006 1:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

how about the guy they are backing

UP!??? They also like vetrans with a go get em attitude I thought that was implied. You do not need a young'un backing up a young catcher, you need a mentor of sorts. Really how important is a backup catcher other than working with the staff and imputing his two cents on approach to hitters gained through experience even better to have bounced around a little bit learning along the way. When I said young cheap talent did you really think I was talking about backup catchers?

"The good Lord was good to me. He gave me a strong body, a good right arm, and a weak mind." -Dizzy Dean

by vince eating tarp on Nov 29, 2006 8:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Wells...

I want to boil this down to its simplest form...We owe kip wells at least $4M for one year. We paid approx $5M for Marquis last year. It is not likely he sucks as bad as Marquis...and if he does we owe him only $4M as I am guessing no pitcher could earn any incentives if they pitched any one season like Marquis did last year. Unless of course, the incentives of the contract were based on breathing.
In that case...this is a good deal. Seriously, in this crazy market, we are paying a guy with a great gb to fb ratio - (and likely more between the ears) $1M less than Marquis earned last year....and no commitment beyond that.

How can you object to that?

by wrv18 on Nov 28, 2006 6:11 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

RE: ELI MARRERO...

He really never left us. He's been infiltrating half the league over the past 4yrs and now he's back to share what he has gathered.

Plus, his wife is sooo cute!

by Vince Coleman Firecrackers on Nov 28, 2006 6:27 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

per bernie...

were looking at other 2B, but Kennedy really wanted to be here, and signed for less than what he would have gotten elsewhere. La Russa wanted him; thinks he's a tough, winning player.
Talking to Alan Hendricks about Jason Schmidt.... has had a couple of good conversations...Jocketty indicates they will make a competitive bid for Schmidt... Hendricks is also Kip Wells' agent.
Duncan really wanted Kip Wells -- ground ball machine, anxious to be here, they think a winning atmosphere will bring out the best in him.
they did have a meeting in Florida with Soriano and his agent -- La Russa even flew in from California for the meeting -- but backed away when they found out Soriano wanted 8 years for over 100 million.
still waiting on Wainwright and whether they will use him in relief or in the rotation.... depends on what they can do in finding a couple of starting pitchers.
wants to add a veteran bat; reminded us about the wisdom of waiting for whether some guys are offered arbitration by their teams. (they don't want to give up draft picks).
not much going on with Suppan or Weaver.... only one conversation so far with Boras (weaver's guy)... but he thinks they are waiting for the market to be set even more...
is exploring both trades and FA for those two starting pitchers...
So Taguchi will be back...

--B

by matt reeder on Nov 28, 2006 7:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I guess I can live with So coming back

though I don't really understand it--good glove, no hit OF are a dime a dozen

by Valatan on Nov 28, 2006 7:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Two words...

... Billy Wagner

and a shift from So to Skip wouldn't save that much money. plus, it seems like we may need a RH bat, even if it's got no pop.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 7:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

So Taguchi

If So Taguchi and Scott Sp. are back, I don't see where there is room for Eli Mo. That would be two right handed bats on the OF bench (So T and Eli) and neither a particularly great stick. I think Skip Shu is a better fit at one of backup OF spots than having both So T and Eli. Maybe Eli has to work his way up from Memphis.

by jjray on Nov 28, 2006 7:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

i think so...

... Eli will start in Memphis, and essentially be an insurance plan.

unless he tears it up in Spring Training. honestly, i'm not even sure why we signed him. i guess he's this year's Timo, as someone already said.

by kindred on Nov 28, 2006 7:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

skip schumaker

there's no guarantee he hits righthanders better than Marrero does. He was mediocre in AAA the last two years (.730-ish OPS), he doesn't hit for any power... he's just minor league filler, as far as I can tell.

by DanUpBaby on Nov 29, 2006 1:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

if he makes less than $1M

i guess its a no harm no foul kinda deal. Our outfield options are kind of lefty heavy with duncan, edmonds and jrod. seems like their might be better options to hit lefty pitching but there are better bats off the bench than gooch. if they just keep him around for defense and avoid giving him many ABs i doubt this really hurts the team in any significant way.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 8:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Yep, and if Marrero

makes the team, we'll have 2 of 'em!

by MdRedbirdFreak on Nov 28, 2006 9:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

pitcher and veteran bat

what veteran bat are we gonna add? This kind of sentiment worries me, I hope we don't add someone just because they have been around the block. With options like JRod and Spiezio off the bench I'm not sure who we would sign to a part-time deal that would be better.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 8:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

re: pitcher

I should complete my thoughts before hitting the flippin post button.

I'm fine with filling out the back of the rotation with guys like Weaver and Wells, etc. I'm fine with starting Wainwright off in the pen but I hope they learned their lesson from last year when they gave Marquis 30+ starts. If a player is consistantly bad and you have a replacement in the wings, PULL THE PLUG. If Wells bombs, I hope they don't hesitate to replace him with Wainwright or Narveson.

I think one of the most important reasons to get Schmidt (or Zito) is because they can go deep into games. I don't have confidence in Wells or Reyes consistently going 6IP. When our rotation doesn't log enough innings it causes our bullpen to get overtaxed (see 2006 when Suppan, Marquis and Mulder couldn't make it out of the 4th to save their lives). Even if Schmidt regresses (and Zito isn't as good as his reputation imo but still averaged 6.5IP per start), he's still dependable for 6IP and not overtaxing the bullpen. Right now only Carpenter can be relied on for 6IP and I think that is a serious concern.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Nov 28, 2006 8:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

It might be me but...

...I like these moves. It's doesn't tie the Cards down long term. Has some good upside (Wells) and if it doesn't work then they can change it. I'd say it's a hell of alot easier to replace Kennedy 3@$10M than it is Mathews 5@$50M or any of the other dumb contracts.

We can make moves later on. The Astros can't do that.

I still think Walt plans on moving Juan. I never thought he planned on seing that contract to the end. Ask yourself this. What would Juan get this year based on Pierre and Mathews? At least 5@$50M and you can have him for 2@$10M?!? To bad the Giants don't have anything to trade for.

by Harknights on Nov 28, 2006 7:18 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Pipe dream

I still drool about the D-Train. Despite assurances they won't, I'm the Fish will have to move him.

by RedbirdRay on Nov 28, 2006 7:29 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Last 2 moves I want to see....

Mulder and Zito... and then call it a day!

by El Hombre on Nov 28, 2006 9:26 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I'm in.

Walk your dog, not Pujols.

by Hardcore Legend on Nov 28, 2006 10:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

Defensive Assessment

I'm studying for law school finals, so I'm asking you folks if we could run some comparisons in terms of defensive ratings from the various systems b/t Belliard, Grudz, Miles, and Kennedy. Just to give those of us who are domiciled (I'm studying Civil Procedure) in the Midwest an idea of who is comparable defensively to Kennedy. Thanks a lot.

by bgh on Nov 28, 2006 9:32 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Not what I asked Santa for, but...

...no real complaints. My "A" choice for 2B was Loretta and my "B" choice was keeping Belliard. Kennedy was "C" so can live with it. I was somewhat surprised Kennedy was signed to a 3-year deal and Wells signed for just one. I'm not so sure Kennedy's numbers will keep pace with his career average, especially after the second year and kinda feel Wells will need more than one season with D.Duncan to take full advantage the tutledge. However, I guess he's a bit of a risk (a la Ponson) and not a sure thing due to his history past couple of seasons.

So right now Cards have a #1 (Carpenter), a #3 (Reyes) and a #5 (Wells) with potentially Wainright moving into the rotation if just one more pitcher is signed.

Reyes probably moves to #4 if Suppan or Weaver re-ups, yes? Is Lilly someone who could be a #2 starter? Any serious effort being made for a 1-year incentive-laden deal for Mulder?

Baily

by Baily on Nov 28, 2006 9:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Loretta

The problem with Loretta is that he may be a little better but (1) He'll cost a little more and (2) He'll cost you the 18th overall pick... Thats a lot to giv eup for not much...

Lilly could be a #2 but I have a strong feeling he is going to end up in SF...

by Lawless on Nov 28, 2006 11:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

A good day for the Cards.....

Kennedy is a nice fit--gutsy competitor and we surely got him at a discount.

Wells at 4 mil--fits the profile of a Duncan reclamation projectc. Are you kidding me? Wolf at 8 mil or Wells at 4? Any word on whether the Cards hold an option for year 2? I'd be interested...

Bennett--fine. Must have been OK in the clubhouse--he started to hit later in the season.

Marrero--I like. Only 33. Hit well for ATL in 2004, just hasn't stayed healthy the past couple of years. He'll get in great shape and a have a strong chance to compete for a roster spot in the spring. Like his versatility (can still catch).

Taguchi--According to Bernie (per his radio interview with Walt) will be back. You gotta like So.

by stanchar on Nov 28, 2006 9:49 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

I'm happy....

with each of these moves. AK isn't my first choice for second baseman, but he isn't horrible.

Miller sucks.

by Ankiels Missing Curveball on Nov 28, 2006 9:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Eric Gagne anyone?

Anyone else want to take a risk on Eric Gagne? His upside is monster.

by DimitroffVodka on Nov 28, 2006 10:07 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Boras

Boras claims Gagne has an offer on the table a 1Y/10M.

I can't hardly believe it, but if its true I am not touching that risk/reward scenario. 1Y/3M... that I'd do.

by Lawless on Nov 28, 2006 11:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

So Taguchi

I am extremly disappointed that So is coming back. He can't hit lefties good enough for my taste. Cruz Jr was a much better option.

by DimitroffVodka on Nov 28, 2006 10:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Still could sign him?

I was kind of hoping to see Cruz Jr. signed by Cards as well. Wishful thinking is Walt could talk him into a minor league deal and have him compete in Spring Training for a job, a la Spiezio. He'd probably go head-to-head against Gooch and Eli. May the best man win. Nothing like a little competition to keep your job or get a job to bring out the best in a player.

Baily

by Baily on Nov 28, 2006 10:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

These Moves...

Set up a run at Jason Schmidt... If Wainwright moves into the rotation the only real hole we have left is the one in the Rotation and we could easily throw 15 -17 mil a year and Schmidt. Go get em.

by BigMac545 on Nov 28, 2006 10:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Hilarious clip from a TV show:

Featuring Spiezio, Eckstein, and Kennedy...

Check out this link: Pretty funny stuff.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uh-WIUGKk98

by AndyB83 on Nov 28, 2006 10:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

That was

painful to watch. Did you see how much taller that chick was than Eck? Great stuff.

"The good Lord was good to me. He gave me a strong body, a good right arm, and a weak mind." -Dizzy Dean

by vince eating tarp on Nov 28, 2006 11:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs

"in that case...

how would you like to be touched by an angel?"

Something tells me he used that line before.

"It's a beautiful day for a ballgame... Let's play two!" -ernie banks

by SleepyCA on Nov 29, 2006 2:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs

finally!!!!!

have been waiting for some sort of action from the cards for a while, and wouldnt you know it, i was away from the computer all day, so had no idea what was going on, pisses me off!!!

but hey just glad they have gotten to work

kennedy-very surprised he took 3/10, and i am happy with him at that price

wells-once again, happy with the price, even happier it was for one year, very little risk

bennett-he is ok, not enough money to care much either way

marrero-low risk, if he plays well, u keep him, if not you dont, simple as that, nothing to lose for the team

i just hope this allows them to get a big time pitcher now, like schmidt, with wainwright in the rotation, or leave wainy in the pen and get two from among lilly, padilla, meche, supp, weaver

by bigcardsfan5 on Nov 28, 2006 11:01 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

not sure about the moves yet

but we will see...id like to see more done with the OF, but thats just me and Im not ready to annoint Reyes the savior and #3 guy...but his WS game brought me around...again been skeptical of the guy along post back to back solid starts and im in on him..

but long way to go to april, so lets see what else they do

Kenny is a "dirt" bag?

by punchinjudy on Nov 28, 2006 11:25 PM EST reply actions 0 recs

Kennedy comments/GM profiles

Interesting observations over at Talking Chop (Braves SBNation site), especially at how we value middle IF'ers and how different teams' GM's are similar/different (I like where we play, personally - I would call that the "smart money".....hopefully):

"The Cardinals have reportedly reached an agreement with free agent second baseman Adam Kennedy on a three-year, $10 million contract. That effectively takes the Cards out of the running as a possible Marcus Giles destination. It's also a relatively sane contract compared to what has being handed out elsewhere, and it is more reasonable for a more proven commodity than the three years and $13 million that DeRo got from the Cubs. Kennedy's contract is the same money and length that former fellow Angel David Eckstein got two years ago from the Cards.

It is interesting that from the Cardinals' perspective, the value for middle infielders has not changed in the last couple of years, yet everywhere else they seem to be exploding. I also think it further underscores that there are two or three different camps of General Managers; those who will spend whatever on whomever (Cubs, Angels, Astros, Phillies), those who spend what little money they have on the wrong people (Pirates, Blue Jays, Reds, Dodgers), and those who wait for the sane contracts that largely go unnoticed but add up to the right pieces (Braves, Cardinals, Brewers, A's)."

Here's the link: http://www.talkingchop.com/

After today we are set up to chase a big name, hopefully for the starting rotation. Another stud to pair with Carp would be killer in the postseason. Let's see how Walt plays this one - his endless patience could have us waiting through the winter - spring training - even into the season!

by wildman on Nov 29, 2006 12:51 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

like the moves...

i'm glad we finally get some stability at the 2b position. unfortunately eck might move on and then we will need a ss.

i like the wells signing. i hope he pitches up to his potential under dunc and we sign him to an extension during the year.

i don't know my so many people are against the gary bennet signing. i think bennet did a great job for us this year. heck, i would have signed him just for that slam he hit last year. a team's back-up catcher is not that big of a deal especially when you have a horse starter like yadi.

i definitely wouldn't mind keeping dunc if his defense improves. as long as we keep him in that 2 whole and he keeps seeing a steady diet of fastballs i think he will keep hitting the way he did last year. that said i also wouldn't mind seeing his trade being back a semi-young picther.

mulder won't be back until mid-season apparently so if we sign him we would need a good stop gap till then. plus it sounds like mulder is getting from many overpaying teams and there is no way walt wants to compete with that. i think his track record over the past couple years warrents a lot of concern.

by FutureMan on Nov 29, 2006 2:09 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

walt does it again...

i think this was probably the best start to an off-season possible. walt appears be working backwards-in. he figures, let's sure up the annoying question mark spots first cheap, and then see what we have left and which big names are left and see what happens.

now we got a legitimate chance to get a top notch ace to go along with carp and finally remove some of the weight from his tired shoulders. we also have enough room to make some very interesting trade moves too with enc where we can take on some salary. and not to mention we could also find a high potential #4 out there. i think wells is going to pitch a lot better for us because of dunc, a good defense behind him, and the confidence associated with playing in a winning atmosphere.

i like the kennedy deal a lot. i think kennedy is going to be a real nice player for us, both defensively [remember he's gonna work the secret weapon, which definitely improves most infielders he works with] and offensively in clutch situations. and isn't that what we are worried about most? who really cares if kennedy hits .265 all season, but hits .325 in the playoffs? i'm not sold on bringing back so, even though he came through huge for us last year. i was a little partial to preston wilson or jose cruz as has been discussed numerous times on here.

lastly, i would definitely endorse bringing in both zito and mulder. nice diversity in a pitching styles for our rotation. overall, very happy today. nice start, walt!

by stlspecialsauce on Nov 29, 2006 3:04 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

kennedy

how much will his obp/slg raise by trading the al west out for the nl central...i would think moving to the nl would be worth quite a boost right now

by johnstjc on Nov 29, 2006 4:54 AM EST reply actions 0 recs

REMEMBER

Remember any big contract given out to a pitcher will have to be immediately matched and given to Carpenter. So if you throw a $55mil/4 year contract the way Schmidht it will have to be thrown back to Carpenter.

by DimitroffVodka on Nov 29, 2006 8:30 AM EST reply actions 0 recs