Q&amp;A with Brian Cashman

Cashtard has given himself enough rope

to fashion his own noose. With his alleged hard line position on A-Rod, he has set himself up to either crumble at the last minute and look like Boras' bitch (which will hurt his credibility overall) or take a hard stance and watch A-Rod go to Boston (which will most likely cost him his job). If there was a way to have him fired and keep A-Rod, that is the best case scenario.

That being said, I was glad to hear that they envision keeping Humberto as a starter.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 11, 2007 10:45 PM EDT reply actions

Rebuttal

Arod is staying in New York. I don't really give a shit how they do it, and I don't see how retaining the world's best player hurts one credibility, particulary when it involves negotiating with Scott Boras.

Cashman is staying in New York. You are Ichiro-quick to bash him for Kei Igawa and Carl Pavano, but Molina-slow for crediting him (even partially) for overseeing the development of the best young pitching in the game, and overhauling his roster on the fly midseason into probably the deepest in the league. I think this has been Cashman's finest hour.

This is the best Yankee team since 2003. It's time to start throwing a little love Cashman's way. He's earned it.

by matthaggs on Sep 11, 2007 11:34 PM EDT up reply actions

Three things

If Cashman puffs his chest all summer on the A-Rod thing, then caves at the last minute, how could that not hurt his future credibility in other negotiations?
Cashman did do a nice job overhauling the roster this season, especially creating a bench. Then again, a competent GM might have formulated a bench at some point during the first 100 games or so.
Since most of Cashman's "accomplishments" were really those of Stick Michael, I assume that it is perfectly acceptable to also give him credit for Damon Oppenheimer's work too.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:38 AM EDT up reply actions

Facts of corporate life buddy

Shit rolls downhill, but success rises.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 8:59 AM EDT up reply actions

And regarding your first point, see my answer

to YankeesRfirst, below.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions

I respectfully disagree

I understand the reason for taking the position, I just disagree with the public nature of such a stance. Basically, Cashman has set himself up with a scenario where A-Rod either goes to Boston or he caves on his public stance. In the future, other agents will see that as a precedent. If I deal with a plaintiff's attorney who tells me "there is no way we are settling for less than X," and then winds up taking less at mediation, that obviously skews how I view him in the future. It will be no different if Cashtard caves.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:06 AM EDT up reply actions

Of all the scenarios

I find ARod to Boston the least likely.

Lowell is very popular there and can be signed for a fraction of the price.

And Arod may just follow the money, but with all the shit he would have to suffer through from the media and the fans there - way worse than it is here - I just don't see him going there unless the offer is that much better than everyone else's.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions

Theo is smart enough

not to commit long-term to aging players (Pedro, Damon) and I think there will be some desperate team out there who will go to four years on Lowell. (Phillies?). I agree that Boston would be blasted by the fans and media for making the switch, but if Cashman holds a hard line and forces A-Rod to leave, I only see Boston and LA as viable options. After Drew, LA is probably not down with Boras, so to me that pushes him to Boston, although I hope that Cashman backs off his inexplicably public stance.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions

Maybe

but Lowell strikes me as the type of guy who would take less to finish his career in a place he likes playing - kind of like O'Neill. I don't think he'll go chasing the big money.

Fenway is perfect for him.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions

I disagree

I think he feels quite disrespected both by their efforts to dump him to get Helton as well as their stance on negotiations up to this point. The guy is probably their team MVP and they have cold feet (rightly so) about retaining him; I could see him being ticked off by that. Sadly, he is going to be one of the better free agents this winter so I don't think he would take a huge discount.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions

You are not listening

The Yankees will negotiate before the opt out date.

Cashman is not saying no renegotiation. Cashman is not saying no raise. Cashman is not saying no extension.

He is simply saying, as a practical matter he needs to settle the contract with out an opt out.

If Arod wants to opt out and create a bidding war the Yanks will be weaker because of the lack of the Texas money.

So, the Yankees will make their best offer before the opt out date. The negotiating with the Yanks will end at the opt out date. He'll sign with the Yanks. I'll bet the house on it.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions

I am listening

and that is where I disagree. Boras has an opportunity to take the best player in the game onto the open market at a time when salaries are soaring and revenues are at an all-time high. I don't see him passing that up. I am not saying that the Yanks won't try to offer an extension, but I just don't think it will be mind-boggling enough to keep him from opting out. At that point, Cashman either has to blink or let the best player in baseball walk.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 5:50 PM EDT up reply actions

SP

Boras can take him on the open market, so Cashman will try to offer what he thinks Boras will get on that market- helped by the fact that they're not spending entirely their own money for the next 3 years. Boras, of course, will think the number is much higher than what Cashman thinks, so that's where the negotiation is. The analogy with posting fees is apt- Cashman has to bid over what he thinks anyone else will offer without knowing what that number is. But, if Boras rejects it, Cashman isn't going to come back with a higher offer- he'll have already made his high bid, either Boras will take it or Cashman will let him walk.
The lower risk move for Boras is to sign an extension. If he overestimates what he thinks the free market will bear and rejects the extension offer, it's gone because it won't be on the table after an opt-out. The risk for Cashman is offering too much prior to opt-out, but he'll offer what the most he thinks the team can afford including the Texas money. He can't go up after an opt-out.

by SP on Sep 12, 2007 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions

That is an interesting scenario

I just don't think that Cashman's offer is going to be high enough to prevent the opt-out. The Yankees rightly view the Texas money as theirs, and I think that Boras expects market value in addition to the Texas bonus money from the Yanks. That difference of opinion will lead to an opt-out, at which point there will be several bidders for his services with the Yanks being among them. I simply don't believe Cashman's hard line stance and I don't think Boras does either. Boras believes, rightly so, that he can at least match Cashman's top pre-opt out offer if A-Rod hits the market. Since Cashman would be bidding against himself prior to the opt out, I think Boras is right.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions

Very true

old wise sage. Sort of reminds me of the briefs I write with my boss's name on them! Just pointing out that Cashman's accomplishments aren't exactly his. He does get props for having the balls to throw some rookies in the mix, but let's not forget that the only reason we are longshots for the division is because of Cashman and the mistakes he made earlier in the season.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:03 AM EDT up reply actions

Whoever in the FO did the work

deserves some notice.

This roster looks a lot better than it did opening day.

And we no longer hear, "The Yanks have nothing in the minors to trade."

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 9:06 AM EDT up reply actions

Not necessarily disagreeing

The resurgence of the farm is fantastic and encouraging. I think that viewing Cashman as the architect of that is a little misguided other than commending him for standing pat in the trade market. He has little if anything to do with the individual draft choices.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions

Another big reason

we are longshots for the divsion is because Boston played at a very high level for a long stretch of time.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 9:09 AM EDT up reply actions

Of course

but I have to think that implementing a strength program that all the players hated and got two of our starters hurt, handing 40% of the rotation to Glass Carl and Blower-san, assuming Farnsworth could be a setup man, and believing that Minky, Cairomack and Nieves belonged on a major league roster is worth more than four games in the loss column. He has mitigated a lot of this with some shrewd callups and trades, but that doesn't completely erase his shortcomings this season.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions

Another reason why we're longshots

is the hole we dug for ourselves in April and May, courtesy of all those hamstring pulls and that dipshit of a conditioning coach. The only reason we're still in it is the best record in the majors since the All-Star Break. But you can't not like the way the team is playing now.

by django on Sep 12, 2007 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions

Its not all Cashman's fault

He might have made some mistakes but that doesn't change the fact that the injury bug (which has plagued my NY Giants for about 4 yrs.) bit the shit out of us.

1.Pavano was a waste, how funny is it that he won on opening day?

2.Hideki, Wang, and even Moose (correct?)we're all bitten.

3.Igawa was a gamble but he still has upside, maybe.

4. Not to mention Damon's legs slowing him down before he DH'd ,and Giambi missing serious time.

While Boston had a healthier more reliable staff. They got off running and we stumbled, for like the third yr in a row. But as we got healthier and magical seasons form Posada and A-Rod we climbed back. We have the 4th best record and are streaking as we see the finish line.
It was Cash's moves and intel from advisors that saved the season. If everyone was healthy from the get and all we had to worry about was a bench, Proctor, and Igawa that's a joke to Cashman. And we wouldn't be climbing out of this hole. But with all that's gone wrong with the season don't you find it a breath of fresh air and we're better for it.
As we've been able to see our youth and how rich it is. I know I'm happy that Joba, Hughes, and Kennedy are all here. Even to know maybe a spot start by Matt DeSalvo, Jeff Karstens, or Tyler Clippard if we need it. Pen relief in Ramirez, Joba, and maybe Ohlendorff. It's sweet.

It is HIGH! It is FAR! It is! GOOONNEEE!!!

by yankeesRfirst on Sep 12, 2007 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions

Items 1-4

are all on Cashman. He signed Pavano and Igawa and indirectly caused the injury bug by hiring a coach that no one liked or respected.

To claim that Cashman saved the season is like giving praise to an arsonist who puts out the fire.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions

Ok...

Point taken, however, you can't point out the probelm soley on the trainer. There is still hope for Igawa just not this season. Pavano was a problem in itself. When he pitched he was a 4 starter so Noone expected the world from him. Just for him to earn his pay.
The guy and his myriad of injuries is basically all his fault. Cash doesn't drive his sports cars or read his mind. I mean the guy was hiding an injury for christ sake. And it's not like we've been having the healthiest of seasons for quite some time now.
Remember Chacon and Smallie. How about Wang and Cano. Injury replacments. Thats not this trainers fault. He def. didn't do his job properly but he is a scapegoat, for Cash trying to take the immidiate spotlight off himself.
These two pitchers Pavano and Igawa are hiccups. GMs make these, i.e. Gagne, Drew. But at least ours had the rescources and where withall to pony up and start digging from within rather than continue our spending spree.
These are rookies this year. Even Igawa. Just because he's not a Nomo or Dice-K who pan out right away doesn't mean he's done here. And nobody saw this shit with Pavano dragging out as long as it has. It's a joke at this point and not Cashman's fault. We're not the only team that wanted him and I'm sure if he were elsewhere the same things occur because he can't avoid himself.

It is HIGH! It is FAR! It is! GOOONNEEE!!!

by yankeesRfirst on Sep 12, 2007 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions

Injuries happen

If you discount the fact that one of the injuries was Pavano and take off the hammy injuries, the Yanks really haven't been hit too hard by the injury bug. Beckett and Schilling have both been on the DL this season and the Sox have lost Manny for an extended period of time, as well as Wakefield and Ortiz being banged up. It is hard to say that the seperation in the division is because of injuries.

The rest is so incoherent that I can't even respond.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions

It's a wash

The new strength coach was brought in because of a string of injuries the previous couple of seasons.

Yes, Cash picked the wrong guy, but it's not like it was a change for nothing. The previous coach wasn't doing a good enough job.

As for the Red Sox comparision, the difference is that we had all of ours at once, while theirs have been gradual.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions

Humberto ... a closer

Given the fragility of his arm, and the filthiness of his stuff, and the decline (slight) of Mariano, I'd strongly consider him as Rivera's heir apparent. Bring him slowly as a setup in '08--(using Humberto rules), and ease him into the closer spot.

"Baseball is the background music of my life." -George Will

by Ronster22 on Sep 13, 2007 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions

I hope

he doesn't stick to his word. That would be foolish. With all the ridiculous contracts he's signed it's easiest decision to look at A-Rod's track record and his 'high ceiling'and lock him up for everything he's worth. Igawa, Pavano, Wright, even Giambi with an anchor for a contract. I mean he really needs to stop playing hard ball and realize he or I prob. won't wittness another A-Rod talent in a Yankee uniform for a long time, maybe not even my lifetime. And I'm 21.

It is HIGH! It is FAR! It is! GOOONNEEE!!!

by yankeesRfirst on Sep 11, 2007 11:55 PM EDT reply actions

I think you do not understand him

If he signs an extension without opting out Texas will continue to have to pay the part of his contract agreed to in the trade. Is that $10,000,000 per year?

If Arod opts out whatever the Yanks offer will be all their money. So, if they pay him $31 million it will cost them $21 without an opt out or $31 with an opt out. They want to pay the $21 so THEY WILL MAKE THEIR BEST OFFER BEFORE THE OPTOUT DEADLINE. If Arod refuses it and opts out, the Yanks lose the Texas money and won't be able to give as good an offer as they had before.

Since they would have already given their best offer before the opt out, there would be no point in continuing to bid.

So, this is not being a hard liner. This stance is common business sense. I'm sure Arod and Boras understand. They just have to give an offer that seems beyond everyone else's reach.

I believe Arod is going to be back. Do you think anyone with just their own money is going to be able to outbid the Yankees with the Texas money?

Don't you think Arod wants to be a Yankee, like Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle, Berra, Dickey etc.

Have faith. In their contract negotiations they can promise a place in monument park.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 1:11 AM EDT up reply actions

About Arod

I think it's important to remember the financial flexibility we're afforded by having this host of youngsters, particularly the pitchers.

Wang, Joba, Hughes, IPK, and whatever combination of youngsters make the pen (I'm thinking 3 to compliment Mo Viz and Farns), plus Melky, Robbie, Shelly, WB, and JMolina is half a roster for about $6 million dollars.

Plus Giambi's $21 million, Pavano's $11 million, and Farnsworth's $5 million come off the books after 2008.

Giving Arod his current salary plus Pavano's $11 million annually seems more than reasonable. Arod's done more in the postseason than Pavano's done in his tenure.

That'd bring him $36-38 million per year, depending on how you want to do the math. Tack on another half a Farnsworth so that he'll give up any personal performance cash, and Boras can talk about the first $40 million dollar player in history while Texas will still pay a nice chunk of change until 2010.

The Yankees' hands were tied when the whole RJ/Beltran thing shook out. That's no longer the case.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 12:31 AM EDT reply actions

That's not even counting

Pettitte and Abreu if their options are exercised for 2008.

Of course, Pettitte can opt out on his own if he wishes.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 12:40 AM EDT up reply actions

True

But I'm of the opinion that Melky has to remain in center. If they don't resign Abreu they have to find another right fielder (and I'm not going to give the job to Shelley and Sardinha yet).

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 12:54 AM EDT up reply actions

I hope they don't exercise Abreu's option

He doesn't produce at a $16 million level.

Now, all of our RF problems would've been solved if we had signed Vlad instead of Sheff back in 2003...

by PsiFighter37 on Sep 12, 2007 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions

I think they will exercise Abreu's option

or sign him to an extension.

If you propose they not you need to tell us who you'd have for a right fielder and what you'd give up to get him.

There are better right fielders in baseball but none of the few better ones seem even remotely available.

I bet we could get J. D. Drew.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions

Heh

Stay as far away from Drew as possible.

I don't mind signing Abreu to an extension as much, but he doesn't command $16 million unless he magically rediscovers his power stroke.

by PsiFighter37 on Sep 12, 2007 1:20 AM EDT up reply actions

The Drew remark was sarcasm

I thought you'd know.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 1:39 AM EDT up reply actions

I've made the point

on numerous occasions that I don't want Abreu back next season but I'm going to have to get used to the idea that he probably will be back.

I don't know what kind of options are going to be available in the outfield after the 2008 season, but I'm almost 100% sure Cashman isn't going to be interested in the options available this off-season (Hunter, Jones, Rowand, etc).

I foresee the Yanks exercising that $16M option for Abreu next season and then wait and see what happens after 2008 and worry about it then.

Abreu will basically be a stop gap for another season until someone else becomes available or one of the kids on the farm steps up. The latter I find unlikely outside of Tabata but he's probably another couple of years away.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 1:50 AM EDT up reply actions

I am in that boat too

It will kill me to have to watch that lazy piece of shit for another season, but considering the dearth of viable options out there, their hands may unfortunately be tied. Does anyone know the date that they must decide on Abreu? Hopefully it is after A-Rod's opt-out date because I think it A-Rod goes you let Abreu follow.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:41 AM EDT up reply actions

Dude?

Have you seen Vlad on defense the last couple of years? Great arm, but he's got no knees left. If you think Abreu shows a lack of hustle, then Vlad would really burn you up.

And if Ichiro's three year average (.324/.363/.414) is worth 17 million a year, the Abreu is certainly worth 16 million or more. Keep in mind that even in the worst year of his career Abreu is ahead of Ichiro and OBP and SLG.

Also, Bobby has his SLG back up to were it was last year.

It's worth overpaying for a short-term need (see Clemens, Roger). The trouble with long term deals is almost always the length rather than the cost (Giambi, Jason). I think it's worth picking up Abreu's option to have the best available FA right fielder on the team for a one year deal.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions

Good news on Pettitte

Newark Star-Ledger is reporting that he won't test the market this winter. It will be Yankees or nothing at all. That isn't really news but perhaps there is just a small chance this means he will just exercise his option rather than force a longer-term deal on the Yanks? It also said he is undecided on retirement.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:57 AM EDT up reply actions

Good news indeed

but not a surprise at all. We discussed this very topic over the weekend.

However, given his age, his health/elbow issues in the past, in addition to the kids on the farm ready to take over before long, I don't think Pettitte will get anything more than a 2-year deal if he does opt out.

He may very well retire in 2009 along with Mo.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:23 AM EDT up reply actions

I think Mo will want to open the Stadium

So I think he will play through at least 2009.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:37 AM EDT up reply actions

Right....

Let me clarify, I should have said Mo would retire after 2009, not in 2009.

He said that in the past and I have little doubt the Yanks will grant his request.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions

Understood

That is what I assumed that you meant.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions

$40 mill

a year is almost 40% more than what he makes now. Ridiculous idea and even more ridiculous if the Yanks give it to him. They will be only bidding against themselves at that level.

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 6:51 AM EDT up reply actions

Agreed.

Cashman's taking the right position. First, you don't want to come in essentially saying, well, we're going to try to sign you to an extension, but if that doesn't happen, we'll also negotiate if you opt out. Second, if that does happen, the Yankees have to be good to their word and step away. I don't think Cashman's taking a negotiating stance on this.

Boras isn't a fool. He knows that the Yankees have $30M more to spend on a guy who already has a ridiculous contract. If Cashman offers him $30M and the right # of years, I gotta believe Boras would take the extension. There is always another Tom Hicks out there, but A-Rod spent a lot of prime years in the wilderness.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 8:55 AM EDT up reply actions

Its called negotiating

Cash is just staking out the field with his comments. He knows ARod will command more money to whoever has the checkbook, but he is the primary negotiator for this team. But he is still spending George's money. And if the negotiations reach an impasse, he can go back to JOe, George and the other suits and say "I tried, but here is the new number it will cost us"...If they ALL say no, then he's got a back door escape. If they agree, then he comes out saying we gave it our best, but will write a bigger check because that is the market for the best player in baseball. Theo or others will raise the price bar, and Boras will work both sides of the street, but in the end, we write the check.

Oh those bases on balls. Can anyone here throw strikes???

by mickey07 on Sep 12, 2007 9:42 AM EDT reply actions

Just to

give you a heads up, Joe's opinion on this doesn't matter.

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions

Under your scenario

Cashman has egg on his face after his hard line public stance. That is all I am saying.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions

I don't think Cashman's staking out a position

Yes, negotiating 101 states that you don't tell the other side how far you're willing to cave. But
I have to agree with Cbeck on this. The Yankees are in the best position to secure A-Rod's services.
The egg is already on Cashman's face if A-Rod opts out. To avoid that, he may do what the Sox did with Dice-K and just make a ridiculous pre-emptive offer. But he's going to make the Yankees' best offer before A-Rod opts out.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions

I agree that he will try to keep him

but I still think that Cashman will come off looking terrible if he sticks to his current inexplicably public position. If he caves, he will be the boy who cried wolf in future negotiations.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions

No fear of that

I agree with your assessment, but we've shown how the Yankees have the resources available to beat every potential offer.

The Dice-K analogy is a good one. We will be bidding against ourselves, but it will be worth it.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions

Uhh, bidding

against yourself is never worth it. Its actually stupid.

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions

I am sure what keeps

Cash up at night is "The Number." What will stop A-Rod from opting out, considering Monument Park, potential HR king, yadda yadda yadda?

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions

Shouldn't take too long

to think of "nothing." No way Boras keeps him from opting out. The only issue is whether Cashtard negotiates with him after that point or if he takes a hard line.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions

Don't want to

get into another debate with you, Pfisty. Got something due tomorrow. Suffice to say, we shall see if he opts out or not. My money's on not.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions

No way?

You can't say no way- if Cash offers a 6 year extension at $35m/year, why opt out? So he can make a couple million more over the next 3 years instead of making a lot more 8 years from now? There must be some number for an extension that makes it attractive to keep the slightly lower current contract.
Also- in doing an extension, could they also boost his last 3 years on the Texas contract but still keep getting the Texas money? Or maybe have some extension signing bonus?

by SP on Sep 12, 2007 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions

That's an interesting idea

Most deals are backloaded to make it harder to trade the player, but a front loaded deal might make the most sense here.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions

Boras needs the open market

The only way he can include other teams in the bidding is to opt out. There is little to no motivation not to opt out.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions

Opting out

Takes the Yankees out of it (at least theoretically). Cashman has said he will do it so many times that Boras has to at least consider that Cash will keep his word.

If he opts out and the Yanks don't pick up Boras' calls, I just don't see how ARod and Boras will come out ahead when you consider the richness of his current deal.

Boras also has to consider his client. If Cashman makes a legit extension offer within the 10 day period, I think ARod will jump at it. He is finally comfortable here. Another $100-120 million tacked on to what he already has ought to get it done.

I also think the postseason and how he performs will play a part in this as well.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions

I guarantee you that

A-Rod can get more than 3/81 on the open market. Thus, there is no reason not to opt out and call Cashman's bluff. Even with the Yanks out of contention, he can beat his current contract. That is economics 101.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions

But

His deal is actually worth more than 3/81 if you read the fine print. With the esclator clauses the geniuses in Texas gave him he'll end up around 32 per year.

So someone would have to give him in the neighborhood of 6 yrs, 35 per to top or match his current contract plus what the Yanks would offer with an extension.

In addition, let's just say Cashman isn't bluffing, and he won't talk to Boras if there's an opt out.

That takes the richest team and the 2nd or 3rd richest team out of the bidding (Yanks and Mets - for obvious reasons).

Leaving only the Red Sox, Angels, and maybe the Dodgers left as suitors.

$35M per year for 6 years is a hell of a lot to spend on one guy, and I don't see many teams hurrying to do that.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Huh?

How do the escalator clauses bump him up that much? The way I understand it, he gets a bump to make sure that he is paid $1M more than the next highest paid player. No one is even close right now. I don't think that a team needs to go over 30 per to make opting out make sense. Boras really has no motiviation not to opt out unless the Yanks are willing to include their Texas bonus money into a possible extension. To date, that hasn't been viewed as a likely scenario.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions

You still haven't explained why

he would want to fuck the Yankees out of the Texas money when the Yankees would be able to pay more because they are the only team with that option.

The Yankees will offer the most lucrative long term deal. If he opts out that is because he does not want to be a Yankee in which case there is not much to be done about that.

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions

He just

prefers to think that the worst possible scenario is always the most likely one.

# 13 will be the third baseman in the Bronx next year.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions

The funny thing is that he does not even

consider the most likely outcome that ARod will sign a very lucrative long term extension as an option.

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions

That is definitely an option

I just think that is going to happen after he opts out and forces Cashman to fold. I still think it is at least 50-50 he stays in some form.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't think that A-rod

cares about screwing Texas at all.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Read my post again. Why would

he want to screw NY (not Texas) out of the Texas money instead of working with them for a more lucrative extension?

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions

That was a typo on my part

Should have said screwing NY. I don't think that Boras or A-Rod give two shits about what money is coming to NY via Texas. The only way it would matter to them is if the Yankees are willing to "write it off" in the sense that they give him an extension of 30 per from the Yanks' pockets in addition to the 10M or so they get from Texas. I really don't see Cashman offering up 40 per season, so that is why I think he will opt out.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions

What other team is going to

offer him $40M per season?

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions

None

just saying that that is the only way that Boras would give a shit about Texas' money.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions

If

Cashman gets the extension done, I hereby request that you refrain from using the name "Cashtard".

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions

Request denied

This man signed Cairomack more than once, signed Igawa, Farnsworth, Pavano.....the list is too long to undo it with one stroke of the checkbook.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions

Miguel Cairo?

The utility infielder? You're gonna hold that against him like a Sicilian vendetta?

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions

Yes

When you make such a horrible decision more than once, he clearly demonstrated his incompetence.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions

Speaking of making the

same mistakes twice, it looks like it's just you and me here. I'm gonna cede the field.

But I will make you a gentleman's wager: If A-Rod does not opt out, you retire 'Cashtard.' If he does, I'll put 'Fire Brian Cashman' in my tagline.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions

It won't happen.

Cashman can win 3 WS in a row, have the best homegrown rotation in the majors, kill Cairo, save babies from burning buildings but Pfisty would still hate him.

I'm in the middle on him, don't think he is awful as he does but not as great as others do.

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions

That depends

Are we talking raging infernos here or just a kitchen fire?!

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions

disco inferno

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions

Interesting

what if he opts out and then signs an extension. That would make Cashman look like an idiot, so I think Cashtard survives that scenario.

Before you ask cbeck, I will never abandon Senor Hustle.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Interesting that you do not leave

Cashman any opportunity for victory. You say ARod will definitely opt out. Cashman is terrible if he lets him leave and terrible if he signs him to an extension after he opts out. Glad to see that you have all your bases covered.

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Not true at all

If he either completely convinces him not to opt out or extends him without him opting out, he will come out lookin great and I will concede his master stroke of genius.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions

I believe you said

"there is no reason not to opt out." Why would Cashman get any blame if ARod and Boras do what you consider "Economics 101?"

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions

They won't

I was just saying that if Cashman could convince them to make such an economically unsound move, it would be a stroke of genius.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions

You really have not explained why it

would be economically unsound for ARod to take the most money which will most likely be offered by the Yankees.

Everything looks nicer when you win. The girls are prettier. The cigars taste better. The trees are greener. --Billy Martin

by garp on Sep 12, 2007 6:24 PM EDT up reply actions

Didn't say that

I said it would economically unsound not to opt out. He will most certainly take the highest bid and that may very well be from NY. I just don't think that will happen until after he opts out and hits the open market.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions

It's impossible to say

if it would be economically unsound to opt out until there's an offer on the table. Who knows what sort of pre-emptive offer Cashman will make? Nobody's made up their minds on either side yet.

I take Cashman at his word. I think he's going to give A-Rod his best offer before he opts out, and not pursue him afterwards. Saying so publicly demonstrates his commitment to follow-through, which will certainly play into Boras and A-Rod's decision.

You're right that it will undermine his credibility if he goes after A-Rod post opt-out. So he won't do it. There was a time when George would have over-ruled him and done his own thing. But I think if A-Rod opts out, he won't be a Yankee. So, unless Cashman low-balls, which he won't do, A-Rod will accept a quality offer if he wants to remain a Yankee.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions

That is all fine and dandy

but one must remember that they are really dealing with Boras and not A-Rod. Moreso than any other agent in sports, Boras' clients ALWAYS do what he recommends. I just can't fathom a scenario where Boras passes on a chance to take the best player in the game onto the open market at a time when the game is financially healthier than it's ever been, not to mention the fact that this might be the worst free agent class in recent memory. This is a perfect storm for Boras and I just don't see Cashman coming in with a "blow the doors off the competition" offer prior to any opt out.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions

We disagree on that

Boras works for A-Rod, not the other way around.

If A-Rod tells Boras that he wants to stay in NY, nothing Boras says is going to change his mind.

Boras is going to get paid no matter what happens.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:03 PM EDT up reply actions

I understand the player agent relationship

but can you think of a Boras client who did not take top dollar and/or went against Boras' wishes? It just doesn't happen. A-Rod will do what Boras wants him to. This isn't about the money for Boras, it is about winning the negotiation and getting top dollar.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:12 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't recall the specific dollar figures

and I could be wrong on this, but didn't Bernie Williams take a little less money to stay with the Yanks when Boston had a huge offer on the table?

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions

No

I think Steinbrenner blinked and matched or exceeded Boston's offer once Albert Belle fell through. Buster Olney's book recounts it pretty well.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:20 PM EDT up reply actions

I should take a gander at it

I remember buying that Buster Olney book at Borders the day it came out.

Outstanding read.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:23 PM EDT up reply actions

It is absolutely wonderful

much better than Heyman's lame retread effort.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:38 PM EDT up reply actions

I agree

I had already liked Olney a lot before the book came out, but he shot up to man crush status after I read it.

Undoubtedly the best and most informative read on the latest Yankee Dynasty.

by anaconda on Sep 12, 2007 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions

I disagree

If Texas came in with the best offer, A-Rod would veto it. All the Yankees need to do is put a respectable, pre-emptive offer on the table. Boras will bring it to A-Rod, outline the reasons why he thinks he can get more and then leave the decision to A-Rod.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 8:19 PM EDT up reply actions

That is simply not

how Boras rolls. He goes for the top dollar no matter what and his clients follow suit. He is not an agent that asks permission from his clients and he is pretty up front with them about it. He is in control and the players know that going in. There was a pretty interesting piece about it around the draft (sorry, I forgot the paper but it was one of the Boras clients who was either going to sign or go to UNC, maybe Porcello?) in which one of the fathers basically said that was Boras' sales pitch: I will get you the most money but you do what I say no matter what.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:36 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah,

but there is a huge difference between somebody who hasn't yet played pro ball and the highest paid athelete in sports history. Boras' history is far less relevant on this deal.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 8:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Not really

That is how Boras starts out and it doesn't change throughout the process. What he told JD Drew to do at draft day or A-Rod, etc. sets the foundation for their working relationship. Players know that going in.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions

Varitek

He gave Boras specific instructions to get the best deal out of Boston, but to be sure that they couldn't get a contract at the level they wanted before talking to another club.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 11:36 PM EDT up reply actions

Plus,

Boras wants a client in Monument Park. The guy's an agent, but he's not inhuman.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions

You clearly don't know how Boras is

The only monument that guy cares about is the monument to himself that is probably in his front yard. That guy thinks about one thing and that is dollar dollar bills y'all.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions

I have spent plenty of

time around Hollywood agents. Different genus, but same species. I'm familiar with the type. Money is second to power.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 8:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Exact same thing

A few extra million in commission doesn't mean anything to Boras at this point. It is the media attention of getting top dollar and outfoxing GM's that is his goal.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Man Chris,

you really believe strongly in Arod wanting to be in monument park.

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 8:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Indeed

Dude is a first ballot HOFer so he doesn't need to worry about plaques. If he thinks the Yanks' lowball him this winter he will tell them where to shove their plaque. A spot in monument park is not going to make him walk away from millions.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Don't know what

the dispute is on that. You think he values a potential extra 5% over a perennial contender, storied franchise and the greatest city on earth? He'll be in pinstripes next year.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 9:01 PM EDT up reply actions

He might not

but the guy making the decision named Scott Boras sure does.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:06 PM EDT up reply actions

Actually,

you're right. Cashman could do something dumb in a variety of ways. He could give A-Rod an oversized extension before he opts out. The only thing more ridiculous than giving A-Rod $252M for 10 years would be giving him $240M for 6 years. In which case, I will put Fire Brian Cashman in my tagline.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions

jscape

will tell you that is market value though

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Geeky comment # 38

What do these sovereign nations have in common?

Djibouti, Comoros, Grenada, Dominica, East Timor, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Federated States of Micronesia, Vanuatu, Sao Tome and Principe, Kiribati, Tonga, Palau, Marshall Islands, Nauru & Tuvalu

Give up?

They all have Gross Domestic Products less than what A-Rod is going to make from the game of baseball.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions

but its market value

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions

Market value is

whatever the market's willing to pay.

I saw all the debate over whether A-Rod's making $25M or $32M b/c of the escalators. I think it's a bit academic and the sort of stuff that Boras will probably throw around. He's been getting $25M a year. Clemens just got $28M a year, albeit pro-rated. But that only matters as much as what the other guy is willing to pay.

I don't think anybody's going to offer more than $210 for 6 years, but you never know. Who knew the Sox would almost double the next offer for Dice K's negotiating rights?

I would frankly have trouble offering more than $180, although I soften a bit with a WS ring.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Geeky comment #39

Wait a minute, GDP is a yearly measure, so you should list countries that make less than what Arod makes in a year, not less than what Arod will make in 20 years of baseball.

by SP on Sep 12, 2007 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Fair point

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

But that's because

you do not know what you are talking about.

You mistake poor ability to judge where a ball is going combined with poor ability to figure out where a wall is with lack of hustle.

I really don't care much what you think.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 12, 2007 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions

You know, I spend hours

worrying what an old mangina thinks about me. Hours.

Seriously, knowing that Abreu is a pretty fast guy on the bases, can you find a single person who thinks he hustles in the outfield? Jump on mlb.tv and let me know how many catches he has made reaching into the stands or crashing into the wall this year. I will give you a hint: it was with a "z" and ends with an "ero."

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions

I understand

it's a lot to ask, but this would be more than a "stroke of the checkbook".

Boras gets rich no matter what happens, but if he accepts the extension that would be a brilliant play by Cashman, and a "victory" of sorts over Boras.

by matthaggs on Sep 12, 2007 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions

Money and NY

are the reasons not to opt out. If Arod wants less of either or both he will opt out.

"Have faith in the Yankees, my son. Think of the great DiMaggio."

by jscape2000 on Sep 12, 2007 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions

We agree!

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions

Joe's input...

While all the suits are talking money and spreading a healthy serving of hate on Boras, I see Joe in the back of the room saying...how do I win games w/o 55 HR and 150 RBIs. Betemit just won't do.

Oh those bases on balls. Can anyone here throw strikes???

by mickey07 on Sep 12, 2007 9:53 AM EDT reply actions

Yeah,

the team needs a real genius for that. Like I said, Joe's opinion doesn't matter since he won't even be here for more than one year if ARod extends

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions

Joe's input

kept Chris Britton in AAA while Villone was on the roster. I would prefer him to stay far away from offering up any other pearls of wisdom.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions

Arod has said recently

that it's taken him 4 years to get comfortable in NY and he's now having a good time and being more relaxed. (if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere so why not stay if you're making it here).

Somehow I think that his psychological factors will work against him if he moves and he knows that. He likes the fact that he has finally found some comfort here and the fans are comfortable with him. Arod also has a sense of history and relishes the idea of being one of the greatest Yankees who are the greatest team in all of sports. He's also said his wife loves NY and maybe in a smaller market she would not be happy and he would not be happy. I don't see her loving Boston (there's really not a Boston proper and the outskirts are just so much beans and clams). She might like LA but not as much as NY. Of course she could tell NY to F off on a teeshirt. :)

Somehow I don't think it's all about money for him. I think it's all about money for Boras but at some point Arod's non-monetary preferences are going to be considered.

I think Cashman is trying not to take the "we will do anything we need to do to keep you" position in public though that damn well better be the private position. Trouble is, we don't know.

"The secret of managing is to keep the guys who hate you away from the guys who are undecided." -Casey Stengel

by bxgrl1 on Sep 12, 2007 11:33 AM EDT reply actions

Not about the money?

He signed with the Texas Rangers and said he was going there to win a championship. That should tell you all you need to know about his financial desires as well as his sincerity in the media statements.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions

No, he will

stay because he likes the pizza joints downtown

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm sure at

the time he signed the Texas deal, A-Rod thought he could win a championship there. He had an owner who demonstrated he was willing to spend top-$ on talent. He soon realized he was the only one Hicks would spend on, though, & that's why he was willing to re-structure his deal to go to Boston--a move vetoed by the union because it was seen as a pay cut.

My guess is the call of Monument Park, Broadway, the world's biggest stage, etc. will be a factor. The guy is going to make close to half a billion dollars, including endorsement money, from his baseball career. I can't speak for him, but I'd imagine there's got to come a time when the actual dollar figure doesn't matter as much as just having the best MLB contract.

That's not the case for Boras, though, so who knows how much influence he'll have in escalating the dollar figure at the potential risk of getting stuck in another backwater.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions

I think you are the only one

who thought A-Rod was sincere about his championship hopes in Texas. He was universally laughed at at the time.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Even if

he went there solely for the money and never expected to see the post-season in 10 years, he was subsequently willing to take a pay cut to get out. I can't speak for him, but I don't personally don't see that the dollar figure's the issue this go-round.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions

Did he change agents?

Boras would tell his client to sign with a team in Baghdad if he meant getting another dime.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions

Who negotiated the contract

with Boston?

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions

Engineering a trade and free agency

are two vastly different arenas.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions

Yes,

A-Rod's mandate to Boras during the Boston deal was 'get me out of here.' And in this deal, it will be 'keep me here.'

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions

You missed the point

Comparing a scenario where Boras has one suitor to the open market is fruitless. Boras always goes for the top dollar and his clients always listen to him.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions

He's sort of

like EF Hutton that way?

Seriously, I hear what you're saying. I just think A-Rod's going to get the extension. Be interesting to see if there are Vegas odds on whether he'll opt out. Perhaps we should put together a PA pool? Guess the team/dollar amount of A-Rod's new contract.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions

I didn't say it's not about the money

I said it's not ALL about the money. I think he has other factors to consider. The money alone drives Boras but I think there are other considerations for Arod as well.

"The secret of managing is to keep the guys who hate you away from the guys who are undecided." -Casey Stengel

by bxgrl1 on Sep 12, 2007 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions

Any chance we can change the home page?

Cashtard in the urine colored dress shirt is not getting it done.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 1:59 PM EDT reply actions

Kind of reminds me

of my high school biology teacher.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions

That's the color of your urine?

You're taking too many vitamins. Or maybe my monitor is different from yours.

by SP on Sep 12, 2007 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions

I need to drink more water

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions

Again,

I can't squint anymore.

In presidencies, they call the 2nd term the 'legacy' term. This is A-Rod's 'legacy' contract.

You guys are giving way too much credit to Scott Boras. A-Rod is going to direct him, just as he did with the Boston and NY trades, where he wants to go. If he wants to be a Yankee--and I don't know how he feels about his tenure here--he will remain a Yankee. The notion of his agent telling him what to do doesn't hold water for me.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 9:11 PM EDT reply actions

I understand your point

and that is how it should work in theory, but that just isn't how Boras rolls.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 12, 2007 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions

Okay, but

Boras' power is sort of like living in New York. There's always somebody richer, more powerful, w/ bigger sack, whatever, unless your George Soros. Mike Bloomberg or Bill Clinton.

However Boras rolls, A-Rod is bigger, more powerful and way beyond the typical needs of his clients. Believe me, I'm sure Boras is going to put on his hard sell. But A-Rod is fucking A-Rod. Boras made him the most powerful player in the game. And if Boras says, the Indians have the best deal, A-Rod is going to say, I don't like Cleveland--unless it's a signficant difference. I want a deal with Team X, Scott; go make that happen. And spin it to make it look like we got the best deal, if you need to.

This is legacy time for Boras as well.

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 10:16 PM EDT up reply actions

Its very

simple, if he opts out, he doesn't want to stay with the Yanks

Pride, Power, Cocktease

by ReLaunch on Sep 12, 2007 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions

And WE agree!

by chrisNYY on Sep 12, 2007 10:41 PM EDT up reply actions

wants to stay ...right?

Look no further than his wife--Mrs. Rod. I've heard she doesn't like NY, but then again she's hosting fashion shows, and looking for upscale homes. If mom is happy, everyone is happy.

If the Yanks make the playoffs and Arod shows up and produces like he has all year, he's going nowhere.

"Baseball is the background music of my life." -George Will

by Ronster22 on Sep 13, 2007 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions

If it is true that Terry Ryan is out in Minnesota

Then Cashman should be fired this afternoon. Terry Ryan would be a wonderful replacement.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 13, 2007 12:37 PM EDT reply actions

I'd be all for that

However, the odds of that happening are about as good as me investing in a couple of $1200 cats and an interior decorator by the weekend.

by anaconda on Sep 13, 2007 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Perhaps not by tomorrow

Perhaps I jumped the gun a bit, but if there is any chance of bringing in Ryan, Steinbrenner himself should help Cashtard pack up his office. One of the top three GM's in the game won't stay unemployed for long. Just imagine what that could do with some cheddar to spend.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 13, 2007 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions

I'd love to have Ryan

but I don't think it's going to happen.

Cashman bought himself some time with the talent on the farm and Ryan won't be unemployed next season unless he decides to take the year off.

I'm not a Cashman hater, but I'd jump all over Ryan right now if I owned this team.

by anaconda on Sep 13, 2007 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah, that is all I am saying too

I realize that it is a longshot to snag Ryan, which is a shame. The Yankees have been dumb enough to retain their incompetent GM for this long, I just assume they will keep his sorry ass.

Fear the Evil Empire

by pfistyunc on Sep 13, 2007 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions

I don't think this is happening.

To me this has the ring of a retirement, not a firing. He's probably not in the job market. He's only 52 and may want to work as GM again but don't bet on it.

The article says he'll stay at minn as special advisor to the GM. This is a Sticklike arrangement.

The Opera ain't over til the fat lady sings

by Cbeck3 on Sep 13, 2007 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions