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C.C to the Brew Crew — done deal, yes — we think

I would imagine that if this is a done deal, it'll be announced after the game. Anthony Castrovince says the deal is Matt LaPorta and two other prospects.

UPDATE: See also blog updates from Hoynes (1:38 p.m.) and Milwaukee's Journal-Sentinal (4:04 p.m.). [Jay]

UPDATE: Note new headline. Castro now says Shapiro told him directly that it's not a done deal, although Shapiro no doubt is partly making sure the Brewers aren't getting word through the media that the Indians think it's a done deal — i.e., keeping alive the idea that there are other serious bidders. Hoynes reported earlier that the Dodgers, Phillies and Rays were next in line behind the Brewers, but the Rays aren't going for the gusto, the Phillies don't have a big upper-minors guy, and Fox Sports now reports that the Dodgers are out of the running.

Meanwhile, LaPorta tellingly was not in the Double-A Huntsville lineup for tonight's game, while other rumored guys like Escobar and Gamel are in that lineup — consistent with Hardricourt's report that the Brewers have drawn the line at including two elite prospects for a three-month rental. [Jay]

UPDATE: Okay, now the Brewers reporter is saying it really is a done deal, as of 6:46 EST.

Link 12 months ago Seagull_on_sale_pier_tiny Ryan Comment 280 comments 1 recs |

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Read More: CC Sabathia (P - NYY), Matt LaPorta (LF - CLE), Cleveland Indians, Milwaukee Brewers

Comments

Display:

wouldn’t it be great if shapiro called a press conference right now and announced byrd or blake was getting traded, and then at the very end bust out his pimp cain and LaPorta comes strolling in the room …

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:40 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pull a Steve Jobs?

“Oh, and there’s just one more thing …”

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pimp Cain? Isn’t that what we call Matt Cain?

I did a Google image search for "Andy Marte." It turned up zero results.

by emd2k3 on Jul 7, 2008 1:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Shapiro has to pull the trigger. The Indians won’t win again until they move CC. And Casey, too.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 4:40 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope so. Who replaces CC in the rotation?

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:45 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hear a new fan promotion!

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 4:55 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

turned the radio back on to Hammy saying “and our player of the game goes to … absolutely nobody”.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Probably won’t be official until the Brewers finish as well. Brewers are in the 7th right now

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 4:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

going to start listening to their game now

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

let us know what they say.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Excuses for the swearing . . . but if we can’t land either Gallardo or Parra together with a solid position prospect, this deal is fucked.

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 4:50 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

whoa, that’s a bit out there

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Seriously?

Seriously?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

your response was better

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You heard the man.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 4:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah . . . I’m serious. If there is no top-line pitching prospect/MLB-ready guy coming our way, we are in trouble. period.

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 4:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

are we talking 2008 here? if so, we’re gonna have the worst record in the AL soon regardless.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 4:53 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lee/Carmona/Laffey/Huff/Sowers until Westbrook. If the pen is good, that’s quite a fine rotation.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Unfortunately, the pen isn’t good.

by Ryan on Jul 6, 2008 4:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I’m talking next year.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

How is the pen going to get better next year? The Indians simply expect it being an odd year, the pen will be fine? How will the Indians get a closer? I haven’t looked at the free-agent list in a while, but Shapiro is going to have to make an exception and overpay for a couple of Linebrink-type relievers.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 5:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

This kid Sipp looks like he maybe the real deal – barring injuries of course.

Resident LGT beer kinda sewer

by mauichuck on Jul 6, 2008 9:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The same way it got worse this year. It’s a bullpen. It happens.

Proud supporter of the Cleveland.

by fwembt on Jul 6, 2008 9:45 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

in all seriousness, our rotation doesn’t worry me so much

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 4:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

what about Sowers? look at the stats

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 4:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Because we need starting pitching or you want starting pitching or whatever doesn’t mean that 4 months of Sabathia becomes worth Gallardo.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:55 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I know, I know . . . but you can’t blame a guy for occasionally having irrational hopes . . . not in my right mind

by DocNo on Jul 7, 2008 9:12 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

also, sowers never put up the numbers that huff is putting up right now in AAA (6 starts, so we’ll see if he can keep his k’s up). Sowers’ strikeouts suddenly slipped in AAA and have never returned.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

DocNo, when I start using “Look at the stats!” as a personal catchphrase, please don’t take it as an insult. It’s not. I just think it’s a great way to end an argument.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 5:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

apologies for my laziness/lack of time at the moment, but . . . bullshit . . . you guys should both look at what Sowers did to AAA hitters before being called up, and then what he did in his first half year in the majors. I don’t have the time now to show you his stats (i have done that before in his defense), but he had a sub-2 era with approx. 1 hr. in 100 ip in AAA. He was dominating, minus the high-K rate. But he was not walking anyone as he is now, nor was he serving up HRs.
baseballcube.com should illustrate my point quickly enough

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 5:26 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don’t know how to convince you of my sincerity here, but I really am sincere. I can’t wait to be discussing politics with somebody and finish an argument with “Look at the stats!” The possibilities, DocNo, they’re endless.

I agree with you, for the most part, but I’m fearful of the Zach Duke effect. Great start, and middling ever since. I see he’s having an okay year now, but he’s still got some issues with the BBs.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 6:41 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I don’t think you’ve got a solid grasp on the values involved here. Why would any team that needs starting pitching for a stretch run trade top-line starting pitching?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 4:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Cf. Gallardo. Top-line talent. If the Brewers aren’t contending next year, he could be expendable. He’s certainly not doing anything for them this year. He should be the target, not laporta

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 4:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

but this is beside the point. contending teams (which I’m sure Milwaukee plans to be in 2009) don’t trade young starting pitching.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

actually, i`dont think they are planning on being that good in 09

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 5:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

sorry, but why in the world do you think MIL would be the first option for CC now if they were planning on contending in 2009? They can’t keep CC or Sheets, so they go for it now.
Of course, the fact that they can’t afford CC or Sheets means that they won’t trade Gallardo or Parra kind of negates my first point, but still . . . that is who we should be after

by DocNo on Jul 6, 2008 5:06 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

CC isn’t worth those guys. At all. Not even close. Those players represent the most valuable commodity in baseball, period.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 5:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gallardo can’t be traded anyway, can he? He is on the DL for a very long time.

by vegaswatch on Jul 6, 2008 5:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah I don’t know the rule. I assumed he could because DocNo was pushing it so hard but someone else will have to clarify it.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 5:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Tough to do with a player of any significant value. What happens when the guy never comes back?

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A team cannot trade a player on the disabled list.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 5:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

C.C. Sabathia is a bad example of this.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 5:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Really? And in what world would Milwaukee even think about that?

Proud supporter of the Cleveland.

by fwembt on Jul 6, 2008 9:49 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

“Guillermo Mota felt terribly bad.”

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 4:52 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Damn, I bet a guy 20 bucks that CC would end up with the Phils.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 4:53 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wedge with some real gems again in the post game

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 4:58 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

“Nadal really did a great job of sticking it to Federer’s backhand”

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   2 recs

I was being facetious, just the same old stuff about keep fighting. Getting unlucky

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 5:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is anyone else listening to Uecker right now? I think he said someone was probably getting into makeup for 4:30 (central). I missed the first part.

by FranklinScott on Jul 6, 2008 5:00 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ah hell i’m listening and totally missed it

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Watching Brewers TV on Extra Innings – no mention at all of a possible trade – they seem oblivious.

by IndyDave on Jul 6, 2008 5:02 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not wanting to stir any pots, but there’s no real reason to delay a trade announcement until the end of the Brewers’ game unless there is a current Brewer (i.e. major leaguer) involved.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 5:03 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We landed Prince Fielder! WoW

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 5:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

from a PR perspective, why would Milwaukee want to announce the acquisition of a HUGE player during a game, when its best fans aren’t necessarily in front of a television or internet.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

OMG! CC Sabathia is in the owner’s box!

/waldman

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 5:09 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

I’m not saying they wouldn’t want to wait until after the game, especially since it’s not a long delay, but I imagine they want to get CC headed west-northwest as soon as possible, PR be damned.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 5:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

that can happen without an announcement, though

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Any bets on which website uses the headline “C Cya later”?

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 5:05 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

/reserves domain “ccyalater.com”

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 5:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ESPN is already on it, of course (near the bottom). Note also the cherry-picking in the Dead-Line box.

by FranklinScott on Jul 6, 2008 5:35 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i’m actually really hoping we tank the rest of the year and get the #1 pick

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:06 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I haven’t looked that far ahead yet, is there a clear top-guy that it would matter to get?

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 5:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Next year’s draft actually has some decent talent up top, yes.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 5:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Until this team gets somebody with some fire (Victor), that’s a real possibility.

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 5:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I really think the team changes a lot psychologically when Casey goes. I hope so, at least. No more overachieving.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 5:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hey! CC is just “big boned”!

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 5:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

They are going to have a tough time getting that bird in the air – especially in Denver.

by ganatz on Jul 6, 2008 5:19 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

who the hell is steve pearce

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:10 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he hit .333/.394/.622 last year across A+, AA, and AAA

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

with 31 home runs … jesus.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he was clearly bored in AAA this year.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ballgame, brewers win.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:12 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So, are we all Brewers fans now?

by Toxicadam on Jul 6, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Rooting for a Brewers/Rays World Series

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 5:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

already kind of was. this will cement it. for this year anyway.

by still ill on Jul 6, 2008 5:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Haudricourt had an update at 4:04 speculating the press conference would be tomorrow

http://blogs.jsonline.com/brewers/archive/2008/07/06/brewers-trying-to-close-deal.aspx

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 5:15 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Linked above. Here it is:

A couple of club sources have told me the Brewers and Indians are still in heavy negotiations to try to conclude a deal … That means they are still trying and the Indians are still listening … If the Brewers are going to get this done, they want to do it in time for Sabathia to make his next start for them. If you’re going to give up a lot for a pitcher, you want his services as much as possible.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

can’t somebody just leak the players names already?

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:17 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   1 recs

yeah seriously. and i really find it hard to believe we were pressing for escobar.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

you mean besides La Porta? Castrovine made it sound like he was a given.

It's the Arizona talking, really.

by RD74 on Jul 6, 2008 5:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ooh, bratwurst. that sounds good.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

damn…I have to go out for the evening now.

by APV on Jul 6, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

uecker signing off, nary a mention.

by Gradyforpresident on Jul 6, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He said he couldn’t stay long because he was meeting Rick Vaughn for drinks after the game.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 5:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

has anyone checked matt laporta’s facebook page?

by emil minty on Jul 6, 2008 5:42 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What is the chance that MLB has somebody sitting around on a Sunday night to approve the deal?

I assume they have to pull the guy out of his Sunday activity and get him to review pages of documents to show that he has done his work. It’s not like the last few days before the deadline where MLB would be geared up to handle a high volume of activity.

We’ll see if anyhing leaks overnight. Some guy on the Milwaukee blog said ( I assume jokingly) that his relative is a travel agent in Cleveland and that the Indians just bought a one-way first class ticket to Milwaukee.

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 5:46 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

A trade can be made on a Saturday, and it doesn’t need MLB approval unless more than $1M is going to change hands.

Maybe the Indians will be eating some salary to get a better package of players and also leave the Brewers with some free cash.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 5:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And a Sunday. My internal calendar is a bit off.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 5:58 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The chance is 100% that this gets approved within an hour.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 5:55 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

“the Indians just bought a one-way first class ticket to Milwaukee”

...and the Brewers have bought three aisle seats on the Greyhound from Huntsville to Akron?

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 6:03 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I’d much rather have Green than Brantley, since Green fits a need and probably is a better prospect than Brantley. I must say though that I hoped for Laporta and Escobar or Laporta, Green and Cain—Laporta and Green doesn’t quite seem enough/

by JP_Frost on Jul 6, 2008 5:55 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sorry. There is also an unnamed third player.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 5:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ah, that sounds better.

by JP_Frost on Jul 6, 2008 6:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Hardricourt blog comments are saying LaPorta is a scratch from tonight’s game, but no box score is up on MiLB yet…

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 5:52 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

also per WTAM, no LaPorta, but Escobar and Gamel are in the lineup

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:09 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Huntsville lineup

Parejo CF 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .291
Escobar RF 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .326
Gamel 3B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .375
Salome DH 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .336
Gillespie LF 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .276
Hopf 1B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .250
Bell 2B 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .258
Garciaparra SS 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .207
Maldonado C 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000
Wright P 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .037

Note that Escobar is in right. And LaPorta is not in la porta.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 6:17 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also! No Brantley.
(Sorry, meant these to be in reply to Fundamentals and palcal, above.)

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 6:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brantley hasn’t played in a week. Don’t know what’s up with him.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 6:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Minor injury from what I have read on Brewers blogs.

by Roger Dorn on Jul 6, 2008 6:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If Brantley is injured (no matter how severely) and part of this deal, that probably explains the delay, at least in part. The Tribe would surely insist on some sort of assurance of his health, up to and perhaps including a medical evaluation. Considering the Brewers’ hurry to get CC on their mound, that might bode well for including an Escobar or Green rather than Brantley.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 6:31 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

MiLB has Escobar at short, Garciaparra in RF
same players, different positions

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

all 3 catchers in the lineup

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

give me Escobar or give me death

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 6:22 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

indications that Indians will have a press conference Monday

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:23 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

To announce ten-year extension for Casey Blake.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 6:28 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Casey’s life goal is to be the oldest player ever to make an error.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 6:33 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also oldest to pop out with RISP and two outs.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 6:36 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Get with it odradek – that was last year. This year Casey’s drivin’ ‘em in – when we’re down by 6 runs in the eighth.

Resident LGT beer kinda sewer

by mauichuck on Jul 6, 2008 9:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He’s our A-Rod like that.

Proud supporter of the Cleveland.

by fwembt on Jul 6, 2008 9:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I haven’t looked at his career numbers after this year’s run, but I bet he’s still near the bottom of the barrel.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 10:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That is totally unfair — he also drives ‘em in when we’re up by 6 runs.

by Jay on Jul 7, 2008 12:22 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Buster Olney was just on SportsCenter. His comments said the trade isn’t done yet, but its “on the 10-yard line”. He said it will get done.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 6:28 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brantley has been out with ankle sprain

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:30 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

just wanted to say that both Green and Cain played earlier today for high A Brevard County.

by JP_Frost on Jul 6, 2008 6:32 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I like our current third base prospect a level higher than high A. Just my opinion though.

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 6:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Not hard to argue that Green is a better prospect than Hodges.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 7:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Castrovince just said he got off the phone with Shapiro—- deal is not done. http://castrovince.mlblogs.com/archives/2008/07/cc_to_the_brew_crew_done_deal.html

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 6:49 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Noted above in main post.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 6:49 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

cain being promoted to Huntsville

Brewers telling Shapiro that deal needs to be wrapped up tonight

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:53 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

report on radio that deal is done pending paperwork and exchange of medical records

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 6:54 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also says no Escobar or Gamel.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 6:59 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Haudricourt vs. Castrovince:
interesting.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 7:00 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brewers Leaks vs. Indians Historically Tight Lips

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 7:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

or vs. just taking a leak.

by FranklinScott on Jul 6, 2008 7:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brewers were leaking to put pressure on Shapiro to close deal quickly

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 7:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Close deal quickly, such as….hurry up and call a press conference? Quickly notify the clubhouse to clear C.C.’s locker since nobody is even home today? That’s not the kind of pressure Melvin can apply…Cleveland has control. That’s why Matt LaPorta is being traded for 3 months of C.C.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I fail to see how the leaks would serve to pressure Shapiro.

It’s in everyone’s best interest to get the deal done quickly, because Sabathia’s value goes down if they can’t get him to another city by Tuesday night.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I love CC.

But Matt LaPorta is a hard worker and we will love him.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:09 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I love a .978 OPS in AA at age 23 right now.

by FranklinScott on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It’s an old joke.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

So he’s NOT an Ohio State fan?

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 7:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Reading his lips:
”...and deliver us from Gainesville, amen.

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 7:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What ugly uniforms. I hate Florida (and I almost went to grad school there),

by Buckeye Brad on Jul 6, 2008 9:35 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

one of the 2’s gotta be Green, right?

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 7:13 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Would we want Brantley or Green?

by Cols714 on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Aren’t we getting three in the deal – why can’t it be both of them, along with LaPorta?

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is Brantley a rich man’s Trevor Crowe?

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 7:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Perhaps, though he’s at AA at age 21, with solid numbers; Crowe didn’t reach AA Akron until age 22, and didn’t have his first full season there until age 23. Additionally, Brantley is putting up comparative numbers to Crowe’s High-A numbers in 2006 at AA Huntsville, though the Southern League is more of a hitter’s league than the Eastern League.

Still, I think the worst case scenario for Brantley at this point would be a better version of Crowe – I could take that if Brantley is the third guy in the deal, along with LaPorta and Green.

I hope the hold-up is just that the Indians are being thorough with Brantley’s medical records and injury – if he needs some time off after acquiring him so he can be 100%, I wouldn’t think that would be a major issue.

Let’s hope it happens!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:19 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Have to like 39 BB and only 25 K.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 7:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Definitely – plate discipline seems to be a strength for him, something we can use more of (too many Ks on our ballclub, especially for a ballclub without much power, two things that will hopefully become more manageable in the future – the Ks and the power).

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:26 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

HOLLA

So long CC, it’s been real.

Burn on, big river, burn on...

by Turkmenbashi on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello everyone,

If we can get LaPorta, Green, and Brantley, I’d take that and be happy.

LaPorta is reportedly a “stud” – hope he turns out that way.

Green is very solid defensively and is hitting comparatively as well as Gamel was last year at Brevard County at the same age (and keep in mind the Florida State League is notorious for suppressing offense, especially HRs, so 6 isn’t bad by any means in that league at this point in the season.)

From what I see about Brantley, he just turned 21-YO and is off to a great start in AA – .337/.415/.426, with a 31 BB/14 K ratio in 249 ABs (around half a season). As I’ve mentioned before, the Southern League, unlike the FSL, helps to increase offensive production, so he might not be THAT good, but still is putting up solid numbers even after taking consideration the league, and he’s likely the THIRD guy in the deal.

Personally, I’d be happy with that – I know that neither may be Escobar, but I think both Green and Brantley could have fewer questions offensively than Escobar, especially when it comes to plate discipline.

Just my 2 cents. :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:14 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I guess Steel Nick is excited. I’m pretty happy too!

by NickFantana on Jul 6, 2008 7:18 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

wouldn’t it be nuts if, with actual playing time, Marte pans out and we have Hodges AND get Green?

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 7:20 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hey, I’d like that problem! You can put one at 3B (Marte or Green, though I might say Green,) one at 1B (Hodges or Marte, probably Marte,) and one in the OF (Marte would seem the likeliest, as I heard rumors about him being moved out there if he was inconsistent at 3B at one time or another over the past few years).

Depth is always good – either for filling out your club with players or with trade acquistions! :-)

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Whoops – I meant to say Hodges at 1B, not Marte.

Therefore, Green at 3B, Hodges at 1B, Marte in LF (or maybe RF if he could handle it).

Just my 2 cents. :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I thought LaPorta was is left?

"A good body with a dull brain is as cheap as life itself."

by Fiddlesticks on Jul 6, 2008 7:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I wasn’t even thinking about LaPorta, who could fit in LF or DH (I’m not optimistic about Pronk at this point – I hope he rebounds, but I’m skeptical at this point) – if that’s the case, see if Marte fits in RF (since Gutierrez is looking less and less like an everyday player).

Depth can cause problems, but those are good problems in my opinion – they’ll sort themselves out. I just hope everyone in this deal pans out as expected (much like the Colon trade, EXCEPT all three of the players excel with the Indians).

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:28 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I’d keep Marte at 3B in the scenario that all 3 pan out. Marte’s D has been very good.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 8:44 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I’m happy that the Indians seem to be getting some real talent back in this deal, but I’m pretty sad that the best Tribe pitcher of my lifetime is gone.

by Cols714 on Jul 6, 2008 7:22 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It really is bittersweet. But let’s all just enjoy LaPorta.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he’ll be back in November. Book it!

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 7:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope you’re right, though I will not hold my breath on that. But, you can dream, right? :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I have been trying to think of a player who has done what we hope CC will do: get traded away midseason as a rental and then re-sign with his old team. Has anyone done this?

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 7:29 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kenny Lofton in 95 right?

by world dictator on Jul 6, 2008 7:31 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kenny Lofton was before the season wasn’t he?

by Bernie19Kosar on Jul 6, 2008 7:32 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kenny played all of 1995 and 1996 in Cleveland and was traded to Atlanta in March 1997. He played the full season with the Braves. He then signed with the Indians as a free agent in December 1997.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 7:37 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I too would have liked Sabathia to be in an Indians’ uniform into the next decade, but alas, the market inequality rears its ugly head again. The Indians had no real chance of retaining Sabathia, so this is the best possible move they can make, as I’d think these three will be better than 2 high draft picks (certainly hope and think so, anyway).

Go Tribe!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope CC goes 12-0 and they catch the Cubs on the last day of the season.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:32 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

If CC goes 12-0, I highly doubt they’ll have to wait until the last day of the season to catch the north siders.

by cheech99 on Jul 6, 2008 8:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Is he batting between starts? That’s 12 wins.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 8:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Chisenhall is 3-3 with 2 2Bs.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:30 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

You da man, Andrew.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 7:31 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello Andrew,

Chisenhall has really started to heat up after a slow start – nice to see. I’d like to see more of our early-round picks start ripping through the Minor Leagues (unlike Mills, who has stalled a bit at High-A Kinston, though so have Drennen, Weglarz, Goedert, and Rivero as well, though Weglarz and Rivero are quite young, and Mills is too to a lesser extent).

Still, it’d be nice to see more of our early-round picks be unstoppable forces in the Minor Leagues, unlike the last few seasons (Jonathan Holt, for one – ugh – struggling at Low-A with marginal stuff from the reports I’ve heard).

Just my 2 cents. :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:33 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wegz is on track, I think. I think we’ll get one good player out of Mills, Hodges, Goedert, and Drennen.

Chisenhall is becoming sort of exciting.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

More critical is the point that Lonnie is NOT a polished college left-hander.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 7:35 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lonnie is a good example of a player who is not a pitcher.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:37 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes, Wegz shows some promising signs – I almost forget he’s only 20-YO, so his struggles at times is understandable.

As for Rivero, he’s only 20 (? – I think – Baseball Cube doesn’t have his age listed), so again, some struggles at High-A is understandable. Plus, he’s dealt with injuries off and on (hopefully, he can get that under control).

Mills himself is only in his age 21 season, so he’s not old for a college draftee, though you’d like to see him reach AA before the end of the season.

I hope you’re right about the foursome you mentioned – if we can get one good player and one or two decent players from that group, I’d be happy. :-)

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:40 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mills may not have torn it up like we might’ve hoped, but his OPS for May and June was .888 and .874, respectively. Walk rate is good, 37 XBH, hit lefties well. Like I said, he’s not tearing it up, but let’s see how he finishes before we say he’s stalled.

by TribeJay on Jul 6, 2008 11:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello TribeJay,

Good point about Mills – I haven’t had a chance to really analyze his full stats; still, I think most were thinking he’d be ready for AA about now, but I’d say he could use more time at High-A to become more consistent. Therefore, I see maybe a cup of coffee for him at AA in August, but that’s probably all.

Like I mentioned above, he is on the younger side, so it’s not that damaging at this point, but I think many were hoping he’d be dominating High-A a little more than he has to this point.

Really, as a whole, the entire Kinston offense has struggled, with all those notable names (Weglarz, Mills, Goedert, Drennen, and Rivero) struggling at some point this season, if not altogether – that’s a major reason why Kinston is struggling so badly this year (a rarity for them). The pitching has shown flashes of dominance, especially from Rondon and from Wright, with a few solid to strong outings by Gomez, but has been outdone by the weak offense and the bullpen – strange, doesn’t this sound familiar? (Especially guys like Tseng, who does not look impressive, despite being able to now throw his curveball or other offspeed pitch that he wasn’t allowed to use last year to help him build up his other offerings.)

I certainly am not writing off Mills yet, but would like to see him pick up the production and stay consistent to finish this season – that way, he’ll hopefully be able to transition to AA easier in 2009.

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 7, 2008 12:25 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Wes Hodges is 1-2 with a 3B.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:31 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Keep up the great updates – Andrew – I echo Jay’s thoughts of “You’re The Man!”

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Huff gets touched up for 3 runs in the first then comes back in the second and K’s the side in order.

We might have accidentally drafted a flamethrower.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:33 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sounds a bit like Miller, though I hope Huff stays healthier than Miller (whose fastball reportedly jumped 3-5 MPH AFTER we drafted him).

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:35 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Except Huff was drafted at 24, not 18. But I see what you mean.

He now has like 41 K’s in 34 innings in Buffalo.

Oh and the most exciting thing about the Indians farm right now, to me? Tony Sipp.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:37 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good point about Miller’s age – I did mean the unexpected life on his fastball. As mentioned elsewhere, I am surprised by Huff’s high K rates; when he was drafted, I was thinking more along the lines of a Sowers. Now, I’m thinking more along the lines of a good Cliff Lee (I’m not saying he’ll be as good as Lee, and not especially in 2008, but more of a #2-#3 starter being a real possibility, rather than a #4-#5 guy like Sowers is projecting more to be, provided he can become more consistent).

I too am excited about Sipp – I think he and Stevens might be the two guys who profile best for that closer role in terms of stuff. I can’t say about either’s makeup for the closer’s role at this point, though I think both have had some experience with the closer’s role in the Minors, though they’ll likely need more, and then some at the ML level before they can inherit that role at the ML level, if they ever do.

But, certainly, I’d consider those two (Stevens and Sipp) as our future long-term closer before investing a lot of money or even some money over many years on a closer with similar stuff to Borowski or a pitcher on that order.

Just my 2 cents. :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:44 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Huff was drafted at 24?

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 8:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sorry. Sloppy math on all accounts.

I assumed this was his age 24 season, because he’s ‘84, meant to write 23, because I always forget pitchers go through NYPL, and should’ve been writing 21.

21. Still different than Miller. But not a silly age to be drafted.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello Andrew,

I thought that age wasn’t right, but I didn’t focus on it. That’s why I think Huff is promising, and especially because of that higher-than-expected K rate – he’s likely not CC, but if he can come close to the “good” Lee, I’ll be very happy! I think that would help ease the strain caused by the recurring injuries to Miller and the recurring struggles and injury to Lofgren.

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 7, 2008 12:20 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

“It is definitively not a done deal,” Shapiro said. “I won’t comment on what point it’s at or how far along [it is].”

That’s Castrovince about 20 minutes ago.

If I have to wait for a press conference tomorrow for this to be done, I’m going to be annoyed. I’ve got stuff to do, and I’m sitting here refreshing 5 different sites.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:37 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The waiting just means Shapiro’s trying to sneak one past them.

by NickFantana on Jul 6, 2008 7:38 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The waiting is the hardest part. Every day means one more yard.

Free Andy Marte!

Pronk Needs You

by woodsmeister on Jul 7, 2008 11:01 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Also!

“It’s kind of flattering to have your name being brought up for one of the best pitchers in the game,” LaPorta told the Huntsville Times.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:38 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Nice sense of perspective. I like this guy already.
He’s being too humble, though… He’s actually being linked to the best pitcher in the game.

by still ill on Jul 6, 2008 7:42 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello Nick,

Thanks for the update!

I sure hope we get LaPorta/Green/Brantley – I don’t want less than that, and I don’t think Green and Brantely are at the same level as LaPorta, so the Brewers would not be giving up more than one elite prospect. Two good to very good prospects along with an elite prospect, perhaps, yes, but Sabathia is considerably above every other pitcher they could realistically trade for, so the price shouldn’t be that cheap, even for a 3-month rental.

After all, the only two in my mind that could come close to Sabathia’s ability that I’ve heard mentioned on the trade market are Rich Harden and A.J. Burnett, and those two don’t match up value-wise in my opinion. Harden is too injury-prone (far moreso than CC), making him more of a risk of not delivering what the Brewers are expecting (a frontline starter) while Burnett is too erratic, plus has that option in his contract, making him far riskier than CC as well.

Therefore, I (and I am biased) think that LaPorta/Green/Brantley is not that high a price to pay for arguably the best pitcher in baseball, and certainly the best on the trade market.

Just my 2 cents – go Tribe!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:50 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Beane has more or less promised to ask the moon in return for Harden.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 8:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Talent-wise, Harden might be better than CC. Problem is, he’s never stayed healthy for longer than like 3 months.

Dear Mr. Sabean, I hear you have a reputation of being stupid. Want to deal Lincecum or Cain? You can pick THREE of these 4 players for either: Borowski, Dellucci, Blake, Byrd.

by westbrook on Jul 6, 2008 8:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Which is why he’s riskier, and really, probably not as good of a trade option as CC. And, at best, Harden is only marginally better talent-wise than CC – combine that with his injury history, and I think CC has the advantage.

I don’t recall how long Harden is signed for, but with his injury history, whoever obtains him (if he’s traded) has to hope he stays healthy, or the deal could turn sour in a hurry.

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 7, 2008 12:17 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Couldn’t see if it had been noted, but the forum at Brewerfans.net is reporting that Green was pulled from their game today, so it looks like we’re at least looking at LaPorta-Green+.

by ATLTribefan on Jul 6, 2008 7:48 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thanks for the info.

So far, it’s looking good – LaPorta + Green + ? (Brantley – maybe the hold-up is checking on his medical records, as mentioned above). I hope that’s what it turns out to be.

Go Tribe!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I’d rather have LaCruoy than Brantley I think.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Gallardo?

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 7:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Interesting – his medical records would need to be checked as well. I doubt it, but if we did acquire Gallardo along with LaPorta and Green, I’d be ecstatic!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I haven’t heard about LaCruoy – what’s his first name?

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

That link to Castrovince suggests that the Indians are desiring Lorenzo Cain as the third piece, though I wasn’t all that impressed when I looked at his stat line and age (though I know you can’t tell everything about a prospect by just looking at his profile page on the Baseball Cube. Still, I’d think I’d rather have Brantley than Cain).

I “googled” LaCruoy, but found nothing – who is this guy? I’ve never heard of him – please elaborate further on him (position, age, stats, etc.) – thanks!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Brewers.com had a story where Cain was told to go to Huntsville, so its safe to say its not him.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 7:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

catcher Jonathan Lucroy

by hans on Jul 6, 2008 7:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yeah sorry. Not only did I get my threads reversed, I got the names mixed up.

There’s a rumor afoot that the third player is catcher Jonathan Lucroy. Hans brought this rumor to the other thread.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 7:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No problem – thanks for the info.!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:58 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Jonathan Lucroy, C, high-A. I’ve read that name being tied to this in a few places. Also, this seems like a mighty fine site in Brewers prospects to look at the guys coming to the organization.

by Fundamentals on Jul 6, 2008 7:56 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thanks for the info. – I’ll need to check him out!

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 7:57 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Green, Cain, and Lucroy all played a full game this afternoon at Brevard County.

The Huntsville game that LaPorta did not play in was a later afternoon game

by palcal on Jul 6, 2008 8:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

this was meant to be a reply to you indiansfan about Lucroy

by hans on Jul 6, 2008 7:59 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Thanks – I utilized that in my post below! :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 8:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

7:59 PM and ESPN (television) just reported it. Thank god they waited, because I really wanted to hear why Krukie thought Rivera should start the All Star game.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 8:00 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   1 recs

Lucroy seems intriguing, though you’d expect him to do well at Low-A in his age 22 season (the 10 HRs are nice though, and the SAL isn’t usually considered a hitter’s league).

I was going to ask how his defense was – I see from the B ref page that he threw out 22 of 58 (37.9%) so far in 2008, with just 3 PBs, so he seems to be pretty solid defensively.

Yes, I could take him or Brantley – as long as it’s one of those two along with LaPorta AND Green. (I’m not as fond of Cain).

Just my 2 cents.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 8:01 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I really like Brantley- seems like a perfect leadoff prospect. great OBP, low K rate, good SB%.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 8:05 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Did I mention I like power?

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:06 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oddly enough, he’s spent some time at first base. Not sure why a guy with his skill set is at 1B, but it’s true.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 8:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Probably to get him into the lineup while he was a little shakey with some minor hurt.

by Jay on Jul 6, 2008 8:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He’s killing A+, too.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:05 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He is? The Baseball Cube doesn’t show his stats at High-A, just Low-A West Virginia, and that’s in 2008. Just curious.

While power is good, power doesn’t always manifest itself (Marte, Gutierrez, etc.) – I wouldn’t mind a few more leadoff type, top-of-the-order hitters in our system (Crowe and Constanza are both older than one would like) – while I like Lucroy, I’d take Brantley also. Personally, I think eventually, Sizemore will be moved down to the #3 spot someday and we’ll need a new leadoff hitter, as well as needing a #2 hitter, so I don’t think acquiring someone like Brantley would be a bad thing either, even if he doesn’t project to hit for much power.

Just my 2 cents – no offense.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 8:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

the cube is always two or three weeks behind when it comes to updated stats.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 8:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I knew they weren’t always up-to-date, but I thought it was a few days to a week at most.

Still, that’s not a large sample size to go on – granted, I’m not saying Lucroy can’t handle High-A, but chances are, the league hasn’t adjusted to him yet. Brantley is more advanced, already doing well in half-a-season at AA, so he would likely help us sooner than Lucroy would (who I would leave in High-A Kinston for the rest of this season, just as hans suggested below).

Like I said, I’ll take either as the third guy in the deal (with LaPorta and Green), but I think Brantley has his solid points as well, even if he won’t likely be a power guy.

Just my 2 cents – no offense.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 8:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I could see it that way.

I could also see it that the difference in positional value (C vs. CF) negates the difference in level.

by Jay on Jul 7, 2008 12:24 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lucroy

MILB is way better than the cube for updated stats.

I don’t like guys who are relying on singles and OBP in the minors. Ellsbury, etc. In the majors, pitchers can challenge them because they know they can’t really hurt them-somebody at BP or something put this forward the other day.

On top of that, I don’t like those players personally. I’m sure I’d get over it but the kind of players the Twins are building around (Gomez, Span, Casilla) are the players I hate.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:18 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And, I’ll think you’ll agree with me after you look at what he’s doing in A+.

On top of that, C isn’t looking like a position of depth right now.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I like Kenny Lofton.

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 8:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kenny Lofton is wholly different because Kenny Lofton rules.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kenny Lofton puts cleat marks in outfield walls.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 8:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

We should pay Lofton whatever it takes to keep him.

by Jay on Jul 7, 2008 12:25 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It’s what he deserves, after all.

by Voltaire on Jul 7, 2008 12:29 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I find it’s quicker just to hate the Twins in general.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 8:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

With no regard to Lucroy, the more I look at Brantley the more I hope he’s the third guy.

Plus, Lucroy sounds like Matt Lecroy, and boy did that guy suck.

Steel Nick

by nickjs21 on Jul 6, 2008 8:27 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello Andrew,

Yes, I can see what you mean about Lucroy. Thanks for the link – I usually use MiLB when I’m looking up the Indians’ Minor League affiliates, but can access the Cube quicker because I can punch in the direct URL for a specific player without trying to look it up. Still, I’ll keep MiLB more in mind in the future – thanks!

Regarding guys who rely on singles and OBP in the Minors, I think they can be effective at the top of a potent lineup – Lofton and Vizquel’s games didn’t rely on power. Robbie Alomar’s game didn’t really revolve around it either, but they were at the top of those potent Indians lineups, and those lineups always seemed to have the propensity to jump out on their opponents quickly by scoring 1-3 runs in the first inning in almost every game. Granted, you needed hitters after them, for sure, but that’s arguably one of the problems with our offense today – we can’t manufacture runs. With the starting staff we have, a few runs a game may have been all we needed to turn some of those losses into wins. Even if you only tack on a run or two in 3 or 4 innings during a game, with the way Sabathia, Lee, and Laffey (early on) were pitching, it’s likely we would not have had such long losing streaks and probably would still be in the race, even with all the injuries we’ve had. We may not have even been talking about Sabathia being traded at this point.

That’s why I really think Sizemore will be moved down to the #3 spot at some point – his HRs would be even more productive if we had some good table setters ahead of him, and while an argument can be made for having more productive bottom-of-the-order hitters to get on base ahead of Sizemore now, outside of the Yankees, Red Sox, and maybe Rangers, how many bottom-of-the-order hitters are that proficient at hitting consistently well, even in the AL?

That’s the main reason they hit in the bottom of the order – they’re not as good of hitters as the guys hitting in front of them. Therefore, to expect those bottom-of-the-order hitters to get on ahead of Sizemore more often than not is probably not realistic, and not as likely as getting some solid speed, high OBP, .300+ BA guys in the #1 and #2 holes who are constantly on base ahead of Sizemore, who can drive them in repeatedly with XBHs and HRs, something he does very well.

In the leadoff spot, in my opinion, that ability of his is wasted a bit, or at least, isn’t utilized to its fullest extent. Combine that with the fact that Sizemore is a bit streaky at times and his OBP has been failling gradually over the last few years, and I think moving him to the #3 hole in the relatively near future could be a benefit for both him (more production, especially in terms of RBIs) and for the Indians’ offense. At least, I think they should explore it – our offense certainly needs to get better, and that even includes if we get Martinez and Hafner back to full strength when they return – this offense is still too erratic and still too dependent on the long ball, something I’m not fond of. You need to be able to manufacture runs when the long ball is non-existent – it’s better to have multiple ways to score than just relying on the long ball.

That’s why I don’t think Brantley would be a bad addition – if he’s a better, younger version of Crowe, I’ll take that as the 3rd guy without any problem.

Mind you, I can understand why you like Lucroy, and you make good points about the “singles, high OBP” guys, but I think they have their place in a productive lineup, just like they did in our former powerful offensive lineups.

As I said before, I’d take Lucroy or Brantley as the third guy and be happy, as long as we get LaPorta and Green. :-)

Just my 2 cents – no offense.

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 9:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hello again Andrew,

One other thing that I mentioned before was the plate discipline Brantley has – something the Indians could use more of. According to his MiLB page, he was rated by BA as the Brewers’ prospect with the best Strike-Zone discipline.

That’s another quality of a good leadoff man or top-of-the-order hitter – the ability to recognize strikes and get on base. That’s why I’m intrigued by him.

I don’t know if he can only play LF or if he can play any of the other OF positions, but I’d be more worried about his offensive game at this point and worry about where he fits in defensively later (after all, LaPorta could become our next DH at worst if Hafner doesn’t rebound fully or close to fully to his “old” form).

Again, I understand your liking Lucroy, but I think Brantley would be a good addition as well.

Just my 2 cents. :-)

The "cream of the crop" doesn't always rise to the top.

by indiansfan on Jul 6, 2008 9:29 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hope they let him finish out the year at Kinston if he indeed is in this deal, and then start him out at AA assuming he doesn’t embarrass himself the rest of this year.

by hans on Jul 6, 2008 8:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Castrovince just updated to mention that LaPorta didn’t play tonight and that the deal is nearly complete.http://castrovince.mlblogs.com/archives/2008/07/cc_to_the_brew_crew_done_deal.html

by DaytonDogg on Jul 6, 2008 8:16 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

did Paul Hoynes go to bed?

by ASP on Jul 6, 2008 8:25 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yes I believe he usually hits the hay around 5 PM, just after a 3 PM dinner, and some time at the Bingo hall.

by hans on Jul 6, 2008 8:28 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He’s probably flying from Minneapolis to Detroit.

by odradek on Jul 6, 2008 8:29 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The only thing that keeps Hoynes in business is the affection Wedge places in Hoynes mustache.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 8:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh hey, guys? LaPorta’s slow. He’s perfect.

by fleerdon on Jul 6, 2008 8:35 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   1 recs

Hodges has somehow hit a second triple. Wonder what that park looks like.

by afh4 on Jul 6, 2008 8:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sportsline.com’s story on the trade talks about us looking to trade Byrd and Blake as well, and mentions Betancourt and Martinez. This would upset me.

The Indians are actively shopping starter Paul Byrd, according to sources, who say they might also deal infielder Casey Blake and reliever Rafael Betancourt and might even discuss injured catcher Victor Martinez.

Il faut d'abord durer.

by CU Adam on Jul 6, 2008 8:47 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

“might discuss” = I just made this up seeing that Kelly Shoppach is playing decently well.

The Indians are looking for hitters like Martinez.

by xrickx on Jul 6, 2008 8:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I agree

Every indication Shapiro has given would suggest theres no chance in hell they trade Martinez. Also known as the most consistent hitter in the Indians lineup for the past couple of years.

by world dictator on Jul 6, 2008 9:05 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs