Comments on: The not so hot stove

By: Todd

Todd — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

From ESPN.com Insider's Rumor Central:

Dec. 13 - Derek Lowe has drawn a lot of interest from the Tigers. The Scott Boras client reportedly is seeking a four-year, $48 million contract, The Hartford Courant reports.

Although the Red Sox offered Lowe salary arbitration, there have been few indications he is a priority for the team. The right-hander didn't attend a celebration of their championship on Dec. 6 in Fort Myers, Fla., where he lives and where the team holds spring training.

"That's unfortunate," said GM Theo Epstein, who believes Lowe was invited. "Derek was a huge part of our 2004 year and has been a terrific contributor to the organization for many years and, as of right now, he's still very much part of the Red Sox."

12m is way too much for D-Lowe. I've got a real dilemma with him, though. I've mentioned before that I also closely follow the Red Sox and he's had two mediocre seasons in a row. But he's also a huge gamer who feels like it's his job to go out there and win the game every time he takes the mound.

One thing learned from the 2004 Sox - strong infield defense is a must with him. I'm not sure the Tigers can guarantee that.

By: Brian

Brian — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

I think Jeter winning the gold glove pretty much ruined that award, if it wasn't ruined already.

If you look at Renteria's fielding runs above average over at BP, you'll find them pretty average, even in the seasons he won those gold gloves.

And if we're interested in Rentaria, why not Cabrerra? He's a much better fielder, without the hyped up bat.

By: Craig

Craig — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports today that Renteria isn't really interested in signing with the Tigers. I like your thoughts Brian, Cabrera would be a great, more affordable alternative.

Perez is definitely the choice over Lowe. Moving Nate to the pen wouldn't be a bad move.

Also, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting that something is cooking with the Braves and Urbina????

By: Jason R.

Jason R. — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Re: Billfer’s comments on Perez and his “left-handedness” – how about moving the LF fence back to its original distance and keeping a couple lefties in the rotation?

By: Dan Joseph

Dan Joseph — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

I agree with you on the topic of Derek Lowe. I cannot see why anyone would give him the kind of money he is asking for. He's getting older, and his numbers are starting to decline. A 5.42 ERA in 2004 doesn't command a $12 million salary in 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008. It commands a $1 million salary. I think Lowe is worth more than $1 million, certainly not anywhere near $12 million.

I also didn't like the Renteria idea. It was expensive, and unnecessary. Seemed like a desperation move at best.

My pipedream is Beltre, will I get it? Doesn't seem like it.

By: Mark

Mark — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Derek Lowe is a better setup man than starter. He doesn't have the stamina to be a starter and AL hitters figure him out after a few at bats during a game. Also, he is headed to the downside of his career. I would be disappointed if we gave him a lot of money to be another J. Johnson or Gullickson(remember him... one good year).

Perez is ideal for Comerica and the Tigers. He has been hampered by a poor offense and coaching staff. He is young, throws strikes, and only about 7 mill per.

It would be nice to get Loaiza. Though only if he is cheap.

Other picthers I would go after are: Terry Adams, Buddy Groom, Antonio Osuna, Steve Kline, and Mulholland to sure up the bullpen one last time.