Reds Insider: Reds sign Craig Wilson

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Reds sign Craig Wilson

The Reds have signed outfielder Craig Wilson to a minor league deal with an invite to big league camp.

Wilson is a right-handed hitter. He can also play first.

He hit .172 with one homer and two RBI in 58 at-bats for the Braves last year. In 2006, he hit .251 with 17 homers and 49 RBI in 359 at-bats.

His best year was 2004. He hit .264 with 29 homers and 82 RBI with the Pirates. He struck out 169 times, however.

94 Comments:

at 3:12 PM

Anonymous said...

Interesting...wasn't he a catcher at one time?

at 3:29 PM

Anonymous said...

Is this leading up to Votto being traded?

at 3:40 PM

Anonymous said...

I think annon 329 is right, this is def. a sign that Votto will likely be traded for Blanton. I am not sure if we need that many K's for that many homers. I would def. rather have someone like Hatte or Votto who may have a bit less power, but have a high on base percentage. Interesting acquistion giving the release of Cantu.

at 3:41 PM

Anonymous said...

WILSON was a CATCHER in the minors but hasn't caught since 2003 or 2004. He would only play C in an emergency situation.

He can play the OF corners and 1B. He hasn't shown much since 2004. If he is in tip-top shape/health and plays like it then he has shot to make the squad. Otherwise he is destined for a pink slip. Until then every unhappy REDS fan and his SISTER will be calling for WAYNE's firing because of this routine/NO RISK signing that didn't interupt any important trade discussions.

at 3:45 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

Wow! This guy could be this year's Mark Bellhorn.

at 3:50 PM

John Fay said...

Exactly. I don't think this has anything to do with Votto.

These minor leauge signings mean very little. Victor Santos was the only non-roster guy to make the club last year.

at 4:13 PM

Anonymous said...

apparemtly reds are looking to get 1b Dan Johnson added along with blanton in the deal. i think DJ would flourish in GABP and is signed for 3 more yrs. so reds get a #2 SP and a solid 2nd tier 1b type. from what i hear it will be a 5 for 2 deal w/ Bailey or Cueto/Votto beingt he main prospects from the reds and several 2nd tier guys ranking in the 8-20 range.

at 4:19 PM

Anonymous said...

Not to beat a dead horse, but if we give up Bailey and Votto for Blanton, my doctor might make me give up following the Reds.

at 5:10 PM

Anonymous said...

If the Reds include Votto in a deal for Blanton, I just may march myself down to GABP, urinate on the building, burn all of my Reds memorabilia and send up smoke signals saying "FIRE KRIVSKY..FIRE KRIVSKY"

at 5:13 PM

Anonymous said...

Why don't the Reds just take out a one page ad in all the newspapers saying "All washed-up, over-the-hill baseball players wanting a chance to get back in the Majors..Call Wayne K"

In the meantime, all of our young, highly-valued players will be traded away for marginal pitching prospects or over-the-hills.

at 5:43 PM

Anonymous said...

Just my point of view, but trading for Blanton by giving up Bailey and Votto seems silly. It does not get you any better (Blanton would probably pitch as well as Bailey) and then give up two young excellent ballplayers. Too much risk for too little a reward. That road ERA would probably become his home ERA if he played for the Reds.

I do like the Wilson and KM signings though. Good, cheap pick ups. The Reds get a veteran lefty who was playing great when he got hurt. Wilson, well they need more Minor League depth if the kids do make the team.

Adrian

at 5:51 PM

BubbaFan said...

I like Wilson, too. He was really awful last year, but it's because he had a bum shoulder. He finally had surgery for it in June.

I think this could be a real bargain for the Reds. If he bounces back to anything like his former self, he'll be a good Conine replacement. Righty bat off the bench, half of a first base platoon, can play corner OF if necessary and catch in an emergency.

And he's a really nice guy.

at 6:17 PM

cincikid said...

Anon 5:10

That's a brilliant plan! They'd never catch ya because of your anonymity! BRILLIANT!!

at 7:10 PM

Anonymous said...

Good idea, IMO... A RH-hitting 1B. If he performs, this could be the right-handed part of a platoon at 1B with Votto.

Wilson has crushed lefties on his career:

vs. RHP: .251/.337/.451
vs. LHP: .290/.389/.527

at 8:09 PM

Anonymous said...

Whats next.... a Deion Sanders comeback? I hear there is a job opening in Center Field.

at 8:12 PM

Anonymous said...

Yo! Adrian. Alias "Anon 5:43". Did you know that you can go to the bottom of the page where you leave your comment, click on the circle beside NICKNAME and type your name in the box? Then your comment will be posted as "Adrian said..." instead of anonymous. Then you don't have to remember to type your name at the end of the comment section.

at 8:21 PM

Anonymous said...

How about a trade including Chavez in the deal. Would the Reds bite on it or would they asked for Street instead. I am looking for a blockbuster deal within the next ten days.
Next, is my lineup.

Nopper CF
Phillips 2B
Griffey Jr. 1B
EE 3B
Dunn LF
Gonz. SS
Bruce RF
Ross C

Yes, I know Mr. Redsleg, but if I was the manager and I not, Griffey would play first or sit on the bench until traded to Seattle. Case closed. I am the "MANAGER"!!!

at 8:35 PM

Ron said...

If Votto stays a Red, I don't think you'll have to worry about a platoon. I think Votto is the real deal.

at 9:03 PM

Anonymous said...

Where's Blanton? Still waiting Wacko Wayno

at 9:05 PM

Matt McWax said...

I'm a fan of this one. He fits the mold of a possible steal. I certainly wouldn't want him taking anyone's starting spot but is a good "spot starter" and occasional pinch hitter in situations needing some pop. Maybe this opens up the trading of Hatteberg, not Votto.

at 9:34 PM

Anonymous said...

I've never responded before, but I agree with the feeling that there's NO way you give up so much for Blanton. Votto, Bailey or Cueto and another player? Maybe for someone like Haren, but Blanton? His road ERA was atrocious. Why not see how these guys do--Votto has been in the system for a long time. Bailey needs another look--what if he turns out to be solid? So much more upside than Blanton. As for Wilson, it would be a shock if he made the team--his numbers are awful. Don't pull the plug--please.

at 9:49 PM

Anonymous said...

It's intriguing to hear folks praise the worth of Blanton. This guy wasn't even the third best option for a terrible Oakland team (behind Haren and a healthy Harden), yet we want to sell the farm for him. His stats are nearly identical to Arroyo's, who has always pitched in hitter-friendly parks and who was traded for an unproven prospect in Wiley Mo! I'll take Votto over Wiley Mo anyday. Since this rumor seemingly spawned from Oakland, it seems to me that Beane is trying to spin Blanton as nearly equal to Bedard. Blanton's stats are padded in his ballpark and will likely never have as much success in GABP. Ask yourself: Why is Beane wanting to part with Blanton? Its not as if Blanton is near the end of a contract, nor is getting old. Blanton's availability should raise many red flags! Buyer beware!

at 9:51 PM

Ron said...

Does anyone know the status of Rich Harden? Maybe the Reds could go after him instead of Blanton. He would be a risk, but when healthy, he's very tough.

at 11:31 PM

Anonymous said...

What people need to understand.... W.K is in the last year of his contract, the reds are no better today then they were when he took over (all of these top prospects (Bailey, Cueto, Votto, and Bruce) came here via O'Brien/Bowden), and his replacement has already been hired.

His goal.... Give Dusty Baker as many options as possible. At least then he can tell his next employer that it wasn't his fault. WK will say I gave him (Baker) 62 players in big league camp to choose from and he couldn't pick the ones to get this team over .500.

As a realist this team will be quite a bit worse than last year's team. My prediction for the finish of teams in the Central are 1. Cubs 2. Brewers. 3. Cards 4. Reds 5. Pirates. 6. Astros.

Also, W.K will be relieved of his duties in early June and Jocketty will be making trades in July to better this team for 2009.

at 11:39 PM

Anonymous said...

If he brings back his killer mullet, I will root for him.

at 8:47 AM

Anonymous said...

Another day and still not a decent pitching rotation in sight.

Arroyo is no Blanton.

at 9:19 AM

reaganspad said...

Anon: 11:31 just why is this team worse than last years team?
Is it Cordero and his 2.98 ERA?
If Jay Bruce plays his way into opening day, does he make us worse?
Is it EE playing a full consistant year and showing what he can do?
Is it Dunn in a contract year, who maybe hits 270 with 50HR's
Is it Matt Belisle who wins 13 games and lowers his ERA to 4.6?
Or is it Dusty who has great first years wherever he goes?

Yea, I'm with you...

at 10:24 AM

Anonymous said...

Don't Panic guys. Picking up people on minor league contracts is all about bringing in someone and see if they can bring something.
Trust me if they were going to trade Votto they would find some with less risk that Wilson.

Its worth a shot

at 11:39 AM

Anonymous said...

Great to see the fans are now turning anger toward W.K. !!He has earned his monocker (CLULESS)!! Please Bob,get this arrogant incompetent jerk out of town...now.Walt is in place, we can't afford to have Cluless involved in any way...besides he is hurting ticket sales. WAKE UP CINCY FIRE KRIVSKY (COACH)

at 1:05 PM

Anonymous said...

All teams sign players who may help in Spring training or during the season. However in the Reds' situation, they could pick 30 guys but if they can't pitch in the rotation. They aren't worth the ink their contracts are written. This team must aquire a pitcher who can be #3 in the starting rotation. Whether that's Blanton or whoever because with this current rotation. The Reds will be spinning their wheels plus Baker isn't the best manager with a pitching staff.
Way back on October when they didn't have a manager, LaRussa offered to be the manager on a two year contract but Castellini balked and signe Baker for three years. I for one believe two years with LaRussa and probably Duncan as picthing coach would be better than Baker for 10 years, However that's only one man's opinion.

Bill in Lexington.

at 1:24 PM

Anonymous said...

Blanton is about the same as Arroyo. Might even be a downgrade, considering where the two pitched half their games. Check out the stats, and try to convince me that Blanton is an obvious upgrade over Arroyo.
And Larussa? I would much rather have a class act in Baker than his no class a*%. I do not want drama from a manager, there is enough to go around with the players.

at 1:32 PM

Anonymous said...

By the way 'anonymous', the Krivsky-bashing act is way too tired. Please give it a rest until say mid-season. If the team's in the tank due to our acquisitions, then you may have your day. Wake up Cincy, ingnore all posts by 'anonymous'!

at 1:34 PM

REddlegg in Colorado said...

Bill in lexington,

Are you sure about the larussa thing back in Oct.,seems like BC would have pulled the trigger on Larussa

.I always thought that Duncan would have been great manager for the Reds & then sign Orel Hershisher as pitching coach.The reds problems are really in the Pitching departments and those 2 names that I mentioned are bonafined names in baseball,especially when it comes to pitchers.

I guess we'll see if Dusty & Dick can get it going right.

at 1:44 PM

Anonymous said...

This isn't related to Craig Wilson but i was really wondering what eveyrone thinks about trading Dunn for a pitcher...it seems to mae a lot of sense to me???what do you guys think??

at 1:54 PM

Anonymous said...

No way we should give up Homer/Cueto and Votto for Blanton. That is better than what the Twins got for Santana. If we give up more than the Mets gave up for Santana for a guy who would be at best our third best pitcher and at worst would blow up like Eric Milton then heads need to roll.

at 2:17 PM

Anonymous said...

I'm 99% sure of the LaRussa offer however that's in the past. On Baker, I'm not on the Baker band wagon and I'm not even on Dick Pole's tricycle much less a band wagon. I just believe there were more suitable manager candidates than Baker out there looking for a job. We shall see if he makes a difference this season although I don't expect any improvement since the rotation needs some help.

at 2:31 PM

Anonymous said...

To Z about Dunn : I feel that is a great idea...but who wants him ? His numbers look good yet he is a poor contact man,even worse on defense!! Must go to A.L. rich team,he also carries the reputation of rich,dumb & lazy !! Sorry Dunn you earned your reputation not your huge salary!! (COACH)

at 3:15 PM

Anonymous said...

I just believe there were more suitable manager candidates than Baker out there looking for a job.

Yeah who? Name these candidates, verify the Reds didn't talk to them, and then update us on your guess work speculation.

(Dunn) also carries the reputation of rich,dumb & lazy !!

Among whom does he carry this reputation? Bloggers, fans and media? Or teammates, coaches and GMs? Where did you hear about this "reputation?"

Show your sources.

Only place I've ever heard anyone say Dunn was rich, dumb and lazy is on these blogs. Guess he's rich because of his contract, dumb because he's from Texas and lazy because he doesn't make idiotic plays after uncatchable balls like Freel.

at 4:21 PM

Anonymous said...

I always think a team should trade their depth for something they need. I personally think the Reds made good deals this year. We made solid signings in the bullpen with Cordero and Affeldt. And I think it was a great move in trading Hamilton for the Rangers top pitching prospect. And I'm glad we held off on Bedard, He's not worth the farm. All told, the Reds have four young highly regarded pitching prospects. While I would hate to trade Bailey, trade with our depth of starter prospects for Blanton, keep Votto and the Reds will be a force this season.

at 4:21 PM

Anonymous said...

Hey ... my BOSOX fan neighbor reports the team equipment truck departed Boston yesterday for FL. Now that's being on top of ST events!!

Bill in VB

at 8:17 PM

Anonymous said...

Ask John Fay on how many candidates he's thinks the Reds talked to about managing the Reds.

Bill in Lexington

at 8:29 PM

red said...

I think that it is absolutely amazing that Krivsky and Jocketty have been working together for a couple of months, both working for the same guy in Mr. Castellini, but Krivsky is the bad guy and Jocketty is the good guy. Krivsky has done one heck of a job since he has been here, and those who don't think so, are of course entitled to their opinion but probably don't understand business....

at 9:22 PM

Anonymous said...

Red: A lot has to do with W.K.s PR,he speaks as if the fans are his enemies! He has alienated the fans against his arrogant personality! Plus,the Nats won more games than we did in 07 !INCOMPETENT.....WAKE UP CINCY FIRE KRIVSKY (Reds fan in FT. THomas)

at 10:08 PM

Anonymous said...

Anon 9:22
You give a pretty lame excuse or your tirades and rants against Krivsky. You should stop, I pretty sure judging by people's reaction its grown pretty old.

at 10:43 PM

Anonymous said...

He has a very good point when saying the nationals won more games than we did...they have most of our previous players...maybe krivsky is to quick to act for pitching. I agree that we need pitching but trading young talented kids has come back to haunt the Reds lately.

at 11:43 PM

Anonymous said...

Who are the young talented kids the Reds have traded lately that have come back to haunt?

For one thing, there haven't been that many young talented kids.

For another, what do the Nationals, being in another division, have to do with anything about the Reds?

Zilch.

Nats won exactly ONE more game than the Reds. Zip-dee-do. Fourth place is fourth place.

at 11:43 PM

Anonymous said...

Blanton is better than Arroyo, except musically-speaking. As a pitcher, Arroyo is incredibly over-rated. Blanton is just mildly over-rated.

3.95 ERA plus 140 K and 40 BB for 07 Blanton, in 34 GS (14-10 record);

4.23 ERA plus 156 K and 68 BB for 07 Arroyo, in 34 GS (9-15 record).

Better control, and Blanton just turned 27 in December.

Arroyo will be 31 years old in 2 weeks.

It's not even that close. I'd rather have Blanton here than Arroyo but having both is better than having just one.

at 12:17 AM

Anonymous said...

Re Ricknmd and "Dunn"

A local beat writer commented recently on Dunn working out this off season so he wouldn't be playing at 280 again, so there's one source on the out-of shape report. Plus, any intelligent fan could see the spare tire he was carrying last year.He moved slow.

Lazy? I'd put it more like coasting too much. Pretty below average outfielder, dogs it too much, plays hard about 75% of the time. Should be at first base.

I do agree with your comments about the Kamikazee Idiot in center. You know, Freel. Speaking of dumb....now there's a guy who's a couple slices of bread short of a sandwich. Trade him...puhhleeeez.

Oh and before you start demanding sources from anybody whose opinion you wanna crap on, hows about listing yours, otherwise as DeNiro said, shut your pie hole.

Most people here aren't sport writers, or club house people. Does that mean in your limited world we don't get to speak?

at 12:22 AM

Anonymous said...

Another junk yard aquisiton.

I agree with you, John, very few of these signings are of any significance.

Question; then why do em? Spring training becomes a zoo, the guy has little chance of making the team and furthering his career, and it's just one more distraction.
If it's someone who has a very legitimate chance to stick, I say sign him. Otherwise leave the reclamation projects to the Army Corps of Engineers.

at 12:33 AM

reaganspad said...

Agreed. Felipe Lopez looks like he will be a back up this year. So we are really talking about Kearns, who would have been a 4th outfielder for us last year. I think this thread was about trading surplus...

at 7:13 AM

Anonymous said...

Shut my pie hole?

Over what? I didn't make any statements that required sourcing. But when someone comes out with statements like Dunn is lazy and the Reds coulda hired this person or that, prove it.

Looks like Cheviot Sports Authority/Jack in Blue Ash/12:17 has gravitated from the Reds blog to the UC blog and back under his veil of not-so-veiled disguises.

But the name calling and rant is always the same.

at 7:16 AM

Anonymous said...

A man who is 6 feet 6 or 6-7 and weighs 280 is not fat, by the way. Could Dunn play lighter? Sure. But look closely at him. That dude ain't fat. He's just a very large tree.

As for the ongoing demands for him to move to 1b, they tried that already and he stinked, stanked and stunked. Plus, he hated being there. It was a detriment to both parties, so why force the issue?

He is what he is and everyone seems to always want to make him something he isn't.

at 8:29 AM

Anonymous said...

Craig Wilson!!! HAHAHAHAHAHA I was heckling this guy last year in the minors when he played for the WhiteSux organization. Now he's moved into my "backyard" for heckling. I mean how can you now heckle guy that wears a pant size thats 4 times too big for his body and grows out a flowing golden mullet?

at 9:10 AM

Anonymous said...

On the topic of surplus, Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Reds are talking to Kenny Lofton about a contract. That wpould give them a LH bat to play CF in platoon with Hopper and Freel, and probably relegate Jay Bruce to L'ville to start the season.

Or maybe it would let the Reds include Hopper in a trade for Blanton ...

at 9:24 AM

Anonymous said...

.179? John, don't you mean he's a right-handed "swinger"?

at 9:49 AM

Anonymous said...

Felipe Lopez will have a far better career than the SS Lumpez.

Now this talk of getting Lofton is really irritating. Another washed up old OF that we don't need.

Unless Lofton is going to pitch or play SS, why waste money and space signing him.

Another day, and the same old horrible pitching staff, and no Blanton in sight.

Heading for another under .500 season at this rate, Kenny Lofton or not!

at 9:50 AM

Anonymous said...

"Red: A lot has to do with W.K.s PR,he speaks as if the fans are his enemies! He has alienated the fans against his arrogant personality! Plus,the Nats won more games than we did in 07 !INCOMPETENT.....WAKE UP CINCY FIRE KRIVSKY (Reds fan in FT. THomas)"

Have you ever spoken with Mr. Krivsky? If not, then please stop with the unsubstantiated crap-talking. WK is a VERY approachable guy, and will talk baseball with you until the cows come home. The several times I have talked with him at GABP or various other places, he has always been very forthcoming, and I always come away pleasantly surprised at how good he is with fans. By accusing him of having an 'arrogant personality,' you couldn't be any further off base if you tried. BTW, his policy of not talking sure helped with Cordero, didn't it? The Brewers stopped dealing b/c they thought they were bidding against themselves.

at 10:07 AM

Anonymous said...

Wilson in a good pickup. Could fit into a every fifth day first baseman/outfielder/pinch hitter role nicely. I don't think that leads to Votto being dealt for this one reason. Oakland already has their version of Votto on its roster: Daric Barton. He got the September call up and played even better than Votto, is younger, and has more power. PLUS, they have Dan Johnson, who until Barton came around, was the starter at first. That being said, the Reds could include Johnson in the deal. But, I don't like him as much as I would like a Hatteberg/Wilson platoon-ish . Anyone else think we should deal FREEL to give Hopper and Bruce the 3rd and 4th OF spots? Wilson also could play RF in a pinch and Keppinger as well.

at 10:37 AM

Anonymous said...

>>It does not get you any better (Blanton would probably pitch as well as Bailey) and then give up two young excellent ballplayers.

I don't get you guys. If Bailey were as good as Blanton, then Bailey would have been in the bigs last year winning games and throwing 200 innings.

I'm been watching Reds baseball since the 70s. Pitching prospects are high risk propositions. All you guys are so enamored by our minor league guys, and constantly say wait till Berenyi, Howington, Etherton, Ryan Wagner or whomever makes it to the bigs. Yet decade after decade these guys flop or become at best a low level journeyman.

If we can get Blanton, we should take him.

at 11:10 AM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

I like Dunn, he has a wry, subtle sense of humor that just goes over the heads of many. I think that he is a luxury and can help the Reds as long as he plays first base and bats no higher than sixth in the lineup. I certainly do not want him at the plate with the game on the line. Dunn and Griffey both in the outfield at the same time is a disaster. When Dunn chases a ball down in the corner, it kind of reminds me of a fat Rocky Balboa chasing a chicken. Funny to watch though, unless you are pitching.
If Votto is traded, then Dunn should be put at first base, not asked to go there, told to go there. First base is where the fat kid who can hit home runs but can not field plays. The only way that I would approve of a trade of Votto for Blanton would be if moving Dunn to first was part of the plan.

Of course we could just keep status quo, battle Pittsburgh to stay out of the basement and wait until next season when Griffey is gone.

at 11:19 AM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

Well hello to you too Ricky. I didn't realize that you were a baseball expert too. Any relation to Mr Redlegs?

at 11:28 AM

Anonymous said...

I think that most of you are getting excited over nothing

Cordero should be a more effective closer than Weathers..thats about it

Franchise needs to take small steps.. get to .500.. Next year when Griffey is gone and we have an extra 12 million..I expect bigger things

All this foolishness over signing aging retreads on the downside of their careers or marginal players reminds me of the Bengals

at 11:28 AM

Anonymous said...

how is Lofton "washed up"?
Old yes, washed up nope, look at the numbers.
he is a perfect fit for the reds
platoon him with Hopper/freel in center and at the lead-off spot.
Bruce starts the year at AAA, and if he is lights out for the first two months down there you trade Dunn and bring him up when Dunn's no trade clause runs out in June. Or he comes up earlier if JR or Dunn get hurt.

at 11:55 AM

Anonymous said...

Bailey is 21..... Most pitchers haven't even scratched the surface of AAA at this age, Bailey has 4 ML wins for pete's sake. Give him a chance. Bailey will be better than Blanton. Take a SS of Blanton's current stats, then wait 6 years and check out Bailey's and see who has the better numbers.

at 12:27 PM

Anonymous said...

Just what is needed, another left handed hitting outfielder! !

at 12:35 PM

Anonymous said...

yep jdiggerty..most winning teams would have a platoon of Freel Hopper and Lofton in centerfield..too funny

Dunn will be a Red for many years to come

hey cheviot..according to some ..you are me

I don't think Dunn is actually fat..hes just a big dude..

Regardless he is..and will always be an average to below average defensive outfielder

at 12:41 PM

Anonymous said...

This Lofton thing doesn't excite me very much. But there's a reason he's played 1,000 years. His stats ain't too bat for a geezer.

at 12:47 PM

Cheviot Sports Authority said...

Yeah, I read that nonsense, Jack. Kind of flatters me, that they are reading our posts and showing their ignorance.
Dunn is not Stanton fat, but I think he could stand to lose a few. You are right he will never be a good outfielder and I think he would be much less of a liability at first base.
Why on earth would they want Kenny Lofton? Krivsky is a stubborn moron and probably with not promote Jay Bruce out of ST, no matter what he does.

at 1:07 PM

Anonymous said...

As far as Dunn goes, he has played with a bad knee the past two seasons. That would affect his stopping ability while running in the outfield, possbily causing him to look "lazy". I for one, am looking forward to seeing a healthy Dunn this year and what he can do with his full potential. Oh, he had a broken thumb in '05 as well. Broken thumb, bad knee and still hot 40 home runs in each of his last three seasons. Not bad.

at 1:24 PM

Anonymous said...

As for the Kenny Lofton rumors, I actually don't think this is a bad idea. What everyone seems to overlook is how you need different TYPES of hitters in the order, not just good hitters or guys who have some power. The Reds are sorely in need of a leadoff man. Granted, Lofton does not have the speed he used to, but he is actually a LEADOFF hitter by design. Too often, the Reds have thought they can just plug anyone in there at the top -- Freel has too poor an OBP, and Hatteberg, while is a really professional hitter who is an asset off of the bench, is NOT a leadoff hitter, for God's sake -- nonetheless, he logged some ABs from that spot last year. And BP, while a very good hitter, is not a LEADOFF hitter.

So, here we find ourselves ... we've traded away the only truly blue-chip position player on the team other than BP (Hamilton), and now we need a new CF and an actualy leadoff man, so I say good move if we can get him, although I would rather have seen us trade for a true leadoff hitter in his prime, like Carl Crawford. Adam Dunn types are a dime a dozen, but not a really good leadoff man. Also, even though Bruce is hopefully going to be good, he is not a leadoff hitter either, so I say good move.

at 1:25 PM

Anonymous said...

LOFTON would be a great fit if the price isn't too much. He would fill the void at the top of the line up and would be a major upgrade in CF over anyone on the roster. He gets on base and steals bases which put pressure on the opposing pitcher and makes it easier on those who bat behind him on top of that he gets to more balls in CF which makes it easier on the pitchers all of these things make everyone around him look better. These attributes are not easily seen in his part of the box score and those fans that DON'T understand what they see when they watch a game totally miss this fact. The same guys that bash LOFTON also think Dunn is less of a liability at 1B. If that were true you would see the likes of BONDS and MANNY at 1B. LF is the to major league baseball what RF is to little league.

at 1:26 PM

Anonymous said...

GREAT point about Dunn Big Red One!

And he never mentioned those injuries and never asked out of the lineup Didn't make excuses.

at 1:54 PM

Anonymous said...

Gotta agree with BigRedOne.

Dunn is one of the toughest players that we have. Seems to me he has played more games than most reds the past few years. He might not be one of the great ones, but I think is efforts are underrated.

As someone said his humor also something I enjoy. Recall two years back he dropped a couple easy flies on Opening Day? The next game after his first catch he got a "mock" standing ovation. Instead of ignoring it, he played into it with a tip of his cap.

at 2:12 PM

Anonymous said...

They would want Lofton because he is still one of the top 20 leadoff hitters in baseball. yes he is another left handed outfielder, but he is not anything like the ones the reds already have, plus he'd be on the bench against lefties.
I think Bruce should begin the year in AAA, working on his plate discipline and waiting for the Reds to move Dunn after his no-trade clause runs out in mid June. Or if Jr gets hurt again.

at 2:15 PM

Anonymous said...

Well I can see my campaign to have Cincy designated as the city with the dumbest sports fans can continue. I mean really do you guys actually follow the sports of which the Cincy teams compete in? I have to ask because there are TONS of Cincy fans that make the stupidest comments on these blogs.

To rip the Reds and/or Wayne Krivsky for signing Craig Wilson to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training is as dumb as it gets. Hello people, EVERYONE IN MLB DOES THIS, and it happens omg EVERY SINGLE DAY. Here take a look at the minor league deals signed by teams OTHER than the Reds in just the last THREE DAYS:

Scott Elarton
Eric Hinske
Brendan Donnelly
Mike Sweeney
Scott Williamson
Matt DeSalvo
Mike Maroth
Morgan Ensberg
Chris Woodward

So really this is just what teams do going into spring training. They take flyers on a bunch of has beens and never have beens just in case one of them surprises and is worth keeping. Plus they do it to fill out rosters that will be depleted due to the normal preseason nicks and bruises, and to fill out split squad games.

Instead of ripping the Reds like a bunch if ignorant morons, try to follow the sport as a whole, and realize this is just how teams operate, and find something intelligent to complain about...of course that is probably asking way to much of a bunch of Cincy fans...

at 2:19 PM

reaganspad said...

It is amazing to me how Dunn gets criticized for 100 RBI's, 100 Runs, and 40 HR's. Production you would like to have in left field.

But we are fine with 1st base, 80 RBI's, 15-20 HR's.
Heck you can buy 1st basemen on ebay....

Holy Tony Perez Batman
(and thanks Adam Dunn)

at 2:48 PM

Mr. Doom and Gloom said...

Lofton would be an upgrade in the lead-off spot, much better hitter than Freel, better basestealer/OBP guy than Hopper, but he's no more than an average CF. Just cause your fast, it doesn't mean your a good OF, see Exhibit A, Ryan Freel. A GM once said of Lofton...

"He plays center like he's got a swarm of bees chasing him."

at 2:50 PM

Anonymous said...

It's unfortunate, but I sometimes read these posts for comical value rather than intelligent baseball rhetoric. The Fire Krivsky rants are so preposterous and unfounded they make me nautious. Boo-hoo. Wayne Krivsky is secretive and likes to keep baseball dealings behind the scenes. God forbid he should be prudent and follow protocol that he's no doubt learned climbing through the personnel department of the Minnesota Twins, the organization that just happens to have had the best front office in baseball the last 15 years. Wayne Krivsky is not a Public Relations guy, that's why they hire other people for that position. And for the brilliant post that showed how much better Joe Blanton was than Bronson Arroyo in 2007--Did you even look at the stats? Sure, Blanton had 28 fewer walks, but Arroyo had more strikeouts and every other stat is nearly identical. Would everyone trade Bailey or Cueto and Votto for Bronson Arroyo? NO. And Krivsky won't either. Thank God he doesn't listen to the nincompoops that post here.

at 2:51 PM

Anonymous said...

Lofton is going to be 41 years old this May, those old muscles aren't going to last much longer and while he has a great eye at the plate still...we have six kazillion outfielders and a bunch of fat stinkin' pitchers who suck.

Get pitching--we need PITCHING TO WIN, not a few more SBs and some ten way left-handed hitting OF platoon...

Krivsky needs to stop dumpster-diving for outfielders!

Dunn has lots of muscle but he's been putting on flab over the past few years. Maybe the injuries have played a big role. Lard-ex should really be embarrassed because Dunn outweighs him by 200lbs and runs faster and is a far better base-stealer.

If Lofton could only play SS!

at 2:53 PM

Anonymous said...

J Diggerty..u have lost your marbles

Bruce has paid his dues in the minors.. not played a single game at the major league level and u already want to ship him back down to work in plate discipline because u have man love for a 41 year old outfielder named Lofton

The dude has averaged 320 his last three seasons in the minors. What makes you think he needs plate discipline?

at 3:03 PM

Anonymous said...

To Votto or Not To Votto....this is not the question.

The Reds did not lose last year because of the lack of offense.

Simply put....they gave up 7 or more runs in 55 games. (More than 1/3 of the time).

Pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching, pitching!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

They should be willing to trade all 8 regulars (yes - including Philiips) if it means better pitching.

Haven't you guys grown tired of banking on the potential of the young players yet?

at 3:05 PM

Anonymous said...

someone should change the front page of the reds, its says the reds might "trade for" lofton but he is a free agent.

at 3:08 PM

Anonymous said...

why wreck the team's chemistry?
The things observers don't know is locker-room chemistry... some guys are plusses...others are pains-in-the-butt but are incredible players.. that's sports... but the REDS... need to find chemistry around their base... which is why I trust Krivsky to consider such a thing when he gives a player a shot....

at 3:11 PM

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the insight Forrest.

Every city has dumb fans, and it doesn't take a lot of intelligence to post something on a blog (you did it) Cincinnati is no different than any other sports city.

at 4:20 PM

Al in Ohio said...

It will be interesting to see how the Kenny Lofton talks play out. Milwaukee was interested in him, but went with Mike Cameron when Lofton supposedly insisted he didn't want to be anything but an everyday player. So, either he's changing his tune since spring training is coming close and he's unsigned, or, this may be a sign that the Reds intend to have Jay Bruce start the season in Louisville.

at 4:34 PM

reaganspad said...

Hey Jack, Maybe Bruce knows what he needs to work on:
Bruce: "Being patient at the plate. I need to cut down on my strikeouts and not be afraid to take a walk."

Anon 3:03 So if pitching isn't available, maybe we should look to improve our run scoring, hitting for average and power. Votto does that over Hatteberg and Conine. If we get another 30 RBI's at first base AND 30 Runs (Votto is much better base runner)

60 runs is a bunch of improvement and it don't cost you nothin

at 4:46 PM

Anonymous said...

John-

cincinnatireds.com is reporting that the Reds are interested in signing Kenny Lofton. Is there anay truth to that?

Mike

at 6:11 PM

Anonymous said...

reganspad.. bruce has not taken a pitch in the majors and u too want to send him back to the minors

reganspad ..you have spent this entire winter telling me Bruce and these young players are gonna transform the Reds.. now that there is the potential of signing a 41 year old player nearing the end of his career... you want to send Bruce down to make room for him.. too funny

you need a blog break to get your head straight dude

stay consistent man

at 6:12 PM

REddlegg in Colorado said...

Funny how some people come here looking to pick a verbal fight, while others just wanna talk sports.Get a life & some friends,then maybe you won't feel the need to be that person who feed's of being negative.

Now,for those real Reds baseball fans.I say no on Lofton & No on Blanton if it's going cost giving up to much raw young talent.

Sure I'd take Blanton, give up Griff or Dunn & some other non-impact player(s).Free up some Salary cap & let one of those destined D.H. hitters go somewhere else.I really like KG,but his time is up in Cincy,the injuries hurt him & his team leadership is non-existing.Seems the word on Griff in the clubhouse is he's kinda of a big baby.(And he ignores the fans request for autographs during warm ups)

On Dunn,I'm hot & Cold.I love it when he hit's the ball,the problem is when he does not hit the ball.Sure he hits 40 Hr's & bats in 100 ribbies a year,but he hit's most of the HR's when nobody's on base.His fielding is mediocore(That's me being nice) at best,his attuide seems slackadaziel at times,he's also a cry baby from some of his comments made about sportscasters calling him out for his lazy play,& He K's way to much.Seems like when you really need Dunn,he's not there.His Clutch Hitting is horrible.

If CO Rockies can go as far as they did off the youth, why can't the reds.Rockies rotation wasn't anything to marvel at,but yet they played good solid team ball all season.That's what it takes,Teamwork!!!Not Cry babies cryin about being taken out the game early.

I'm Sure Mr,Pinklegs & Ricknmd have their 2 cents of worthless stats,but the bottomline is teamwork!

at 7:05 PM

Mr. Redlegs said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

at 7:32 PM

reaganspad said...

You are funny Jack.
I have not said where Bruce will be in 2008. Not once. I have no idea where you get your stuff.

"BRUCE" said he may need to work on stuff @ MLB

I have said that Votto is ready (that I hope we do not trade him), and that Bailey has a great curve he doesn't use enough (don't want to trade him either).

Want to critique that? Fire away, but quit distorting everyone's post on this board who does not agree with you. it is called HONEST debate

at 9:48 PM

Anonymous said...

reaganspad.

you have commented on the potential of the young ballplayers coming up from the minors dozens of times this past winter as one of your primary reasons for this club doing better

I would imagine that the majority of ballplayers have to work on some aspect of their swing and if questioned will tell you so.

Dont matter dude.. Bruce will be starting in center field..deal is already done

Is this the same MLB that said bailey has the best curveball on the team?..better than Harang and Arroyo?

at 11:57 AM

reaganspad said...

I think it said in "the System" I took that to mean they were not comparing him with Arroyo.

John's comment btw said that he had problems spotting the curve. Not that it wasn't a good pitch.

And that is the rub with young guys, getting them to do it consistantly. That is still easier than teaching a new pitch to Affeldt in my opinion

at 1:05 PM

Anonymous said...

reaganspad..your referring to the young players we had was all encompassing..you have told me repeatedly that the young players would ensure success for the Reds this year.. As such..you had to mean the young players on the team..please dude

Brantley said it best..Baileys curve is not a major league curve..John said he had a problem controlling it on occasion. And certainly, Harang and others have better breaking stuff

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