Juan Castro is back

[Joseph]

Juan Castro is back....per Lance.

Details to come.

[BRM]

I hope this is a joke.

[reds44]

Wait he was on the twins right? So we must have traded for him, and God I hope we didn't give up anything for him. Hopefully a PTBNL.

Maybe they are concerned with Felipe?

[Joseph]

I didn't catch the name, but it was a minor league OFer.

[RedEye]

Or maybe they are going to deal Felipe for a pitcher? :)

[fisch11]

That will fix the defense....that's about it though.

[reds44]

Juan Castro back!
Cincinnati Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky today announced the acquisition of IF Juan Castro from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for minor league OF Brandon Roberts.
Castro, 33, is expected to be in uniform for tomorrow's 7:10 p.m. game against the Chicago White Sox at Great American Ball Park. A corresponding 25-man roster move will be made when Castro arrives here.
To make room for Castro on the 40-man roster, RHP Paul Wilson has been transferred to the 60-day disabled list. Wilson has been on the DL all season recovering from right shoulder surgery.
Considered one of baseball’s best and most versatile defensive infielders, Castro has made 815 Major League appearances for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Reds and Twins. He played in Cincinnati for 5 seasons from 2000-2004 and then signed as a free agent with Minnesota in November 2004.
Roberts, 21, was selected by the Reds in the seventh round of the June 2005 first-year player draft. This season at Class A Sarasota he was hitting .267 with 1 HR and 15 RBI in 60 games.


http://lance1360homer.com/blog.asp

[BRM]

That will fix the defense....that's about it though.

While seriously hurting the offense.

[Joseph]

Good bye Rick White?

[RedEye]

Maybe Kriv just got sick of the late inning errors? I can't fault him for that...

[BRM]

Good bye Rick White?

I wouldn't be surprised if Olmedo gets sent back down.

[RedEye]

While seriously hurting the offense.

It'll help the offense if we aren't giving up unearned runs as much. I like this trade.

[RedEye]

It'll help the offense if we aren't giving up unearned runs as much. I like this trade.

That is, they will be helped by not having to climb back from deep deficits every game.

[reds44]

I wouldn't be surprised if Olmedo gets sent back down.
I'd keep Ray. Get rid of White or Q. Ray has upside, the others do not.

[KronoRed]

Unbelievable.

You know it'll be Olmedo going down, not one of the bad pitchers or 3 headed catchers.

[BRM]

It'll help the offense if we aren't giving up unearned runs as much. I like this trade.

If he starts, he hurts the team. If he's a late inning defensive replacement, he can help the team.

[oneupper]

I wouldn't be surprised if Olmedo gets sent back down.

That's gonna be the move.

[BRM]

I'd keep Ray. Get rid of White or Q. Ray has upside, the others do not.

I would rather keep Ray as well. I was just saying I won't be surprised if he's the odd man out.

[RedsManRick]

And now Olmedo plays what role?

[reds44]

I like the Phillips/Castro MIF defense in the late innings, but not until the late innings.

I don't mind this trade.

[BRM]

I like the Phillips/Castro MIF defense in the late innings, but not until the late innings.

I don't mind this trade.

Until Lopez gets pulled in a tie game late. Then Castro ends up batting in a spot where an actual hitter is desired.

[Elam]

Maybe its some kind of package deal with Johan coming also... please?

Honestly I don't see what Juan offers that Olmedo doesnt at a relatively cheaper price.

[KronoRed]

Until Lopez gets pulled in a tie game late. Then Castro ends up batting in a spot where an actual hitter is desired.
Here we go.

Castro to 3rd, Rich to 2nd, Phillips and EE out of lots of games

;)

[Joseph]

Is Castro and his 'knows how to play the game'-ness an option to get regular PT at 3rd?

Remember Narron is the manager, don't let logic get in the way of your answer.

Sorry, cheap shot there.

[KronoRed]

Maybe its some kind of package deal with Johan coming also... please?

Honestly I don't see what Juan offers that Olmedo doesnt at a relatively cheaper price.
Solid vet.

[reds44]

Until Lopez gets pulled in a tie game late. Then Castro ends up batting in a spot where an actual hitter is desired.
Yeah I wouldn't like that at all. Don't pull him in a tie game, make sure we have a lead and it is past the 7th inning.

[reds44]

Is Castro and his 'knows how to play the game'-ness an option to get regular PT at 3rd?

Remember Narron is the manager, don't let logic get in the way of your answer.

Sorry, cheap shot there.
Castro>Edwin

;)

[BRM]

Yeah I wouldn't like that at all. Don't pull him in a tie game, make sure we have a lead and it is past the 7th inning.

With this bullpen, I'd never pull Lopez or EE.

.213/.258/.308

That's Castro's line this season. :help:

[Falls City Beer]

Here we go.

Castro to 3rd, Rich to 2nd, Phillips and EE out of lots of games

;)

Makes you wonder if Wayne isn't more interested in remaking the club in his own image than working with the pre-existing parts that are actually assets to the club.

[oneupper]

The real move is gonna be when EE comes of the DL.

[Elam]

Well should we renew the threads in which we discuss thaat Castro's defensive abilities don't compensate for his offensive short comings?

[Falls City Beer]

The real move is gonna be when EE comes of the DL.

It's anyone's guess when that will be.

[reds44]

The real move is gonna be when EE comes of the DL.
Yep that is what I was thinking also.

[KronoRed]

Well should we renew the threads in which we discuss thaat Castro's defensive abilities don't compensate for his offensive short comings?
Man..I'd hoped those days were gone :explode:

[CTA513]

Maybe the Reds can convince MLB to let Castro play the infield and allow someone else to bat?

;)

[oneupper]

Man, Krivsky must owe Terry Ryan some BIG time favors (or something involving some nude photos).

[KronoRed]

Olmedo over Castro.

[klw]

Olmedo to X for bullpen arm?

[Oxilon]

Makes you wonder how serious EE's injury really is.

[RedEye]

Don't you think Kriv views Castro as a "late-inning defensive stopper", much like prior regimes? I never really minded when he was used that way, so I'm still, well, pretty neutral about this trade.

[jimbo]

This one is a little confusing to me, but I'm not going to jump all over Krivskey for it. He's made a few other deals that left me scratching my head and they ended up working out quite well so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. It makes me wonder if he has another deal in the works that's even bigger and might involve Lopez or EE.

[DannyB]

Juan gets his 1st start July 2nd. Guaranteed
Thats the only game I could possibly attend this year.

[dfs]

Doesn't that pretty much end any thought of Rey Olmedo having a career with the reds? Probably the same is true for Bergola now as well. This was Olmedo's last option year and they aren't willing to let him even rust on the bench. He's got a fork in him.

I know I posted a couple days ago that I didn't have the right to question any move Wayne Krivsky pulls, and I know the d has really let this club down the last couple of days, but I'm scratchin' my head on this one.

[CTA513]

Hes either going to be a bench/late innings guy or someone in the infield is getting traded.
It would be nice if he can here and all of a sudden started hitting like Phillips did.

[LINEDRIVER]

LaRue & Olmedo about to be traded somewhere??

[Kc61]

LaRue & Olmedo about to be traded somewhere??

Trade certainly is not an endorsement of Olmedo. Not an endorsement of Lopez either, for that matter.

[UPRedsFan]

When does Lopez become a free agent?

Or could it be that someone's interested in Phillips and willing to depart with a stud pitcher? His stock is pretty high right now.

Or could it be that Freel or Kearns are going - either way it pulls Freel out of the inflield utility role.

My head is spinning! I can't imagine Krivsky being willing to take on Castro's salary vs. using Olmedo or Bergolla as the defensive upgrade.

[Devoniusmaximus]

I like this move. Way I see it we picked up a solid, defensively-minded middle infielder for EE to learn from as he grows and matures as a corner infielder. I've been a lurker here for a while and seem to remember a lot of people thinking that Larkin did a lot to help Lopez get to where he is now compared to what he was when we acquired him. I know the teams done some boneheaded things in the past but I have to feel this regime (Including Narron) are smart enough to use him for what he is: a late inning defensive boost and mentor to our shortstop for the forseeable future.

As far as moves I think Q's the one to go in all this. Freel backs up the OF, Castro covers 3B/SS, Rayray SS/2B and Larue/Valentine pick up the pinch hitters void left by Q's departure :p: (At least until July when I expect a lot of bigger moves to come)

[jimbo]

I think Phillips is the last player Krivsky will want to trade. He has just been too valuable and is the strongest defender in a relatively weak infield. Mr. K is taking this organization in a new and different direction so we will probably start seeing some of the Reds veterans being moved instead of players that he has brought in and are producing.

[CincyReds2003]

I've been listening to 700wlw for the last 15 minutes, and they(Furman, yes I know that he doesn't know too much) think that a trade is going down soon. Whether it involves Lopez or Freel, I don't know., but Furman did ask Wayne if they were considering moving Phillips to SS, and Wayne said they would address that in the offseason.

[Hubba]

Why do some of you post the same thing on both boards? I come here for something new but read the same old stuff. Post count maybe?

[CincyReds2003]

Why do some of you post the same thing on both boards? I come here for something new but read the same old stuff. Post count maybe?

Well, since I am not a subscriber of the other board, I rarely ever look over there.

[Gallen5862]

Was today the last day that Rick White had to be on the major league roster? If so hopefully the roster move will be dfaing White.

[penantboundreds]

who is the ofer we traded....this trade is a nothing trade...complete wash (except I'm pretty sure Castro is better than Olmedo) i think that lopez and larue go to the angels for santana and a relief pitcher(aybar maybe)....thats just me though

[Gallen5862]

http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/stats/player.php?id=458721
Brandon Roberts

Batting Statistics

Team League Level Pos AVG G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS OBP SLG OPS SH SF IBB GIDP HBP
Sarasota Reds FSL Hi A OF .270 59 244 40 66 5 1 1 15 16 39 23 7 .328 .311 .640 2 2 1 1 6
TOTALS .270 59 244 40 66 5 1 1 15 16 39 23 7 .328 .311 .640 2 2 1 1 6

These are the Stats from baseball america on Brandon Roberts the player we traded for Juan Castro. This is the second top 10 round pick from the 2005 draft that was traded.

[Sabo4Life]

This one is a little confusing to me, but I'm not going to jump all over Krivskey for it. He's made a few other deals that left me scratching my head and they ended up working out quite well so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. It makes me wonder if he has another deal in the works that's even bigger and might involve Lopez or EE.

Amen to that. A lot of people around here were ready to string Krivsky up after a few strange acquisitions (e.g. Ross, Phillips), but these trades ended up helping our club tremendously.

At this point, I think we need to give Krivsky the benefit of the doubt, no?

[RedLegSuperStar]

I personally love the move.. Juan will get his starts at 3rd till Edwin gets back but I think the main reason he was acquired is to be the guy to come off the bench in double switches and take over for Edwin, Felipe, and Brandon. He is like the "Closer" of the infield.

Why is there speculation that a deal is coming? I think Olmedo gets sent back down end of story.

[James B.]

This trade makes no sense to me. I think Olmedo is a better option. He has a good glove, a lot better speed, and was swinging the bat better than ever this year. I guess we can hold out hope that a trade is made to upgrade the pen.

[RedLegSuperStar]

Rotoworld.com:

Reds acquired infielder Juan Castro from the Twins for outfielder Brandon Roberts.
The Reds hardly needed Castro back, though this does allow them to put Ray Olmedo back in Triple-A to play regularly. If the Reds give Castro more than 100 at-bats over the rest of the season, they'd be making a big mistake. Felipe Lopez doesn't need more than one day off per month, and Ryan Freel is a far better choice to serve as a backup at second and third. Castro shouldn't have any fantasy value at all.

[TeamBoone]

Maybe he's stockpiling in anticipation of the trade deadline.

Maybe he's going to deal Aurilia (nah).

Maybe he's never going to bring EE back up (guess he can't learn from Juan if he's on the DL or in Louisville).... wow! would that ever be a mistake!

Who the heck knows? I can only console myself by thinking that Krivsky has a plan (not that I don't like Castro cuz I do, just don't see the logic).

[Shaknb8k]

Im starting to get the feeling we are reading too much into Krivsky's moves. There very well could be a larger trade going down but we have said that about every other deal also.

Ross was traded and Valentin/Larue was definatly getting traded cause no team would carry 3 catchers. Phillips was traded and Freel's bags were packed. And what Krivsky saw in these two guys was that the offer was too good to pass up and they could help the team in the long run so he might as well get them while he could.

I have a feeling Castro will be a late inning defensive replacement and well get some starts when some people are taking days off and against certain pitchers, but nothing more. Now by getting Castro it might make it easier to trade someone down there road but i have a feeling there are no deals being worked out right now.

[RedLegSuperStar]

Maybe he's stockpiling in anticipation of the trade deadline.

Maybe he's going to deal Aurilia (nah).

Maybe he's never going to bring EE back up (guess he can't learn from Juan if he's on the DL or in Louisville).... wow! would that ever be a mistake!

Who the heck knows? I can only console myself by thinking that Krivsky has a plan (not that I don't like Castro cuz I do, just don't see the logic).

Errors.. Errors.. Errors

Edwin has 14 and Lopez has 13... Krivsky is trying to not allow those numbers to rise.

[harangatang]

Errors.. Errors.. Errors

Edwin has 14 and Lopez has 13... Krivsky is trying to not allow those numbers to rise.You're totally correct. I can't get over how people over on the ORG are criticizing Krivsky for improving the ballclub's defense. We all know they need some bullpen help too and I'm sure that won't be too far off either.

[TStuck]

If I remember correctly, it was Krivsky who really liked Castro and was behind getting him to Minnesota in the first place.

OK, here's your practice SAT question for the day:

Wayne Krivsky is to Juan Castro as Dan O'Brien is to:
A. Jason Romano
B. Anderson Machado
C. any Texas Ranger minor league castoffs (Kozlowski/Asadoorian, et al.)
D. all of the above

:devil: :evil:

(no really, I'm willing to take a wait and see on this....Wayne has earned a little leeway in my book)

[TeamBoone]

Errors.. Errors.. Errors

Edwin has 14 and Lopez has 13... Krivsky is trying to not allow those numbers to rise.

Krivsky is not a stupid man. I can't speak to Lopez, but the big leagues are a whole lot different than the minors and without a doubt, I'm sure he realizes that EE's errors are part of the growing process.

[redsmetz]

I like this move. Way I see it we picked up a solid, defensively-minded middle infielder for EE to learn from as he grows and matures as a corner infielder. I've been a lurker here for a while and seem to remember a lot of people thinking that Larkin did a lot to help Lopez get to where he is now compared to what he was when we acquired him. I know the teams done some boneheaded things in the past but I have to feel this regime (Including Narron) are smart enough to use him for what he is: a late inning defensive boost and mentor to our shortstop for the forseeable future.

As far as moves I think Q's the one to go in all this. Freel backs up the OF, Castro covers 3B/SS, Rayray SS/2B and Larue/Valentine pick up the pinch hitters void left by Q's departure :p: (At least until July when I expect a lot of bigger moves to come)

Not to mention, he's a Spanish speaking veteran to help along the young Hispanic players.

[Mario-Rijo]

Something that just occured to me is that it's quite possible that an OF could be on the move. Freel is the main backup at 2B,3B mainly because Aurilia is in a platoon situation @ 1B. So the question is why get a backup for those positions unless Freel is on the move or another OF is on the move. Sure it could be for a def specialist there and I see that, as if anyone has seen Freel try to throw out a runner on a bunt knows he is not the greatest late-inning def rep.. But why would you take on another on your 40 man and take on that $$$ when you have guys who can manage the job. Perhaps McCracken is going to be released although I don't really see it, as he gives us another LH bat off the bench with PH experience.

[gilpdawg]

I don't have a problem with this move, unless they insist on starting him frequently, or if he becomes a main PH. I get the feeling Wayne's got something brewing, but you know 95% of deals that are discussed never happens, so nothing may happen.

[Wheelhouse]

Good move I like it.

[markymark69]

I like this move. It upgrades the defense. I predict that Castro will be the late inning defensive replacement for EE or Lopez. He is an upgrade defensively, which in my opinion is as big of a deficiency on this team as the bullpen.

You aren't going to get much offense from Castro, but I don't believe this move was about offense. Also, did not give up much to get him, so that is also a plus.

Logic dictates that Olmedo will be the guy, because right now the Reds cannot afford to go with less than 12 pitchers for obvious reasons.

The bad part is obviously that my fears on Paul Wilson seem to be coming true. My thinking was he would never throw another pitch for the Reds and that's looks to be the case at least for 2006.

One more bad note with Castro coming back is we once again get to hear George Grande call him "Golden Hands"!!!!!

[OldRightHander]

Why do some of you post the same thing on both boards? I come here for something new but read the same old stuff. Post count maybe?

Just a feeble effort to catch up with Krono. I gave up on that long ago.

[OldRightHander]

One more bad note with Castro coming back is we once again get to hear George Grande call him "Golden Hands"!!!!!

You beat me to it. On a humorous note, let me tell a brief story regarding my grandmother and Juan Castro. It's not as bad as it sounds. Grandma lived with us for a couple years and she's a big Reds fan. She doesn't know much about the players, but she will watch all the games. It just happens that one year she happened to be watching just about every time Castro hit a homer. He went through a little hot streak there for a week or two where he hit 4 or 5 of them, and she saw about every one of them. For the rest of the season, every time he would come to the plate, Grandma would say something like, "This guy's going to hit a home run. He's good at that." I didn't have to heart to set her straight.

[Heath]

You know....you can never, ever have enough utility infielders.

;)

I'm cool with Castro back - should up the Fielding Percentage around here.

[KronoRed]

Why do some of you post the same thing on both boards? I come here for something new but read the same old stuff. Post count maybe?
Different discussions

[LoganBuck]

Not to mention, he's a Spanish speaking veteran to help along the young Hispanic players.

We have a winner here! This was the first thing I thought of, when this trade was made. Aside from the late inning defense thing, he was popular in the clubhouse and was the veteran leader for the hispanic players like Wily Mo Pena. Hopefully he can help EdE by providing that person to provide a comforting ear, and understanding.

[Team Clark]

Not to mention, he's a Spanish speaking veteran to help along the young Hispanic players.

EXACTLY!!! Word is... the Bucky Dent experiment is not going so well. Castro can be a huge asset to EE, Lopez and Brandon Phillips. A whole lot easier for guys to pick things up from a guy who can show you vs. tell you.

EXCELLENT move by Krivsky. Juan was an integral part of the Reds eqaution a few years back and has played stellar defense his entire career. Barry Larkin is negotiating to come back to the Reds in a FO capacity as well. Could be this season.

The Reds inquired about Joe Nathan. No dice but we'll see what happens close to the deadline. Chris Reitsma was also being scouted heavily before going on the DL with elbow stiffness/neuritis. Ray King is also available.

Oh yes this too... Dunn is available for a #2 Starter or 3 PITCHING prospects AA or higher. Taker must assume AT LEAST 5 Million this year and 6 to 6.5 of his salary next season. The reds are content to bring up Denorfia and sit down with Griffey to discuss a move to LF.

Soriano is heavily rumored to be a Met at the AS break. Can you imagine that lineup?

Jason Schmidt is telling folks he will go elsewhere at the deadline.

[Slyder]

Why keep jumping to conclusions?

First: Who has heard ANYTHING about when Edwin Encarnacion is coming back?

Second: Beyond Freel and Aurilia what other depth do we have that has had more than 300 ABs in a year?

Third: Could it be the Reds want Olemado playing everyday as a tryout for other teams to deal for a pitcher at the deadline? With Phillips and Lopez Bergolla and Olemado are odd men out let them get everyday work. We know what we are going to get from Castro and he will likely serve as 3b with Aurilia (who also will be at 1b) until Ed E comes back and then that allows the Reds some versatility when you have to have something for double switches and do I even need to remind you of the number of errors weve had?

Fourth: Hes a free agent at the end of the year so this move is strictly short term. His salary is a measly $1 Million (for the full year), I can certainly think of worse ways we could spend that money.
According to ESPN.com
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Castro joins Twins after Guzman signs with D.C.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Infielder Juan Castro and the Minnesota Twins agreed Tuesday to a $2.05 million, two-year contract.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Castro will be a part time player, full time mentor type for the infield in hopes that Ed E, Lopez, and even Phillips can learn from a guy who's still playing. Maybe Castro has a Bucky "bleepin" Dent event left in him ;). Krivsky's made moves that have turned golden, lets give him the benefit of the doubt with this one.

Fifth: He knows the clubhouse and its not like he was really hated in his time here.

[OldRightHander]

The Reds inquired about Joe Nathan. No dice but we'll see what happens close to the deadline. Chris Reitsma was also being scouted heavily before going on the DL with elbow stiffness/neuritis. Ray King is also available.

I'd want to make sure his locker isn't next to Austin's.

[MartyFan]

Dunn is available for a #2 Starter or 3 PITCHING prospects AA or higher. Taker must assume AT LEAST 5 Million this year and 6 to 6.5 of his salary next season. The reds are content to bring up Denorfia and sit down with Griffey to discuss a move to LF

okay...ummm..TC, who would be that level of starter...I mean certainly you don't look at who the other teams are trotting out there every 5th day...who are the real viable #2's that may be available?

Why would we want to move Dunn for a #2? would he not bring a #1?

Could the deal for Castro mean there is a deal involving Lopez at all?

Good to hear that Barry may be coming back...What is going so bad with Bucky "F-ing" Dent here? Where does the disconnect seem to be? Any talk of Tom Hume replacing Vern Ruhle and bringing Soto into be the BP coach?

Just wondering about that stuff.

Thanks

[Cigar2]

Yep, this one is puzzler by Wayne.:confused:
But it should workout in the end I hope.

[redsupport]

acquiring castro from the twins is a key move, much better than the gerry arrigo for cesar tovar trade

[buckeyefred]

Hopefully, this move is combined with others in days to come.

I have not been a Felipe Lopez fan. I expect more from the position, both offensively and defensively. (Think Concepcion, Larkin) But, I don't see Castro as an upgrade. He's a very limited specialist.

Unless, Krivsky rides again, and sees something we don't. I will have to wait and see how this develops.

[Larry Schuler]

Inside sources say Krivsky had the option of getting Luis Castillo, Joe Mauer, and Torri Hunter but he said "Naw, I'll take Juan Castro instead. He will fix every hole this team has! He is our savior!" Then he scribbled onto a piece of paper that this deal was intended to save the season and not just a minor defensive acquisition. He then made copies of the note and sent them to eveyr RedsZone member's mailbox. Glad to see they made it safely!

[Team Clark]

okay...ummm..TC, who would be that level of starter...I mean certainly you don't look at who the other teams are trotting out there every 5th day...who are the real viable #2's that may be available?

Why would we want to move Dunn for a #2? would he not bring a #1?

Could the deal for Castro mean there is a deal involving Lopez at all?

Good to hear that Barry may be coming back...What is going so bad with Bucky "F-ing" Dent here? Where does the disconnect seem to be? Any talk of Tom Hume replacing Vern Ruhle and bringing Soto into be the BP coach?

Just wondering about that stuff.

Thanks

I have yet to meet a GM, Scouting Director or other front office exec who cannot name every team's rotation. These guys have 15-20 years of experience in most cases and they remember a lot of players and reports. They know who is a #2 guy and who is a #5. Most of the #1's that are inquired about make considerably more than Dunn and/or are untouchable. Dunn is not untouchable and his salary will make him available for someone in a comprable salary range. I'm not sure a lot of teams will take on the majority of his contract. He's not being shopped so much as he's available.

We are getting a TON of calls about Carl Crawford. The Cardinals are looking at Crawford heavily and we would like Chris Duncan and Adam Wainright. The Cards will not part with Carpenter (of course), Mulder or Marquis. Duncan and Wainright are well within our budget.

The viable #2's avail? "El Duque" was available. Smart move by the Mets. Zito is available. Haren was available. If he can go 4 solid starts again he may be back on the block. The Cubs have put out a flyer that Maddux "MAY" be interested in moving at the deadline. Freddy Garcia is available. Lilly is on the block again. Lilly is not neccessarily a #2 but he could be on several teams. Weaver, Clement and Oliver Perez can all be had. I have also heard that Heilman can be had but I really don't see him going by himself.

There are quite a few relievers available. A lot of teams are asking more for the relievers than starters right now.

I would be VERY surprised if Krivsky moved Lopez. Astonished would be the word. Granted he has 13 errors. He has looked foolish at times as well. He will settle down and he will improve. The kid can hit and he will get better in the field.

Dent is well liked but there are communication problems. He can not get through to the young guys and there is an obvious gap. I coached all the way up through AAA and I can tell you that sometimes this stuff happens. Sometimes it just takes someone else teaching you the same thing put in a different way and bam you got it. One advantage I had and still have is that I can do 90% of what I teach. Really goes a long way with the players. I had Rey Ordonez. Rey was a very hard worker and a tremendous fielder. He just didn't grasp a lot of the things we taught about the game. Baserunning, situational hitting, bunting, etc.... Fortunately we had guys that helped out. I used to get in the cage and hit the other way during simulated hit and runs so he could "see" what we were trying to explain. He used to say "You show me coach, I do it". No problem. He was the best fielder I ever saw by far just in case you are wondering.

Ruhle is pretty damn sick. I get upset just thinking about it. Vern is one hell of a guy. I just hope he makes it. Who cares about work when your life is on the line.

Griffey Sr. may have prostate cancer. 6 of his uncles died of it and his PSA's are really high. I cried after he told me he might have cancer.

Hummer told me a long time ago that he was not interested in being a pitching coach. I think he's enjoying it more than he could have imagined. I'd like to see him stay. Soto has a lot of outside responsibilities. Not sure he could make the sacrifice, but he'd be my first choice. I like the fact that Browning is still pissed he wasn't asked to go to Lousiville. I knew it would only be a matter of time before he acted like a baby.

I had dinner the other night with a former manager who at one time was also a GM. We discussed steroids. He said some things to me that really hit home. Why do fans think that there is an unlevel playing field in this steroid era? 30-40% of Major Leaguers in his estimation for the last 7-8 years have been regulary using steroids. Some years he estimated that it was 50%. Hitters AND Pitchers using. His point was that if 5% were using and they were breaking all the records that would be unfair or unlevel. Bonds, MAC, Giambi and a select few are not the only ones. We all know that.

He made the point that the HGH "scandal" is old news and all of the guys who were afraid to take roids were trying HGH. He also made reference to Mike Marshall. Mike Marshall always said he studied nutrition, talked to Dr's, took great care of his arm. Blah, Blah, Blah. Ever heard that before? The guy pitched in 106 games for the Dodgers several years back. 90+ games the year before. Answer HGH or roids.

Eric Gagne throws 88-91 first three years in the bigs. Almost gets run out of LA. Spring of 2002 he shows up a lot bigger (saw an article about this very topic pointing out he was 18 lbs heavier) and he's throwing 97-99 and he can pitch all of the time. C'mon. Now he can't recover from arm surgery. He pointed out about 25-30 players who dissapeared within 3-6 months when testing arrived. He also said to watch and see who falls off the wagon in Sept now that guys are worried about HGH testing due to Grimsley's statement. He mentioned a conversation he had with John Schuerholz. John found out Boone was juicing and jettisoned him at the first opportunity. He found out Dave Martinez was doing the same and told him to not come back after going on the DL.

[saboforthird]

TeamClark, I wish you posted here more often. If you do, my apologies. :thumbup:

[TeamBoone]

Originally Posted by Hubba
Why do some of you post the same thing on both boards? I come here for something new but read the same old stuff. Post count maybe?

I read just about everything. A few comments are sometimes repeated on both sides, but not many.

[Team Clark]

I read just about everything. A few comments are sometimes repeated on both sides, but not many.

What are you doing up so late? Want to come over and help me finish these reports?

[redsmetz]

Dent is well liked but there are communication problems. He can not get through to the young guys and there is an obvious gap. I coached all the way up through AAA and I can tell you that sometimes this stuff happens. Sometimes it just takes someone else teaching you the same thing put in a different way and bam you got it. One advantage I had and still have is that I can do 90% of what I teach. Really goes a long way with the players. I had Rey Ordonez. Rey was a very hard worker and a tremendous fielder. He just didn't grasp a lot of the things we taught about the game. Baserunning, situational hitting, bunting, etc.... Fortunately we had guys that helped out. I used to get in the cage and hit the other way during simulated hit and runs so he could "see" what we were trying to explain. He used to say "You show me coach, I do it". No problem. He was the best fielder I ever saw by far just in case you are wondering.

I mentioned on the ORG that it's not out of the realm of possibility that Castro was brought over to help with the younger Hispanic infielders. I remember thinking how farsighted Barry Larkin was to learn Spanish in school to be able to work better with his teammates. I know some folks are hemmoraging over this, trashing Krivskey, but I think this is a solid move that doesn't show up in the blessed statistics. I think this is a human move, if you will. We're more than just numbers and I think having an experienced Spanish speaking veteran working alongside our younger Spanish speaking infielders will be huge. That said, I think it's also part of something larger which will happen (and who knows when).

[BigJohn]

It is alright to be human as long as you don't make 8.5 million like Casey did, right.

[klw]

Hey Team Clark

Dunn for Kazmir and Delmon.:)

[oneupper]

I mentioned on the ORG that it's not out of the realm of possibility that Castro was brought over to help with the younger Hispanic infielders. I remember thinking how farsighted Barry Larkin was to learn Spanish in school to be able to work better with his teammates. I know some folks are hemmoraging over this, trashing Krivskey, but I think this is a solid move that doesn't show up in the blessed statistics. I think this is a human move, if you will. We're more than just numbers and I think having an experienced Spanish speaking veteran working alongside our younger Spanish speaking infielders will be huge. That said, I think it's also part of something larger which will happen (and who knows when).

Lopez' english is just fine, he went to HS in Florida, IIRC. So it would be EdE/Olmedo (who is going down) to work with...

You don't need a player for that...There are a ton of veteran Latin IF who you can hire as a special assistant (coach) for the summer months. Many of these guys don't have a job in the US (but work or play in the Winter Leagues).

[dabvu2498]

Lopez' english is just fine, he went to HS in Florida, IIRC. So it would be EdE/Olmedo (who is going down) to work with...

You don't need a player for that...There are a ton of veteran Latin IF who you can hire as a special assistant (coach) for the summer months. Many of these guys don't have a job in the US (but work or play in the Winter Leagues).
Lopez went to HS somewhere near Orlando.

I would hazard a guess that Chambliss speaks some Espanol considering how long he's been around and his experience playing winter ball in Latin America.

[REDREAD]

I'd keep Ray. Get rid of White or Q. Ray has upside, the others do not.

I can see that logic in general with younger players, but personally I doubt if Olmedo will even have a Castro level career. Castro isn't that great, but he is a better fielder than Olemedo (IMO, not stat based). Neither can hit.

My guess is that Olmedo is doomed to a career in AAA as emergency backup infield depth. I don't mind sacrificing his development to get a vet (although I'd rather have someone other than Castro), because I don't think Olmedo really has upside.

[REDREAD]

I think Phillips is the last player Krivsky will want to trade. He has just been too valuable and is the strongest defender in a relatively weak infield. Mr. K is taking this organization in a new and different direction so we will probably start seeing some of the Reds veterans being moved instead of players that he has brought in and are producing.

Great take. So far, Phillips has worked out to be a best case scenerio. I see Wayne making Phillips one of his core players as Wayne remakes this team.
I could see Dunn being traded before Phillips. That's not a bash on Dunn, but I could see it happening to upgrade the OF defense and bring in great pitching.

[Team Clark]

Hey Team Clark

Dunn for Kazmir and Delmon.:)

Naaah. I wouldn't want Dunn to rub off on our young guys...:laugh: :laugh:

[dabvu2498]

Any word yet on who is leaving to make room for Marty's favorite defender?

[TeamBoone]

What are you doing up so late? Want to come over and help me finish these reports?

Absolutely! Just give me a call.

I'm a night owl. I seriously have to make myself go to bed most nights or I'd be up until dawn.

Loved your in-depth report, BTW. But was truly disappointed at the confirmation about BBoone. I kept telling myself it wasn't true.

[MartyFan]

I have yet to meet a GM, Scouting Director or other front office exec who cannot name every team's rotation. These guys have 15-20 years of experience in most cases and they remember a lot of players and reports. They know who is a #2 guy and who is a #5. Most of the #1's that are inquired about make considerably more than Dunn and/or are untouchable. Dunn is not untouchable and his salary will make him available for someone in a comprable salary range. I'm not sure a lot of teams will take on the majority of his contract. He's not being shopped so much as he's available.

For sure, I was asking more for my knowledge and not thinking that the GM's didn't know...I mean, look at Arroyo...he is for sure a #2 kind of guy that was pitching in the 5 slot for the Red Sox...here he is our #1.

I think it is smart on behalf of Krivsky to make Dunn and everyone else available...I am excited to see what the next few months bring as he shapes this roster.



We are getting a TON of calls about Carl Crawford. The Cardinals are looking at Crawford heavily and we would like Chris Duncan and Adam Wainright. The Cards will not part with Carpenter (of course), Mulder or Marquis. Duncan and Wainright are well within our budget.

How will Chris's dad feel about him being dealt?
That's be a couple of nice pick ups for the Rays!!!



The viable #2's avail? "El Duque" was available. Smart move by the Mets. Zito is available. Haren was available. If he can go 4 solid starts again he may be back on the block. The Cubs have put out a flyer that Maddux "MAY" be interested in moving at the deadline. Freddy Garcia is available. Lilly is on the block again. Lilly is not neccessarily a #2 but he could be on several teams. Weaver, Clement and Oliver Perez can all be had. I have also heard that Heilman can be had but I really don't see him going by himself.

Haren is the guy I would go for...what do you suppose the A's are looking for?

If not Haren, I like Heilman or even Oliveer Perez.



There are quite a few relievers available. A lot of teams are asking more for the relievers than starters right now.

Strange to see how few decent relief arms there are in the game.


I would be VERY surprised if Krivsky moved Lopez. Astonished would be the word. Granted he has 13 errors. He has looked foolish at times as well. He will settle down and he will improve. The kid can hit and he will get better in the field.

What about flipping he and Phillips? What about putting Lopez in at 3B and moving EE to an OF spot or to another team?


Dent is well liked but there are communication problems. He can not get through to the young guys and there is an obvious gap. I coached all the way up through AAA and I can tell you that sometimes this stuff happens. Sometimes it just takes someone else teaching you the same thing put in a different way and bam you got it. One advantage I had and still have is that I can do 90% of what I teach. Really goes a long way with the players. I had Rey Ordonez. Rey was a very hard worker and a tremendous fielder. He just didn't grasp a lot of the things we taught about the game. Baserunning, situational hitting, bunting, etc.... Fortunately we had guys that helped out. I used to get in the cage and hit the other way during simulated hit and runs so he could "see" what we were trying to explain. He used to say "You show me coach, I do it". No problem. He was the best fielder I ever saw by far just in case you are wondering.

I get that...I honestly think if Olmedo could have put down a bunt and been more aware on the bases when he was on the team acouple of years back that he wold have been Larkin's successor and Lopez would have been at 2b or 3B.


Ruhle is pretty damn sick. I get upset just thinking about it. Vern is one hell of a guy. I just hope he makes it. Who cares about work when your life is on the line.

Griffey Sr. may have prostate cancer. 6 of his uncles died of it and his PSA's are really high. I cried after he told me he might have cancer.

I agree...work is nothing when something like this comes along...no, it is nothing anyway, we just realize and treat it like it deserves to be treated when we get sick.

We're praying for Ruhle and Senior.

We just got tests back that confirmed my wife does not have cancer so I understand, like a lot of others on this board what that is like...tell them we are praying.



Hummer told me a long time ago that he was not interested in being a pitching coach. I think he's enjoying it more than he could have imagined. I'd like to see him stay. Soto has a lot of outside responsibilities. Not sure he could make the sacrifice, but he'd be my first choice. I like the fact that Browning is still pissed he wasn't asked to go to Lousiville. I knew it would only be a matter of time before he acted like a baby.

Like it or not he seems to be doing an awfully good job of it...certainly it helps that Milton is healthier than last year and that Arroyo has been Cy Young-ish...Harrang has been himself and the Lizzard is doing well...Claussen...what can we do with Claussen...I love the guy but he needs another pitch to keep guys off balance...is that right or am I out of my mind?

Browning acting like a baby? WHAT!?!?!?!


I had dinner the other night with a former manager who at one time was also a GM. We discussed steroids. He said some things to me that really hit home. Why do fans think that there is an unlevel playing field in this steroid era? 30-40% of Major Leaguers in his estimation for the last 7-8 years have been regulary using steroids. Some years he estimated that it was 50%. Hitters AND Pitchers using. His point was that if 5% were using and they were breaking all the records that would be unfair or unlevel. Bonds, MAC, Giambi and a select few are not the only ones. We all know that.

He made the point that the HGH "scandal" is old news and all of the guys who were afraid to take roids were trying HGH. He also made reference to Mike Marshall. Mike Marshall always said he studied nutrition, talked to Dr's, took great care of his arm. Blah, Blah, Blah. Ever heard that before? The guy pitched in 106 games for the Dodgers several years back. 90+ games the year before. Answer HGH or roids.

Eric Gagne throws 88-91 first three years in the bigs. Almost gets run out of LA. Spring of 2002 he shows up a lot bigger (saw an article about this very topic pointing out he was 18 lbs heavier) and he's throwing 97-99 and he can pitch all of the time. C'mon. Now he can't recover from arm surgery. He pointed out about 25-30 players who dissapeared within 3-6 months when testing arrived. He also said to watch and see who falls off the wagon in Sept now that guys are worried about HGH testing due to Grimsley's statement. He mentioned a conversation he had with John Schuerholz. John found out Boone was juicing and jettisoned him at the first opportunity. He found out Dave Martinez was doing the same and told him to not come back after going on the DL.

How is Captain Hook, anway? :)

Yeah, I recall when Gagne, came back...he was horrible the season before and was sinking fast then he is unhittable as a reliever...yeah, there has to be some juice in on that one.

Boone juicing...when we traded him to the Braves I was one of the few who said that his best playing days were behind him...well, he performed way over expectations and it was more than likely because of the juice...where did he pick it up at? He was only in ATL for one year...or did he get it before he left?

[smith288]

[insert whatever TEAM CLARK says here]
You are a true asset to RZ. Your input is much appreciated.

[TeamBoone]

Friday, June 16, 2006

Castro move to help defense
His glove might spell infielders in field
BY JOHN FAY | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER

The last time Juan Castro played with the Reds, then-manager Dave Miley referred to Castro as his "defensive closer."

Castro was the late-inning remedy to then-third baseman Brandon Larson's defensive struggles.

The Reds got Castro back Thursday via trade from the Minnesota Twins for minor-league outfielder Brandon Roberts.

So where does Castro fit in this time around?

"He'll fill in all over the infield," Reds manager Jerry Narron said.

Will he be used as a late-game defensive replacement?

"Maybe," Narron said, "depending on who's on the field and how they're playing. I won't be afraid to use him."

Read that to mean third baseman Edwin Encarnacion and shortstop Felipe Lopez have struggled defensively, and if they continue to, you'll see Castro come in for them.

Castro, 33, is a career .230 hitter. He was hitting .231 with one home run and 14 RBI in 50 games for the Twins.

"Defense has always been his forte," Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky said. "But he's improved with the bat."

Krivsky is familiar with Castro from Krivsky's time with Minnesota.

"He's a quality player who can help us," Krivsky said. "He's excellent in the clubhouse. He has great makeup."

Narron said Castro would get some starts against right-handed pitching.

Roberts, 21, was the Reds' seventh-round pick in last year's draft. He was hitting .267 with one home run and 15 RBI in 60 games for Single-A Sarasota.

To make room for Castro on the 40-man roster, the Reds transferred Paul Wilson to the 60-day disabled list.

The move was just procedural (Wilson is eligible to come off the DL at any time).

Castro is expected to join the Reds today. They'll have to make another move to get him on the 25-man roster - probably optioning Ray Olmedo back to Triple-A.

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060616/SPT04/606160413/1071



06-16-2006

Reds get Castro to help on defense
By Marc Lancaster / Post staff reporter

There's no denying the Reds need all the help they can get on defense, and a familiar face is on the way to pitch in however he can.

Renowned gloveman Juan Castro, a reserve infielder for the Reds from 2000-04, was acquired Thursday from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for minor league outfielder Brandon Roberts. Castro is expected to be in uniform for tonight's game against the Chicago White Sox.

To make room for Castro on the 40-man roster, right-hander Paul Wilson was transferred to the 60-day disabled list. Infielder Ray Olmedo likely will be optioned back to Louisville to open up a spot for Castro on the active roster.

On the surface, the Reds appear fairly well set around the infield already, with Brandon Philips, Felipe Lopez, Edwin Encarnacion, Rich Aurilia and Ryan Freel available to play second base, shortstop and third base. Of course, the Reds seemed set at second and catcher when general manager Wayne Krivsky acquired Phillips and David Ross earlier this year, and those deals have worked out nicely.

"He's a superlative defensive player, and we're next-to-last in the league in team defense," Krivsky said of Castro. "I'm just trying to improve the team the best I can."

The Reds' 59 errors this season are second only to Milwaukee (61) in the majors. Encarnacion, who his currently on the disabled list with a sprained ankle, leads all big-league third basemen with 14 errors and Lopez is second among shortstops with 13.

Castro could serve as a late-inning defensive replacement for either player and figures to get some starts here and there, as well. It's the type of utility role the 33-year-old has become accustomed to in a major league career that began in 1995 with the Dodgers, but one he was looking to get away from when he left Cincinnati following the 2004 season.

His first priority as a free agent that fall was finding a team that would let him compete for a starting job, and the Twins promised him that opportunity. Krivsky, the Twins' assistant general manager at the time, was instrumental in bringing Castro to Minnesota and negotiated the two-year, $2.05 million contract the infielder is currently playing under.

That deal will play Castro at least $1 million this season, and there is a club option for 2007 at $1 million that can be bought out for $50,000.

In 50 games with the Twins this year, Castro hit .231 with five doubles and 14 RBIs. All of his appearances came at shortstop, where he started 48 of Minnesota's first 64 games.

That's the kind of playing time he was hoping for, but the team's subpar performance led to changes this week. On Tuesday, the Twins designated veteran third baseman Tony Batista for assignment and called up 26-year-old Jason Bartlett to become the new starting shortstop.

"I was enjoying it here, playing every day," Castro said Thursday from the Metrodome, where he was saying goodbye to his teammates. "But when they made the move with Tony, and now Bartlett, the young kid, they want to put him at shortstop - I was the odd man out."

Castro said he was "shocked" by the deal, but pleased to return to the Reds. He has kept in touch with Adam Dunn and Javier Valentin, along with the gone-but-not-forgotten Barry Larkin and Sean Casey.

"I like Cincinnati a lot, so I'm just happy to be back," he said. "Not that I'm happy to be traded, but if a trade happened, it's nice to be back in Cincinnati."

Manager Jerry Narron, a pitching-and-defense junkie, no doubt will be pleased to have him. Krivsky certainly had no problem pulling the trigger with his old team and giving up Roberts, a seventh-round draft pick last year who was hitting .267 with 15 RBIs in 60 games for Class A Sarasota.

"It's not really a knock on anybody, it's just that this guy's really an accomplished player whose forte is defense," said Krivsky. "And he's not an out with the bat either. He'll get his share of hits. He can handle the bat, and he's gotten much better at using the whole field to hit."
http://cincinnati.reds.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20060616&content_id=1508188&vkey=news_cin&fext=.jsp&c_id=cin

[Team Clark]

Absolutely! Just give me a call.

I'm a night owl. I seriously have to make myself go to bed most nights or I'd be up until dawn.

Loved your in-depth report, BTW. But was truly disappointed at the confirmation about BBoone. I kept telling myself it wasn't true.

Know what you mean. I'm back on Baseball time. Up 'til 3 sleep til 11-12. What a wonderful life. If you came over I don't think we'd get a lot of work done... LOL!! :laugh: JK.

Also, when I posted communication problems with Bucky I did not mean english to spanish. I am simply talking about getting through to the players. Getting the message across, simplifying the mechanics verbally. Just not happening. Bucky works VERY hard and puts in a lot of time with all of the infielders. It's not an issue of work ethic or liking the guy. They need an example so to speak.

[dsmith421]

I have not been a Felipe Lopez fan. I expect more from the position, both offensively and defensively. (Think Concepcion, Larkin)

Let's compare Felipe Lopez's 2005 season (his first as a Major League regular) to Dave Concepcion's best year in the majors, 1978.

Felipe Lopez, age 25 season (2005):
BA: .291, OBP: .352, SLG: .486, OPS: .838, HR: 28.
E: 17, Fielding Pct: .970.

Dave Concepcion, age 30 season (1978):
BA: .301, OBP: .357, SLG: .405, OPS: .762, HR: 6.
E: 23, Fielding Pct: .969.

Lopez is a better hitter now than Concepcion ever was in his career. The better comparison at this stage is Larkin, and given that Larkin is, according to Bill James, one of the ten most complete players in the history of baseball, that's no mean company.

Lopez wins us more games with his offense than he could ever lose with his defense (even assuming his defense is poor, which it is not).

[pedro]

Lopez wins us more games with his offense than he could ever lose with his defense (even assuming his defense is poor, which it is not).

His defense really is poor at SS and it does marginalize his contribution on offense IMO. Not enough to make him a liabilty but enough to make him not quite as valuable as some may believe.

[Gallen5862]

http://www.baseballamerica.com/today...int261737.html
Reds Reacquire Castro
By Jim Callis
June 15, 2006


Juan Castro spent five seasons as a utility infielder for the Reds before signing as a free agent with the Twins following the 2004 season. Now he's back with Cincinnati, which acquired him in a Thursday trade that sent outfield prospect Brandon Roberts to Minnesota.

Castro, 33, became expendable when the Twins finally decided that his anemic bat couldn't outweigh his slick glove. They now have handed their shortstop job back to Jason Bartlett. Castro hit .230/.270/308 with one homer and 14 RBIs in 50 games for Minnesota, a performance in line with his career numbers. He doesn't hit for average or power, draw walks or provide any speed, making him worthless at the plate. Defensively, he has soft hands and solid range and arm strength, enabling him to play anywhere in the infield. Castro has a $1 million salary in the final season of a two-year, $2.05 million contract that contains a $1 million option or $50,000 buyout for 2007. He has hit .230/.270/.336 with 31 homers and 176 RBIs in 815 big league games.

Roberts, 21, signed as a seventh-round pick out of Cal Poly last June. Playing at high Class A Sarasota this year, he hit .267/.325/.308 with one homer, 15 RBIs and 23 steals in 60 games. He focuses on making contact at the expense of power in order to make best use of his plus speed. He's a good defender in center field and has a decent arm.

<< Trade Central 2006

[MaineRed]

Makes you wonder if Wayne isn't more interested in remaking the club in his own image than working with the pre-existing parts that are actually assets to the club.

First of all, no it doesn't.

Second of all, what pre-existing asset is Wayne ignoring by making this deal?

I like Ray Ray but he is not a third basemen. Castro can play 3rd and do it well. Sure he can't hit but fill me in, where is the Mike Schmidt clone we should go after instead?

Its only one game but Castro just made 3 plays in the 8th and 9th innning against the Mets that would of had me very nervous if it was Edwin.

And for the guy who said the Reds have now become the home for guys nobody else wants, a guy the Royals released is starting for the Red Sox tonight. Its not just the Reds who are interested in players like this. Every single team in the big leagues does just what the Reds are doing. Its part of baseball. Heck, if Ron Villone were on the Reds right now he would be a big time whipping boy, instead he is pitching for the Yankees, a team we are supposed to despise because they buy whatever they want. Well they wanted Ron Villone, apparently. But if the Reds sign the guy or anyone even remotely close, it is just another sign of the Reds ineptness.

Some of you guys need to come to grips with the fact that there are a lot of baseball players in the major leauges who play like they don't belong there and some of them even play for the Reds.

Welcome to the party!

[reds44]

Juan made a nice play in the 8th to start a 5-4-3 DP.

That is what he is here for.

[Falls City Beer]

First of all, no it doesn't.

Second of all, what pre-existing asset is Wayne ignoring by making this deal?
!


One good play and one play that was routine that he made look more difficult.

One day I'll understand how that makes up for him being one of the worst offensive players in baseball.

I got one laurel wreath and I give it to Bronson in this one.

[edabbs44]

One good play and one play that was routine that he made look more difficult.

One day I'll understand how that makes up for him being one of the worst offensive players in baseball.

I got one laurel wreath and I give it to Bronson in this one.
I'm not picking on you FCB, but this board is so enamored with OBP and how it generates runs by avoiding outs and extending innings. But why do many of the posters here shun defense, when it stops the other team from scoring? That DP was a very nice play and could have saved the game. Aurilia doesn't come close, EE has a tough time and Freel has no shot at that ball.

[lollipopcurve]

I got one laurel wreath and I give it to Bronson in this one.

Phillips had a sweet game, too, offensively and defensively. It was a good night for all of Krivsky's boys.

[MaineRed]

"He's a quality player who can help us," Krivsky said. "He's excellent in the clubhouse. He has great makeup."


I think the clubhouse comment has a lot to do with this as well. Juan always had a good time in his previous stint here. He, from the outside appears to be a darn good teamate.

He may not be Barry Larkin with the bat but he can pick it, I don't care what his numbers say. Golden Hands is an appropriate nickname IMO. Nobody ever called him Golden Range Factor as far as I can remember.

[Falls City Beer]

He may not be Barry Larkin with the bat but he can pick it

He may not be Christian Guzman with the bat....

[MaineRed]

Its more than one play FCB and you know that.

Again, what do you expect? Every team in baseball has one dimensional players. Some guys only pinch hit. Others are usually resevered for defense. Its baseball. The Reds can either have a solid glove, weak bat like Castro or they can go with a weak bat, weak glove like Brandon Larson.

Either way, your complaining.

[Falls City Beer]

I'm not picking on you FCB, but this board is so enamored with OBP and how it generates runs by avoiding outs and extending innings. But why do many of the posters here shun defense, when it stops the other team from scoring? That DP was a very nice play and could have saved the game. Aurilia doesn't come close, EE has a tough time and Freel has no shot at that ball.

EE makes that play--in fact, gets there with greater ease.

I actually don't think this team is "bad" defensively anywhere but in CF.

[wheels]

I think the clubhouse comment has a lot to do with this as well. Juan always had a good time in his previous stint here. He, from the outside appears to be a darn good teamate.

He may not be Barry Larkin with the bat but he can pick it, I don't care what his numbers say. Golden Hands is an appropriate nickname IMO. Nobody ever called him Golden Range Factor as far as I can remember.

:bang:

[MaineRed]

He may not be Christian Guzman with the bat....

The man is a back-up third baseman/short stop for a small market team. What a shocker Miguel Tejada wasn't acquired for the job.

:bang:

[edabbs44]

EE makes that play--in fact, gets there with greater ease.

I actually don't think this team is "bad" defensively anywhere but in CF.
LF is shaky at best. 1B is decent, if that. SS can be either spectacular or awful.

[MaineRed]

EE makes that play--in fact, gets there with greater ease.

I actually don't think this team is "bad" defensively anywhere but in CF.

Based on these two comments I'm sure a lot of folks are interested in one thing, at what point are you going to start watching the 2006 Reds?

Edwin has been ugly at third. Dunn is horrid in right. And Felipe has been struggling as well. The Reds are second in the league in errors and not many belong to Junior.

[MaineRed]

Sorry, meant Dunn in left.

[Falls City Beer]

LF is shaky at best. 1B is decent, if that. SS can be either spectacular or awful.

See, I think this is picking nits. As long as a guy is reasonably competent, what you get beyond that is gravy--worry about actively improving your team in other, more important areas.

Worrying about getting your defense up to "very good" quality as opposed to competent while ignoring the pitching is like haggling over another coat of sealant when the car you're buying is missing a transmission.

[MaineRed]

So making a move that you think can help the team even if it doesn't fix the biggest need is a bad move?

I could see this argument if Dunn or Lopez was traded for defensive help. But it wasn't even anyone on the Reds or anyone who had much of a chance of ever being on the Reds.

I don't think anyone is ignoring the pitching. But it takes two to tango. We all, and that includes WK would like to acquire Barry Zito for a low level prospect but it is not that easy. And I hardly think that making a minor deal to acquire some defensive help is taking up so much of Wayne's time that he has given up on acquiring pitching help.

[edabbs44]

See, I think this is picking nits. As long as a guy is reasonably competent, what you get beyond that is gravy--worry about actively improving your team in other, more important areas.

Worrying about getting your defense up to "very good" quality as opposed to competent while ignoring the pitching is like haggling over another coat of sealant when the car you're buying is missing a transmission.
Since I can't see you, did you type that with a straight face? Dunn is not good at all in LF.

[Falls City Beer]

So making a move that you think can help the team even if it doesn't fix the biggest need is a bad move?

I could see this argument if Dunn or Lopez was traded for defensive help. But it wasn't even anyone on the Reds or anyone who had much of a chance of ever being on the Reds.

I don't think anyone is ignoring the pitching. But it takes two to tango. We all, and that includes WK would like to acquire Barry Zito for a low level prospect but it is not that easy. And I hardly think that making a minor deal to acquire some defensive help is taking up so much of Wayne's time that he has given up on acquiring pitching help.

They all take up space on the 25 man roster.

[MaineRed]

Worrying about getting your defense up to "very good" quality as opposed to competent while ignoring the pitching is like haggling over another coat of sealant when the car you're buying is missing a transmission.

Its actually nothing like that. Defense is contributing to the Reds losing games. A coat of sealant would not prevent you from getting your car inspected.

A better analogy would be that this is like fixing a smashed out windshield when your car needs a new transmission. Either way you need to get both fixed and nothing says one has to come before the other.

[Falls City Beer]

Since I can't see you, did you type that with a straight face? Dunn is not good at all in LF.

Dunn's got an iron glove, but he's not awful.

[MaineRed]

They all take up space on the 25 man roster.

I have no idea what this means.

Who are, they all? Now your holding the fact that people on the roster, take up roster spots against them?

Did you used to post on Cincy.com under the name Gallagher?

[edabbs44]

Dunn's got an iron glove, but he's not awful.
Yes he is. He has limited range and an iron glove. What makes him not awful?

[Falls City Beer]

I have no idea what this means.

Who are, they all? Now your holding the fact that people on the roster, take up roster spots against them?

Did you used to post on Cincy.com under the name Gallagher?

It means that Castro is the 25th man on a team that has 25th men coming out the wazoo, like Olmedo, who could do every last single thing that Castro does, but get this, could probably get on base once in a while. So they decided to spend, what is it, a million bucks on Castro? That is the opposite of sense.

And no number of personal insults is going to sway my opinion.

[MaineRed]

Yes he is. He has limited range and an iron glove. What makes him not awful?

Besides the fact that the rest of the world thinks he is, probably nothing.

[Falls City Beer]

Yes he is. He has limited range and an iron glove. What makes him not awful?

I've watched 30 years of baseball; I've seen WAY worse than Adam Dunn in left.

He just has an unaesthetic way of getting the job done--he's the anti-Jim Edmonds in the style category. But he gets it done very, very often.

[MaineRed]

Would once every four at bats, be considered "every once in awhile"?

If so, I think you will be thrilled with Castro.

[pedro]

Besides the fact that the rest of the world thinks he is, probably nothing.


While Dunn isnt a great fielder, I donlt think he is a bad as he has been this year so far. he certainly wasn;t last year. Either way, the defensive value of a LF is not that important in the larger scheme of things. I am much more concerned about the negative effects of the defense at SS and SS at this point.

[Newman4]

I missed GG saying "Manos De Oro" :D

[edabbs44]

Flat out, Dunn is a liability in LF. I do realize that there is a Dunn bias on this board and I like Dunn just as much as the next guy, in a hetero kind of way. But come on. He is awful out there. Next thing people are going to tell me how he doesn't really whiff as much as it seems.

[MaineRed]

Career BA:

Casto .230

Ray .238

But according to FCB Ray is a guy can actually get a hit every once in awhile.

Yeah boo hoo, we sent down a career .238 hitter who isn't a third baseman and has little experience to make room for a guy who can play third in his sleep, hits a robust .008 points lower and has 11 years of big league experience.

There goes the pennant!

[Newman4]

I'm glad he's back so I can impress my friends with my high school spanish knowledge and translate "manos de oro".

[boognish]

Career BA:

Casto .230

Ray .238

But according to FCB Ray is a guy can actually get a hit every once in awhile.



True, but Olmedo also hasn't really shown what he can do...he had Tommy John surgery in 2004 and you are correct that he did not show much before that. However, he IS hitting .383/.429/.817 in 150 PA at Louisville. If that is more indicative of his performance level than his .280/.274/.554 with the big club in 2003, the roster spot is better utilized on Olmedo, IMO.

I was at the game Tuesday when Olmedo spot started for Lopez, and he had a couple of good ABs, including a walk, double, and SB. He also bobbled a ball going to his left on a grounder up the middle. Castro's hands are probably better, range about equal from what I have seen...Castro's value to the team is really in the "intangible" category; providing mentorship for our young Spanish-as-a-primary-language left side of the infield (at least I assume Lopez is spanish-speaking). Olmedo is still only 25, and I think many fans would like to see if he can hit enough to be the sixth IF...he should certainly outhit Aurilia vs RHP (Aurilia vs RHP: .265/.354/.619, 101 PA; vs. LHP: .382/.723/1.105, 74 PA)

[TeamBoone]

Career BA:

Casto .230

Ray .238

But according to FCB Ray is a guy can actually get a hit every once in awhile.

I wasn't going to get into this, especially the once again debate about Dunn's being a defensive liability... so I won't, even though I totally think you are wrong... but comparing Castro's career BA to Olmedo's is absolutely ridiculous as Olmedo's sample size is miniscule compared to Castro's.

[kyred14]

Flat out, Dunn is a liability in LF. I do realize that there is a Dunn bias on this board and I like Dunn just as much as the next guy, in a hetero kind of way. But come on. He is awful out there. Next thing people are going to tell me how he doesn't really whiff as much as it seems.

No he's not, he's been an average LF his entire career. Look it up. He just looks akward out there. LF defense isn't that important, anyway.

[wheels]

Folks, Lopez speaks PERFECT English.

There's no language barrier between Felipe Lopez and better defense.

Let's just forget about that aspect, and concentrate on the stuff that really matters.

Btw...When did Castro suddenly accquire range? I've read that a couple of times, but when I watch him he looks like he's buried in quicksand.

[edabbs44]

No he's not, he's been an average LF his entire career. Look it up. He just looks akward out there. LF defense isn't that important, anyway.
Average as compared to which LFs?

[MaineRed]

I wasn't going to get into this, especially the once again debate about Dunn's being a defensive liability... so I won't, even though I totally think you are wrong... but comparing Castro's career BA to Olmedo's is absolutely ridiculous as Olmedo's sample size is miniscule compared to Castro's.

Well if the sample size is too small, what evidence is there that Olmedo might actually be able to get on base every one in awhile? If he was hitting ,350 for his career, same number of at bats, would you be saying, too small of a sample size? If the sample size is too small to use his batting average as evidence of what he will do down the road, what evidence is there that Olmedo will get on base at a noticeably higher rate than Castro?

As for Dunn I am a huge fan and I hate to see him ripped the way he is and I don't believe his defense is a big issue for the team. But lets be honest, Dunn is not an asset out there in left when it comes to defense. Its just the truth. I'm not saying he should be moved, benched or anything. It just isn't his greatest strength, which is fine. I have no problem with Adam Dunn, I just disagree that Ken Griffey is the only defensive problem on the Reds.