Joined: 10 Aug 2006
Posts: 2238
Location: Gold Canyon
Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 6:08 pm Post subject: NL West doors slowly closing on Gonzo
Henry Schulman / SF Chronicle wrote:
According to multiple industry sources, the Giants, with more cash than usual to spend, have undertaken discussions with the priciest free agents, including slugger Carlos Lee and even this year's jewel in the crown, Alfonso Soriano.
That the Giants would investigate such players, who both roamed left field in 2006, suggests the front office is preparing to move on without Barry Bonds if he and the team cannot agree on a contract.
Tim Sullivan / San Diego Union-Tribune wrote:
The Padres have an interest in Barry Bonds.
They have an interest in seeing his swelled head depart their division. They have an interest in promoting Bonds' possibilities as a designated hitter. They have an interest in encouraging rival teams to blow their budget on a ballplayer with bad knees, a worse image and a future clouded by the prospect of unpleasant court proceedings.
Yet since they also have a vested interest in giving their new manager the tools to succeed, it is not inconceivable that a mutual interest might develop. Bonds may have more baggage than Samsonite, but Bud Black believes he can handle it.
“There's no question that he makes whatever team he's on better,” Black said yesterday. “He's such a force offensively, even now. The impact that ripples through the lineup is great.
“Whenever I do see him, a smile comes to our faces,” Black said. “We had a good time as teammates. He and I personally have a nice relationship. I find him engaging.”
The new manager's willingness to endorse such a controversial figure after only one week on the job speaks to his confidence and his conviction. Even if nothing should come of it – which is still the way to bet – it's encouraging to see that Black doesn't shrink from the tough calls.
That said, Barry Bonds? Are you serious?
“This would seem to be one of the least likely places you would talk about for him,” said agent Barry Axelrod, an astute Padres watcher. “I wasn't around to see what kind of reception he got everywhere he went, but I can't imagine it being much worse than the reception he got here.”
Bud Black is thinking bigger. He's imagining Barry Bonds in the middle of his lineup.
“The more hitters that put stress on the pitcher, the tougher it is for the pitcher throughout the game,” Black said. “Without a doubt, Barry's an impact guy.”
All I can say is, "Thank God Barry won't be playing in AZ."
Joined: 10 Aug 2006
Posts: 3015
Location: In front of my computer
Posted: Fri Nov 17, 2006 9:55 pm Post subject:
Gonzo is going to be the consolation prize. He is going to be signed late, he is going to get too long a contract for too much, and he is going to hit .260/330/430
Joined: 10 Aug 2006
Posts: 1554
Location: clawing my eyes out, praying for sleep. booyah.
Posted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 11:46 am Post subject:
.260/330/430? that's about what i'd guess for him if he stayed in the bob. if he goes to a pitchers park, though, i wouldn't be surprised to see the slg drop another 10 to 15.
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