12/22/24
January 19, 2004
Sasaki to return to Japan.: This could have a huge impact on the Mariners and the free agent scene. Ken Rosenthal of Fox and Jim Caple of ESPN.com are still reporting this as a might happen, while the Seattle P-I is calling it a done deal. If it goes through, that's at least $8 million off the M's budget -- or is it? The P-I's John Hickey says there are no clear procedures for getting out from under a contract a player renounces. Assuming this goes through, and assuming the contract details get worked out, I intend to begin dreaming about signing Pudge or trading for Magglio immediately. Though, as Jason Barker puts it, "why couldn't he have done this when there were [more] free agents available?"
This is really OK I think. Sasaki has not been the same effective closer for a few years. You absolutely cannot trust him with a one- or even two-run lead because he makes every outing interesting. The M's had already signed Eddie Guardado and I think Soriano is their closer of the future, so just find something good to do with that money and this won't be a major blow.
posted by vito90 at 08:26 AM on January 20, 2004
I agree. In fact, if they turn that money into a bat, I think this is pretty good news for the Mariners. They have right-handed relievers in spades (Soriano, Hasegawa, Julio Mateo, Aaron Taylor) and could use another hitter much more than another bullpen guy. If they turn this money into Pudge Rodriguez or Mags Ordonez -- or even Geoff Jenkins -- this becomes an excellent development.
posted by jeffmshaw at 10:59 AM on January 20, 2004
You will not get Geoff Jenkins!!! He's ours!!!!
posted by rocketman at 11:11 AM on January 20, 2004
Sorry rocketman, Selig hasn't sold the team yet -- which means Jenkins will probably be traded for a single-tall no-whip mocha with a convenient cup sleeve tomorrow.
posted by jeffmshaw at 11:20 AM on January 20, 2004
Goddam Brewers.
posted by rocketman at 12:18 PM on January 20, 2004
great post jeff!