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As the Reds keep looking for a starter to bolster the rotation, at least one nifty option just went off the market. LHP Randy Wolf signed with the Padres to a one-year deal at $4M base, with performance incentives that can take the value up to $9M. I thought Wolf (age 31, 18 starts for LA, 97 ERA+). Wolf’s history of shoulder problems is the reason for the heavy incentive content. ESPN.com reports that the Phillies and Astros both sought Wolf.
One thing to point out, however, is many players find playing in Southern California attractive and will take less money to go there. It also doesn’t hurt that Wolf played in L.A. last season and was born and attended college in SoCal.
I don’t think that it’s realistic to expect players that have interest from multiple teams (given each is reasonably competitive) to come to a team that hasn’t had a winning season since 2000, unless they’re from Ohio or the Cincinnati area.
Moreover, I have read Chris’ comments in the past praising the Padres for building their bullpen on the cheap. This same principle applies in my opinion: players will on average take less money to play in Southern California (although I personally believe that SoCal is way overrated – I got the heck out of L.A. last spring and don’t care if I ever go back!).
I don’t think that it’s realistic to expect players that have interest from multiple teams (given each is reasonably competitive) to come to a team that hasn’t had a winning season since 2000, unless they’re from Ohio or the Cincinnati area.
…for the same amount of money or less that is…
I think you\’re right for a guy like Wolf (the ballparks in LA and SD help too).
But I don\’t think the point really applies to my \”bullpen on the cheap\” example. It\’s not that Kevin Towers is building his pens by getting free agents with less-than-minimum bids (presumably in part b/c of a SoCal discount). Mostly, he\’s finding underappreciated guys who he can acquire on the cheap – minor league free agents, unloved guys he can get via trade, etc.
The city, ballpark, and coaching staff help in some instances, but none of those things helped him trade for Heath Bell, for example.
I just left San Diego myself, but if I was making an MLB salary, I\’d move back in a heartbeat. (It would take a lot more for me to deal w/ LA, though.)
Does anyone have any thoughts about the possibility of a trade with the A’s for Rich Harden? I think he might be worth a chance. Just sayin…
i like harden
gaudin also has some talent
but who in the world could we give up
maybe griffey
But I don’t think the point really applies to my ”bullpen on the cheap” example. It’s not that Kevin Towers is building his pens by getting free agents with less-than-minimum bids (presumably in part b/c of a SoCal discount). Mostly, he’s finding underappreciated guys who he can acquire on the cheap – minor league free agents, unloved guys he can get via trade, etc.
I think Krivsky has shown to be very good at this giving the examples of Phillips, Burton, Hamiltion, and Arroyo. I just think he has been reluctant to move mediocere starters to the bullpen, because the entire organization is weak on starters and bullpen. Guys like EZ, Dumatriat, and Shearn should have been giving a chance at coming out of the bullpen.
I am going to make a prediction. The Reds do not acquire a starting pitcher until after spring training, because the market is too steep. I bet they go into spring training with what they have and look at Maloney, Cueto, EZ, Belise, and Gosling to compete for the 4th and 5th spots.
Next year is the year to spend big money on a starter.
I think the Reds should sign Jason Jennings. He is due for a bounce back
TRADE FOR JOHAN!!!
i wish
I wouldnt mind us taking a risk on Bartolo Colon if we could package a manageable contract based with performance incentives. Also I would package up some unneeded talent to get mark prior from the cubs. You never know the Reds luck just might go in the right direction for a change……
Per John Heyman from SI.com
“The Reds may make a play for Marlins left-hander Dontrelle Willis. Cincinnati finally has decent prospects to trade — starting with pitcher Homer Bailey and slugger Joey Votto. Josh Hamilton, last year’s feel good story, also should have good value now.”
God, I hope not. Willis is trending the wromg direction. All he has going for him is a big name.
Just saw that Dontrelle rumor myself… and had the same thought.
The guy is 25 and he’s pitched 1022 IP in the majors! The list of his “most comparables” on baseball-reference.com is riddled with guys who broke down before they were 30… Steve Avery, Alex Fernandez, Richard Dotson, Mark Gubicza, Larry Christenson.
Also, Dontrelle’s K rate, BB rate, H rate, and HR rate ALL have gotten steadily worse over the past 3 seasons.
The indicators aren’t trending well.
All true, but I am still happy to see the Reds being mentioned as a team ‘in the hunt’ for some established rotation guys (not named Milton). It really appears like management is trying to put together a contender this year. No, I don’t want to damage our future for quick success, but I personally am thrilled to see our name associated with players who have actually had some success. I just want a decent #3 starter. If we are making noise about Willis, we should certainly be able to afford that without crippling our team.
Many believe that Willis’ awkward mechanics could lead to future arm problems and his key stats are trending the wrong way, but I’d take him if it didn’t cost the Reds much. If he rebounds a little, he should be a solid 3rd or 4th starter next season.
If the Reds have to give up much of value (which I’m sure they would), I would say definitely no.
ya willis isnt worth trading anyone who is a key to our future and who can play well right now