A New Approach: Real-Time

[OOTPRealTime]

OFF-SEASON OUTLOOKS: AL WEST
MLB.com - by: Matthew Lurch

This is the fifth of six installments of our off-season outlooks piece in which we delve into each of the thirty franchises to recap their 2013 season and preview the off-season. These are the American League West profiles.

HOUSTON ASTROS

2013 Recap: The youth movement is in full effect in Houston and GM Jeff Luhnow is rebuilding the entire roster from top to bottom. As expected, the youthful Astros limped to a 66-win season in 2013, ranking near the bottom of the pile in most offensive and pitching categories in the American League. The one outlier in that was home runs, the Astros clubbed 192 of them over the wall, ranking 5th in the AL. That power was supplied by veteran Carlos Pena who belted 30 homers, Justin Maxwell hit 26, Chris Carter chipped in with 22 and Jason Castro hit 19. Many of these players did this at the expense of their batting averages. Maxwell hit just .298 and Carter finished at just .216 on the year. The bright spots included their catcher, Castro, who hit .289 with the 19 homers and 69 RBI. It’s also never a good sign when your team leader in ERA is Brad Peacock at 5.36. The pitching was bad all year long and that’s the area that will warrant the quicker and swifter upgrades. The Astros have climbed up to No. 6 on the MLB.com Farm System rankings and are most excited about first baseman Jonathan Singleton (23rd), center fielder George Springer (24th) and former first overall pick shortstop Carlos Correa (40th). They also turned one of the better arms in their bullpen this year, Wesley Wright, into a top pitching prospect from the Giants in Kyle Crick at the deadline. The future is bright for the Astros but they will need a few more years before all of these talents will be contributing to wins at the big league level.



Off-Season Outlook
Free agents: P Joba Chamberlain; OF Rick Ankiel; P Erik Bedard; P Jose Veras; 1B Carlos Pena

It’s unclear where Luhnow will go this off-season with so many holes. He’ll likely continue to bring in veterans to play for a year to bide time for the youngsters to develop and have a positive influence upon their arrival. You’d have to think the rotation can use an upgrade and they don’t appear to have a pitcher on the 40-man roster worth of closing.

LOS ANGELES ANGELS


2013 Recap: The Angels were disappointed after another spending spree and no playoffs to show for it. The Josh Hamilton signing was a disaster, he hit just .227 with 12 homers and 50 RBI in 441 at-bats. The offense as a whole was porous as the pitching actually overachieved. The result was a respectable 84 wins, but again, not enough to play in October. This doesn’t sit well with ownership, who have invested heavily in this roster but aren’t seeing the returns on the field or at the gate. An aging Albert Pujols had a decent season (.249-25-95) but he still has eight full seasons on that mega-deal and he doesn’t get any cheaper. Phenom Mike Trout took a step back after a crazy rookie season, hitting .260 with 25 homers and 72 RBI, hitting primarily in the three-hole in the lineup. Mark Trumbo hit 29 bombs, but hit just .243 for the season. Their 681 runs scored was 13th in the American League and they hit just 157 long balls (12th). Meanwhile, the starting pitching (5th) and bullpen (4th) did very well. Tommy Hanson had a comeback season, going 13-12 with a 3.95 and Joe Blanton stepped up big with 14 wins and a 3.37 ERA. During the season, the Angels traded prospect C Hank Conger to the Yankees for veteran third baseman Kevin Youkilis, who struggled to a .200 average in 265 at-bats with eight homers and 24 RBI. Fans weren’t happy with the result of that one, especially since the Angels farm system is known to be in complete disarray. Conger ended up hitting 16 homers for the Yankees in just 198 at-bats while hitting .293 in 2013. Owner Artie Moreno is sticking with GM Jerry Dipoto and manager Mike Scioscia moving forward but you better believe that 2014 is a make-or-break year for the current regime in Los Angeles.



Off-Season Outlook
Free Agents: P Jason Vargas; C Chris Snyder; 3B Kevin Youkilis; P Ryan Madson; P Scott Downs

They’ll need to replace Jason Vargas (13-15, 3.84, 1.30 WHIP) in the rotation next year. Not a huge loss, but worth noting. Other than that, everybody is back – not that it’s necessarily a good thing. Dipoto will need to find some players who focus more on getting on base and manufacturing runs in front of Trout-Pujols-Trumbo. The bullpen needs some work also after they’ll lose Madson and Downs.


OAKLAND ATHLETICS

2013 Recap: The A’s struggled their way to an 80-82 record in 2013 and despite breakout offensive performances from Josh Donaldson and Yoenis Cespedes, the team has plenty of holes in the lineup. A lineup that featured an on-base percentage of .318 (8th ranked in AL) but a batting average of just.247 (12th) – a formula that actually spit out 729 runs (6th). The “Moneyball” philosophy is still in effect in Oakland. With the young two-headed monster of Jarrod Parker and A.J. Griffin atop the rotation, the A’s will look to supplement around them and veteran Brett Anderson to improve upon the 4.39 starters ERA. The bullpen was terrific all season and Sean Doolittle emerged as their closer with 37 saves on the season. They traded outfielder Chris Young to the Mariners for first baseman Kendrys Morales, who hit .299 with six homers and 31 RBI in his 251 at-bats with the A’s. Both players were free agents to be and neither appears to be staying with their new clubs. Morales is looking for $13 Million-plus and the A’s aren’t in that market. The aforementioned Griffin provided big news this year when the tossed a perfect game against the Cardinals in Oakland on June 29th. Billy Beane and Bob Melvin are at a crossroads as they try to get over the hump in the ultra-competitive (sans Astros) AL West.



Off-Season Outlook
Free Agents: 1B Kendrys Morales; CF Coco Crisp; P Grant Balfour; 1B Daric Barton; P Bartolo Colon; P Carl Pavano; P Hideki Okajima; P Pat Neshek; OF Seth Smith; P Chris Resop; 1B Brandon Moss

As mentioned, the A’s will let Morales walk and will have to replace do-it-all Coco Crisp. They will also be missing Bartolo Colon from the rotation. As of right now, it appears that they may hand over that first base job to 26-year old Nate Freiman, who got his cup of coffee after pounding AAA pitching to the tune of a .984 OPS. Though, there have been rumors that they are interested in Justin Morneau. They could also be in the mix on 2B Chase Utley this off-season.


SEATTLE MARINERS

2013 Recap: The M’s were much like their AL West rival A’s – not much hitting; good pitching and 80 wins. The Mariners were led again by their ace starting pitcher Felix Hernandez who mowed down the competition on the way to 16 wins and a 2.94 ERA. He was joined by youngster Erasmo Ramirez as one of the better one-two punches in the division – they just weren’t given that run support. They expect catcher Mike Zunino to grow into his role as an everyday catcher at just 22 years old. He is their future and somebody they plan to build around. But don’t think the Mariners and GM Jack Zduriencik think this is a rebuilding project. They definitely feel they have the pieces to compete right away with the right moves. Their total team ERA (3.59) ranked third in the American League and they limited the long ball and the free passes to help garner that number. There was some buzz this season that included a 10-game winning streak in July and ticket sales actually spiked over 3,000,000 for the first time in a while. The team eventually eroded and missed the playoffs, but it was a step in the right direction. Manager Eric Wedge fully expects his team to compete for a division title in 2014.



Off-Season Outlook
Free Agents: OF Chris B. Young; SS Brendan Ryan; SS Willie Bloomquist; P Kameron Loe; P Oliver Perez; C Kelly Shoppach; OF Mike Morse; P Joe Saunders; 1B Raul Ibanez; OF Franklin Gutierrez; IF Robert Andino

The Mariners were quick to move this off-season, landing prized outfielder Carlos Beltran to begin their off-season. He’ll replace Mike Morse and then some. They’ll be turning to Nick Franklin at shortstop and hope to get Justin Smoak back in time for Spring Training to play first base. This lineup isn’t far away and the 2013 M’s showed they can throw it. If Zduriencik can piece together a few more pieces, the Mariners could be the surprise team of 2014.


TEXAS RANGERS

2013 Recap: Well, it finally happened. After suffering through two straight World Series defeats – 2011 being especially heart-breaking – and then a dismal 2012 season, the Rangers finally broke through and won it all. And they did it despite a rather ho-hum regular season. They backed into a one-game divisional win and then caught fire at the right time. Manager Ron Washington, who was having his head called for in early May – got his troops in line and made a run for the ages. Trailing three games to two and heading back to Cincinnati in the World Series, he told the traveling secretary to not book a flight back home until the day after a Game 7. This signified to the team that they would be in Cincinnati no matter what and they might as well play a baseball game. It worked. They won Game 6, 1-0 and then cruised to a Game 7 win to bring home the title. Their numbers – both hitting and pitching – during the regular season were much like their record, just uninspiring. Yu Darvish dominated his way to a 14-5 record with a 2.75 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 278 K’s to post a league-leading 9.7 WAR. Mitch Moreland broke out and appears poised to take over the first base duties full time after hitting .305 with 25 homers and 84 RBI. It was a good time for the Rangers to break through after a tough run – they are going to go through some roster turnover this off-season but manager “Wash” will get his guys to band together and play good baseball.



Off-Season Outlook
Free Agents: OF Nelson Cruz; SP Colby Lewis; 2B Ian Kinsler; SP Roy Oswalt; 1B Lance Berkman; OF David Murphy; P Evan Meek; C Geovany Soto; P Joe Nathan; P Jason Frasor; IF Jeff Baker; P Derek Lowe

As mentioned, the Rangers will be losing quite a bit from their 2013 lineup. Including 62 homers and three starters in Cruz, Berkman and Kinsler. They have been aggressive and landed CF Shin-Soo Choo already and plan to continue to restructure the lineup. The loss of Colby Lewis (Cleveland) will hurt the rotation, but Darvish is still there to dominate every fifth day. They’ll need to replace him and do some work on the bullpen. Don’t let the end result fool you, the Rangers know they have some work to do to return to the playoffs in 2014.

[yougo1000]

I was thinking of doing something similar. Mind if I borrow your format for my dynasty?

[OOTPRealTime]

Originally Posted by yougo1000

I was thinking of doing something similar. Mind if I borrow your format for my dynasty?

Absolutely not! I wish you the best of luck. It certainly takes some patience but I truly believe (without knowing for sure) that the payoff will be when things start happening - like actually pulling the trigger on a trade you've been contemplating for a while, winning streaks, etc.

[OOTPRealTime]

@KenRosenhaus I'm hearing the @Mets are close on Phil Hughes on a mega-deal. Hearing six years close to $100 Million.

...

@Mets We are happy to announce the signing of Phil Hughes to a six-year, $94.8 Million contract. -GM Sandy Alderson

@BubbaOlmey Phil Hughes is leaving the Bronx for Flushing...to #Mets on 6-year, $94.8 Million deal.

@JohnHayman Hughes joins Harvey and Wheeler to form a solid top three in the #Mets rotation. Now, on to adding to that lineup! #hotstove

@MetsFan4323 This better not be another killer huge contract, though have to say I'm excited about this rotation heading into 2014 #gomets

@MLBDepthCharts Updated #Mets projected rotation after signing Phil Hughes. bit.mlbdc.4423
Preview:


RANGERS SIGN SHIN-SOO CHOO
Rangers.com - by: Ryan Naberton

Shin-Soo Choo is moving from the National League Champions to the World Champions after agreeing to a four-year, $65.6 Million deal with the Rangers on Monday. Choo, 31, hit .264 with 19 homers, 66 RBI and posted a .814 OPS in 104 games and spanning 455 at-bats. He was also 14-for-16 on stolen base attempts during the regular season in helping lead the Reds to the World Series.

The focus for the Rangers this off-season was to replace Nelson Cruz in the outfield and they didn't take long to do it - jumping in on the Choo sweepstakes and winning it.

"We're excited to add Shin-Soo Choo to our already deep and powerful lineup. He brings a presence to our lineup and allows added flexibility for (manager) Ron (Washington) when filling out his card," said Rangers GM Jon Daniels at a team press conference.

The lineup "flexibility" that Daniels speaks of is in reference to his ability to hit in all different spots in the lineup. He possesses a rarely found blend of speed an power. He also has shown an ability to draw walks. Choo hit in every spot in Dusty Baker's lineup, except third (reserved for Joey Votto) and eighth. He accumulated the following number of at-bats in the different spots in the lineup in 2013: 1st (48), 2nd (38), 4th (20), 5th (219), 6th (99) and 7th (29).

Choo was dealt by the Seattle Mariners, who originally signed him as an international free agent out of South Korea back in 2000, to the Cleveland Indians for first baseman Ben Broussard. He then spent parts of seven seasons with the Tribe, enjoying a career year in 2010 with an even .300 batting average to go with 22 homers, 90 RBI and 22 stolen bases. His .885 OPS was also a career-high in a full season that year.

He battled through an injury-riddled 2011 season and then enjoyed a solid '12 campaign before being traded to the Reds as a part of the December three-team trade that included the Indians, Reds and Diamondbacks.

The Reds were hoping for one good season out of Choo and they got it. They figured he would be moving on.

Not known for his defense, he played mainly center field for the Reds - but can (and will) play all three outfield spots.

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@dgold Wondering what the #stlcards will do about their shortstop position? Options: trade; free agency (Escobar? Drew?); stand pat w/ Kozma/Jackson. Thoughts?

@JohnHayman Hearing that the #Braves are talking with Jason Heyward on buying out next year, leaving one arb. eligible year before free agency.

...

BRAVES EXTEND JASON HEYWARD THROUGH 2015
Move in anticipation of a large arbitration number
Braves.com - by: John Blauser

While this isn't exactly what Jason Heyward and his representation was looking for, the Braves have reached a deal with Jason Heyward, signing him to a one-year extension through next season (2015) at $7.7 Million.

Heyward was hoping the Braves would buy out his remaining arbitration-eligible years with a huge contract, but the team made it clear that wouldn't happen. So, the two have decided to avoid any qualms next year and agreed to a fair number.

Heyward will still have one arbitration-eligible season in 2016 and it remains to be seen in the Braves would be willing to buy that out and ensure that Tomahawk will be on his chest for many years to come. The 2013 National League MVP has made it quite clear he wants to remain a Brave.

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@KenRosenhaus With Beltran, Choo, Lewis and Hughes off the board; Napoli, Morneau, A.J. Burnett, Josh Johnson & Ricky Nolasco are the hot names in FA

I asked DK to do a profile on Robert Andino, who played all last year at the Mariners AAA affiliate and put up solid numbers. His ability to play multiple position intrigues me as a possible bench bat. And, if we are going to have to give up Kozma or Jackson in a trade to get Leury Garcia, we may need to start looking up some options. His report wasn't glowing, so we'll put him down the board a bit.

I'm a little concerned that I haven't heard anything back yet from the Joel Hanrahan camp. We made a fair offer, but apparently they may be in it for the long haul. It clearly wasn't enough to convince him to sign right away.

I'm confident that we'll have Jose Molina locked up this week.

Speaking of Garcia, apparently Jon Daniels did some homework and it is going to take more than Wigginton/Jenkins/Jackson to get a deal done for Garcia and Ogando. That's not what I wanted to hear, but the signing of Choo may have had something to do with it - though, I can't seem to make a connection. He said they would want a Justin Christian or Adron Chambers thrown in to help their outfield depth. I'm not 100% opposed to this, but we'd be giving up four players for two. That, in general, I'm not excited to do.

I told him we'd get back to them. I'm a little soured on the deal now, though trading a 33-year old Justin Christian doesn't really change the deal much for me. Though, I was hoping to get somebody else in the deal. I let DK and Mo in on what was going on just to keep them abreast.

I have decided that I am going to included Christian and try to get one more prospect out of Daniels and put this thing to bed. He seems more focused on it now than he did before. I asked DK to get me a short list of players that he likes that aren't considered their "top prospects" and we'll try to get this deal done.

[StLee]

Was Choo traded or signed as a free agent? If it was a trade, who did the Reds get in the deal? I saw the mention of it being the third time Choo was traded.

I live in Korea, so every student who learns I like baseball asks me if I know Choo and Ryu of the Dodgers.

[OOTPRealTime]

Originally Posted by StLee

Was Choo traded or signed as a free agent? If it was a trade, who did the Reds get in the deal? I saw the mention of it being the third time Choo was traded.

I live in Korea, so every student who learns I like baseball asks me if I know Choo and Ryu of the Dodgers.

Yeah, I screwed that up. He was signed, not traded. I'm going to edit that part of the story...thanks for keeping me honest!

[Muskies]

Great idea and great work. I really like detail and the format. i will be following.

[OOTPRealTime]

@BubbaOlmey Being told the @Yankees are close to signing Josh Johnson away from #BlueJays.

@BomberBeat Josh Johnson sure would look good in pinstripes. Rumors circulating that he'll be joining @Yankees very soon.

@KenRosenbaum The Josh Johnson to #Yankees rumors are true. Waiting on terms. Moved on from Hughes to Johnson quickly.

@Yankees Happy to announce the signing of P Josh Johnson to a 4-year; $57.6 Million deal.

...

YANKEES AVENGE HUGHES DEPARTURE WITH JOHNSON
Bombers lose out on Hughes; quickly grab Josh Johnson.
BombersBeat.com -- by: Mick Ford

With the top names on the free agent market falling off the board quickly, and with former Yankee pitcher Phil Hughes signing with the Mets, the Yankees and GM Brian Cashman knew they had to move quickly. The result, a four-year, $57.5 Million deal with former Marlin and Blue Jay, Josh Johnson. Johnson, 29, is coming off a great season which saw him win 17 games north of the border in Toronto with a 3.43 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 194 strikeouts in his 33 starts. Johnson is a couple of years older and significantly cheaper than Hughes (in both AAV and years), who signed with the Mets yesterday for $94.8 Million.

Cashman made it clear they would have liked to keep Hughes, but when the Mets jumped in with the mega-deal, they were out - showing uncharacteristic restraint.

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@JohnHayman #Mets in on Matt Belisle to secure 'pen. 33 yo was 9-5, 3.86/1.35 w/ COL in '13. HOU/WAS/MIN/COL also interested.

@MLBDepthCharts Updated #Yankees rotation projection with signing of Josh Johnson. bit.mlbdc.342
Preview:


@KenRosenbaum Recap of recent moves...


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Before I write my notes piece for Parker Campbell, I decided I wanted to change the AI trading difficulty to "Very Hard". Just a personal preference. Make sure I'm doing my due diligence to keep this as realistic as possible. It's also set to "Favor Prospects".

I received a list of names from DK that he thought the Rangers might be willing to throw in the deal we currently have to get it done. He listed them in order for me but I scrambled them when I sent them over to JD. I send that list over to Daniels in an e-mail. Obviously, we don't want to waste his time (or ours) so we kept it legitimate. Here is the list:

1. 1B Ronald Guzman - DK loves this guy. Under the radar. Good body 6' 3"/195 lb with room to grow at 19 years old. Undrafted FA. Decent defense - 1B only.
2. P Cody Buckel - long shot, #4 prospect that has struggled at all levels but has dynamic stuff.
3. P Luke Jackson - another slow developer but DK liked him coming out of the '10 Draft.
4. P Abel M. De Los Santos - great arm, no control - in the mold of Maikel Cleto.
5. OF Nick Williams - Good speed/defense - not much of a hitter (yet), 20 years old. Could develop into MLB player.

Hopefully he'll bite on one of these players and we can get this deal done and focus our efforts in other areas.

DK let me know we successfully signed 17 year old shortstop Thairo Estrada as a flyer-type. Speedy, great hands, good contact, no power and a lot to work on with his plate discipline - but if he figures it out he is plus-plus in a few areas. Not likely we'll ever hear of him getting above AA - but worth the chance for a minor-league deal. Estrada is out of Venezuela.

...

Daniels called back to tell me we could have Guzman, which makes DK happy. He said that he would need Adron Chambers instead of Justin Christian (which kind of sucks, but makes sense). He said the ball is in our court. Right now it is:

St. Louis Receives: SS/2B Leury Garcia; SP/RP Alexi Ogando and 1B Ronald Guzman

Texas Receives: SS Ryan Jackson; 1B/OF Ty Wigginton; CF Adron Chambers; P Tyrell Jenkins (No. 4 prospect)

Another thing that I haven't mentioned about these negotiations is that the Rangers spend their first round pick last year on J.P. Crawford another middle infield prospect that rates out as a future everyday player. Their middle infield depth is just sick. The price seems right - just really worried about Jenkins turning the corner.

I'll sleep on it and make a decision in the morning...or not.

[OOTPRealTime]

@FollowTheFathers First off-season move by the @Padres is re-signing Joe Thatcher to a 2-year, $1.38 Million deal. Will keep middle relief role.

@KenRosenhaus The #Nationals have reached a one-year agreement with SP Jeff Niemann for $1.68 Million. Will battle for rotation spot.

@Indians Re-signed catcher Lou Marson to a 2-year, $1.68 Million deal today. Welcome back Lou! #GoTribe

Just some minor movement around the league today. I still haven't made up my mind on the Garcia deal yet. So many variables and would be a big trade. Really, what would we be giving up? A possible top-of-the-rotation pitcher in Tyrell Jenkins. DK is pretty convinced he isn't going to amount to that. Other than that, we're losing a player we have no use for in Wigginton, a decent backup outfielder with speed in Adron Chambers and a serviceable backup shortstop in Ryan Jackson.

What could we be getting in return? A possible starting pitcher who could also relieve if that's a better role and possibly our shortstop for the foreseeable future. Leury Garcia brings a lot to the table and is just 22-years old. We don't have to guarantee any role for him and we'll still have Pete Kozma to push him in Spring Training and start if need be. Garcia could also play second base when we need him to. That takes a little pressure off of (or, depending on how you look at it, puts pressure on) Kolten Wong.

Garcia is not a top of the order hitter right now. We just can't expect him to be. So, he'll likely hit 8th. He doesn't have power and that's something we desperately need to make up by losing Beltran. It's just a really tough decision. JD hasn't put a clock on me so I may just wait it out a little longer and maybe finalize something at the Winter Meetings next week.

In other news, still waiting to hear back from both Hanrahan and Molina on the offers on the table. Not surprising, just would like to get them both locked up.

That's it for now.

[OOTPRealTime]

@KenRosenhaus Talks have picked up between Oakland and Justin Morneau. Wants 7-years at around $14 Mil per.

...

@JohnHayman Morneau deal done. Sides compromised: 5-years at $15.4 Million per year. Morneau cashes in on great '13 season.

ATHLETICS LOCK UP JUSTIN MORNEAU
Sign first baseman to 5-year pact
MLB.com -- by: Matthew Lurch

Last season, the A's and Mariners made a trade to swap players who were both unhappy with playing time and soon-to-be free agents. That trade was A's outfielder Chris Young to the M's for first baseman Kendrys Morales. Both clubs knew the players would be testing the market and both were right. That leaves Oakland GM looking for a new first baseman - and the posterboy of what the A's preach is on the market.

That player is Justin Morneau. High on-base percentage (.360 career) and plus-power potential. The only thing stopping Beane from landing his prized off-season target: coming to terms. The A's figured they would get a break from the original demands from a player who will be 33 years old coming into 2014. The Morneau camp had a different idea. They were seeking seven years and close to $95 Million total dollars.

In the end, the two sides compromised and came to a five-year, $78 Million deal that gives security to Morneau and Oakland their new first baseman.

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@MLBDepthCharts Updated #Athletics projected lineups after signing of Justin Morneau: bit.mlbdc.4233

Preview------



@JohnHayman Being told that the Mike Napoli camp is focused in on the #Giants at this point. Wants 6-years, $120 Million.

@BubbaOlmey Not many takers on A.J. Burnett right now; opposite true for Dan Haren-interest from SEA, NYY, PHI, COL

[OOTPRealTime]

One of the difficult parts of the job can be working with the local and national media to make sure you aren't giving away too much - but using them to your advantage too. We, as general managers have a responsibility to feed them information - especially at non-peak times to keep interest during a down period.

They can also be used to gain an advantage. In some cases, leaking information can be valuable. It's all about playing the game. Many of the national guys have sources all over the place (agents, clubs, players themselves) - but the local guys are pretty reliant on us to get scoops. We have some good writers and quality people in St. Louis - they aren't overbearing. Derek Gold is a good guy and hard worker. Jose Santos has moved on to a column but is still involved covering the team - he was the former beat writer exclusive to the team. He is extremely sarcastic and sometimes pushy. He's as close to big market media as you'll find in the area. Bernie Zlimac is a veteran and highly revered.


Gold is the guy that the newspaper prefers to get the information as he is with the team on a consistent basis. I work closely with our media relations team to make sure we don't give away too much. I have my first one-on-one with Derek today, hence the reason for this information.

...

We talked mainly about our off-season goals; bullpen, shortstop and possible a little more starting pitching depth. He asked the question if we had anything on the trade market. I let him know that we have had some discussions with Texas and the White Sox, but nothing that has huge traction. He asked if he could report that - I told him he could but there really wasn't much to it - which wasn't entirely true.

He asked about some specific free agents, pressing the most on the shortstops. I told him that we like Yunel Escobar and have had a few internal conversations regarding an offer but nothing is out there yet. It wasn't a long conversation with Derek and I'm still feeling him out a bit. I'm interested to see how he takes this talk and puts it into writing. As I gain trust with him, I'll start giving him a little more to go on. He requested to let him know if anything is imminent. I told him I would.

@dgold The#stlcards have had discussions about SS Yunel Escobar. Nothing offered yet.

@dgold Will devote article tomorrow on discussion with GM Parker Campbell in tomorrow's P-D @stltoday #hotstove

[OOTPRealTime]

CARDINALS OFF-SEASON PLANS IN FOCUS
St. Louis Post-Dispatch -- Sunday, December 8, 2013 -- by: Derek Gold

The Cardinals have been slow out of the gate this off-season and new general manager Parker Campbell isn't worried about it. They have a plan.

With big names signing big contracts with other teams, Cardinals Nation is wondering when their beloved Redbirds are going to jump into the fray. Carlos Beltran has signed in Seattle and the team must replace his offense from a season ago. This can be done by jumping in on a high-priced free agent that plays the same position (right field) and hope that the contract doesn't become a hindrance as the player ages (Corey Hart).

Another option would be putting all of your chips in a young prospect that has yet to prove anything at the big league level (Oscar Taveras). The final option would be to think about replacing that void in the lineup by upgrading at another position (shortstop) via trade or free agency.

There is no surprise that the Cardinals are looking into upgrading at shortstop - a key position in any lineup and defensive alignment. Campbell has stated publicly that this is the case - but he did not say anything was imminent. The Cardinals have two young, solid defensive players who may be considered "offensively challenged" (Pete Kozma and Ryan Jackson). Campbell has also stated that he isn't willing to give up defense at a key position like shortstop to fill the offensive void created by Beltran heading to the American League (Asdrubal Cabrera).

The top names on the "wish list" of Cardinals fans remain the unlikeliest to get done (Troy Tulowitzki, Elvis Andrus, Jurickson Profar). Campbell says that giving up the farm to fill this need is not the preferred method and certainly not the "Cardinal Way" - at least, not the way his predecessor John Mozeliak would have done it.

Campbell said that they have "kicked the tires" on just about every single option - both via trade and free agency and have narrowed down their list to a few options. Those options include (but may not be limited to) Yunel Escobar or Stephen Drew in free agency and possibly a trade that involves the White Sox for Alexi Ramirez. Also, the Cardinals have have "in depth" continued talks with the Rangers - but, again, it would not be the preferred method to give up three quality and top prospects for one player. Keep in mind that there is a third option in Texas and that is 22-year old Leury Garcia. A speedy, defensive-minded player with big time upside. That is more likely who the talks surround at this point.

As Campbell meets with his counterparts in Orlando for the first time, he'll be reaching back out to a few that have open conversations and possibly some new ones could be sparked. That's why they do this. He'll also have a host of agents to meet with regarding potential signings for the Cardinals.

Campbell revealed that the team may be in the market for a backup catcher, focused on defense to spell Yadi from time to time. His brother, Jose, is a free agent and fits that description to a tee. Though, he is 39 years old.

The team will likely look for more bullpen depth as well. As Campbell puts it, "You just can't have enough arms."

Regardless of what happens in the next few days at the Winter Meetings, the Cardinals general manager has a plan and will be jumping in soon enough, rest assured Cardinals Nation.

----------------------

After reading Gold's piece, I was happy to see that he didn't take any liberties and really did report everything I gave him to go on. I threw out a few things that I asked him to keep off-the-record and he did. Mainly just the names that we would be seeking to trade in potential deals.

I've arrived in Orlando for the Winter Meetings and will be getting to work quickly. I'll be seeking out Jon Daniels for sure to see if we can put a bow on this thing - I believe I'm ready to pull the trigger - we'll see if he feels the same way. I'll also be looking for an update from the Joel Hanrahan camp.

Who knows what else will happen, but I'm ready for it.

[OOTPRealTime]

@BubbaOlney The #Tigers have extended the contract of Austin Jackson one year at $6.7 Million. AJ hit .247 with 25 HR and 79 RBI in '13.

@MattLurchMLB Austin Jackson found the power last year but remains hit-or-miss with 174 whiffs a year ago.

@Reds The team announces the extension of a one-year contract through 2015 season for RHP Sam LeCure at $1.2 Million.

@KenRosenhaus LeCure has been very good despite limited "stuff". Holds career 3.60 ERA in middle relief role for @Reds.

@JohnHayman Being told that the #Pirates are in heated talks with closer Joe Nathan. What's this mean for Grilli?

@BucsFirst I'm assuming that if the Nathan rumors are true, he'd be setting up Grilli until something changes. Nathan: 3.67, 33 SV / Grilli: 1.97, 36

[OOTPRealTime]

It was a busy day at the Winter Meetings in Orlando yesterday. I met with more than a few of my counterparts and we discussed many things - nothing yet to fruition. I arrived and quickly checked in and wasted no time reaching out to Jon Daniels about picking up our trade talks. I sent him a text to find out where he was. He responded saying he was in the lobby and that I should come down - he was talking with Dan O'Dowd (Rockies) and Walt Jocketty (Reds) about some things.

Now, I know for a fact that Walt doesn't like me. He doesn't know me but he doesn't like me. He was pushed out of St. Louis and doesn't have many friends left there. His success this year would only give him more reason to make my first impression of the Winter Meetings as a GM a bad one. So, I let some time go by, checked some e-mails in the suite before heading downstairs. DK was heading down but wouldn't make it in until later in the day. He begged me not to pull the trigger on anything until he landed. I joked that I would "try not to." The truth is, I rely on Dan as much as my own knowledge. It is our responsibility to analyze everything we have gathered on a player to make decisions.

By the time I made it downstairs, there seemed to be a few breakout sessions between GM's, scouts and personnel people. I was invited to the Daniels gathering and despite Walt (in all his glory) being there, I headed over. I introduced myself as if I didn't know who they all were - they did the same. Walt had a smug grin on his face most of the time we exchanged pleasantries. I asked Walt and Dan if I could talk to Jon alone. Walt had a wise-ass comment to the effect of "hey, we invited you to this party and now you're kicking us out?" I countered with a quick, "Well, I know how you feel about trading in the division, so I figured you'd be disinterested." He gave a fake laugh and as he walked away, he told Daniels that he could top anything I have to offer. He knows we want a shortstop and it probably makes him a bit uneasy to think we might be able to acquire one of theirs.

I asked Daniels if Walt knew what we were talking about specifically. He said that he probably could figure it out but that he didn't tell him anything else. So, we took refuge in the Texas suite at the Dolphin hotel at Disney World and he had his crew up there. It was just me for now. We discussed where exactly we stood on the Leury Garcia trade. He said they were ready to pull the trigger on Garcia and Ogando for Wigginton, Ryan Jackson and Tyrell Jenkins. I told him that we were close on that but would like to get another player back to make it an even three-for-three. He said that probably wouldn't happen. We talked about a few other things, including the new instant replay rules and then parted ways. I told him that we were very close but that I needed DK here to make any final decisions.

I spent the rest of the day greeting some agents, players looking for work (Johan Santana included) and some recently graduated math wizards looking for work in baseball.

Once DK got in, I was pretty much spent. We went to grab a quick dinner at Shula's and discussed the trade one more time to make sure we were on the same page.

I'm fairly confident it gets done today.

[OOTPRealTime]

First thing this morning, I ran into Melvin Roman, the agent for both Molina brothers and I sat down with him to have coffee. He said that Jose really wants to sign with us and just move on with it, but he's waiting to see if they get other offers. We have had a great relationship with Melvin - he also represents Jaime Garcia. After talking, I told him that the offer was fair and what they were seeking and the reason we went straight to that offer, instead of beating around the bush, was to get it locked in so we could put a check mark next to backup catcher. I also reiterated that it's great for Yadi to have Jose around. It appeared that Melvin was still fairly convinced that there was another suitor for Jose at a higher level. So, I played the possible trade card and told him that we are close to something with Daniels in Texas and he mentioned that they might throw in Jose Felix as a part of it. Felix, is a (Jose) Molina clone - great defensively, lacking with the bat - but 25 years old. Truth is that there is no way they would have gone for that in our discussions - but Melvin doesn't know that. After this discussion, he agreed it was time and called Jose just to make sure. Jose was on board and we shook hands. Two years, $6 Million. I was glad to put a bow on it.

After getting up from the table, I text Jon Daniels to set up dinner to finalize the trade. I told him I'm ready to get it done. He mentioned doing it over dinner tonight. He agreed that we'd meet at a local establishment to get it done. I also told him that as far as Melvin Roman is concerned, we talked about Jose Felix. He gets it. I don't think he would ask Daniels, but it never hurts to cover all bases.

I then text Derek Gold to give him the Molina news. I wanted to throw him a bone because I know I won't be able to feed him with the Texas trade scoop because people will pick up on it here. Again, Rosenhaus, Hayman and Olmey have such deep contacts, they'll get it before I can tell Gold. Why? Well, it's procedure to let all players/agents know of a trade before releasing it to the media. These guys trade the "scoops" for a few kind comments about clients. It's the way the game is played. I just sent Gold, "Jose Molina signed." He asked for terms, and I couldn't give those to him quite yet. He appreciated the bone and it took him exactly five seconds to tweet.

@dgold The #stlcards have signed Jose Molina, brother of Yadi today. Terms not yet disclosed.

It was nice to see Rosenhaus give Derek some props for it...

@KenRosenhaus #Cardinals sign Jose Molina to backup his brother in St. Louis as first reported by @dgold - terms weren't disclosed. Assuming a 2-year deal.

There was some buzz going around that somebody has locked up Grant Balfour, a 35-year old reliever who posted an amazing 0.81 ERA in 44.1 innings pitched in Oakland a season ago. Talk about playing for one last contract. The age is a worry but he's always been pretty good. The .234 BABIP is hard to repeat, but a solid member of any bullpen to say the least.

I ran into D-Backs GM Kevin Towers as I was working my way back to the lobby of the hotel.

Me: Kevin, what you know?

Towers: Just that the rich get richer.

Me: How so? Balfour?

Towers: Yeah.

Me: Who?

Towers: Frickin' Sabean.

(Brian Sabean is the GM of the San Francisco Giants - the big rival of the Diamondbacks and a team that posted the 2nd best NL bullpen ERA a season ago.)

Me: Heh. Figures. You have anything going on?

Towers: I thought I had something going on for Balfour!

(One of Arizona's downfalls was the bullpen a year ago)

Me: Damn. Sorry to hear it.

Towers: You know, I have Cliff Pennington just begging to play for you.

(He's trying to sell me on Pennington, a shortstop, because they are moving on to prospect Didi Gregorius at the position. He's not a terrible option - but he doesn't do much more for me than Kozma or Jackson. But another lesson from Mo - you might as well listen).

Me: Does he know that?

Towers: Not really, but he's yours cheap.

Me: I'll get back to you.

Towers: Got it. I'll check in later.

Obviously, he'll find out later that we're not in the Cliff Pennington game anymore once we officially seal the deal on the Garcia trade (if we do).

@JonHayman The #Giants have signed reliever Grant Balfour (0.81 ERA in OAK) to a 2-year, $9.44 Million deal. Bolsters already strong bullpen.

I'm going to meet with DK to go over our game plan for the dinner tonight with Daniels to get the deal done. We are sticking to our guns that we need one more prospect in the deal to finalize it. We both know he won't go for it but if he agrees to Ronald Guzman (who DK loves), we will have to throw in Adron Chambers. We're OK with that scenario. We can also live with Jackson/Wigginton/Jenkins for Garcia/Ogando.

One other variable that I didn't mention that we like about Garcia is that he hits from both sides of the plate. If we do end up adding Oscar Taveras to the everyday lineup (still a big "if") we're adding a third left-handed bat - to go with Jon Jay, Matt Adams and Kolten Wong/Matt Carpenter. We can't be too left-handed - so that gives us some better flexibility in the L/R splits. This was a concern brought up by Matheny in our earlier meeting.

I'll update later tonight about the details of the final negotiation and hopefully be able to announce a deal.

[fromtheline]

Seems like you are very knowledged from the GM POV and how little things work! Keep it up.

[OOTPRealTime]

The Cardinals MLB beat-writer Jen Ohgosch called to get a couple of quotes for a quick-hitting blog post she wanted to do on the signing of Jose...

CARDINALS INK JOSE MOLINA
2-years, $6 Million for backup catcher to his brother, Yadier
Cardinals.com - by: Jen Ohgosch

The Cardinals have broken their off-season silence with news of the signing of catcher Jose Molina, the 38-year old brother of current Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina. The elder Molina, Jose, possesses the closest thing to Yadier's defensive skills set, but lacks the offensive production.

"We are happy to add Jose to our roster. We were hoping to lock up a defensive-minded backup catcher to handle our pitching staff when Yadier needed a break. It just so happens that the best option is his brother," said Cardinals GM Parker Campbell.

The deal is for two-years at $3 Million per year. Molina, who will turn 39 on June 3rd, spent the last two seasons in Tampa Bay. Last year, he accumulated 441 at-bats, posting a respectable .247 batting average with 8 homers and 44 RBI. However, he's known for his defense. He earned the American League Gold Glove at catcher last year with a .997 fielding percentage, a +7.4 zone rating and 1.057 defensive efficiency rating with a 39.4 caught-stealing percentage (second only to Ryan Hanigan's ridiculous 43.8%).

"I am thrilled to join the Cardinals organization and continue my career, playing with my brother, Yadier. I am most excited to work everyday to win a World Championship with the this franchise," said Molina in a statement released through his agency.

The Cardinals earlier this off-season released their primary backup, J.R. Towles. The team retains Tony Cruz as a depth option in Triple-A Memphis in case there is an injury.

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@TheCardinalWay Damn, playing behind your younger (and better) little bro. That's gotta be tough on a guy. #Molina #stlcards

@JoseSantos Say what you want, the @Cardinals got their guy - a great defensive backstop who would only accept a backup job behind his own flesh and blood. #MolinaBros

@bzlamick Solid first (official) signing for GM Campbell. Gets J. Molina who can handle the staff when called upon. Not something Towles did well.

[OOTPRealTime]

Originally Posted by fromtheline

Seems like you are very knowledged from the GM POV and how little things work! Keep it up.

Thanks! I'm making it up as I go. Just trying to add a story-telling element to it.

[beachbomer]

Just wanted to let you know that this could be the most interesting dynasty I have read since the "Bad Hop" dynasty over on the IOTP. Keep up the great work!

[OOTPRealTime]

Originally Posted by beachbomer

Just wanted to let you know that this could be the most interesting dynasty I have read since the "Bad Hop" dynasty over on the IOTP. Keep up the great work!

Thanks! I appreciate that. It certainly helps to hear from people that are following along...