Pujolsapalooza: Multiple Reports - 10 Year Contract with Angels

[Omar]

Let this thread be a clearinghouse for Pujols news throughout the silly season.

What we know
Cardinals offered 9/200 last offseason which was rejected
Most traditional big money teams are pretty well set at 1B
Rumors of Marlins interest has been steady for a significant time
Marlins have made a 9 year "standing offer."
Contrary to earlier reports, the Cardinals offer is for less than $200 million guaranteed.
The Marlins had a second meeting with Pujols' representatives on 12/5, reportedly to increase their 9 year offer.
The Marlins will meet with Pujols' agent for the fourth time on 12/6
SI's Jon Heyman and ESPN's Buster Olney report the Marlins offer is now 10 years.

[Miamarlin21]

I would vote to rename this thread after a Drake song, "Dreams Money Can Buy." But that's just me.

[Ramp]

Nope

[Miamarlin21]

Thanks.

[Metes]

You're not welcome

ALBEEEEEERT (SHELLEEEEEY)

[AdamRavs]

Just rename it blank check

[Party]

• Folks believe the Marlins will indeed be big players on the market. One person said new manager Ozzie Guillen is pushing for either Pujols or Prince Fielder. And while those players could be out of their reach, the Marlins are expected to be active on the free agent market.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jon_heyman/11/07/dale.sveum.cubs.red.sox.managers/index.html#ixzz1d7Z0j2F5

[Ramp]

Just wanted everyone to know that I am off the "blank check" bandwagon.

Money better spent elsewhere. You can now carry on with your normal lives.

[Beef]

Welcome to my aboard

[Hugg]

About time Ramp

[Ramp]

Good to be here, thanks for having me

[Big Z]

The average prediction for Pujols’ next contract was more than $28MM per season for 8.5 years. All but one respondent expect Pujols to re-sign with the Cardinals, though there’s buzz that the Cubs, Marlins and Rangers are “gearing up” for him.


Jayson Stark

[Fish Tank Frenzy]

Is 'buzz' a new source? :mischief

The more I think about it the Marlins shouldn't sign Pujols to such a long contract. Realistically other than the steroid era what power stars sustained their production into their late 30's and into their 40's? I think Pujols would be amazing in a Marlins uniform but 7+ years is just not smart.

[Swifty]

I'm geared up!

[MiamiHomer]

The wooing of Albert Pujols is about to get under way in earnest.

An industry source told MLB.com on Thursday that Pujols’ camp is scheduled to meet in Miami with the Florida Marlins within the next few days, possibly as early as Saturday. Pujols is a free agent for the first time after he and the Cardinals were unable to reach an agreement last winter.

Pujols, 31, is the biggest name free agent on the market this winter, but one of several that Florida (soon to be Miami) is considering. The Marlins move into a new ballpark next season, and their payroll is expected to increase dramatically.

They have already met with Mark Buehrle and Jose Reyes, and a Marlins contingent traveled to the Dominican Republic to see Cuban outfielder Yoennis Cespedes this week as well. The Marlins have Gaby Sanchez at first base, but Pujols is the kind of unique talent who could certainly cause a team to rethink what it has in-house.

The Cardinals are busy trying to hire a manager, and have wrapped up a first (and possibly only) round of interviews with six candidates. But general manager John Mozeliak said Wednesday that the manager search has not kept him from working on other matters, such as player personnel. It’s not known whether Pujols and the Cardinals have had any substantive conversations since the World Series ended.

Pujols, Marlins to meet (http://mlb.mlblogs.com/2011/11/10/pujols-marlins-to-meet/)

[Miamarlin21]

Wooo!

[Bobbob1313]

Exciting.

I kind of don't want it to happen, but exciting nonetheless.

[Big Z]

If the Reyes deal is close, why meet with Pujols?

[MiamiHomer]

Doubling payroll obviously.

[mbitcronod12]

That would use all the money we have to spend though. Reyes and Pujols for around $20 million a piece would take us over $90 million in payroll. That would eliminate getting a starter unless we trade Nolasco to save payroll and get a player like Gio who is cost controlled.

[Big Z]

Lol, I think if anything we get to $100 million.

If we sign Reyes (let say for 17.5) and trade for Gio instead of signing Buehrle, how much do we have left for Pujols?

[Beef]

Ehe, I hope we get Reyes and Pujols just so Mibs can complain OH NOOOOOO WE USED IT ALL!!! ITS ALL GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONE

[Chewford]

We're gonna pay Pujols in won.

[mbitcronod12]

We're not going with a $100 million payroll. The general consensus from reputable sources (not the Twitter guys) is $85-$90 million.

And Beef, why would I care if we only get two players? It's everyone else that's having fantasies about filling mulitple positions with top of the line (and top of the budget) players.

[Bobbob1313]

Lol, I think if anything we get to $100 million.

If we sign Reyes (let say for 17.5) and trade for Gio instead of signing Buehrle, how much do we have left for Pujols?

With no other changes? Probably $110.

[Chewford]

We could almost buy 2 copies of Skyrim with that $110!

[Big Z]

So we are the first to meet with Reyes, Buehrle and Pujols. Wow.

[Beef]

You know what they say

[Valid]

You know what they say
The early bird gets the worm?

[Beef]

Ohhh, some do say that.

I guess I meant Mibs. She says that first is the worst.

[Chewford]

You know what they say

See a broad to get dat booty yak 'em, leg 'er down a smack 'em yak 'em!

[Big Z]

Finally, reporters let him off the hook and said good-bye. To which Ramirez called back with a grin: “When is Pujols coming over?’’



Joe Capozzi

[Swifty]

GEARED. UP.

[Party]

I'm getting excited.

[Chewford]

I don't see how we're serious suitors for Pujols to visit if we're going to sign Reyes.

[Swifty]

WE SPENT IT ALL!

[Valid]

Is it at all financially possible to sign both? What would our payroll be if we did?

[Chewford]

It's over 9000!

[Fritz]

Once we hit 88, we'll see some serious shit.

[Swifty]

1.21 GIGAWATTS!

[Chewford]

I just don't see how Loria can come up with the plutonium required that many jiggawatts.

[Metes]

Ehe, I hope we get Reyes and Pujols just so Mibs can complain OH NOOOOOO WE USED IT ALL!!! ITS ALL GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONE

I joker smiled

[Big Z]

All those years of being cheap was for a reason, 2012.

[Metes]

I just don't see how Loria can come up with the plutonium required that many jiggawatts.

We could do it if we had Rhodes. Where we're going, we'll need Rhodes.

[Beef]

Loria Pat Riley'd.

Minus most everything.

[tr305]

I hope this isn't just gearing up for the select a seat day. sorry

[Swifty]

PICK YOUR GODDAMN SEAT!

[FishTale]

All those years of being cheap was for a reason, 2012.

Too bad the world is coming to an end. :confused:fip

[Hugg]

I like to take the DuckTales theme song and replace it with your screen name.

[Party]

Maybe Loria found that gun from DuckTales that cloned money.

[Fish Tank Frenzy]

Maybe Loria found that gun from DuckTales that cloned money.

Better than the gun that made money disappear! We had that for years down here. This off season so far has been so much fun even though we have signed no one so far. Its just awesome that the Marlins are doing stuff during this time of year. :mischief

[Party]

D-D-D-D-D-Danger lurks behind you!

[MiamiHomer]

joecapMARLINS joe capozzi
I'm told by a #Marlins source Albert Pujols in Miami today but that Saturday is the likely meeting-lunch-ballpark tour with brass


:).
--------------------
jcrasnick Jerry Crasnick
#Marlins trying to set up Pujols visit in Miami today. If details can't be worked out, they'll do it tomorrow.


Pujols had been in the Dominican Republic for his foundation before coming to Miami.

[Valid]

The #Marlins aren't messing round. Meet this afternoon w Pujols and agent Lozano. #MLB

http://twitter.com/#!/BNightengale/status/135045856696074241

[MiamiHomer]

BNightengale Bob Nightengale
The #Marlins aren't messing round. Meet this afternoon w Pujols and agent Lozano. #MLB


...

[Miamarlin21]

Fuck. Get em Jeffrey.

[Valid]

Are we allowed to get very excited now?

[Big Z]

Invite Pujols to our ceremony tonight!

[Fritz]

Guys, who cares? Mibs says this happens all the time.

[Metes]

We literally get linked to Pujols every single offseason and nothing ever comes of it

[Fritz]

It is known.

[MiamiHomer]

JoeFrisaro Joe Frisaro
#Marlins Am hearing Albert is indeed here now and for the weekend, going to get the grand tour of park.


...

[Big Z]

I hate when people say Am instead of I am or I'm.

So Pujols is not just here for a day, but for the entire weekend? interesting.

[MiamiHomer]

He is getting a royal treatment. Maybe they bring in LeBron to see him (I'm kidding beef).

[Big Z]

We should go on a Pujols hunt this weekend; see who can find him first.

[MiamiHomer]

Just spend all day Joe's Stone Crab.

[Omar]

Do you think the Marlins made all of the reservations ahead of time? Or do they show up and wait for a booth?

[MiamiHomer]

They reserve a table in the back room. So don't stand out in the front waiting because you won't see them.
--------------------
MIAMI — An already busy week has been taken up a notch with the arrival of slugger Albert Pujols in Miami.

According to a source, the Cardinals free agent is in town with his agent, Dan Lozano, and he will be in South Florida for the weekend.

Pujols is meeting with team officials on the day the franchise will officially be renamed the Miami Marlins. He is expected to stay for through Sunday, getting a tour of the new ballpark.

The Marlins are making a big push to show the highest-profile free agents that they expect to be a factor on the market.

A source said there is a stronger likelihood that the Marlins will sign Jose Reyes and Cuban-born outfielder Yoenis Cespedes than Pujols, who is expected to become the highest paid player in the game.

http://joefrisaro.mlblogs.com/2011/11/11/pujols-in-town-for-weekend/

[marlinsfan24]

Sign Pujols, Reyes, and Cespedes. Let's build the next superteam!!

[MiamiHomer]

For comedic purposes:

DocGooden16 Dwight Gooden
As I mentioned a while ago... Pujols is the Marlins number 1 choice if it falls through then they turn to Reyes

[marlinsfan24]

Any chance we get a game on ESPN next season if we sign Pujols? If not, fuck this all then. Not worth it.

[Ramp]

Fuck ESPN

[MiamiHomer]

:lolwut

[Valid]

Why the heck would Dwight Gooden know anything about the Marlins' plans?

[MiamiHomer]

Why the heck would Dwight Gooden know anything about the Marlins' plans?

He's been claiming for some time that Pujols wants to come to Miami.

[marlinsfan24]

^This feels like when the Heat traded for Shaq or signed the big 3, everyone wanted to be in Miami then. And shit, we have not even signed anyone yet.

[Metes]

Beef, our worst fears are coming true

[MiamiHomer]

Beef, our worst fears are coming true

The fear of the Marlins making big moves leading to others flocking to the site to "jump on the bandwagon" and drive you crazy with things they say/do?

[tr305]

yes, let's complain about something like this after all of these crappy years at Sun Life. Enjoy this guys.

[Metes]

The fear of the Marlins making big moves leading to others flocking to the site to "jump on the bandwagon" and drive you crazy with things they say/do?

We become the Heat

But the added dummies don't help

[tr305]

Seriously, Would you rather the alternative ???

[MiamiHomer]

Seriously, Would you rather the alternative ???

It's not the success he would be upset about. It other things.

[Metes]

I'd like to sign good people

Silly, unfounded media frenzy, no

[tr305]

Oh, I see.
--------------------
The success is always accompanied by silly season. Just enjoy the new park and all of this buzz.

[Metes]

I will, thanks

[Blackout Pact]

The fear of the Marlins making big moves leading to others flocking to the site to "jump on the bandwagon" and drive you crazy with things they say/do?

This was my first thought as well.

[Valid]

I think baseball is pretty different from basketball in that sense.

[Omar]

Don't get me wrong, I'll miss the days of having legroom and the players being able to hear you because your voice echoed. But that, and stupid jerseys, is a small price to pay to start approaching the potential of a well-run baseball team in Miami.

[Metes]

Just please, good lord don't let me see LeBron in an oversized M hat

[MiamiHomer]

The Marlins aren't playing games with Albert Pujols. According to a Major League source, the Marlins are serious about signing the free agent first baseman and intend to make a competitive offer.

Pujols was in South Florida on Friday, lunching with Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria and other front office executives, who have spent the past week wooing other high-profile free agents, including Jose Reyes and Mark Buehrle. Pujols was also expected to tour the Marlins' new ballpark later this afternoon.

Pujols is the big prize in this year's free agent class and has reportedly received a nine-year, $200 million offer from the Cardinals to remain in St. Louis. Sources say that Loria, in particular, covets Pujols and envisions him at first base when the Marlins open their new stadium on April 4 -- against the World Series champion Cardinals.



Source: Marlins plan to make serious offer for Pujols

(http://miamiherald.typepad.com/fish_bytes/#ixzz1dQOmlAyo)

[Miamarlin21]

Damnit, MH, beat me to it.

[Big Z]

I'm just confused with the whole "Reyes Marlins are close to a deal" rumor. There's no way the Fish offer Reyes a contract and meet with Pujols 2 days later to offer him a contract. Something is off here.

Although I prefer Reyes, Cespedes > Pujols, I must say I am very excited. We are being aggressive and I trust the FO will do what's best for us in order to win year in and year out. I love Pujols, just think the other 2 give us a better chance to win.

Pujols received another 9/200 from the Cards?

[Fritz]

Just please, good lord don't let me see LeBron in an oversized M hat

He'll have to discuss it with his handlers first.

[Party]

I'm not sure how I feel about this. From a marketing standpoint, this is going to be a major step forward for the organization. But as has been mentioned before, he's going to command a lot of money into his mid to late 30s. REALLY REALLY interested in how the contract would work.

[Omar]

Give him 10/150 and 5% ownership in the club, effective immediately

[Fritz]

Massive dollars up front during the honeymoon period (since it'll be easier to ameliorate with the initial buzz of the park and team) and less dollars in the later years when he's working towards milestones.

[Valid]

I'm just confused with the whole "Reyes Marlins are close to a deal" rumor. There's no way the Fish offer Reyes a contract and meet with Pujols 2 days later to offer him a contract. Something is off here.
I don't even think that was a real rumor.

[Big Z]

I think we should offer something like what we were speaking about for Reyes. Give Pujols 5/150 and include club options for years 6,7,8, which can eventually be 8/220.

[Party]

Give him 10/150 and 5% ownership in the club, effective immediately

That's against the MLB Constitution.

[Omar]

Break the rules!

A promise of ownership later?

[Erick]

I'm just confused with the whole "Reyes Marlins are close to a deal" rumor. There's no way the Fish offer Reyes a contract and meet with Pujols 2 days later to offer him a contract. Something is off here.

Although I prefer Reyes, Cespedes > Pujols, I must say I am very excited. We are being aggressive and I trust the FO will do what's best for us in order to win year in and year out. I love Pujols, just think the other 2 give us a better chance to win.

Pujols received another 9/200 from the Cards?

Maybe long-term.

[Party]

Kim Bokamper ran into Albert Pujols at the ballpark earlier today. Will have a story during the 6 pm newscast.

[Big Z]

What channel is that?

[Party]

CBS4

[Ramp]

Pujols talk coming up on Around the Horn

for those that want to bash their skulls into a wall

[MiamiHomer]

I'm not going to be able to watch MLB network hot stove so someone else needs to do the honors tonight.

[Party]

You going to a super exclusive Pitbull concert and not telling us?

[Ramp]

Around the Horn guys gave the Marlins dap

[MiamiHomer]

I'm at my uncles house trying to connect thier computers to Internet.

[Valid]

Interesting thing I thought of:

Is it possible the Marlins turned their attention to Pujols after Hanley balked at the prospect of moving to third base?

[Hugg]

No.

[Valid]

Well that answers that.

[TheMendozaLine]

Given that they're rumored to be offering Reyes a 3yr/$60 million contract, will they have the guts to go to Albert with a 4yr/$140 million deal?

[Valid]

LeBatard just said on PTI there's a 0% chance we get Pujols and that he's using us as leverage so the Cards up their offer.

[Party]

That would be a terrible contract for Pujols. That kind of contract only works for someone Reyes' age.

[Ramp]

Is it possible the Marlins turned their attention to Pujols after Hanley balked at the prospect of moving to third base?

I wouldn't read too much into what Hanley said.

[Hugg]

Ken_Rosenthal Ken Rosenthal
Sources: #Marlins have made substantial offers to both Reyes and Pujols.

weeee

[Ramp]

holy fuck

[Swifty]

O M G

[Ramp]

like seriously

[TheMendozaLine]

weeee

Substantial, you say? My guess is they offered Reyes the "Cordon Blue" and Pujols "The Ralph"

http://www.substantialonline.com/

[TealMonster08]

That quote is beyond "for me."
--------------------
Substantial, you say? My guess is they offered Reyes the "Cordon Blue" and Pujols "The Ralph"

http://www.substantialonline.com/

We got ourselves a regular stand-up comedian here...

[Jorge18]

Holy fuck.

[Chewford]

Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

[Big Z]

I thought pitching was our priority, lol.

[Hugg]

If we sign both these guys, can we make The Official Suck Loria's Dick Thread?

[tr305]

We wouldn't need pitching with that lineup. Trust me.
--------------------
Would rival the Big Red Machine.

[jOOj]

This is excite.

[Omar]

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG

Dave Checketts is reporting that the Marlins have agreed to contracts with Pujols and Reyes.
@stugotz790

[TheMendozaLine]

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG


@stugotz790

LOL. Cheap NBA Lockout joke. Don't get excited.

[Hugg]

haha Juanky got GOT
--------------------
SI_JonHeyman Jon Heyman
#marlins made offers to pujols, reyes and buehrle. (@Ken_Rosenthal 1st reported jose & albert). "nothing close'' to deal.

...

[Omar]

I am le sad :(

[Party]

Juanky punk'd himself.

[Omar]

The excitement was worth it

[jOOj]

One moment of excite is worth a lifetime in orange.

[flamarlins3]

Well I'll be damned.

This is fun.

[MiamiHomer]

So I install Internet at y uncles house an come home to my Internet being down. I need to be finding info on the interwebz dammit!

[jOOj]

Have you tried turning it off and on again?

[MiamiHomer]

Ok, I'm back online. MLB Network was talking about it and they are going to talk some more after the commercial break.

[lou]

If they sign Pujols, Reyes, and Buerhle, I will be very glad I already purchased my 20 game pack.

[Swifty]

Pinch me

[MiamiHomer]

The talk of Pujols/Reyes on MLB Network turned into what can they get for trading Hanley.

[flamarlins3]

Would that be a terrible idea? I'd be against it simply from the offensive potential of that team, but you could trade Hanley for pitching and the drop off offensively wouldn't be that dramatic.

[jOOj]

The drop off from Hanley to Dominguez wouldn't be that dramatic? :(

[MiamiHomer]

They were going crazy over analyzing the stuff Hanley said last night.

[Big Z]

They over analyze everything. What else is Hanley supposed to say? English is his second language and maybe he meant to say something else, but didn't express himself correctly.

[jOOj]

MH how would you do the lineup if we got Reyes and Pujols?

[flamarlins3]

Well it would be but a core lineup of Pujols, Reyes, Stanton, Lomo is pretty solid and when the team still only has 3 real starting pitchers. Need to find 400 innings somewhere. Trading Hanley in that situation may be the best. (Who knows what the payroll ceiling is)

[MiamiHomer]

They over analyze everything. What else is Hanley supposed to say? English is his second language and maybe he meant to say something else, but didn't express himself correctly.

They(Rosenthal specifically) thought Hanley was dissing Reyes by just calling him a "pretty good player". Obviously also mentioned the "I'm a SS" quote.

[Erick]

What did he say wrong?

They're criticizing him for saying he considers himself to be the SS. Well, he is as of this moment.

He's a douche for calling Jose Reyes a "pretty good player?" :lol Ignore the fact he said "we want to win" and "any team would love to have Reyes at the top of their lineup."

[jOOj]

This is no the time to trade Hanley, even if they sign Pujols that is a bad PR move.

[Party]

Hanley was wearing very ridiculous glasses. I think that is worth over analyzing.

[jOOj]

Were they orange?

[Metes]

Reyes
Boner
Hanley
Pujols
Stanton
Morrison
Cespedes
Infante

....mama mia

[tr305]

120-40

[rmc523]

If we're going to over analyze the Hanley quote, the full statement was, "I'm a SS RIGHT NOW."

[jOOj]

Ehe is Emilio the C in that lineup Meetball?

[Hugg]

jOOj beat me to it

[jOOj]

I'm observant like an owl now.

[Metes]

He's a versatile player
--------------------
I'll be honest, I was just jamming names in there

[jOOj]

I don't think we'll land the Cubango if we get Albertsaurus. Would be mazin.

[Hugg]

if we get Pujols and Reyes, we don't need Cespedes

Reyes, ss
Bonifacio, cf
Ramirez, 3b
Pujols, 1b
Stanton, rf
Morrison,lf
Buck, c
Infante, 2b

that'll be "alright"

[jOOj]

If alright was a real word, that's what it would be.

[tr305]

Pujols would have 185 Rbi's in that lineup. Reyes, Hanley, and Boni ? lulz

[Hugg]

If alright was a real word, that's what it would be.

ehe, jOOj talking about real words

[jOOj]

This new character is kinda best, right!?

[Bobbob1313]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v357/bobbob1313/Player.jpg

You know who wears #5?
--------------------
Thank you.

[Fritz]

Steve Player.

[Party]

The Style Guide sheets have used #5 forever.

[Bobbob1313]

The Style Guide sheets have used #5 forever.

I was trying to be a Juanky.

[Party]

Bob, I work with Juanky, I know Juanky Robaina, Juanky Robaina is a friend of mine. Bob, you're no Juanky Robaina.

[Bobbob1313]

I don't know who Bob is.

[Big Z]

LOL

Fans outside new #Marlins ballpark just broke into a chant -- "Al-Bert! Al-Bert!"

Joe Capozzi (Twitter)

[Omar]

Pujols would have 185 Rbi's in that lineup. Reyes, Hanley, and Boni ? lulz
Screw that, aim for 192

[Namaste]

if we get Pujols and Reyes, we don't need Cespedes

Reyes, ss
Bonifacio, cf
Ramirez, 3b
Pujols, 1b
Stanton, rf
Morrison,lf
Buck, c
Infante, 2b

that'll be "alright"


I see a lot of 10-8 final scores in our future because we'll still have a shitty rotation.

[Valid]

Assuming Johnson stays healthy (and I understand that's a big "if" these days), I really don't see what's so shitty about a rotation consisting of him, Sanchez, and Nolasco. If we're able to add Buerhle then we've got a pretty damn solid pitching staff.

[Namaste]

Assuming Johnson stays healthy (and I understand that's a big "if" these days), I really don't see what's so shitty about a rotation consisting of him, Sanchez, and Nolasco. If we're able to add Buerhle then we've got a pretty damn solid pitching staff.


I know Hugg doesn't think we'll get all those people that he put in his lineup up but.......

Valid, how are the Marlins going to sign Buerhle after signing Pujols and Reyes?


Are they going to knock over the Federal Reserve?

[Valid]

I know Hugg doesn't think we'll get all those people that he put in his lineup up but.......

Valid, how are the Marlins going to sign Buerhle after signing Pujols and Reyes?


Are they going to knock over the Federal Reserve?
Oh I never said we were going to. I just said I don't see what's so bad about the rotation, especially if they sign Buerhle. Seriously; is it primarily because of JJ's health issues? I don't get why people are so down on the pitching staff. I mean, Anibal is pretty damn good, and Nolasco is no slouch.

[tr305]

So what now ? How long until we actually know if any of these guys are Marlins (ballpark figures)

[Jorge18]

So what now ? How long until we actually know if any of these guys are Marlins (ballpark figures)

I'd say after winter meetings.

[Ramp]

I know Hugg doesn't think we'll get all those people that he put in his lineup up but.......

Valid, how are the Marlins going to sign Buerhle after signing Pujols and Reyes?


Are they going to knock over the Federal Reserve?

I mean, they did make offers to all three. I doubt they'd pull an offer from one if two signed.

[TheMendozaLine]

I know Hugg doesn't think we'll get all those people that he put in his lineup up but.......

Valid, how are the Marlins going to sign Buerhle after signing Pujols and Reyes?


Are they going to knock over the Federal Reserve?

Apparently the offers aren't enticing enough to garner four acceptances:

@SI_JonHeyman
one person characterized offers to pujols, reyes, buehrle & madson as "preliminary'' types. so no threat of 4 acceptances

[Omar]

I know Hugg doesn't think we'll get all those people that he put in his lineup up but.......

Valid, how are the Marlins going to sign Buerhle after signing Pujols and Reyes?


Are they going to knock over the Federal Reserve?
Some sources have come out that said the Marlins haven't ruled out signing all four if it comes to that (Pujols/Reyes/Buehrle/Cespedes)

[The Hanram]

Some sources have come out that said the Marlins haven't ruled out signing all four if it comes to that (Pujols/Reyes/Buehrle/Cespedes)

What's stopping a prelim offer from being substantial?

[Omar]

Nothing stops it, but it leaves the door open for astronomical numbers

[tr305]

This is all going to end up being a PR ploy by the front office. I think if we come out of this with just Reyes it will be good.

[Valid]

This is all going to end up being a PR ploy by the front office. I think if we come out of this with just Reyes it will be good.
Ugh.

[Omar]

This is all going to end up being a PR ploy by the front office. I think if we come out of this with just Reyes it will be good.
Link?

[tr305]

We have no reason to trust these guys yet. Let em earn it...

[Ramp]

Why can't we trust them? Bringing in big names isn't that crazy for this franchise. They've done it before, they'll do it again.

[Mainge]

Why can't we trust them? Bringing in big names isn't that crazy for this franchise. They've done it before, they'll do it again.

Exactly.

[tr305]

there is bringing in big names, and then there is bringing in Pujols, Reyes, Buerhle and Madson.

[Valid]

We also have no reason to just think it's a "PR ploy." When have they ever used big names to boost their image?

[Ramp]

there is bringing in big names, and then there is bringing in Pujols, Reyes, Buerhle and Madson.

Pudge and Carlos Delgado are as big a two names as there is.

[Swifty]

Doesn't the whole Ozzie Guillen thing create that "trust"...?

The team usually is not interested/linked to players like this and the few times they are, they usually get their guy.

[jay576]

I think that if you bring in Reyes and Buerhle, Pujols wants to join the party.

[Ramp]

I think that if you bring in Reyes and Buerhle, Pujols wants to join the party.

I don't think that will have anything to do with what Pujols does. I think with Albert, it's all about the money.

[Omar]

Doesn't the whole Ozzie Guillen thing create that "trust"...?

The team usually is not interested/linked to players like this and the few times they are, they usually get their guy.
Spot on. We're paying top dollar for a manager for goodness' sake. This isn't the same team-building philosophy anymore.

[tr305]

If you are trying to sell out the season tickets, you do exactly what they are doing.
--------------------
I'm sorry but this is the first time they have had to fill a stadium.

[Valid]

Not sure how merely going after big names will sell season tickets.

[Omar]

If you are trying to sell out the season tickets, you do exactly what they are doing.
--------------------
I'm sorry but this is the first time they have had to fill a stadium.
So, if this is the first time they have to fill a stadium, it's reasonable to believe that their approach would be radically different than the past?
--------------------
Not sure how merely going after big names will sell season tickets.
Yeah - they've gotta sign on the dotted line

[tr305]

True, but not THIS radical. I'll believe it when I see it. You don't usually see BIG contracts sealed like the "We have offered a contract" approach. Just happens and is announced. This doesn't sound legit whatsoever...

[Valid]

So, if this is the first time they have to fill a stadium, it's reasonable to believe that their approach would be radically different than the past?
--------------------

Yeah - they've gotta sign on the dotted line

Seriously.

Also, if the FO is really just using this as a PR ploy and the whole going after the big names thing is all a lie, why the hell would anyone want to buy tickets for this team in the future?

[tr305]

I'm not saying we won't sign someone big. We just won't get close to what is out there in the press.

[Valid]

I just think the idea of thinking the Marlins gave Pujols, Reyes, and Buerhle tours of the ballpark and took them out to eat just to better their image is silly.

[tr305]

It's not, but the "Have been offered Contracts" is just insane.

[Valid]

They were, though.

[tr305]

When was the last time you saw a big name free agent "offered a contract" and then 2 months later that team lands the guy ? Honestly...

[Ramp]

Why is it insane? This is pretty normal. With this day and age of social media, everything leaks out.

2 months later? What are you talking about?

[Valid]

When was the last time you saw a big name free agent "offered a contract" and then 2 months later that team lands the guy ? Honestly...
Where the hell are you getting this stuff from?

[tr305]

So when do you think Pujols makes his decision to sign (with whomever) ?

[jOOj]

After every team interested buys him a steak dinner. That's how I'd handle it.

[tr305]

I would have been fully in bed with this Pujols thing if the talks had been "visited, good discussion, will explore all options". I'm off the reservation with this "offered a contract" deal.

[Omar]

True, but not THIS radical. I'll believe it when I see it. You don't usually see BIG contracts sealed like the "We have offered a contract" approach. Just happens and is announced. This doesn't sound legit whatsoever...

It's not, but the "Have been offered Contracts" is just insane.

When was the last time you saw a big name free agent "offered a contract" and then 2 months later that team lands the guy ? Honestly...
Uh, what? Have you followed the free agency process of sports for the last decade plus?

[Valid]

I would have been fully in bed with this Pujols thing if the talks had been "visited, good discussion, will explore all options". I'm off the reservation with this "offered a contract" deal.
I don't see how that makes any sense whatsoever. You're off the bandwagon because they offered him a contract?

[jOOj]

He's not going to take the first offer, if he's interested in playing for us they will make a counter offer and then at that point they will give St. Loo a chance to match it since he's kind of a big deal there.

[tr305]

Look i hope I am wrong, but there is too much out there right now for me not to think this is a PR move by the front office. Let's just see and I will eat crow.

[jOOj]

Enjoy the magical ride of the rainbow marlin across Miami.

[Hugg]

Yeah, being linked to all these guys and then signing none of them would be awesome for their image.

[....J....]

LMAO!!!!! Most of u clowns r so naivé! This is and always has been bout PR.... When was the last time the Marlins publicly discussed any player moves? Now, not only r they discussing contract offers but they're making sure it "accidentally" gets out to the press? Not one player that has been "offered" a contract this week will sign. But the good news is they get to say they tried!

Fuckin sheep!

[MiamiHomer]

LMAO!!!!! Most of u clowns r so naivé! This is and always has been bout PR.... When was the last time the Marlins publicly discussed any player moves? Now, not only r they discussing contract offers but they're making sure it "accidentally" gets out to the press? Not one player that has been "offered" a contract this week will sign. But the good news is they get to say they tried!

Fuckin sheep!

http://images.t-nation.com/forum_images/4/a/4a4da-Ari_Gold_Get_the_Fuck_Out.gif

[Mainge]

LMAO!!!!! Most of u clowns r so naivé! This is and always has been bout PR.... When was the last time the Marlins publicly discussed any player moves? Now, not only r they discussing contract offers but they're making sure it "accidentally" gets out to the press? Not one player that has been "offered" a contract this week will sign. But the good news is they get to say they tried!

Fuckin sheep!

Can we get this fucktard banned?

[Miamarlin21]

Bye J...

[mbitcronod12]

@SI_JonHeyman: RT @JoeStrauss: No truth to rumor that Albert told Loria he'd take $2M less a year if Marlins reconsidered new uni's.

/Twitter

:lol

Where'd that rumor come from? Never heard that one.

[Hugg]

It's Joe Strauss (whoever the fuck that is) making a joke mibs. There was no rumor.

There's also no truth to the rumor that anyone gives a fuck what this guy thinks.
--------------------
First time for everything:

http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/8251/dottyr.png

[marlins_virus.exe]

At least he put an accent on the word naïve

It doesn't belong there, but he tried

[MiamiHomer]

It's because it was dots. He seems to like them.

[MiamiHomer]

According to SI.com's Jon Heyman, the Cardinals don't plan to sweeten the offer that they made to Albert Pujols before the start of spring training.
That number was said to be in the range of nine years and $210 million, or $23.3 million per season. Pujols' agent is likely hoping for a higher annual salary, but only the Marlins have expressed serious interest thus far and the Cardinals aren't going to up their contract offer for no reason. Still, the offseason is young.

roto

[Valid]

"The Cardinals aren't going to up their contract offer for no reason."

Not exactly sure what that's supposed to mean.

[Big Z]

"The Cardinals aren't going to up their contract offer for no reason."

Not exactly sure what that's supposed to mean.

Because nobody has upped their (Cardinals) offer yet, so technically it's the "highest" offer.

[Big Z]

Looks like the odds of Pujols returning to St.Louis are slimming down even less, Matheny is supposedly being named manager tomorrow.

[Beef]

Does that mean un-slimming?

[Ramp]

Matheny becoming the new manager doesn't hurt the Cardinals in the least. It's all about money with Albert.

(Oquendo becoming the manager would have definitely helped their case though)

[MiamiHomer]

SI_JonHeyman Jon Heyman
competing exec on #marlins offer to albert: "marlins arent going to sign pujols. thats a joke.'' still, good for giggles


...

[Big Z]

That's a slap in the face.

[Valid]

The fact that that comment was made by a "competing" exec means it should be taken with a grain of salt.

[MiamiHomer]

LeBatard said that he spoke to some Marlins people and he says there is "no joke" about the Marlins offer. That it's a legit offer to compete with what St.Louis is offering him.

[Mainge]

Thanks MH + Ace.

[Big Z]

I wonder if it's off the table once/if Reyes signs.

[Ramp]

It won't be off the table when Reyes signs.

[jOOj]

The tables are always in play.

[Big Z]

Does this possibly make us a top 3 offensive team?

I really don't mind Gaby at 1st and more pitching.

A Pujols doesn't come around often though.
--------------------
LeBatard said that he spoke to some Marlins people and he says there is "no joke" about the Marlins offer. That it's a legit offer to compete with what St.Louis is offering him.

He also said Pujols wouldn't come down here just for a stadium tour, if he's down here it's legit.

[Swifty]

Having Pujols, Hanley and Stanton in the same lineup makes us top-3, putting Reyes in there too makes us retardagood.

[Bobbob1313]

We'd still have the worst catcher ever, though. I hope it's not to late to get Lackey!

[Swifty]

John Buck really fucking sucks. And you're a tool.

[Bobbob1313]

:-)

[lou]

John Buck does not really fucking suck.

He's really fucking unlucky with a .268 BABIP, which is 18 points below his career, and a whooping 57 points below his 2009-2010 (650 PA give or take). His BB rate highest in career, his K rate lowest, LD rate highest since 2006, and his OPS went up every month this season as he was adjusting to the new league, until he just feel off the planet in September. My guess is over work as he never played in this many games before as the Marlins refused to trust Hayes for months. (Which is why they need a legitimate backup catcher on the roster. Not that I hate Hayes, but there is better out there for where he is in his career.) Additionally, he inexplicably stopped hitting lefties, career .765 OPS 2011 .586 OPS.

It's pretty much across the board periphery statistical improvement. He just didn't get those 12 extra hits which would dramatically have changed his overall line and your perception. These are really good omens for predicting future production. I'm not saying a world beater, but I think it's safe to give him 20-25 average points, knock down his BB rate a little as he probably over achieved there, and the slugging will come back with the average/league change and this is a .250/.315/.425+ catcher which is really solid and push into "top 15" territory.

Saying that, he had a 1.8 WAR last year when he "really fucking sucked." Among catchers with 200+ PA, tied for 18th (we can also say 19th as Buster would have sky rocketed past him if Cousins did not TKO him, everyone else behind "meh"). He's a clear middle of the road starter in MLB, which does not fucking suck. Also, let's look at every major free agent catcher of 2010, as this is the pool the Marlins had to choose from.

Rod Barajas 1.3 WAR
Ramon Hernandez 2.0 WAR
Russel Martin 3.1 WAR
Miguel Olivo .7 WAR
Yorvit Torrealba 1.1 WAR
A.J. Piersynski 1.7 WAR
Jason Varitek . 5 WAR

So Russel was really good (and coming off 2.1 and 2.3 WAR seasons even with those drastically low OPS years he had with the Dodgers), and Ramon/AJ were not going to leave their teams. Should they have gotten Martin instead? Sure. I don't know if he would have signed a 2-3 year deal (as the Marlins clearly needed to bide their time until Realmuto/Skip are even remotely ready, if ever), but I don't blame them for going Buck here coming off his 2010. Especially as the team was an outside contender to start the year before the Johnson/Ramirez tankjobs. Catchers are historically late bloomers anyways. He underperformed in 2011, yet was at the upper end of the class. You can argue the guaranteed money over 3 years makes him not as valuable, but given the options and where the franchise was, really needing a stable catcher, it wasn't a bad deal, it wasn't a good deal. It was just a needed average deal. Signing Buck isn't preventing the Marlins from doing anything in free agency/arbitration player retention 2011-2013.

There is nothing wrong with buying a solid average performance in free agency. It would be fantastic if every contract a team signs is "club friendly" which I understand the drive for, but that's nearly impossible in free agency. If it was 3/$15 instead would it really have mattered? I simply do not understand this anti-buck stance. This could have been much worse. Don't love it, don't hate it. It's cool.

[Party]

It won't be off the table when Reyes signs.

:santaclaus:

[TheMendozaLine]

If they offered Reyes 6yrs/$90 million, then Pujols must have come away with, what, 8yrs/$160 million?

[Bobbob1313]

If it's "competitive" then it's at least what the Cards offered in money/yr, so I'd guess something more like 7/160.