Sox shouldn't center focus on 1 guy

[spiderman]

Sox shouldn't center focus on 1 guy

Return of Rowand would be big, but team has many needs

 

Chicago Tribune Link

 

After failing to land Edgar Renteria as far back as last summer, the White Sox were about to settle for Juan Uribe before landing Gold Glove shortstop Orlando Cabrera last week.

 

This off-season already is mirroring the adjustment period general manager Ken Williams embarked on three years ago, at least in the sense that he swung and missed with a Uribe-like hack on Omar Vizquel as he did recently with Torii Hunter.

 

Opting for "Plan 1B," which appears to be fan-favorite Aaron Rowand, would solve as many issues off the field as on the field. Toward the end of his five-year stint with the Sox in 2005, Rowand was known to take a subtle face-to-face poke at a teammate or reporter designed to keep everyone on the straight path.

 

A day before hitting a grand slam against his former team in Philadelphia in June, Rowand visited the Sox's clubhouse.

 

That prompted Darin Erstad to say he'd never seen the Sox's clubhouse so cheerful since arriving in January. And dating back to the end of the 2006 season, Rowand was aware that some Sox players were on their own program instead of adhering to the best interests of the team.

 

A return by Rowand would fill the Sox's hole in center field, provide manager Ozzie Guillen with an unselfish player willing to hit anywhere in a lineup that resembled a slow-pitch softball team with its slow-footed sluggers and give a friendly clubhouse an edge it has lacked since the start of a 105-131 stretch that began the second half of the 2006 season.

 

But Rowand isn't the answer to all of the Sox's problems, which still linger despite the addition of Cabrera.

 

In fact, it wouldn't be the worst development if the Sox lose out on the Miguel Cabrera sweepstakes, especially since Florida is seeking four prospects.

 

Williams has spoken more frequently about fielding a championship-caliber team in 2008, but the future can't be ignored unless there are talented position players to support the likes of pitchers John Danks, Gio Gonzalez and Lance Broadway.

 

Trading Joe Crede would be tough, but the Sox already have a built-in replacement in Josh Fields, who played 79 games at third base in 2007. And at least two teams in search of a third baseman—the Dodgers and Angels—have a deep pool of young talent that could fortify the Sox's thin upper levels of their farm system.

 

The reservoir isn't so deep in the Phillies and Giants organizations, but the chance to land a player of Crede's ability might be too tempting to pass up, especially with Alex Rodriguez (Yankees) and Mike Lowell (Red Sox) returning to their teams and Miguel Cabrera probably landing somewhere in Southern California.

 

It also could bring the Sox results similar to when they dealt Carlos Lee on the final day of the 2004 winter meetings.

 

They landed a healthy Scott Podsednik to hit leadoff and serviceable relief pitcher Luis Vizcaino and had enough money left over to sign catcher A.J. Pierzynski.

 

Yet, the desire to field a title-contending team is paramount in Williams' eyes. That still requires landing a leadoff hitter and a dependable middle infielder, two valuable positions on a 25-man roster.

 

Free agent infielder Cesar Izturis is available, but published reports indicate he is seeking a starting job. The Sox appear to have no interest in Chris Gomez, who can play all four infield positions and is attracting interest from the Yankees, Padres, Rangers and Pirates.

 

The imminent addition of reliever Scott Linebrink is cause for scrutiny, considering he has yielded 21 homers in 146 innings over the last two seasons.

 

Earlier this month, Williams wrote in an e-mail that he had hoped to get most of his off-season work done before the annual four-day winter meetings, which start Monday in Nashville.

 

But if the past is any indication, Williams will be working, and likely adjusting, up to the final day.

 

[DBAHO]

That doesn't really paint much of a positive light for the Sox clubhouse does it.

 

And really, losing 1 guy in Rowand shouldn't make THAT much of an impact IMHO. Sure it hurts, but some of the other guys have to step up and become more of a leader in their own right.

 

But I do agree that we have a lot of needs to fill, and we can't trade our 4 best prospects (DLS, Gio, Carter and Egbert) in a deal for Miggy. The dependable middle infielder is hopefully not Uribe, who should be traded ASAP for a prospect, as 4.5M is too much for an utility infielder IMHO.

 

Do the Angels really need a 3rd baseman as well?

[Balta1701]

But I do agree that we have a lot of needs to fill, and we can't trade our 4 best prospects (DLS, Gio, Carter and Egbert) in a deal for Miggy. The dependable middle infielder is hopefully not Uribe, who should be traded ASAP for a prospect, as 4.5M is too much for an utility infielder IMHO.

 

Do the Angels really need a 3rd baseman as well?

It's really hard for me to see how the Angels need a 3rd baseman, because right now they have no where else to play Figgins. They have their 5 OF's, then they have a line of guys at SS including Izturis, Aybar, and possibly Wood if they bring him up, they have Kendrick at 2nd base, and Kotchman/Morales at 1b. Heck, they even have another 3rd baseman coming off of Back Surgery in McPherson if they're really desperate. They could still go crazy though and think that they still need more of a power bat despite having added Hunter, and honestly, I wouldn't put it past them.

 

I can't figure out how that team will get down to 25 players, personally.

[BearSox]

If Kenny wants to deal with the Angels again, I wouldn't mind Gary Matthews Jr. if the Angels once again, threw in some cash. Something with Crede and prospect(s)?... But then again that is dependent on if Matthews Jr. would waive his no trade clause to Chicago.

[Balta1701]

If Kenny wants to deal with the Angels again, I wouldn't mind Gary Matthews Jr. if the Angels once again, threw in some cash. Something with Crede and prospect(s)?... But then again that is dependent on if Matthews Jr. would waive his no trade clause to Chicago.

For God's sake, no one who's going to wind up in the Mitchell report please.

[BearSox]

For God's sake, no one who's going to wind up in the Mitchell report please.

 

sorry, sorry... bad idea

[SoxAce]

sorry, sorry... bad idea

 

as usual..

 

Hey, my 10,000th post!!!

 

It only took 3 yrs...

Edited November 27, 2007 by SoxAce

[witesoxfan]

It's really hard for me to see how the Angels need a 3rd baseman, because right now they have no where else to play Figgins. They have their 5 OF's, then they have a line of guys at SS including Izturis, Aybar, and possibly Wood if they bring him up, they have Kendrick at 2nd base, and Kotchman/Morales at 1b. Heck, they even have another 3rd baseman coming off of Back Surgery in McPherson if they're really desperate. They could still go crazy though and think that they still need more of a power bat despite having added Hunter, and honestly, I wouldn't put it past them.

 

I can't figure out how that team will get down to 25 players, personally.

 

From everything I've read, they'd have to include Kendrick in a deal for Cabrera; the Marlins would then trade Uggla and the Angels would stick Figgins at 2B. Whether that's a good idea I don't know, and it's all speculation, so who really knows; it actually shows some creativity though.

[farmteam]

It's really hard for me to see how the Angels need a 3rd baseman, because right now they have no where else to play Figgins. They have their 5 OF's, then they have a line of guys at SS including Izturis, Aybar, and possibly Wood if they bring him up, they have Kendrick at 2nd base, and Kotchman/Morales at 1b. Heck, they even have another 3rd baseman coming off of Back Surgery in McPherson if they're really desperate. They could still go crazy though and think that they still need more of a power bat despite having added Hunter, and honestly, I wouldn't put it past them.

 

I can't figure out how that team will get down to 25 players, personally.

 

Doesn't Wood project more at the hot corner anyway?

[Gregory Pratt]

This team definitely needs more than "one guy".

[witesoxfan]

This team definitely needs more than "one guy".

 

Miguel Cabrera eats as much as like 3 guys, does that count?

[sircaffey]

Miguel Cabrera eats as much as like 3 guys, does that count?

 

Yes.

[GreatScott82]

Sign Rowand tommorow and lets go from there...

Then attempt to make a BIG push for either Cabrera or Crawford (either would make our lineup 10 X better)

Then i would sign 1 maybe 2 more relievers... Did Yabuta sign with KC yet? I havent heard much...

Then i would start accepting offers for both Crede and Uribe... any prospects would help at this point....

And finally... sign a Colon or Garcia. I know, I know they are damaged goods, however, a 1 year deal worth like 4-5 million with major incentives would be worth it IMO. Alittle minor risk- possible high reward move. Even if they don't return until July, it can be a boost to the rotation. ESP if Danks, Gio, or Floyd are struggling....

 

So yea KW better be no where near done after he gets his "1 guy" whomever it is he is talking about.

[Chombi]

Please "No" to Rowand.

 

I don't mind making the big pushes for guys like Miggy/Crawford.

 

Don't think any more money is needed to be spent on overrated, aging players. I think the Hunter thing turned into somewhat of a blessing for us b/c as much as I wouldn't have minded him, I didn't quite find myself convinced he would be worth the money.

 

We ARE NOT GOING TO COMPETE unless this old team gets a makeover. Even then, I am skeptical. We have 2 of the best teams in baseball (Cleveland, Detroit), another talented .500+ ballclub in Minnesota and a very young talented Royals team. Why are we trying to throw money at a division that is completely hopeless with how much work our team needs???

 

I've said it several times in these threads that I would love nothing more then a firesale. It appears very unlikely because "God Forbid we let our fans down and not spend 100 million on mediocrity."

 

Ego's need to be put aside on KW's part and even JR's, and what they need to do is realize they put together a team that won. It's hard to do. It's even harder in today's game to win with the same team or one built around the same core. We took our shot, won. Had a chance at round 2 in 06' and blew it. That's it, time to blow it up and start from scratch. Not think you are some all powerful genius that can make moves and think he can fix the problem.

 

Cleveland, Detroit, and even the Royals (early stages) are taking/took the sacrifice of building for the future. We can do that and take over this division when these teams need to let their guys go in a couple years.

 

If you're going to try and fix it though, then as much as I hate to admit it...Marrioti was right, you can't be cheap in doing so. You can't be gun shy and not overload prospects for a guy like Miggy. You can't not offer players long term deals because of one bad apple. We claim we have this master plan and as much as it makes sense on paper, it needs to work on the field.

 

It's a different world in baseball today. It's gotta be all in on the financial standpoint while building a farm, and if you don't spend you better make damn sure you scout. We hardly scout well and we damn sure don't spend enough money for being a large-market team that doesnt have that farm to fill holes.

 

Damn I am angry tonight. Sorry everyone for the rant.

[greg775]

And really, losing 1 guy in Rowand shouldn't make THAT much of an impact IMHO. Sure it hurts, but some of the other guys have to step up and become more of a leader in their own right.

 

I agree with you, that it sheds bad light on the guys Rowand left behind.

At the same time, who knows what it takes to bring these multi millionaires together

as a team?

Rowand apparently is a true chemistry guy.

Maybe he was the Sox's Thurman Munson.

 

OK, rip away. Since Rowand was a White Sox player and we always bury our own

on here, blast me for comparing Rowand to Munson.

Blast away.

[G&T]

The Yankees don't worry about chemistry and make the playoffs every year. They lose in the playoffs because they can't pitch.

The Cubs made the playoffs last year despite having a fight between a pitcher and catcher. I realize Barett was traded, but I doubt they had great chemistry. They got swept because of a lack of talent.

I'm sure there are plenty more examples.

 

If Rowand is the best guy for this team on the field, then get him. But if this team is losing, Rowand's smile isn't going to bring wins.

 

That said, if KW sacrifices talent for chemistry, then that clubhouse must be awful.

[klaus kinski]

We dont have to trade anyone to get Aaron-thats why we do it at this point-then you have some players to trade for one of the other needs. Filling a need with a free agent is key-we just dont have enuf to trade to fill several holes.

[NorthSideSox72]

The really strange thing in that article, to me, is the talk about needing a "dependable middle infielder. Is that part a joke? I can think of nothing the Sox need less. They have 2 shortstops (Cabrera, Uribe), a young 2B they keep saying is a rising star (Richar), 2 bench guys who are supposed to have that job anyway (Cintron, Ozuna), and at least 2 young guys who seem poised and ideal for that role anyway (Bourgeois, Getz). Seriously, having another middle infielder should be near the bottom of the list of priorities. The main focuses at this point should be CF and LF in that order, then possible (depending on how trades and signings go) adding an SP for a short contract.

 

ETA: I realize that Cintron and Uribe should be, and probably will be, gone. They still have more than enough tools at that point.

 

[Soxfest]

No to Rowand...................time for KW to aim higher alot higher!

[NorthSideSox72]

No to Rowand...................time for KW to aim higher alot higher!

Just curious, what CF's do you see available that are "alot higher!" than Rowand?

 

[southsider2k5]

Why is it that when the media focuses on one guy, they just assume the Sox are operating the same way? The first thing Kenny said after Hunter signed with LAA was that this shouldn't hurt them too much because they have already been operating on mulitple fronts at the sametime. The whole article is faulty.

[Gregory Pratt]

Why is it that when the media focuses on one guy, they just assume the Sox are operating the same way? The first thing Kenny said after Hunter signed with LAA was that this shouldn't hurt them too much because they have already been operating on mulitple fronts at the sametime. The whole article is faulty.

 

Oh, come on. It clearly hurt our offseason. Hunter was our staple, and he even made the deal for Cabrera in large part because he told Hunter he would. Sure, Kenny's probably operating on multiple fronts but asking someone, "Hey, what would it take to sign you?" or "What do you want for X?" isn't really much. I am having trouble imagining what we're going to be able to get and where from. Kenny has his work cut out for him.

[witesoxfan]

No to Rowand...................time for KW to aim higher alot higher!

 

FWIW, of all the centerfielders that hit the market this offseason, Rowand had the best 2007 out of all of them.

 

 

[RockRaines]

I hate horribly researched pot shots at kw. Hunter even said that part of kws sales pitch to him was bringing in o cab. Kw wasn't settling for anything in uribe.

[29andPoplar]

I hate horribly researched pot shots at kw. Hunter even said that part of kws sales pitch to him was bringing in o cab. Kw wasn't settling for anything in uribe.

 

This is true. Now it's time to move on, they need a CF, they need a LF, they need a leadoff hitter and oh by the way how about a little more help in the bullpen too. Lots to do. I suspect there will be some action and a lot of it in the next 10 days. Williams will not want to leave the winter meetings empty handed and I think he will get stuff done sooner.

 

Who is the best CF out there w/out giving up talent? I would say Rowand. Is he better than what we have now, I would say yes. Is Aaron Rowand the answer to all our problems, definitely not.

 

A few good moves over the next 10 days and people will be more optimistic. There are LF's available who can help. And I know what I'd do for a lead off hitter, but I don't run the club, I just add thoughts on a message board.