The Case Against Zack Greinke

Earlier today, it was reported that the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals have bee having "serious discussions" regarding a trade for 2009 American League Cy Young Award winner, RHP Zack Greinke. The 27 year-old is signed for the next two seasons for $27 million, and has a no-trade clause in his contract with the Yankees, and other big money market teams, on the list of teams he can block trades to.

Early speculation was that Greinke, who suffers from a severe social anxiety disorder and depression (which caused him to miss most of the 2006 season), would be adverse to accepting a trade to New York, but as reported today, Greinke said that he would "consider pitching in New York," due to his longing desire to win, something the Kansas City Royals have not known since the 2003 season. Jeff Passan of Yahoo! Sports broke the story, with his source saying that "I wouldn't put it past him to go to New York," The source said. "I don't think he'd rule out anybody. He says he likes New York. Especially because they're winners. He wants to go to a team that wins."

Unlike other teams, Greinke, who had a historical season in 2009, going 16-8 with a 2.16 ERA, would be the Yankees' Plan B this offseason, depending on if top free agent left-hander ace Cliff Lee decides to sign with the Yankees. If Lee were to sign with New York, Greinke would no longer be a target, but, in the case that Lee does not sign with New York and stays in Texas, Greinke would become the prime focus of the Yankees' offseason.

However, reports are that the Royals' GM Dayton Moore is requiring a "Mark Teixeira-esque" overhaul in return for Grienke (if you are not familiar with the Mark Teixiera trade, click here), and would require “at least one major league-ready player and multiple high-level prospects,” Passan writes. When most Yankee fans hear that, they immediately know that the package would have to start with top prospect and 2011 catcher Jesus Montero, with other top names included. Along with Montero, the Yankees would most likely have to give up one of the highest-ceiling killer B's: either LHP Manuel Banuelos or RHP Dellin Betances, both who have top of the rotation potential. However, a deal with Montero and one of the B's wouldn't be all the Royals would require, as other top pitchers, such as Double-A righty Adam Warren or RHP Andrew Brackman, and shortstop Eduardo Nunez would have to be included in the deal, with possibly RHP Joba Chamberlain or RHP Ivan Nova also included. Not only is that a lot to give up, but it would completely decimate the farm system that Brian Cashman has worked to improve over the past decade.

So my question is, why would the Yankees gut their farm system for Greinke, when they could use their biggest asset, their wallet, and just sign Lee?

Thus, we have The Case Against Zack Greinke.

Am I knocking Greinke? No, he's a great pitcher, hell he could, if he keeps improving, develop into one of the best in the game. That being said, he his coming off an off-year, in which he went 10-14 wit ha 4.17 ERA. I like Greinke: he's young, affordable, and signed for the long term. But, what I don't like is the overhaul of prospects it would cost to acquire him. I've been an adversary of trading Montero since the Cliff Lee trade fell through last season, and I'm not willing to trade him for Greinke either. Banuelos and Betances could develop into better pitchers than Greinke.

The safe bet, at least I think, is to keep the farm system the way it is and continue to stock up. Sure, the Yanks could acquire Greinke, but who knows if he'll succeed in New York? He's had anxiety problems in the past, and they could get worse when dealing with the immense pressure of pitching for a team, and its fans, that expect to win every year and will boo you after one bad start. I don't think he'd succeed in New York, or Boston, for that matter.

The better option is to go for the reliable and cheaper (whatever way you define cheap) pitcher, that being Lee. Lee would only cost the Yankees dollars, something they have an infinite surplus of, rather than prospects. I'd much rather feel comfortable with the Yankees signing Lee, something I've been against in the past, rather than trading all their chips for Greinke. Sure, Greinke (27) is younger than Lee (33) and will probably be less expensive ($13.5 million to $25 million), but what Greinke doesn't have that Lee brings to the table is experience. Lee has pitched for the big market teams (Philadelphia, Texas (you could argue there)) and has appeared in two World Series the last two seasons. He's won a Cy Young (2008), like Greinke, has started an All-Star Game, and has been traded four times (Montreal to Cleveland, Cleveland to Philadelphia, Philadelphia to Seattle, Seattle to Texas) for top notch blue-chip prospects, and has propelled each of the teams he's been traded to (except for Seattle and Cleveland, where he pitched early in his career) to a playoff appearance and World Series appearance. He's more of a sure thing, and doesn't come with the same risk (psychological) as Greinke.

Yes, Lee's older and more expensive, but if it means keeping my top prospects, I'll take that any day. Writing a check is a hell of a lot easier than forking over your top hitter and pitcher and hoping they don't burn you in the future.

Victor Martinez signs with Tigers, Huff re-ups with Giants

The first big fish in the free agent pond has been caught!

Slugging catcher Victor Martinez, formerly of the Boston Red Sox, signed a four-year, $50 million contract with the Detroit Tigers today. Martinez, a type-A free agent, hit .302 with 20 home runs and 79 RBIs over 127 games (he missed some time due to a fractured thumb) for the BoSox. One of the game's best offensive catchers, a career .302 hitter, Martinez may see a majority of his time next season in the designated hitter's slot rather than the catcher's spot. While certainly not a great defensive catcher (in fact, one of the worst), Martinez, 32, is still very valuable with the bat. This will give the Tigers the ability to let rookie catcher Alex Avila, 23, to grow into the position and be the catcher of the future.

In return, since he is a type-A free agent, the Red Sox get Detroit's first round draft pick next year, which comes in at #19 overall, baring they don't sign another type-A free agent. The Red Sox offered Martinez a 3-year/$36 million contract and a 4-year/$42 million contract before he decided to sign with Detroit.

Martinez is a great signing by the Tigers, as I predicted this was where he would end up. The Tigers, who still have $52 million to spend on free agents, could even add more free agents, such as Adam Dunn or even Cliff Lee. Martinez gives the Tigers the middle-of-the-order bat they've been searching for to give protection to Miguel Cabrera since the loss of Magglio Ordonez earlier in the season. His home run numbers will diminish by playing in a large ballpark like Comerica, but it all came down to the money and years for Martinez. The Tigers aren't done yet with their offseason.

Aubrey Huff is returning for another go-around in San Francisco Bay. The 34 year-old recently crowned World Champion is getting a two-year, $22 million contract from the Giants, an upgrade from the 1-year, $3 million contract he got last year from the Giants late in the offseason.

Huff, who was one of many that embodied the Giants rag-tag spirit last season which propelled them to their first World Title in 52 years, hit .290 with 26 home runs and 86 RBIs for the black & orange last season. He had said earlier in the offseason that he wanted to return to San Francisco.

Who will win the AL MVP? UPDATE: Hamilton Wins

UPDATE: HAMILTON WINS

Texas' Josh Hamilton (358 points) was named the American League's MVP today, getting 22 of the 28 first place votes to beat Detroit's Miguel Cabrera (262 points), who got five of the first place votes, and the New York Yankees' Robinson Cano (229 points). Jose Bautista (165 points) got the last first place vote. Congratulations to him, he deserved it.

"Hopefully, an MVP is somebody who excels at their position and at the plate, but most of all, does things consistently right and does whatever he needs to do to help his team win," Hamilton said. "Hopefully, I did that the majority of the season when I was playing."

------

Today, the American League's best player will be announced at 2:00 PM. The announcement will end Awards Week, and will also trigger conversation and turn all attention to the off-season.

But know this:

No matter who wins the AL MVP, there will be disagreements.

The front-runners in the race, Texas Rangers' Outfielder and batting champion Josh Hamilton and Yankees' All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano, lead a pack of worthy nominees in Detroit Tigers' fearsome first baseman Miguel Cabrera, Toronto Blue Jays' league home run leader Jose Bautista, and Chicago White Sox captain and first baseman Paul Konerko.

Now, let's meet the candidates:

Josh Hamilton, CF - Texas Rangers
2010 season
Age: 29
Games: 133
Average: .359
Home Runs: 32
Runs Batted In: 100
Hits: 186
On Base Percentage: .411
Slugging Percentage: .633
On Base + Slugging Percentage: 1.044
Gold Glove: No
Did team make playoffs: Yes (90-72, eliminated in World Series)

Robinson Cano, 2B - New York Yankees
2010 season
Age: 27
Games: 160
Average: .319
Home Runs: 29
Runs Batted In: 109
Hits: 200
On Base Percentage: .381
Slugging Percentage: .534
On Base + Slugging Percentage: .914
Gold Glove: Yes
Did team make playoffs: Yes (95-67, eliminated in ALCS)

Miguel Cabrera, First Base - Detroit Tigers
2010 season
Age: 27
Games: 150
Average: .328
Home Runs: 38
Runs Batted In: 126
Hits: 180
On Base Percentage: .420
Slugging Percentage: .622
On Base + Slugging Percentage: 1.042
Gold Glove: No
Did team make playoffs: No (81-81)

Jose Bautista, Right Field - Toronto Blue Jays
2010 season
Age: 30
Games: 161
Average: .260
Home Runs: 54
Runs Batted In: 124
Hits: 148
On Base Percentage: .378
Slugging Percentage: .617
On Base + Slugging Percentage: .995
Gold Glove: No
Did team make playoffs: No (85-77)

Paul Konerko, First Base - Chicago White Sox
2010 season
Age: 34
Games: 149
Average: .312
Home Runs: 39
Runs Batted In: 111
Hits: 171
On Base Percentage: .393
Slugging Percentage: .584
On Base + Slugging Percentage: .977
Gold Glove: No
Did team make playoffs: No (88-74)


The front-runners in this race are obviously Cano and Hamilton. The reason? Both of their teams made the playoffs. Making the postseason is a big part of the MVP voting, and of all the candidates, those two are the only two that made the playoffs. While I wouldn't be surprised if Cabrera could pull off an upset, due to an almost Triple Crown year, I don't expect him to win it. Konerko and Bautista are also just names on the ballot.

Who do I think will win?

Cano.

Go ahead, call me a homer, say "Yankee bias," but I have reasoning. Games played is an extremely valuable part of the voting when discussing the MVP, and Cano had more games played that Hamilton. Sure, Hamilton had an outrageous year, there's no denying that, and it could have been better had he not missed time with injuries, but Cano played in 27 more games than him. Not only did he play more games, but Hamilton also missed most of baseball's most crucial month, September, whereas Cano played in every game and propelled his team down the stretch. Add gold glove defense to Cano's hitting statistics this season, and you've got an MVP-caliber player.

Games played is an important piece, but we've seen it disregarded as recently as last year, when Minnesota Twins' catcher Joe Mauer won the award by hitting .365, even though he missed the first month of the season due to injury.

Knowing the way the writers operate, and seeing how they have treated Yankee players this year in crucial awards (CC Sabathia finishing third in the Cy Young, are you kidding?), Cano probably won't win the award due to analyst's "Yankee Bias," which is b.s. really. They'll say he shouldn't win because his team is loaded with All-Stars and has the highest payroll and that Hamilton should be because the Rangers were a Cinderella story and had a low payroll and that Hamilton has been through so much, blah, blah, blah. Enough. The voters have to vote for who was most valuable to his team this year and stop the bias. Look at the games played.

While I pick Cano, I still think Hamilton will win.

No matter what, if Cano wins, or if Hamilton wins, there will be disagreements. If Cano wins, they'll argue that Hamilton should have, and vice versa. Either way, both players deserve the award.


Go Robbie.

Votto wins NL MVP, Collins named Mets Manager, Childress fired

Get ready folks, there was a lot of sports news yesterday!

Yesterday the National League MVP was awarded to Cincinnati Reds' first baseman Joey Votto. Votto, 26, hit .324 with 37 home runs and 113 RBI while propelling the NL Central division champions to their first playoff appearance in 15 years. A first-time All-Star voted in by the fans on the Final Vote Ballot, Votto tried to achieve the Triple Crown this season but fell short, finishing second in batting average and third in homers/RBIs. Votto's victory ended the two-year reign of back-to-back winner Albert Pujols, Votto's counterpart at first base for the St. Louis Cardinals who also plays in the Central. The voting wasn't close either, as Votto received 31 of 32 first place votes.

"After the season, when I looked at my numbers and at Albert's numbers, I thought: 'Holy cow! He's beaten me in a lot of them," Votto said. "He beat me in runs, he beat me in RBIs, home runs, I think a couple others. I beat him in a few of the qualitative stats. I don't know -- I think it was a tossup. I think that it was as close as it can get. I'm not going to go on a limb and say, 'Oh, yeah, I played a heck of a lot better than him because I beat him in batting average, but we all know that batting average is kind of an overrated statistic."

While statistics are a big factor in the MVP award, so is reaching the postseason.

"Most importantly, we won," Votto said.

Votto, who was born in Toronto, is the third Canadian-born player to win the MVP. (Larry Walker in 1997, Justin Morneau in 2006)

In my pre-season picks, I picked Milwaukee Brewers' outfielder Ryan Braun to win the MVP, so wrong again :P. Votto is definitely deserving of the award, however I agree with him that it could most certainly be a toss-up. Pujols now has competition when deciding who is the best player in the NL, that competition being in his own division. Votto is only 27, meaning he's just entering his prime, so more big years should be expected from this kid. I wouldn't be surprised if future MVPs weren't out of the question for Mr. Votto. Congrats to him.

(quote credit from ESPN)

Terry Collins, the former Astros and Angels skipper, was named manager of the New York Mets on Monday. Collins, 61, who spent last season as the Mets' minor league fielding coordinator, beat out former Diamondbacks' manager Bob Melvin for the job. A manager who has been praised by the young Mets, (Josh Thole, Dillon Gee, Ike Davis, Nick Evans & co.) the move seems to be a good fit for the Mets, who picked Collins due to his ability to star in player development.

"He was constantly pulling for guys. Very positive," 2011 starting catcher Josh Thole said. "When I was in Buffalo and I was going through that struggle, when he came into town, he was kind of keeping me loose. That's what I noticed about him. And then there's the flipside, where he's a very intense guy. He's an intense person when something has to be done the right way. He's going to pump you full of positive information. He's always going to be there. He's going to have your back. But if you're going to do something, do it right. That's all he asks, pretty much."

"The thing that a lot of us guys in the minor leagues really fell in love with about him was that he had a no B.S. approach," Nick Evans, the young outfielder, said. "I mean, he told us what he expected of us. He told us where we stood. We never had to question what he thought and what his plans were. He was straight up with us. Everyone really respected that right from the get-go about him."

"You definitely know what he wants. Just by talking to him, you know he's going to expect the best out of everyone and expect everyone to do everything to give him the best. But, at the same time, he does it in a very respectful manner. And he doesn't pull the wool over anybody's eyes. He's very straightforward with what he thinks. He'll tell you what he thinks. You've got to respect that and like that as a player." Words of praise by young pitcher Dillon Gee.

The move has been criticized by many in the media. Analysts think that Collins, who quit on the Angels with 29 games left in the 1999 season, might not be the right match for the Mets. They feel as though his laid back approach, now at 61 years old as he has admitted he may have "mellowed out as a manager," may not be what the Mets need. Many believe that the Mets need a fiery, no b.s., kick-ass-first-and-ask-questions-later type of Manager, which is why many pulled for Wally Backman, the Mets' Single-A manager, who would definitely fit that description.

The players, however, feel as though the move will have no complications.

"I don't think there should be any conflict at all," Thole said. "He's a guy who is going to have your back, first off. And second, he's going to have control of the clubhouse. I've seen him run the minor leagues for a short time. And that was seven, eight, nine teams. When he's got his own team, I feel like he's going to be very regimented, very organized and very detail-oriented."

Collins is scheduled to be introduced to the media this afternoon.

(quote credit from ESPN)

The Minnesota Vikings fired head coach Brad Childress yesterday. The 49 year-old was fired due to the Vikings' unimpressive 3-7 performance this season.

After stories emerged that Childress had favored players and often got into clashes with star players, such as Antoine Winfield and Brett Favre, a move seemed to be best for the team. Childress was not the only one at fault for the Vikings' season however. Controversies such as the Brett Favre case surrounded the team. Nonetheless, the Vikings have been inconsistent this season (Favre's 22 turnovers), and as we've seen from the Cowboys' firing of Wade Phillips, no one's job is secure. Leslie Frazier will take over as the interim coach.

Later today is the scheduled announcement of the AL MVP. The announcement is scheduled for 1:30 PM, as front-runners Josh Hamilton and Robinson Cano lead Miguel Cabrera, Jose Bautisita and Paul Konerko in the predictions. Stay tuned.

This and That

Sorry to the brevity of this post guys, I'm just catching up some of this week's news:

- Seattle Mariners right-hander Felix Hernandez won the Cy Young award. Hernandez finished 13-13 with a 2.27 ERA, leading baseball in almost every pitching category other than wins. Hernandez's 13 wins are the lowest ever by a Cy Young award winner in a full season. Tampa Bay Rays' ace David Price and New York Yankees' ace CC Sabathia finished second and third, respectively, in the voting.

- Yesterday, the Yankees named former Chicago Cubs' pitching coach Larry Rothschild as their new pitching coach. Rothschild is a successful pitching coach, as he was on two world series teams: The bullpen coach of the 1990 Cincinnati Reds, and the 1997 pitching coach of the Florida Marlins. A pitching coach who loves strikeouts, under Rothschild, the Cubs led all teams in strikeouts with 11,604 over the last nine seasons.

- Former Rays reliever Joaquin Benoit signed a three-year, $16.5 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. A little much if you ask me.

- Former Toronto Blue Jays catcher John Buck signed a three-year, $18 million deal with the Marlins. The Jays also acquired outfielder Rajai Davis from the Oakland A's for three prospects.

- The Texas Rangers signed RHP Barret Loux to a contract worth $312 K. The sixth overall pick in this years' draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks was granted free agency after he failed his physical in June.

- The Yankees have offered Derek Jeter a 3-year contract worth $45 million.

Managers of the Year: Black (NL) & Gardenhire (AL)

Yesterday the Manager of the Year award was announced for both leagues. In the National League, Bud Black of the San Diego Padres won the award by one vote, overtaking Cincinnati Reds' manager Dusty Baker by a vote point score of 104-103. In the American League, Minnesota Twins' Manager Ron Gardenhire finally took home the award, tallying a 108 vote point score while the runner-up was Ron Washington of the AL Champion Texas Rangers with 81 points. Gardenhire, who had finished as a runner-up for the award five times in his career, propelled the Twins to another successful year: a sixth AL Central Title. For both managers, the award was their first.

"This was a great year in the NL. I guess this vote could've gone either way. I feel fortunate that I won. All these guys are so deserving." Black said, once he found out he had won.

"It's pretty neat to have your name mentioned up there," said Gardenhire. "It's pretty cool."

Black, who captained a Padres' ship that fell short of reaching the playoffs on the last day of the season, finished 90-72 while having one of the lowest payrolls in baseball.

"I guess this vote was sort of like our season, it came down to the wire," Black said.

Gardenhire, on the other hand, led the Twins to the playoffs after finishing 94-68, but suffered the same fate that his club has dealt with for years: not winning one playoff game and getting swept in the first round by the New York Yankees. For the second year in a row, the Yankees swept the Twins in the ALDS. However, while not winning a playoff series, Gardenhire was happy with the award.

"It's getting old, getting knocked out," Gardenhire said. "Not finishing second" in the voting, "that's good. Now if we go whack the Yankees in the playoffs next year, we'll get that done."

An underrated manager, Gardenhire was the man for the award this year.

Congratulations to both managers.

Today we wait for the impending annoucement of the American League Cy Young Award. Will it be CC Sabathia? Felix Hernandez? Stay tuned.

Posey and Feliz win NL & AL Rookie Of The Year, Halladay wins NL Cy Young, Dan Uggla traded to Braves

As we dive deeper into the offseason, with the GM Mettings in Orlando already underway, awards season as well has been going on, with the gold gloves and sliver slugger awards already announced. Yesterday, the Rookie of the Year for the American and National League was announced, with the National League Cy Young Award announced today, as well as a big trade.

National League Rookie Of The Year: Catcher, Buster Posey - San Francisco Giants

While all analysts (myself included) picked Atlanta Braves right fielder and slugging phenom Jason Heyward to win the award prior to the season, Posey, 23, who arrived in the big leagues in May, unlike his counterpart Heyward (April), was the spark that propelled the Giants' playoff run and eventual World Series Championship. A true leader, Posey carried his team with a .305 average, to go along with 18 home runs and 67 RBIs. He received 20 of the 32 first place votes, a total of 129 points, compared to Heyward's 107. "How rare and amazing it is to have a rookie catcher lead a team to a World Series championship," Giants managing partner Bill Neukom said.

American League Rookie Of The Year: Pitcher, Neftali Feliz - Texas Rangers

At the beginning of the year, I picked Feliz to win the award, so I'm happy with my pick! Feliz, 22, was lights-out of the Rangers' bullpen this year, setting a rookie record with 40 saves to go along with a 2.73 ERA. A pitcher who can hit the triple digits on the radar gun, Feliz has a very bright future ahead of him. He finished with 20 first place votes as well, a total of 122, beating Detroit Tigers' outfielder Austin Jackson, who had 98 points.

How ironic it was that both of these players played against each other in the 2010 World Series? Pretty Crazy.

National League Cy Young Award Winner: RHP, Roy Halladay - Philadelphia Phillies

What a shocker, right? Halladay, after finishing 21-10 with a 2.44 ERA this season, as well as throwing a perfect game against the Marlins during the regular season, to go along with a no-hitter against the Reds in the first round of the playoffs, won the award as the league's top pitcher. Halladay became the only pitcher in history to ever throw a no-hitter and a perfect game in the same season, while also becoming the second pitcher in history to throw a no-hitter in the playoffs. He received all 32 first place votes, a total of 224 points, beating Adam Wainwright (122) of the St. Louis Cardinals and Ubaldo Jimenez (90) of the Colorado Rockies. He joined Roger Clemens, Randy Johnson, Gaylord Perry and Pedro Martinez on the list of pitchers to win the Cy Young in both leagues, his first coming in the American League in 2003 while he was a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.

Florida Marlins trade 2B Dan Uggla to Atlanta Braves for INF Omar Infante and LHP Mike Dunn

After days of speculation, the Marlins finally dealt slugging second baseman Dan Uggla. Uggla, who shot down a 4-year, $48 million contract extension from the Marlins earlier this week, chose his own fate, as trading him was the only other option for the Marlins, who feared he would become too expensive. Uggla, who has hit no fewer than 27 home runs in a season for his career, has four straight years of 30+ home runs, including a career-year this season, putting up a .287 average with 33 HR and 105 RBIs this season. The 30 year-old is eligible for free agency following the 2011 season, as he is under contract for $7.8 million this season. Arguably the Marlins' second best player behind Hanley Ramirez, Uggla will be missed.

"The deal just didn't work out. We just made the decision," Marlins' president Larry Beinfest said. "Dan is a great guy. He understands. He's a great story in a lot of ways from where he came from five years ago to where he is today. He loved Florida and wanted to remain a Marlin. I'm sure he's saddened by not being a Marlin anymore. But he'll be excited to be a Brave."

The move comes along in a week where the Marlins have been making moves left and right, first by trading RHP Andrew Miller (who they acquired in the Miguel Cabrerea-Dontrelle Willis blockbuster) to the Boston Red Sox, and then trading OF Cameron Maybin (who was also acquired with Miller) to the San Diego Padres. Both trades brought the Marlins relief help, as the Marlins are looking to upgrade their 22-blown-save bullpen.

The Marlins continued to bolster their bullpen by bringing in Dunn, 25. Dunn, who was acquired by the Braves from the Yankees last year in the Javier Vazquez deal, showed good control this year, sporting a 1.89 ERA. A former top prospect with the Yankees, Dunn has electric stuff and could be a future closer for the Marlins. They also get INF Omar Infante, 28, who was an All-Star last year for the Braves after hitting .321 with 8 home runs and 47 RBIs. The Marlins will play Infante at second base, most likely.

The Braves have said that Uggla will be their starting second baseman, as last year's second baseman, Martin Prado, will shift to third base until face-of-the-franchise third baseman Chipper Jones returns from ACL surgery. When Jones returns, Prado will split time with rookie Freddie Freeman at first base.

A great trade for the Braves, who got Uggla for basically nothing. This could make them favorites in the National League East.

Why I Don't Want the Yankees to sign Cliff Lee

I don't want the Yankees to sign Cliff Lee.

(pause)

Whew, close one. I thought for sure I would hear cursing and have things thrown at me.

I'll repeat: I don't want the Yankees to sign Cliff Lee. In fact, I think he is going to stay with the Texas Rangers.

Now, most of you out there are going to respond in one of these ways:

- "What?! You're crazy. He's Cliff Lee! Give him what he wants!"

- "That's dumb, we need him."

- "Why not? We can afford him, we're the Yankees. We get whoever we want. The Texas Rangers don't have our resources."

I respect those responses, but the reason I don't want Lee is more complex than that, and it comes down to three reasons.

A) Money

B) Age/Years

C) Youth/Need

Let's tackle A) first.

Money

Moola. Cash. Dough. Paper. Everyone loves them some money, especially when you could potentially be getting a raise from $9 million to $24 million. Enter Mr. Lee. First things first, if any player ever says that they "don't care about the money, and do it for the game," they're lying. Money is always a factor, if not the factor. Lee is no different from any other athlete. He's a not a "do it for the game" guy, he's going to take the best offer, meaning the most money, to his liking. He has a family to support. Can you blame him? I think we'd all do the same thing, especially coming off another amazing season (12-9, 3.18)/postseason (3-2, 2.78). Lee, bottom line, is going to get paid.

Now, I'm not saying Lee doesn't deserve a salary in the $20 million range. He does, but at a certain price. $25 million may be pushing it, but Lee is seeking CC Sabathia-money. In 2008, Sabathia signed a seven-year $161 million contract with the Yankees, making him the highest-paid pitcher in history, so imagine having two similar contracts on the same team? Especially a team that is said to be running a "tight" budget.

I'm sure Lee is a nice guy, but he has incentive to ask the Yankees for more than any other team. 1) Duh, they're the Yankees, their wallet is endless, and 2) the way his wife was treated at Yankee Stadium during the playoffs between Texas and the Yankees, as she was, reportedly, "spit at and harassed" by Yankee fans. Lee could ask for more money because of the way she was treated, and require that she have special protection, etc. He could also turn around and say "well Texas treated us better, and my wife felt safer there," but I don't think that'll be much of the factor into Lee's decision.

Bottom line is, as I said before, he is going to get paid, whether it be from the Yankees or the Rangers. He baffled teams during the regular season, even walking just 18 (!!!) men, and continued that dominance in the playoffs, especially with his complete-game shutout against the Yankees in the ALCS. I'm not saying I wouldn't mind Lee. I like him-hell, I'd love to have him-but not at any price. If the Yankees get Lee, it has to be reasonable, maybe $20 million/year. Committing another $150 million to a 33 year-old pitcher has bad idea written all over it, which brings us to point B)....

Age/Years

Lee is 33 years-old, not exactly a spring chicken. Yes, he is a left-handed pitcher and has improved greatly as he has aged, but also he is close to his inevitable decline. I don't think shelling out $150 million over seven years to a 33 year-old pitcher (which is what Lee reportedly wants) is a smart idea for the Yankees, but then again they signed a then 32 year-old Alex Rodriguez to a 10-year, $275 million contract (he's making $32 million/season right now) and now they're stuck with him till he's 42, aka, the inevitable decline in production.

Lee is going to be super expensive, and he's going to want a long-term contract. If he asks the Yankees for six or seven years, I'll pass. I don't want to even imagine a declining pitcher making $25 million per season in his 40's. Just think: By the time Lee would be in the seventh year of the contract, the Yankees would have a 42 year-old Rodriguez, 38 year-old Mark Teixeira, 37 year-old Sabathia, and a 35 year-old Robinson Cano, all making close to $20 million/season. That's a little much for aging superstars, no?

No, I wouldn't be surprised if Lee was the same pitcher he is now for the first 2-3 year years of the contract. But come years 4&5, I think he'll be just okay, maybe a #3 starter at best. Then there's years 6&7, which will be his decline years, and where he'll be an above, if not average, pitcher. Paying $25 million per season is too much, and giving him a six or seven year deal is too much. If the Yankees offer Lee a contract, the best would be a four or five year contact for around maybe $120 million. That I'd be fine with. But if he wants $150 over seven, I'm backing off. The Yankees won the World Series in 2009, and came within two wins of going back to the World Series in 2010. They don't have the same desperate attitude they had going into the 2009 season after missing the playoffs in 2008. They don't need Cliff Lee as much as they want Cliff Lee, leading us to...

Youth/Need

The Yankees don't need Cliff Lee.

Sabathia (30) is in his prime and is a bonafide ace, Phil Hughes (24) is finally developing into the ace/#2 all analysts expected, A.J. Burnett (33), while questionable, has ace-potential when consistent, and Ivan Nova (23) is ready to make the big leap to the starting rotation. And there's always long-time Yankee Andy Pettitte (39) who may or may not retire.

Sure, Lee is a huge upgrade over Nova, who's just a kid and hasn't really proved himself. But still, there is no glaring need for Lee, as much as there is a want. We know the Yankees wanted Cliff Lee last year, heck, they even ALMOST acquired him when he was a Seattle Mariner and sacrificed their top prospect, catcher Jesus Montero, to get him, even though it was not mean to be. Still, even back then, they didn't need him.

They still don't need him.

Me, well I'd like to see the kids get a chance. Maybe it's just because I'm a big pro-opponent of the youth movement that's going around baseball these days, but why not give the kids a shot? Nova, (who I'm a big big big fan of) came up last year after having a gnarly year in Triple-A last year (12-3, 2.86). I definitely would like to see him get a shot at cracking the rotation. As well the Yankees, unknown to many, have a great trio of pitching prospects. The "Killer B's" as some call them, all starting pitchers, LHP Manny Banuelos (19), RHP Andrew Brackman (24), and RHP Dellin Betances (22), are, as scouts have called them "potential front-line starters." Recently, it's been said that the trio is not far from the majors, perhaps even just a year away for each of them.

Signing Lee would block these young guys, who I would love to see in the long-run in the Yankees' rotation. This trio is part of the Yankees' future, and trading them (which would be the best idea, so that it's fair to them to have major league careers and get something in return) might be scary, especially with their potential.

The Yankees don't NEED Lee. They have a four-man rotation as is (Sabathia, Hughes, Burnett, Nova) and Pettitte potentially could return. They've also got incredible pitching depth at the minor league level, with three top-flight pitchers. I say give youth a chance.

----

The Bottom Line

I would NOT be upset if the Yankees signed Cliff Lee...

...if it was reasonable.

I'd love to have Lee on the Yankees, but at a reasonable price. If he asks for more, let him walk. The Yankees have depth, and could always pull off a trade or sign someone else. And to those who think Lee is unbeatable, look at his performance in the World Series against a team (San Francisco Giants) with baseball's worst offense. Not exactly unbeatable.

By the way, if you read my other post on the Top 10 Free Agents, you'll see I predicted Lee would go back to Texas.

So while he would present an upgrade, and would give the Yankees the best rotation in baseball, I still don't want the Yankees to sign Cliff Lee. He's older and expensive, plus I think they could win 95 games with Nova and another pitcher in the rotation. I don't want him, and they don't need him, especially not at $25 million per year. So to GM Brian Cashman...

Please, don't give a blank check to Mr. Lee and sign him at any cost.

Don't sign Cliff Lee.

National League Gold Glove Award Winners

The Gold Glove Award results from the NL were announced today...

2010 NATIONAL LEAGUE GOLD GLOVE WINNERS

Catcher - Yadier Molina, St. Louis Cardinals (3, consecutive)

First Base - Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals (2)

Second Base - Brandon Phillips, Cincinnati Reds (1, first ever)

Shortstop - Troy Tulowitzki, Colorado Rockies (1, first ever)

Third Base - Scott Rolen, Cincinnati Reds (8)

Outfield - Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado Rockies (1, first ever)

Outfield - Shane Victorino, Philadelphia Phillies (3rd in a row, 3 total)

Outfield - Michael Bourn, Houston Astros (2nd in a row, 2 total)

Pitcher - Bronson Arroyo, Cincinnati Reds (1, first ever)

----

CINCINNATI REDS - 3 PLAYERS (ARROYO, PHILLIPS, ROLEN)

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS - 2 PLAYERS (PUJOLS, MOLINA)

COLORADO ROCKIES - 2 PLAYERS (GONZALEZ, TULOWITZKI)

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - 1 PLAYER (VICTORINO)

HOUSTON ASTROS - 1 PLAYER (BOURN)

Hmm, similar to yesterday, no? One team (Yankees) had 3 players win the gold glove, two teams (Rays and Mariners) had 2 players win, while the other two teams (Minnesota and Chicago) had one player win. Weird.

American League Gold Glove Award Winners

With the baseball season over, free agency and awards week are two of the things baseball fans look most forward to. This week marks the beginning of awards week, with the American League Gold Glove Award winners being announced today:

Catcher - Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins (3 total, 3rd in a row)

First Base - Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees (4 total, 2nd in a row)

Second Base - Robinson Cano, New York Yankees (1, first ever)

Shortstop - Derek Jeter, New York Yankees (5 total, 2nd in a row)

Third Base - Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay Rays (2)

Outfield - Carl Crawford, Tampa Bay Rays (1)

Outfield - Franklin Gutierrez, Seattle Mariners (1)

Outfield - Ichiro Suzuki, Seattle Mariners (10 total, 10th in a row)

Pitcher - Mark Buehrle, Chicago White Sox (2)

----

NEW YORK YANKEES - 3 PLAYERS (CANO, JETER, TEIXEIRA)

TAMPA BAY RAYS - 2 PLAYERS (CRAWFORD, LONGORIA)

SEATTLE MARINERS - 2 PLAYERS (GUTIERREZ, SUZUKI)

MINNESOTA TWINS - 1 PLAYER (MAUER)

CHICAGO WHITE SOX - 1 PLAYER (BUEHRLE)

MSGVarsity Interview with boys' varsity soccer player Rob Carreira

Here's my newest article, an interview I did with the Somers Tuskers' Goalie Rob Carreira. It was featured on MSGVarsity.com. Click the link here to see it on the site.


JOSH HANDSZER'S STUDENT ATHLETE INTERVIEW WITH ROB CARREIRA

SOMERS -- Everything that could go right has gone right for the Somers Tuskers Boys Varsity Soccer team this season. A new coach, a sparkling offense, blockade defense, and a bright future have ensured the success of the team, not only for the present, but for perhaps years to come. Under first-year rookie coach Joe Palumbo, the Tuskers have fought hard and compiled a 12-3 record, good for the second seed in the upcoming Section One Playoffs. Palumbo, along with his coaching staff which includes Somers High School earth science teacher Mr. Dave Burke and assistant coach James Palumbo, have worked long and hard with the boys during practices, ensuring great success. “As a new coach, he has been tremendously successful in coming in and supporting the team as a whole,” were the regards given to Palumbo from senior goalie Rob Carreira. “Joe Palumbo is one of the biggest names in soccer around the region and I had the honor to play club soccer for him, and I am honored again to play for him now.”

However, not only the coaches have a positive influence on the men on the field. Seniors Carreira, Anders and Kasper Rassmussen, Dan Moore, Dylan Howie and Justin Kuntz have also had their influence on the game. Behind leading goal scorer Anders Rassmussen, the boys have improved since their 12-8 2009 season. I was able to chat with Rob Carreira, the Tuskers’ goalie and Captain of the last two years who has played his entire high school soccer career for the Tuskers and is responsible for the 2010 team’s success with 9 shutouts in 15 games. One of the more enthusiastic and outgoing players on and off the field, Rob has proven to the be the heart and soul of Somers soccer, as well as Somers “School Spirit,” reading the morning announcements every day with a sense of excitement and a swagger that is unmatchable, making the students feel like the day will be a good day. As expected, his interview went exactly the same way.

Josh Handszer: “Standing at 12-3, compared to last season after finishing last season 12-8, what do you feel has been the difference between the 2009 Somers Soccer Tuskers and the 2010 Somers Soccer Tuskers?”

Rob Carreira: “Last year it took us a very long time to progress as a team and find a really powerful team chemistry. It wasn’t until the playoffs that we were able to settle into a groove and make it all the way to the section finals. Yet this year, we feel very confident as a team, even before playoffs, and we have really become comfortable as a team, allowing us to play the best soccer possible. We know that we have a huge chance of going to the section finals again and possibly going on to states. The biggest difference has been a stronger defense throughout the whole season. Though it is true that our offense has been very successful as well, the defense is the key for success of any team whether it is at the high school level or at the professional level.”

JH: “How confident do you feel with your team making a march into the playoffs, especially coming off a fantastic season in which Anders was your leading goal scorer and you had 9 shutouts in 15 games? Your team was obviously a force to be reckoned with. What are your goals for the playoffs and what are your expectations?”

RC: “I am very confident that our team will once again make it to the section finals and have a great chance of advancing to states. Although we were seeded 14th last year, we were able to beat teams in the playoffs that were all seeded and ranked higher than us. Now we are one of the higher seeds entering the playoffs, and we know there is a lot of pressure to succeed, y et I feel confident that the team will be very successful and win the Section 1 title.”

JH: “You sound a little cocky there, Rob. You’re that confident? (laughs)”

RC: “Of course. We play great soccer and have great team chemistry. I think that’s the combination with the ingredients to a championship.”

JH: “Speaking of team chemistry, Is there a strong presense of chemistry among the team? Is there a certain ritual you all do together before a game? Any superstitions? How do you think your team bonds together and who are your leaders?”

RC: “The team chemistry is fantastic. I think that’s due to the fact that we are really tight friends on and off the field. When you play the game you love with our friends it only makes it more rewarding to win and be successful because you know you are sharing the victory with friends. Before every game I pray to the Lord because I am a pretty religious person and I feel that most of our success comes in part from his blessings. The leaders of the team are obviously the best players, including Anders, Dylan, Dan, Justin and myself. We are able to inspire the team and make sure we stay in line, respect the opponents, play the best soccer possible.”

JH: “You mentioned your senior teammates, how/do you think being a senior has impacted your performance this season, as well as the performance of the team, which is of mixed grade levels? If not, what do you think has made this team so confident and loose?”

RC: “Well of course. Knowing that this is my final year playing for the high school, the only team I’ve really known over the past few years, has really inspired me to have an amazing season and play harder than before. I think all of us, Anders, Dan, Kasper, Justin, Dylan and I feel the same way. Being a senior has also allowed me to feel like a true leader of the team and I feel like a lot of the players look up to those who have the most experience. Yet a lot of younger players are also showing a lot of talent such as Spencer Irwin, Zack Reda, and Dan Ishoo. I know that the team next year will be successful as long as players like those continue to lead the team.”

JH: “Do you feel as though you have a grown as a soccer player throughout your four years of high school soccer? How/why? Do you have any influences on your growth as a player?”

RC: “Oh definitely. My growth, I have to give credit to my teammates constantly helping me to become a better athlete and overall a better person. We all have a very positive influence on each other and we allow one another to thrive, not only on the soccer field, but also in everyday life as well. It is these close bonds of friendships that truly help all players to mature and become better.”

JH: “So besides your teammates, what/who do you feel has made a positive difference for this year's team and how/why?”

RC: “One of the biggest positive influences that occurred this year was the new coaching staff that came to Somers. While the old coach was very skilled and very successful and a close friend of mine, I felt that the newer coaches have a style of coaching that helps the team play the best soccer possible. They are much more patient and understanding, which I feel helps the players feel more comfortable and thus more likely to play beautiful soccer.”

JH: “Speaking of your coach, you’ve given him very high regards, explain the influence of your coach on this year’s team.”

RC: “Coach Palumbo is a terrific coach and he believes in all the players on the team no matter what the circumstances. He is not only a coach, but he has taken on a father figure role for many of the players and I know that we can trust him on and off the field whenever we need him.”

JH: “That really speaks volumes Rob. You guys have an unsurmountable amount of respect towards your coach and that just shows the great influence he has had on you. I think that speaks out about you too. You’ve got tons of school spirit, you do the announcements everyday without a dull sense of feeling, and you make it fun. Do you think that people feel that way?”

RC: “(laughs) I just try to be me.”

JH: “Do you plan to continue your soccer career beyond high school?”

RC: “I hope to play for college, whether it be for a division 3 or division 1 school, I’m still not sure. Yet even if I can’t play for college, I know that I will continue to play for my club team until I can’t walk anymore. I really love the sport of soccer. Of course, even after college there is no replacement for a nice pick-up game with friends after school.”

With a player with as much heart, swagger, and excitement as Rob, it’s hard to not pull for a team full of these guys to win a state championship. With such great team chemistry, an influential coach, and a championship in their eyes, the Tuskers can only hope that their hard work and determination that they’ve relied on all season, will lead them to the glory land.

Speculating where the top 10 free agents will end up

This year's free agent class is one of the best. From the likes of Derek Jeter to Cliff Lee, Victor Martinez to Adam Dunn, and Carl Crawford to Jayson Werth, many splashes are expected to made this winter.

Of course with free agency comes speculation, and I've offered my predictions on where the top free agents will end up:

1. LHP Cliff Lee

Age: 33

Former team: Texas Rangers

Previous salary: $9,000,000

Prediction: Texas Rangers, 5 years/$150 million

Yankee fans, hold your tongues and let me explain. I really think that Lee enjoyed his time in Texas. He was reported as saying that he "would love to return in 2011" and that "I like this team. It's a very fun team to play on," Lee said. "I expect this team to do some really good things next year. I don't know if I'm going to be a part of it or not. To be honest with you, I would love to be, but so many things can happen. You never know."

As well, the team wants him back. GM Jon Daniels said "We've made it clear we'd like to have him back. I know we're not the only club that would like to have him. It's a competitive market, as it should be, and we'll see what happens."

2. SS Derek Jeter

Age: 36

Former team: New York Yankees

Former salary: $22,600,000

Prediction: New York Yankees, 4 years/$85 million

Do I really have to say anything? Other than the fact that Jeter's annual salary will definitely take a hit from the $22 million he made this season due to a career-worst season (.270, 10 home runs, 67 RBIs), and his age, Jeter will be back with the Yankees. It's just a matter of how long and how big his contract is.

3. RHP Mariano Rivera

Age: 41

Former team: Yankees

Previous salary: $15,000,000

Prediction: Yankees, 2 years/$30 million

Pretty much.

4. LHP Andy Pettitte

Age: 39

Former team: Yankees

Previous salary: $11,750,000

Prediction: RETIRED

After years of deciding between a one-year contract or to retire, I think this is the year Pettitte hangs it up. Pettitte has said in the past that the only team he will play for is the Yankees, and rightfully so. However, he's been quoted on saying that "I've already accomplished everything I've ever wanted to," which has led to some speculation that the lefty may not return. At 39 years old, Pettitte will follow the same routine he has every offseason: go home, talk with his family, and make his decision. While he could return, especially coming off one of his best seasons (although he was partially injured), I think he's more likely to hang 'em up.

5. C Victor Martinez

Age: 32

Former team: Boston Red Sox

Previous salary: $7,700,000

Prediction: Detroit Tigers, 3 years/$30 million

Martinez's time in Beantown has come to a close. With trade-acquired and young catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia waiting in the wings to become the next Red Sox catcher, Martinez is likely on his way out. Not the best defensive catcher in baseball, Martinez is better known for his offense. With Tigers' backstop Gerald Laird granted free agency, and young rookie catcher Alex Avila struggling in his first full season, the Tigers will look for a veteran prescense to mentor their young star.

6. OF Jayson Werth

Age: 31

Former team: Philadelphia Phillies

Previous salary: $7,500,000

Prediction: San Francisco Giants, 4 years/$50 million

With budding young superstar outfielder Domonic Brown waiting to take over in right field for the Phight'n Phils, Werth may well be on his way out. With a crowded outfielder that carries the likes of Raul Ibanez in LF, Shane Victorino in CF and now Brown in RF, Werth is the odd man out. While the Phillies aren't neccessarily worried that they cannot afford Werth, they believe that Brown is a future superstar, and would like to sign a platoon-partner for the young outfielder so he can mature into his potential.

Enter the 2010 World Champs.

I think Werth will sign with the Giants for two reasons. One, with Aubrey Huff, Pat Burrell, Edgar Renteria, and Juan Uribe now free agents, as well as Cody Ross still (he may have saved himself in the postseason) being a non-tender candidate, the Giants will have to look to power-up their lineup if they want to defend their title. What better way than to sign Werth, who is coming off a year in which he hit .296 with 27 home runs and 85 RBIs. He would instantly become their biggest power threat. And two, the Giants play Werth's style of baseball: Grinding. Werth is a grind-it-out, rag-tag type of player who was deemed a "bust" before his arrival in Philly. After the 2008 season however, he emerged as one of the best players on the team, all the while still playing grinding baseball. It's a great match.

7. OF Carl Crawford

Age: 29

Former team: Tampa Bay Rays

Former salary: $10,000,000

Prediction: Yankees, 5 years/$75 million

Yet another case of being pushed out by a young prospect, Crawford too may be on his way out thanks to the Rays' top prospect LF Desmond Jennings. However, youth isn't the only thing that will push Crawford out of Tampa Bay: the life-long Devil Ray/Ray may be TOO expensive for the Rays to afford. With both Crawford and all-star slugging first baseman Carlos Pena also a free agent, the team may not be able to afford both of them, maybe not even one of them. Speculation is that neither will return to Tampa Bay because they will be too expensive. Crawford was quoted as saying that there's a "high possibility I probably won't be back next year." Crawford admitted that money will be one of the main factors in his decision, and added that "That's a big part of everything, but when it comes down to it, you just want to go somewhere where you're comfortable," he said. "And obviously the financial part, you just want to be paid for what you do, I guess."

Too expensive for Tampa? Not so much for the Bronx Bombers.

If the Yankees were to lose out on Cliff Lee, their next focus should be Crawford, especially if he gets deep into talks with the rival Boston Red Sox. With an outfield that could use some work, Crawford would be a tremendous upgrade in the outfield to join Curtis Granderson, Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner. If Crawford wants his money, New York is where to go.

8. OF/1B Adam Dunn

Age: 30

Former team: Washington Nationals

Former salary: $12,000,000

Prediction: Chicago White Sox, 3 years/$40 million

Dunn is what he is: a power hitter. A player who averages 40 home runs/year, Dunn continued to keep in line with those averages by belting out 38 long balls this season. Although he's said he wants to return to Washington, he may be too expensive and not in the long-term future plans for the Nationals. That being said, the White Sox were one of the teams who pushed hardest at the trade deadline to acquire Dunn, and they could very likely be his landing spot. With first baseman Paul Konerko likely to depart via free agency due to age, Dunn could take his spot as the team's next power hitter.

9. 1B Paul Konerko

Age: 34

Former team: Chicago White Sox

Former salary: $12,000,000

Prediction: Los Angeles Angels, 2 years/$28 million

Paulie is coming off one of his best seasons: he hit .312 and belted 39 home runs while driving in 111 RBIs. However, his days in Chicago may be over. At 34, Konerko, while still showing signs that he can keep-up with the game, may be too expensive an option for the White Sox, who are aiming to get younger. A fan-favorite, Konerko should field a nice contract somewhere, that somewhere being Los Angeles. The Angels tried to trade for Konerko at the trade deadline but were unsuccessful. After missing the playoffs and losing the AL West for the first time since 2007, the Angels will definitely be looking to reload. What better way than to have a 3-4 combination of 1B Kendry Morales and Konerko at DH?

10. CP Rafael Soriano

Age: 30

Former team: Tampa Bay Rays

Previous salary: $7,250,000

Prediction: Atlanta Braves, 3 years/$30 million

Like Crawford, Soriano may prove to be too expensive for the Rays. He's coming off an amazing season in which he compiled a 1.73 ERA with 45 saves. He's due for a pay raise and that may be why he's not going back to Tampa. I think he'll sign with the Braves, the team who traded him to Tampa Bay prior to the 2010 season. With closer Billy Wagner retiring, the Braves will be on the lookout for a new closer, and why not add Soriano? He's familiar with the team and my guess is, with a fat new contract, he wouldn't mind a return.

Other notable free agents (previous team and age in parenthesis):

Catchers

(Rangers, 36) Bengie Molina - RETIRE

(White Sox, 34) A.J. Pierzynski - White Sox, 2 years/$10 million

(Red Sox, 39) Jason Varitek - Toronto Blue Jays, 1-year/$2 million

First Baseman

(Yankees, 35) Lance Berkman - Detroit Tigers, 1-year/$8 million

(Giants, 34) Aubrey Huff - Oakland A's, 1-year/$8 million

(Braves, 35) Derrek Lee - Seattle Mariners, 2 years/$20 million

(Rays, 33) Carlos Pena - Colorado Rockies, 2 years/$18 million

Second Baseman

(Twins, 33) Orlando Hudson - Minnesota Twins, 1-year/$5 million

(Giants, 31) Juan Uribe - San Francisco Giants, 2 years/$10 million

Third Baseman

(Red Sox, 32) Adrian Beltre - St. Louis Cardinals, 3 years/$50 million

(Padres, 37) Miguel Tejada - RETIRE

(Orioles, 33) Ty Wigginton - New York Yankees, 1-year/$4 million

Shortstops

(Tigers, 28) Jhonny Peralta - Detroit Tigers, 3 years/$18 million

(Rangers, 33) Cristian Guzman - Texas Rangers, 2 years/$6 million

Outfielders

(Dodgers, 38) Manny Ramirez - Toronto Blue Jays, 1-year/$8 million

(Tigers, 36) Johnny Damon - Kansas City Royals, 1-year/$5 million

(Braves, 26) Melky Cabrera - New York Mets, 1-year/$3 million

(Rays, 32) Brad Hawpe - N/A

(Cubs, 32) Xavier Nady - Chicago Cubs, 1-year/$1.5 million

(Tigers, 37) Magglio Ordonez - RETIRE

(Giants, 34) Pat Burrell - Seattle Mariners, 1-year/$3 million

(Yankees, 34) Marcus Thames - New York Yankees, 1-year/$1.5 million

(Braves, 31) Rick Ankiel - Pittsburgh Pirates, 1-year/$2 million

(Braves, 32) Eric Hinske - Atlanta Braves, 1-year/$2 million

Designated Hitters

(Rockies, 40) Jason Giambi - RETIRE

(Rangers, 36) Vladimir Guerrero - Texas Rangers, 2 years/$16 million

(Angels, 36) Hideki Matsui - Seattle Mariners, 1-year/$5 million

(Red Sox, 35) David Ortiz - Boston Red Sox, 1-year/$8 million

(Twins, 40) Jim Thome - Minnesota Twins, 1-year/$8 million

Starting Pitchers

(Twins, 35) Carl Pavano - Minnesota Twins, 2 years/$16 million

(Padres, 30) Kevin Correia - San Diego Padres, 2 years/$14 million

(Rockies, 30) Jorge De la Rosa - Boston Red Sox, 2 years/$18 million

(Rangers, 29) Rich Harden - Oakland Athletics, 1-year/$4 million

(Dodgers, 36) Hiroki Kuroda - Los Angeles Dodgers, 1-year/$8 million

(Orioles, 36) Kevin Millwood - New York Mets, 1-year/$4 million

(Cardinals, 33) Brad Penney - Florida Marlins, 1-year/$5 million

(Padres, 32) Chris Young - Minnesota Twins, 1-year/$7 million

(Yankees, 34) Javier Vazquez - Washington Nationals, 2 years/$15 million

(Diamondbacks, 32) Brandon Webb - Tampa Bay Rays, 1-year/$8 million

(Cardinals, 33) Jake Westbrook - St. Louis Cardinals, 2 years/$10 million

Closers/Relievers

(Rangers, 31) Frank Francisco - Los Angeles Dodgers, 3 years/$15 million

(Twins, 35) Brian Fuentes - Minnesota Twins, 1-year/$5 million

(Brewers, 40) Trevor Hoffman - San Diego Padres, 1-year/$5 million

(Yankees, 34) Kerry Wood - New York Yankees, 2 years/$14 million

(Rays, 33) Grant Balfour - Tampa Bay Rays, 1-year/$5 million

(Rays, 33) Joaquin Benoit - New York Yankees, 1-year/$3 million

(Blue Jays, 33) Jason Frasor - Boston Red Sox, 2 years/$10 million

(Twins, 29) Jesse Crain - Minnesota Twins, 3 years/$12 million

(Blue Jays, 35) Scott Downs - Los Angeles Angels, 2 years/$10 million

(Mets, 34) Pedro Feliciano - New York Mets, 3 years/$15 million

(Braves, 41) Takashi Saito - RETIRE

Those are my predictions, what are yours?

We're just getting started on the Hot Stove folks. Stay tuned.

With season over, hot stove heats up

With last night's World Series victory by the San Francisco Giants, the baseball season sadly came to a close last night. However, with every ending there is a new beginning, that new beginning being baseball's offseason.

With the offseason comes free-agency, where players who have expired contracts can sign with any team who offers them the contract they desire. The Hot Stove season, the offseason's unofficial nickname, has already been heated up with some minor moves such as Sandy Alderson being hired as the new General Manager of the New York Mets, Joe Girardi's new contract with the New York Yankees, and Omar Vizquel re-signing a one-year deal with the Chicago White Sox. These moves are clearly just the cracks in the dam that is preparing the flood that is free agency.

While those are just some of the earlier moves, more moves have happened today:

- Ron Roenicke was named manager of the Milwaukee Brewers.

- RHP Chad Gaudin and LHP Royce Ring were out-righted off the 40-man roster by the Yankees.

- C Gregg Zaun, RHP Trevor Hoffman and RHP Doug Davis had their options declined by the Brewers.

- SS Alex Gonzalez and 3B Omar Infante had their options claimed by the Atlanta Braves.

- The San Diego Padres exercised Adrian Gonzalez's option.

- The Boston Red Sox hired Curt Young, formally of the A's, as their new pitching coach.

- J.P. Riccardi was hired by the Mets as a special assistant to Alderson.

World Series Champions! San Francisco Giants capture World Series "deep in the heart of Texas"

The wait is over.

52 years and one cross-country move later, the San Francisco Giants are World Champions for the sixth-time in their illustrious history.

Their last World Championship? Try 1954, 56 years ago back when they were the NEW YORK Giants, just four years before they would move all the way out west to San Francisco, and were led by a fella' named Willie Mays.

2010? Their first World Championship since they've moved to San Francisco. The first World Championship for the SAN FRANCISCO Giants, led by a pot-smoking, 5'10 guy with long, mangy hair, who the fans by the bay call "the freak."

How about that?

Behind the aforementioned "freak," ace Tim Lincecum, and World Series MVP shortstop Edgar Renteria, the Giants defeated Cliff Lee and the Texas Rangers by a score of 3-1, winning the best of seven series 4-1 in 5 games (I predicted they would win it in 7, but so be it ;) )

After World Series losses in 1962, 1989 and 2002, teams that included the likes of Hall of Famers Juan Marichal and Willie McCovey as well as home run king Barry Bonds, the Giants felt this was their year.

"This group deserved it, faithful from the beginning. We're proud and humbled by the achievement." said Giants Manager Bruce Bochy, who spent 15 years as a catcher in the game and never won a ring.

"For us to win for our fans, it's never been done there, and with all those great teams," Bochy said.

Lincecum faced a worthy adversary in tonight's game. Fighting fire with fire, the Rangers countered with their ace, Lee, who had paired up against Lincecum in Game 1 of the series and took the loss in an 11-7 rout. They were hoping tonight would not be a repeat.

Though not as much of a rout, sadly, it was the same.

Lincecum, who was credited with the win, pitched 8 dominant-innings of 3 hit, 1 run, 10 strikeout baseball, his only blemish being a Nelson Cruz solo-homer in the 7th inning. In the series, he was 2-0 with a 3.29 ERA.

Mr. Lee, on the other hand, took the loss, his second in the series (0-2 with a 6.94 ERA). It was a very unorthodox series for Lee, who had established himself as one of the best postseason pitchers in postseason baseball history, going a postseason lifetime 7-0 with a 1.26 ERA, prior the World Series. Lee was supposed to be unbeatable. So how was it that he shut down the New York Yankees, who had an offense that included AL MVP candidate Robinson Cano, Alex Rodriguez, and Mark Teixeira, but could not defeat the Giants, a team that was called a "team of misfits," with cast-offs from other big league clubs?

Lee did not pitch bad in this game (7 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 6 K). A pitcher's duel, Lee matched Lincecum....

At least through 7 2/3 innings.

His only mistake, and I mean only mistake, was the one that sealed the Rangers' fate.

A 3-run home run by Edgar Renteria.

"It was a classic pitchers' duel down to that home run. Nobody in this room is more disappointed than I am," Lee said.

"They beat us soundly," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "They deserve it."

For Renteria, he wasn't exactly new to game-winning hits in the World Series.

In 1997, Renteria, then a 21 year-old rookie with the Florida Marlins, delivered the game winning base-hit in walk-off fashion against the Cleveland Indians to give the Marlins their first ever championship.

Now, fast-forward 13 years later, and he did it again.

Not bad for a guy who spent three stints on the disabled list this year and has been considering retirement.

"It was a tough year for me," Renteria, who batted .412 with 2 home runs and six RBIs said. "I told myself to keep working hard and keep in shape because something is going to be good this year."

Renteria joins elite company with the Yankees' Yogi Berria, Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig as the only players to have two game-winning hits in the World Series. He was also named the series MVP.

Woah.

"It is pretty crazy, just because he's been around so long," Lincecum said. "You can see he's still got it. He comes up clutch in a clutch situation."

"Sat on the bench for four months of the year. Hits two clutch home runs," said Buster Posey, the Giants' 23-year-old rookie catcher, "and is going out a World Series champion."


While I picked the Giants way back in March to go to the World Series, it was hard to imagine the Giants arriving at this point. They had no offense, their pitching, while deep and successful, was too young to be considered battle-ready, and they were truly "a team of misfits."

So how did this team, whose highest paid player (Barry Zito, $126 million/7 years) didn't even make the postseason roster, win the World Series?

Chemistry.

It was the work of GM Brian Sabean bringing in good clubhouse guys and proven veterans this winter and during the course of the season.

Aubrey Huff, who, in his 13 years had never BEEN to the postseason, slugged 26 home runs for the Giants and was a vocal part of their clubhouse-wasn't even signed until mid-January!

Pat Burrel, who was released by the Tampa Bay Rays mid-season after hitting a measly .202 with 2 home runs and 13 RBIs, was picked up by the Giants on a minor league contract and woke up, hitting .266 with 18 home runs and 51 RBIs for the boys from the bay.

Or how about Cody Ross? Ross, who was picked up by the Giants on waivers from the Marlins, FOR FREE, hit .294 with 5 home runs in the playoffs. That's including hitting .350 with 3 HR in the NLCS, where he was named the NLCS MVP.

Chemistry is an element that made the Giants. Every player on this team, from the three mentioned above to second baseman Freddy Sanchez, third baseman Juan Uribe, Renteria, Posey, Lincecum, closer Brian Wilson, outfielder Andres Torres, 32, who most of his career in the minors, and more, had HEART. Gamers. They were the grind-it-out guys. The guys most powerhouse teams would keep as a fourth-outfielder, utility, or bench player.

But no.

On the 2010 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants, they were starters.

While these "misfits" are the ones who made the Giants champions, there is another element which led the Giants to their sixth-franchise title:

Depth.

The Giants had it.

Consider this:

- Their surplus of young pitching which over-exceeded expectations was made up of Lincecum (26), Matt Cain (25), Jonathan Sanchez (27), and rookie-phenom Madison Bumgarner (21). They held the Rangers' offense to a .190 batting average. That could be a dominant rotation for years to come.

- A rag-tag lineup which was made of veterans and castoffs: Torres, Sanchez, Posey, Ross, Huff, Burrell, Renteria, Uribe, and outfielder Aaron Rowand.

- Buster Posey himself, who, in his rookie-campaign, carried the Giants offensively on his shoulders and ignited a spark for this team down the stretch; finishing with a .305 batting average, to go along with 18 home runs and 67 RBIs in what-could-be his NL Rookie of the Year Award winning season. He also batted .300 with a home run and two RBIs in the World Series, an overall .288 (17-59) in the playoffs.

- Their shut-down bullpen, which included journeymen like Javier Lopez, Jeremy Affeldt, and Guillermo Mota, as well as their shut-down, league saves-leader, All-Star closer Brian "Fear the Beard" Wilson.

- A deep bench on which outfielder Nate Schierholtz and veteran infielders Mike Fontenot, Travis Ishikawa and Pablo "Kung-Fu Panda" Sandoval were at the ready.

This was a team that was defined by one word when you put it all together:

Fun.

"San Francisco is going nuts, we're going nuts and it feels really good," Wilson said.

A deserving Championship to a team who fought hard the whole season in a year where Huff called watching Giant baseball "torture" for the fans. A rag-tag team with all the heart in the baseball world, the Giants truly define the term World Champions.

And I don't think the fans are "tortured" anymore.

"This team will forever be legendary in San Francisco," Huff said. "We better never have to pay for a meal there again.

Congratulations to the 2010 World Champion San Francisco Giants.

WATCH

I absolutely love this commercial.

Game 5 of the World Series is tonight, as the San Francisco Giants currently lead the Texas Rangers 3-1 in the series. A win tonight would be the first since the Giants move to San Francisco.