Rowand not ruling out return to South Side

[Chisox_fan]

LAS VEGAS -- You can take Aaron Rowand out of Chicago but you can't take Chicago out of Aaron Rowand.

Sitting in a Las Vegas resort over lunch Wednesday, Rowand came dressed in one of his favorite uniforms -- a Chicago Bears sweatshirt and color coordinated Bears baseball cap. With this season's playoffs nothing more than a remote dream for last year's NFC Champions, Rowand's support remains just as intense.

 

A strong connection still exists between one of baseball's most sought after free agents and the city where he began his now somewhat iconic career. That connection actually hasn't wavered, even after Rowand successfully patrolled center field for Philadelphia following a trade sending him east two Thanksgivings removed.

 

And while Rowand stands by a plan to leave the specific negotiations for free agency to his agent, Craig Landis, he wouldn't rule out a return to his home away from home.

 

"Oh, of course," said Rowand during a conversation with MLB.com, when asked if a chance still existed to get a deal done with the White Sox. "Yeah, I would never count [White Sox general manager] Kenny [Williams] out of anything.

 

"So, yeah, I mean, it's still a chance that it happens. I would be open to going back there and I don't think the door has been shut on that at all. They haven't even started the Winter Meetings yet."

 

Baseball's annual Winter Meetings begin this Monday in Nashville, running through the Rule 5 Draft next Thursday morning. If Rowand's free agency came one year later, he could have traveled 20 minutes from his home just outside of Las Vegas and paraded through the host hotel at next year's get-together in Nevada.

 

Then again, that sort of grandiose gesture just doesn't seem to fit Rowand's hard-working, blue-collar sort of demeanor. At 30 years old, a milestone birthday celebrated in late August, Rowand simply wants the respect -- as it pertains to future years and money through free agency -- he has earned over the past few seasons.

 

Not surprisingly for a man who would rather run through a wall than pull up and play the ball safely off it, Rowand also wants to find the best possible fit beyond the dollars for the next half-decade or so within the organization he selects.

 

"How's the situation in the clubhouse? How's the situation, performance-wise, on the field?" said Rowand, rattling off a handful of his concerns. "Is the team competitive? Are they going to be competitive? How are the guys? Who are the coaches?

 

"Much more goes into it than years and dollar signs, but hopefully I'll know when the situation presents itself. I'm not stressing out about any of it. I'm not getting worked up about it.

 

"I've never worried about a whole lot of [things]," added Rowand with a laugh. "So, why start now, you know what I mean?"

 

Rowand's specific outfield position just happens to feature the top players grouped together in this year's free agency class. Torii Hunter, considered by many as the No. 1 center fielder available with his seven Rawlings Gold Gloves and coming off a 107-RBI season, already has signed a five-year, $90 million deal with the Angels. Hunter's move left the White Sox shocked as to how their primary target traveled a different road at the 11th hour.

 

Andruw Jones once was labeled the gold standard in center but comes off of a .222 season with Atlanta, following two sensational years in which he hit at last 41 home runs a campaign. The scenario for Rowand plays out at the opposite end of the offensive spectrum, with free agency arriving on the heels of the best individual performance of his career, although Rowand is quick to point out nothing has come close overall to matching the White Sox World Series championship he was a part of in 2005.

 

As much as Rowand didn't want to leave Chicago, his voice cracking with emotion two years ago when talking about the Thanksgiving deal bringing Jim Thome to the White Sox, it might have been his best short-term career answer. This statement, at least, seems to be true where Rowand's development on offense is concerned.

 

 

Leaving behind Greg Walker, a man Rowand refers to as "not only the best hitting coach in baseball, hands down, but also one of my best friends," Rowand was forced to rely more on his own knowledge to make corrections with his swing. This bit of personal growth should help answer critics who point to 2007 as a spectacular anomaly compared to his past solid seasons.

 

"During the last couple of years, I learned a lot about myself and my swing," said Rowand, who hit .309 in 2007, with 27 home runs, 45 doubles, 89 RBIs and 105 runs scored. "[in Chicago] I depended on [Walker] to watch and break down every one of my swings, and I leaned on him and depended on him too much, instead of learning a feel.

 

"Milt Thompson is Philadelphia's hitting coach, and I have nothing bad to say about Milt whatsoever. But he doesn't break down your swing mechanically the way that Walker does. He's more of a feel guy than about mechanics with the swing.

 

"So it's almost like I became my own hitting coach and had to make adjustments myself," Rowand added. "I'm already out swinging right now. Two months have gone by, and normally when I start hitting, I feel like I don't know what I'm doing. This year, I feel like I'm right there still."

 

Over the next month or so, Rowand will decide where he will continue to work on this swing, while pushing for his second straight Gold Glove and All-Star appearance. That particular locale figures to come from a list of five or six teams, and could include the White Sox.

 

During a Wednesday conference call to announce the signing of free agent right-hander Scott Linebrink, Williams mentioned how the White Sox still are actively looking for an outfield upgrade before the question could be asked. Williams spoke in broad strokes without mentioning any individual, focusing on the organization's respect for all the players on his targeted list and letting any player they have talked to know about the White Sox future plan and where he would specifically fit for the team.

 

Of course, it doesn't take much work to figure out Rowand's fit, a man who many point to as the prototype for the White Sox famous "Grinder Rules." In fact, some fans still speak or write of Rowand's departure as an overriding reason for the White Sox postseason absence since 2005. Rowand laughs at talk of his cult-hero status or having such a perceived direct impact, but certainly seems flattered.

 

Chicago's bond with Rowand remains as strong as Rowand's bond with the city.

 

"Remember, there were 25 guys playing, and I was just a piece of that puzzle," said Rowand of the 2005 World Series champions. "As far as being in the locker room and all that, I come to the park every day to have fun, that's it. I like having a good time.

 

"I'm not going to sulk or pout or let any of my teammates do that either. That's what being a good teammate is, picking up your teammates when they are down, or stepping up and staying something when something needs to be said. More than anything else, it's just keeping things loose. When you are loose and everyone is having fun, it's easy to go out and perform to your best, perform to your abilities.

 

"It would be wonderful to go back to Chicago," Rowand added. "I love the city. I love the fans. I love my Bears. It's a great organization. Good coaches. Good ownership. Good everything. Let's see what happens. When the time comes, I'll weigh my options and see what the best fit is for me and my family."

 

 

[santo=dorf]

formal request for Rowand mega thread.

 

 

I think we've seen articles on about 75% of his emotions.

[bmags]

why the hell would he rule us out? If we pay him the most why wouldn't he come here?

[Whitewashed in '05]

formal request for Rowand mega thread.

I think we've seen articles on about 75% of his emotions.

Lol, aaronrowandtalk.com??

 

All I have to say is

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DA BEARS!

[South Side Fireworks Man]

This part is of particular interest:

 

Leaving behind Greg Walker, a man Rowand refers to as "not only the best hitting coach in baseball, hands down, but also one of my best friends," Rowand was forced to rely more on his own knowledge to make corrections with his swing. This bit of personal growth should help answer critics who point to 2007 as a spectacular anomaly compared to his past solid seasons.

 

"During the last couple of years, I learned a lot about myself and my swing," said Rowand, who hit .309 in 2007, with 27 home runs, 45 doubles, 89 RBIs and 105 runs scored. "[in Chicago] I depended on [Walker] to watch and break down every one of my swings, and I leaned on him and depended on him too much, instead of learning a feel.

 

"Milt Thompson is Philadelphia's hitting coach, and I have nothing bad to say about Milt whatsoever. But he doesn't break down your swing mechanically the way that Walker does. He's more of a feel guy than about mechanics with the swing.

 

"So it's almost like I became my own hitting coach and had to make adjustments myself," Rowand added. "I'm already out swinging right now. Two months have gone by, and normally when I start hitting, I feel like I don't know what I'm doing. This year, I feel like I'm right there still."

 

 

[NorthSideSox72]

I think its really interesting that the same day we get a source on the board saying talks are underway (info from within the organization, we get this article on the Sox site.

 

[elrockinMT]

I'll sign him for the Sox. How much do I write the check for? I think A-Row would be a great addition again and will help some of the other guys on this team.

[CanOfCorn]

Yep...Rowand would be great for the Sox...but not for over $10 mil a year. Sorry A-Row, but hustle and one awesome year at the plate doesn't make you an elite player.

[NorthSideSox72]

Yep...Rowand would be great for the Sox...but not for over $10 mil a year. Sorry A-Row, but hustle and one awesome year at the plate doesn't make you an elite player.

Well, you do have plus defense in there (not going to argue HOW plus it is), and he really has had 2 good years at the plate (2004, 2007). Just to clarify.

 

[CanOfCorn]

Well, you do have plus defense in there (not going to argue HOW plus it is), and he really has had 2 good years at the plate (2004, 2007). Just to clarify.

 

Plus defense, ok. 2 good years...ok. But, still, not for more than $10 mil/year.

[NorthSideSox72]

Plus defense, ok. 2 good years...ok. But, still, not for more than $10 mil/year.

I think he's worth 10 or 12 a year. 15 would be too much. This all based on the current market, mind you.

 

[Wanne]

This part is of particular interest:

 

Leaving behind Greg Walker, a man Rowand refers to as "not only the best hitting coach in baseball, hands down, but also one of my best friends," Rowand was forced to rely more on his own knowledge to make corrections with his swing. This bit of personal growth should help answer critics who point to 2007 as a spectacular anomaly compared to his past solid seasons.

 

"During the last couple of years, I learned a lot about myself and my swing," said Rowand, who hit .309 in 2007, with 27 home runs, 45 doubles, 89 RBIs and 105 runs scored. "[in Chicago] I depended on [Walker] to watch and break down every one of my swings, and I leaned on him and depended on him too much, instead of learning a feel.

 

"Milt Thompson is Philadelphia's hitting coach, and I have nothing bad to say about Milt whatsoever. But he doesn't break down your swing mechanically the way that Walker does. He's more of a feel guy than about mechanics with the swing.

 

"So it's almost like I became my own hitting coach and had to make adjustments myself," Rowand added. "I'm already out swinging right now. Two months have gone by, and normally when I start hitting, I feel like I don't know what I'm doing. This year, I feel like I'm right there still."

 

That's the first thing that smacked me in the face. So...he leaves his buddy...and then his swing and offensive output develop nicely.

[Want2Repeat]

I think its really interesting that the same day we get a source on the board saying talks are underway (info from within the organization, we get this article on the Sox site.

 

I was just curious where this "source info" was posted at. Earlier in the week, there was an article in the Trib saying essentially the same thing...that Rowand was still open to the idea. Then, on the same day, there was a Sun Times Joe Cowley article saying there was no chance of it happening as they weren't even in the same park in regards to possible terms.

 

All I know is that they better do something fast. We can't have this same OF situation again. Jerry Owens, Brian Anderson, and Ryan Sweeney can't be relied on as options.

 

I thought Minnesota made a real nice pick up in D. Young, even though Garza could be a stud pitcher.

[Texsox]

Anderson @ $600,000

[jasonxctf]

Anderson @ $600,000

 

 

[Texsox]

 

why pay more?

[jasonxctf]

because Brian Anderson hit .255 in AAA last year and is coming off an injury that killed his season on 4th of July?

 

[Soxfest]

Rowand may want to come back but his salary demands eliminate that IMO!

[witesoxfan]

Plus defense, ok. 2 good years...ok. But, still, not for more than $10 mil/year.

 

Rowand was one of the most valuable players in the NL last year, probably in the top 10. He's worth well more than $10 million and will likely end up getting around $13-15 mill a year; so long as you understand what you are getting, that should be a pretty fair contract.

[Balta1701]

Rowand was one of the most valuable players in the NL last year, probably in the top 10. He's worth well more than $10 million and will likely end up getting around $13-15 mill a year; so long as you understand what you are getting, that should be a pretty fair contract.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Last year's Aaron Rowand is worth that kind of money. The 2006 and 2005 versions of Aaron Rowand are worth 1/4 of that. If you could guarantee me we'd get the 07 version at least most of the years of that contract, ok, but I still don't have said guarantee from anyone.

 

Here's my comparison. Uribe gets hot next year. Puts up a Tejada like OPS. 900 or so, 30 home runs, .300+ average, etc. Would you then give Mr. Uribe a 5/$75 deal? If he put up those same numbers every year, he'd be worth it. But when Mr. .240 comes back...

[rockren]

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Last year's Aaron Rowand is worth that kind of money. The 2006 and 2005 versions of Aaron Rowand are worth 1/4 of that. If you could guarantee me we'd get the 07 version at least most of the years of that contract, ok, but I still don't have said guarantee from anyone.

 

Here's my comparison. Uribe gets hot next year. Puts up a Tejada like OPS. 900 or so, 30 home runs, .300+ average, etc. Would you then give Mr. Uribe a 5/$75 deal? If he put up those same numbers every year, he'd be worth it. But when Mr. .240 comes back...

 

Let the Dodgers overpay for Rowand. Give me Druw Jones.

[sircaffey]

We're going to have to overpay for an offensive talent no matter who it is. For this organization right now, it's much better to overpay for a FA than it is to overpay through trade. We can afford the cash, we can't afford losing the little talent we have left. If that's the choice, that is. I'd rather have nothing at this time, but something tells me that's not the choice that will be made.

[gosox41]

Rowand was one of the most valuable players in the NL last year, probably in the top 10. He's worth well more than $10 million and will likely end up getting around $13-15 mill a year; so long as you understand what you are getting, that should be a pretty fair contract.

 

 

Except I don't understand what a team would be getting offensively in Rowand. Will it be the 2007 contract push Rowand or the 2005 Rowand where his numbers don't warrant anywhere near a $10 mill. salary even in today's market.

 

 

 

Bob

[GreatScott82]

Okay what is going on? Yesterday Rowand wasn't coming here (according to Cowley). Today, i read that there is an 'inside source' saying that his agent and the white sox are in talks... I really have no clue in whats going on...

 

But a 10 million dollar/ season would be a STEAL in todays market. And yes KW the market correction won't happen anytime soon...

 

I say KW works something out where he gets garunteed 10 mill/season and it goes up to 12 million in possible incentives.. (hits .300, makes all-star team, certain amount of ABs, RBIs etc....)

 

 

 

[103 mph screwball]

I'd demand a no trade if I were Aaron. If I'm taking less money to live in my favorite city, I'd be darn sure not to get traded...again. I'd also demand premium Bears season tickets. I must admit, this article and the timing of it, make Rowand's return seem more possible.