Bring him back! I always liked him on a personal level and I think the worst of the dark times are behind him.

Let's see.....

I actually appreciated his time while he was here, but.......

He no longer hits for power, he's on the downside of his career, and MOST importantly, he'll be cheap!

Perfect!

No, not interested. He dogged it in his last season here, trotting to first, complaining, etc. Not an influence we need in the clubhouse. Miggy represents the past. Been there, done that. Let's move on.

Bring him back he wuold be perfect for the new guys as leadership

The last thing this club needs is a player that does not hustle at all times. If I had a nickel for everytime I cursed at the TV when he barely fast walked to first base on a grounder to SS I would be a rich man. His leadership ruined Mora and still shows in Roberts from time to time.

The thing about Miggy is when things are going great he is a great teammate. He plays hard, hustles, etc...

When things are going bad he acts like an impetulant child, he dogs it, makes excuses, and doesn't accept any responsibility for himself.

With the O's in another rebuilding year, I think things are more likely to go "bad" than "good". If that is the case we don't need that Miggy in the locker room, especially with all the young kids we have on the roster now.

Please, please just say NO to Miggy. Too much BAD baggage. We have already seen this movie and did not like it the first time. Do you REALLY want all these prized young prospects around a guy with this much bad citizenship? Lied about his age, just 'Roids, tainted Raffy, showed a bad attitude on the field. MOVE ON!!!! Like Nancy Reagan said, "Just say NO to Miggy" !

yeah. Tejada would be awesome. A .300 hitter with gap power. A tough out with runners on. He seemed a plus in the clubhouse too until Sosa got here (and Palmeiro came back?) Anyway, adding him or Delgado would improve the lineup.

Crede doesn't seem to me an upgrade over Mora.

As a side note, supposing Pie platoons w/ Wigginton (Wigginton dh, Reimold moving to left against lefties), where does that leave Luke Scott? I think Trembley will be a weak link again unless the roles are clearly defined.

I say go with what the O's have on the 40 man roster. Tejada isn't going to improve this team and we don't even know if he can handle third. Go sign some pitching.

Bring him back. We need a right handed power bat for the middle of the lineup. He'll play a bunch of games at third and can spell Luke Scott as DH against tough lefties. He's never played third before - and didn't want to switch to third when he was here and lost a step at short - but he has soft hands and good reflexes. Give him a 2 year deal for 5 million per and our lineup will be scary.

Given a choice between Tejada and Crede, Tejada wins hands down in my opinion. Crede has consistently been unhealthy and can not be relied on to give Bell more time in AAA. Tejada, on the other hand, has consistently been healthy and can still hit around .300. Sure, Tejada has some skeletons in his closet, but I think he has learned from his mistakes. Also, Tejada no longer has the "power" he used to have with the O's, but is still a doubles and OBP machine.

I would give Miggy a flyer, could you imagine if we brought both Bedard and Migs back after the trades…very interesting. I like Crede because of his defense, but his offense is no where near where it used to be back in 2006, well neither is his health. I wonder if he could stay on the field even?

Bringing Tejada back could be a boost, assuming one very big IF, which is IF he resolves to come back as Miggy the magnanimous mentor, instead of Miggy the muttering malcontent. We've seen plenty of both. In baseball years, he's a senior citizen now. Time to act like one.

Si. Besball been beddy beddy goo to Miggy. What the heck, all of our signings include the disclaimers (if he only has a bounce back year-- if he only returns to form-- if he only regains that power stroke)- so he should fit right in!

I remember that Miggy would often fail to even go through the motions. He was not excited to play hard against the Yankees. He failed to run to first base. He whined about working out and stretching with the team. He did not like playing for the Orioles. I see no reason to bring him back.

Miggy's probably starting to feel a little pressure to get a contract and that's a good thing - for the Orioles. I'd offer him an incentive laden 1 year make good contract w/ a club option for a 2nd year. He can play 3rd, backup at SS and DH and he can still hit for average and drive in runs. An rbi guy is something this team needs.

Miggy hit 14 HR's last year. Aubrey's smooth swing reminds me of Wally Joyner.

I would like to see him back. I think he has something to prove to the people of baltimore. The only problem i that I believe he is a type A free agent and we would have to give up a draft pick.

It wouldn't be a bad move. But I would perfer Delgado or Blalock over Miggy. The main thing Tejada has going for him is his health.

Unfortunately, the O's have backed themselves into a corner.

If health wasn't an issue, I'd take Crede in a heartbeat. But health is an issue. Because of his injury history, the Twins could have kept Crede on the cheap. Instead, they're going with a platoon consisting of Brendan Harris, Nick Punto and Matt Tolbert. That should tell everyone something about Crede.

So, I'm for Tejada. By default. Pretty lame, huh? He would fit in nicely in te #2 hole if he wasn't a double play machine. I guess maybe he'd hit 7th or 8th?

1. Roberts
2. Markakis
3. Jones?
4. Atkins?
5. Reimold
6. Weiters
7. Scott
8. Miggy
9. Izturis

My 2010 Projection for Miggy if he signs with the O's: .295 avg, 15 hr, 40 doubles, .350 obp

i say no to both crede and tejada. it seems to me pa is still calling the shots despite what we have been told of am's powers of decision making

I can wear my tejahda jersey again

FanFarce....

Additional Booths had been added for this weekends festivity's.

The Miggy/Wiggy Booth: (The O's may not have quality corners, but the Miggy/Wiggy shuffle becomes the new craze).

The MASN Booth: (This Booth teaches your kids the art of Hype. Will come in handy when explaining why a D is as good as an A when their report card come in).

The 1057TheFan Booth: (At this booth, you learn how to say 'the orioles don't tell us what to say' in a straight face. Warning: SInce this is a very fine art, be prepared for a Botox type injection).

Stay tune for further FanFarce Booth announcements in the future:

Not Brooks,

If you read Jeff Zriebec's interview with Macphail, Andy is right where he wants to be and right where he said he would be at this point in the offseason. Which leaves us with Crede or Tejada at third.

I agree with you, we sign Tejada for one year, unless he asks for too much as far as the Orioles are concerned, which is a real possibility.

Signing stars in the offseason? We've got no chance! But we're still here to do the Miggy/Wiggy dance!

I'm mixed on Miggy. But it would be interesting if he returned - on all time time O's batting leaders front. Would his .311 avg and .501 slugging go up or down. I'm guessing down and that would change the O's career leader boards...

I have no problem with signing Tejada to a one year contract with a club option for a second year. He's a good guy and a good ballplayer.

I think he's as good an option as any, certainly healthier than Crede and less costly than Kouzmanoff in terms of not giving up prospects. There's also some defensive upside (potentially, of course) in putting a former shortstop at third, even if he was limited at SS.

As for the rest... baggage is only baggage if that's what you let it become. If we can get Miggy on a one-year deal, I think the carrot will be there for him all year -- and if it isn't, we cut him loose in August and bring up Bell.

I think Miggy brings intensity. I like it for a 1-2 yr deal. We can always trade him or move him to 1B to make room for Bell / Snyder. He's a much much much better hitter than Crede.

I like the idea of bringing back Miggy for a year with a club option. The guy had nearly 200 hits and 86 rbi last year and was an All-Star. Also he had 14 homers playing in a big ball park. .300-20-90 is a real possibility playing here. I'd rather have him over Crede or Delgado. Crede has hit significantly better than .250 once in five years (during which he hit significantly worse than .250 twice). Miggy can play almost every day at 3B and Aubrey can spell Atkins at first against tough right-handers; or they can platoon if Atkins doesn't bust out of his funk from last year. I say do it. B is for B-12.

Peter-

Compared to Joe Crede, its like signing Babe Ruth. BUT, with the money he is going to want, the O's will never pay it for that offensive upgrade as much as the fans deserve it.

His name alone is more protection in the line-up, and he is going to hit 300 and could still hit 18-22 HR.
PLUS, as a RH, he could switch to DH once Bell, if Bell, is ready.

PLUS, they would be able to open a roster spot, because they wouldn't need to carry a Backup SS, because Tejada could slide there is Izzy got hurt.

There are a million reasons to sign him back.

There is probably, about "$5 Million" why they won't.

I also think it would be cool to sign him AND Bedard back, and go on to win the East, making Macphail look like hoodini.

I think signing him and bedard gives us more than two good players. It shows that the trades worked. To get all the players we got and then end up with the two guys we traded back on our roster two years later shows Mcphail is doing a good job. SIGN THEM!!

I don't want Tejada, Crede or anyone else here to play third. Tejada was a morale problem here before he left, Crede can't stay healthy. Neither of those folks will help this team advance one iota. Plus, if one is brouhgt here Atkins and his highly questionable ability will ove to first and thus the Os will continue to be doomed by going on the cheap.

not brooks, someone has to hit in the 4 hole but with Atkins very poor year last year I'd be inclined to bat him 8th. I like Jones in the 3 hole, since Markakis' power seems to be going in the wrong direction he might be fine at number 2. I'd trade Scott. He is way too streaky a hitter to be of any consistent help to this team. I'd put Pie in the 2 hole as DH and play him in left or center 25% of the time with Jones and Reimold moving to DH when Pie was in the field. Further based on his vast improvement at the end of last year and his evident maturity, I'd put Weiters in the four hole. Using you lineup with Miggy playing 3rd I'd put him at 5 behind Weiters. and move Reimold to 7. Lineup would be:

Roberts
Pie
Markakis
Weiters
Miggy
Jones
Reimold
Atkins
Izturis

It's nice to talk lineup instead of complaining about the Os moves or lack of same.

Yeah, whatever, does it matter?

I guess it comes down the bat vs. glove. Miggy hits better and is unknown as a fielder at 3rd while Crede is a much better fielder at 3rd.From previous talk, it seems AM is very concerned about fielding or he'd have made a run at Uggla a while ago. So I guess Crede is the frontrunner.

Of course, you'll have fun writing about it if AM brings back both Tejada and Bedard after trading both away 2 years ago.

I agree with those who remember how Tejada "dogged" it his last season. He is not a leader, he is a self-centered egotist who is only out for himself. If things are so bad that he is the only choice then I would just as soon keep Melvin Mora at thrid. At least he is loyal and has about the same skills as Miggie.

The problem was never Miggy. 9 of him and we would of won every year. Still hits for average - bring him back!

He's a decent player, and, if I'm not mistaken, the idea here is to have somebody stand near third base and chew gum until Andy's boy Josh Bell has hit a few times at AAA. So, taking that into consideration: Tejda, Crede, an orange traffic cone. Who really cares? None of them is likely to have any real value at the trade deadline.

not brooks,

Its the Miggy/Wiggy Shuffle. Come to the Booth. You'll see why it's different than a dance.

And somehow, just seeing Atkins in the four hole in your line-up was sickening.

I mean this guy LOST his starting job last year, but now may be the O's clean-up hitter.

If that doesn't define this organizations commitment to winning, nothing does.

This has sure got to make Atkins feel like he's wanted. I thought Garrett was the third baseman. Say no to both Crede and Tejada. How many times have you returned to a job you left?

No on Miggy! Too much baggage... If we have to sign someone, sign Blalock. Even part-time, his numbers would have looked good on any Oriole. Let's see what Aubrey can do...

No on Miggy! Too much baggage... If we have to sign someone, sign Blalock. Even part-time, his numbers would have looked good on any Oriole. Let's see what Aubrey can do...

No on Miggy! Too much baggage... If we have to sign someone, sign Blalock. Even part-time, his numbers would have looked good on any Oriole. Let's see what Aubrey can do...

Miggie is a good guy; made a mistake and apologized. The only negative would have been giving Steve Davis another campaign to dis Miggie for not hustling. Oh that's right, Davis is gone. Frank and Cal didn't always run out grounders either. Bring Tejada's bat and cheerleading back, yes.

Tejada is definitely an upgrade over Crede, but I still remember the clubhouse drama that followed him while he was here. After letting Mora go, I was looking forward to a season without whiney crybabies.

The correct approach is either or. IT WILL come down to Crede or Tejada. Now to all the Tejada naysayers if you are stuck choosing between the two, who do you prefer? And, just saying no to either is not an option.

Tejada over Crede any day. I think Tejada still has some power despite his numbers being down. He can't be pitched around in our lineup now. He is still a good guy and was a team player in Houston despite the past. I would love to see him back!

Tejada over Crede any day. I think Tejada still has some power despite his numbers being down. He can't be pitched around in our lineup now. He is still a good guy and was a team player in Houston despite the past. I would love to see him back!

I'd rather move Scott to first and play Atkins at 3B then ask a 36 year old to play a position he last played in A ball (for one game) in 1996. This is a pathetic debate.

Bring Miggy back! He's the best of what's left. Still hits for a good average and has some pop left! Come on Andy do something!

Wayne,

Remember when were kids and used to choose teams for pickup baseball games? There were always a couple kids left that nobody wanted but needed to put 9 people on the field.

Now Andy Macphail is all grown up but he still gets stuck with the people nobody else wanted in order to put 9 people on the field.

Tejada is still a cut above Mora and Adkins bad back will be better off at first than third. A good "one" year fix until July, then work in Josh Bell. The pitching WILL be better this year than fans think.

I can't wait to see how people defend the signing of Crede when it happens. The idea that our 1st and 3rd corners could be atkins/crede is so horrible that, well I guess as horrible as the plan itself.

mdbdotcom -

We already know that Atkins is a below average third baseman. If Atkins was a solid fielder, why would Andy still be looking for someone to play third?

And we also already know that Scott is a below average first baseman. We saw as much in his tryout last season and we've all heard that no one in the organization was impressed with his glove work.

The thing about Miggy is that he's still got the reflexes and the arm. All he's lost is his range. Really, moving Miggy to third is akin to moving Cal to third.

Side note: Pretty interesting how this idea has been received. Three years ago, we were ready to run Miguel Tejada out of town. Now, the overwhelming majority is willing to welcome him back.

I guess baseball fans can be pretty forgiving.

In other news, the Mariners just signed Felix Hernandez to a five year extension worth $78M. That's an average annual salary of $15.6M. Not a bad deal for a guy who was the second best pitcher in the AL in 2009 and will only be 28 in the final year of the deal.

The level of McPhail's genius would explode to a whole nother level if he was able to bring back two guys (Tejada and Bedard) that were at one point the players that would bring the O's to the next level to merely be stop-gaps for younger players. Besides, Crede is not good, or healthy enough. Tejada plays every day, and if he decides to mope and stop hustling again, we through Josh Bell in at third and bench his a*$

Gil,

Perfectly said!

That's exactly how it appears. I really believe Gil, that AM will sign Crede. As larry says above, it's going to really be hilarious seeing people defend the 2010 baltimore oriole corners.

Hilarious and sad at the same time.

Tejada will play with a lot of energy for about two months then around all-star break, you'll see a different player entirely. He'll stop running out ground balls and be moody in the dugout. He'll start hearing the discussion about bringing up Josh Bell who will likely be rippng at 3A by mid-season. I think this signing has much more downside than upside even assuming he'll take a one year deal.

wayne -

Here's a thought on the corners:

Eliminate the infield dirt at the corners, making the left and right side of the field past the pitcher's mound the "outfield"

Change third base to "short left" and first base to "short right". Then, this could be the O's defense:

C - Weiters
2B - Roberts
SS - Izturis
SR - Pie
RF - Markakis
CF - Jones
SL - Scott
LF - Reimold

The only downside is that this alignment will result in a ton of singles and triples...

Should have never gotten to this point-we failed to pull the trigger again and where picking up the scraps. Guess he'll have to do. You won't see me in line for tickets.

I vote for Miggy. Great RBI guy,even if he's lost the power.

The best option available at 3B right now is Tejada. There is no one else even close that is still available. Switching to the NL and hitting in a pitcher's park will deceive the numbers. Even if his power numbers are down a bit, he still had 46 doubles with the Astros. The only question would be where would he hit in the lineup? He won't be at the top or t he middle of the order. Having him in the bottom third of the lineup will make his numbers even better since pitchers won't pitch around him. They will have to give him nice pitches to hit so the lineup doesn't turnover. I predict he would hit around .300 40+ doubles, and 15+ HR's. For batting in the lower third of the lineup, that is a lot of production. I would even consider moving him to SS full time when Josh Bell is ready and let Izturis be be the back up. As others have already said, sign Tejada and Bedard.

Roberts 2B
Markakis RF
Jones CF
Weiters C
Reimold LF
Atkins 1B
Scott DH
Tejada 3B
Izturis SS

Millwood
Guthrie
Begensen
Matusz
Tillman

Random thought: Arbitration deals are going through left and right today.

Here are a few to chew on:

Mike Fontenot: .236/.301/.377 in 2009, $570K raise for 2010

Wouldn't it be nice if you could double your salary after a horrible performance at your job?

Anibal Sanchez: Hasn't thrown more than 17 starts in four seasons, a walk rate close to 5 per nine. $600K raise for 2010

Wouldn't it be nice if you could double your salary plus another $100K even if you didn't show up for half the year?

Shaun Marcum: Didn't pitch in 2009. $600K raise for 2010.

Wouldn't it be nice if you could double your salary plus another $100K if you just called in sick all year?

Man, it would be nice to be a ballplayer...

AGeorge Harrisburg, PA

I can not believe this talk to bring back Tejada for a position he has never played in the major leagues. We would be better served to bring Bell up at least he can field the position. What happened Kouzmanoff He is now signed with another team.

I guess the Orioles are done, the budget spent for 3 third rate players that no other club wanted. I think the Pirates spend more to improve, but Pete A . says were good enough to raise ticket prices! The fans must be satisfied with the same as last year or 65 wins. Rebuilding is a long long process.

After all, Andy M will be the new commissioner of Baseball in a few years and then we start the whole process over again after a few more 98 to 100 loss years.

Again who wants to play for a loser who does not attempt to get better! All the money in baseball will not attract a super- star We will not be able to retain our home grown players who become super-star or good players They will be sick of lossing..

Let's sign Bedard.
Any position players we signed at this point would be extraneous.
I really believe we're going to get more out of Aubrey than most believe.
I also believe that Bell is going to be ready to come up and play 3B by mid-season.
Atkins is perfect there until then... and he can play 1B occasionally to rest Aubrey against tough lefties.

Tejada spent his last two seasons with us persistently singing overtures of wanting to leave. To sign him now would be a real slap in the face to Melvin Mora. The best thing we ever did regarding Tejada was obtaining the players we got from Houston for him.

I see we invited Scott Moore to ST.
Don't be surprised to see him in the mix for 3B as well. He's a left-handed hitter with pop and a terrific glove who also plays other positions.

just look at how well miggy hit last year! over .310. ill take him over crede. also played alot of games

Miggy is fine. Creedy, not as much.

besides, he's a better part to deal by the Trade-deadline for Bell to come up.

it's not a sexy add, but it's effective, needed, and has potential to be better than others in the market.

not brooks -

Minor league games at 3B:
Cal - 220
Tejada - 1

mdb -

My point was that shortstops who've lost their range but still have their arm and reflexes move to third base.

It's just a fact of life.

Obviously Miggy is nowhere near as good a defender as Cal and obviously the transition won't be as easy for Miggy, as his time at third base is limited. But it's a natural move, and that's the only point I was trying to make.

I guess he'd be an upgrade over Mora?

Frank Rizzo is right on. Bedard will give us 6 basic starters, and Miggy is the best we can do right now until All-Star break. Find out about Bell and Snyder before the end of the year and spend the dollars next year. Pitching could keep this club at .500 if it continues to come on.

How very typical of the O's Front office to entertain this possibility.
I will say this, the guy did hit in the NL didn't he? Oh, what the heck, bring him back. It's not like we plan on being competitive any time soon.
I've also heard McPhail is in serious conversation with the agents for Jim Gentile & Eddie Watt so these birds may not be done loading up our 40 man squad just yet.
One last thing...when does "The Plan" actually show results?

I would rather read another Wayne post than see Crede play 3rd...has anyone checked out his OBP for his career...it really is pathetic, just like Wayne.
Seriously Wayne, your sarcasm isn't funny and everyone thinks you suck. Go away.

wayne,

I'm in a good mood, so I'll play along today.

I hear there will also be a booth with Sam Koch from the Ravens assisting Miggy with demonstrations on how to properly punt ground balls at 1pm.

Followed by a visit to the Lasik Eye Center booth with their new spokesman Miguel Tejada and his testimonial on how clearly he's been able to watch balls dart out into left field if it's not hit right to him.

I don't think he's the solution. He's doing nice things in Haiti, but his time of being productive on the field are behind him. He was also a "me" guy more than a team guy (what he did to try and preserve his streak still disgusts me) and they just finally got rid of Mora who was the same way.

I've stayed out of the 3rd/1st base upgrade discussions since it seems like splitting hairs. The guys that are left are marginally better than what's there. I really feel like guys like LaRoche are just as likely to have an off year as anyone else is likely to have an improved year.

I'd much rather see a power DH than a marginal corner infield FA. I always thought a guy like Thome would add a dimension that we're missing. Sure those guys will strikeout, but they'll demand respect every time up and I think have a more significant impact overall. Plus, someone like Thome brings personality to the locker room that I still think is kind of lacking.

I would rather read another Wayne post than see Crede play 3rd...has anyone checked out his OBP for his career...it really is pathetic, just like Wayne.
Seriously Wayne, your sarcasm isn't funny. Go away.

This team is going backwards. What is it with former players the O's just love? Just say NO!

How many games did Cal play at SS in the minors?

He seemed to do ok learning to play it in the majors.

Guys not being able to switch positions in the majors is way over blown. How many positions did Pete Rose play?

If you've got infeilders hands you can slide from SS to 3rd. There have been some major defensive stiffs play third for winning teams in the majors. Did any of you guys ever see Harmon Killabrew at third?

By the last season here Miggy wasn't a happy camper, will he and the fans be able to forget the steriods stuff? His dogging it when he wanted out of town. Big Question...

On the upside, future relations in Latin America, they love Miggy down there.

And the guy can flat out hit, always has. Offensively he'd be a plus over what the O's got from third last year.

Apparently the O's aren't very high on Wiggington even as a stop gap regular in the lineup. Because I thought they might open up with Wiggy at 3rd and Atkins at first. With either Bell or Snyder up in the second half.

If there's another signing Wiggy or Scott will really struggle to get at bats. Scott may as well leave his gloves at home.

Let Atkins play third and work with Crow to get back his "low altitude" swing back.

Sign DelGado to play first and some DH.

Sign Bedard and Pineiro .

You just signed Luke Scott can't anyone in the organization teach him how to play first?

I say NO, NO,NO, to that malcontent Tejada. Doesn't anyone remember his offseason rant about how the team stunk (albeit true) and he wanted to be traded.

Here's why Mig would be a much better choice than Crede.

1. Crede's back issues.
2. Mig's offense compared to Crede
3. Mig's ability to play SS on occasion, allowing someone like Turner to replace Andino as a utility guy.
4. Mig's familiarity with Baltimore
5. Mig's power number.s
6. Crede's only upside is better defense, but with his back who would know for how long.

There's every reason to sign Mig over Crede, so therefore I expect to see Crede signed because he'll be cheaper, and we know in B'more that trumps everything.

Pete, I'm on board with signing Tejada. He's not going to be a problem player, as some seem to think. And he'll make the Orioles' lineup stronger, which I don't think can be said about Crede.

Even if Bell's brought up this year, there's no reason to think he'll be able to hit lefties--couldn't hit 'em in the minors, and now he'll go up against the likes of Sabathia, Lester and Lee (good luck!)--so Miggy can platoon with him at third and also share DH chores with Luke.

Unlike what some seem to think, Tejada could potentially be valuable as a trade chip down the road; even if a contender has short and third covered, they could see him as a solid DH. Of course, having an option year would be good, in case Miggy proves he still likes hitting in Camden Yards.

He's head-and-shoulders a better pick than Crede, who's only better in terms of being cheaper to sign. But if MacPhail wants Tejada, I wish he'd move on it, because Oakland also has an interest. My guess is that Tejada would rather play for the O's, but if he isn't made an offer then he'll go where he's wanted.

And as long as Miggy's character has been called into question, don't forget this highlight from last season:
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080503&content_id=2632033&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

Hey Tom, I like your lineup! Regardless of who we play at 3rd, they are going to be a better option than Wiggington or anyone else currently on the 40 man roster!!Until Bell shows he deserves a shot to play at the MLB level( some time probably in late July)Miggy would fill the bill as respectable major league hitter, something Wiggington never did until mop up time!! AM will have then put a major league team on the field for the first time since he took over, albeit one that won't scare the Yankees or Red Sox! 2011 will be the year to put up or shut up!!

Hey Tom, I like your lineup! Regardless of who we play at 3rd, they are going to be a better option than Wiggington or anyone else currently on the 40 man roster!!Until Bell shows he deserves a shot to play at the MLB level( some time probably in late July)Miggy would fill the bill as respectable major league hitter, something Wiggington never did until mop up time!! AM will have then put a major league team on the field for the first time since he took over, albeit one that won't scare the Yankees or Red Sox! 2011 will be the year to put up or shut up!!

James C.,

I like Thome too but I'll bet Andy Macphail doesn't like the sound of at least 7 Mil for one year. If he wouldn't drop a few extra nickels for Laroche and Kouzmanoff, my guess we end up with Crede anyhow, so it's all a moot point.

Do you rememebr Jack Luskin? Andy Macphail has replaced him as "the Cheapest guy in town".

How about this for a booth at the show: The Miggy right turn into the dugout booth, where he immediatley sprints after a two hopper to short.

How about this booth: The Peter Schmuck confessional booth, where our scribe heads nightly after reading what we have written on his blog.

A few Miggy splits:

@ OPACY: .321/.370/.535 in 1469 ABs

@ Fenway: .305/.364/.520 in 246 ABs
vs. Red Sox: .289/.342/.481 in 495 ABs

@ Yankee: .303/.361/.402 in 241 ABs
vs. Yankees: .303/.357/.454 in 491 ABs

vs. Wakefield: .319/.338/.597 in 72 ABs
vs. Sabathia: .313/.353/.563 in 32 ABs
vs. Lackey: .303/.303/.455 in 33 ABs
vs. Pettitte: .200/.286/.440 in 25 ABs (ouch)
vs. Vazquez: .348/.407/.609 in 23 ABs
vs. Beckett: .130/.130/.261 in 23 ABs (ouch)
vs. Shields: .350/.391/.350 in 20 ABs
vs. Burnett: .333/.412/.333 in 15 ABs
vs. Lester: .444/.500/.444 in 9 ABs

he would be a great stop gap, and brings a lot of enthusiasm. let by-gones be by-gones, sign him for 2 incentive laden years until our talent is ready. besides, the other option is dealing with Crede and his pathological liar agent Borass.

Gil -

I highly doubt a 39-year-old DH is going to get any offers north of $4M before incentives.

Anything but Crede, please! Miggy left town on a sour note but we need a 3rd baseman and he needs a job. I'm pretty sure both the fans and the player will get over it as soon as he's hitting his usual .300 with 40 doubles.

It's not the HR potential we wanted, but it's still production at the bottom of the lineup, which is necessary in the AL East.

Without Bedard, we are a 90 loss team just because the Yanks got Vaquez and the Sox got Lackey, without losing anyone in their rotations.

Gil,

I do remember Jack Luskin. Maybe AM needs to see some Jack Antwerpen commercials to balance himself out?

I do agree that Thome may be out of the price range, but he's another one no one else is beating down the door to get. Who knows at this point though?

I feel bad for the grounds crew if Miggy comes back. I think they just got the grass to grow back where he used to stand in shallow left to play short.

Like you Pete, Miggy wasnt my first choice but I would much rather have him than Joe Crede. I think if he plays as enthusiatically as he did his first few seasons here, we will have a competitive ball club. I actually think he would be a good influence. I'd love to see him back in Baltimore. I was just hoping for a bigger bat like a Delgado.

Since we don't even know for sure how old Tejada is, I say no. The guy is a lousy example for the younger guys in regards to hustle and leadership.

He's proven that he's willing to lie to get his way. Proven that he's willing to skirt the whole steriod issue, and proven that he isn't willing to hustle on a ground ball.

He talks a good game, but he isn't what this clubhouse needs right now. Imagine what'll happen when his playing time is cut when Bell comes up. It'll be worse than Mora and his "Lack of respect" campaign.

Miggy won't make this team a winner ... not even close to one. I'd rather the O's just put Wigginton in at third and ride out that misery until Bell is ready.

I would much rather see Miggy at third base but i'm a fan of his and I think this leak of a story that we are even considering him could be another ploy to get me excited and tear me down. I'll be in Sarasota anyway.......

Not Brooks,

There will be a scramble and a lot of signings in a short period of time leading up to the opening of Spring Training. I agree with you that he shouldn't get more than 4 Million and so does Andy Macphail :) It will be interesting to see where he lands.

So um who was it that was on the Athletics with Canseco and most likely brought that stuff over to the O's clubhouse? Who did Palmero tab as the one that gave him the steroids? Who lied to congress? Who was named in the Mitchell report? Who dogged it all the time as soon as he realized his team was out of the playoffs?

Great, let's bring back a non-juiced, older version of player with attitude problems and bring back ghosts of the past. Great idea.

"Great, let's bring back a non-juiced, older version of player with attitude problems and bring back ghosts of the past. Great idea."

Matt -

Unfortunately, that's where Andy's lack of action has put us.

Excluding Ty Wigginton, who's better suited as a utility player, and the vomit inducing corner infield combo of Atkins and Aubrey, do you have a better idea?

An absolute perfect match. Takes a lot of pressure off Bell, and if Bell does make to the show earlier than anticipated Miguel will certainly teach him how to be competitive.

no way! this guy has a terrible attitude. he's not the kind of guy that they need to bring in. i think they should sign delgado and put atkins at third. delgado would hit for much more power than tejada, which is what they need right now.

Justin,

Or whoever who really under posting under a different name.

Thanks bro. I'm glad you follow my post! Continue to learn brother....continue to learn!

Don't forget that Mora is still out there...not saying, just sayin'. But you know (1) he'd come cheap, and (2) he wants to be back here. And I suspect that now that he's looked at the market for him, he'd be more willing to be a part-timer if need be.

Mora doesn't wanna come back here-he hates Trembley.

Miggy had a great attitude-in Oakland.

Even as disgruntled has-beens, they're better than what we currently have.

Sign Miggy, then Bedard, then Larry Sheets & Joe Orsulak.

I think that Having Miggy at third would be just the answer Andy McPhail is looking for. Dave Trembley could then move Garrett Adkins to 1st base. And having a familiar face back in the fold would be nice as well. So Andy how about it, sign Miggy to a 2 year deal with an option for a third. That way it would give the youngsters a little more time to mature. And you would have one of the premier players back helping you out with his bat. You could probably use him as a cleanup hitter sometimes. Or maybe even 5th or 6th in your lineup. Andy do the right thing, sign Miggy to a contract soon before someone else gets him and we just lost out on the perfect player to play 3rd base for now.

just make sure he packs his B-12 shots...

Im for it... unless Erik Bedard can make it back by June to play third.

Whats Leo Gomez doing these days?

Craig Worthington?

One disgruntled Oriole gone (Mora), another one on his way back (Tejada). Priceless.

NFW!

I like what someone said earlier about Delgado or Blalock. Why have 2 player out of position?!?! But what about Thome? He has a great on-base pct and he hit 23 HRs in limited action. Some of that action was in a tough-htting Dodger Stadium. He would make mince meat out of Camden and he still has something left in the tank. He's a better alternative than injury-riddled Delgado and Blalock whose numbers aren't that great in, arguabky, baseball's best hitting ballpark.

Ok Shamrock, I'll see your Leo Gomez and raise you a Jeff Hammonds

While I am usually opposed to Tejada coming back to the Orioles, if it is the only way we don't get stuck with Crede, then let's make it happen. A bad year from Tejada is about as good as Crede in a good year. I don't think we should sign him long-term, but for a one-year deal I say go for it! While we're at it, why not just re-sign Bedard so we can have our cake and eat it too. Two guys we traded plus the players it brought us in return. Signing Bedard, Tejada, and Hendrickson would at least have me satisfied for the upcoming season. With big names looming for next year we can hope to make a bigger splash next off-season.

While I am usually opposed to Tejada coming back to the Orioles, if it is the only way we don't get stuck with Crede, then let's make it happen. A bad year from Tejada is about as good as Crede in a good year. I don't think we should sign him long-term, but for a one-year deal I say go for it! While we're at it, why not just re-sign Bedard so we can have our cake and eat it too. Two guys we traded plus the players it brought us in return. Signing Bedard, Tejada, and Hendrickson would at least have me satisfied for the upcoming season. With big names looming for next year we can hope to make a bigger splash next off-season.

BIrdFan...

I'll take you all in... I've got Pete Stanisek...

Chris in Hawaii:

I am going to rain on your Josh Bell parade a little bit, so I will give you the opportunity to rebut. Josh bell is not nearly ready for the Major leagues defensively at third base and may never be. he does not hit right handed pitching. Here is why:

INSIDE THE O'S AUG 13 2009
by, Michael Jaffe, Senior Writer

"There are still questions on whether the 6'3"235 lb prospect will be able to stick at third base. The mobility issue in regards to range and agility have some thinking he may be destined for first base. More concerning though, is how his left knee is reacting to surgery he had last year. He played in only 51 games in 2008. " I had a divot in my cartilage on the inner part of my knee" Bell explained.The cartilage is pretty much like ashock absorber when you jump. Mine, I had a divot where that was. They had to drill on the top bone, let it bleed down and build new cartilage."

Prior to being trade, Bell said a lot of his focus and work with the Dodgers had been regaining some of his athleticism and improving in the field."I had been working on lateral movements, keeping my feet quick" Bell said.

You can read the whole article on "inside the O's.

{My comments}

Josh Bell made 48 errors at third base in 2009 and those were the balls that he got to. He hit .204 against lefties.

Don't pencil him in yet at third base for the Orioles anytime soon.

He is a good prospect, and that's all.

Gil,

If you look at a later article from Inside the O's (December 9, 2009) they named Bell the best defensive 3rd baseman in the system. Now, as they say a lot of that has to do with the quality the O's have at the position, but your error number was actually off. He put up 24 errors in 2009 as opposed to the 48 you listed above.

Before he was traded to the O's, he was also named the Southern League's Best Defensive 3rd Baseman. Now, I'm not saying that he's a Gold Glove winner in the making, but he seems to have improved each year and he's very athletic. I wouldn't expect him to start the season with the O's, but I don't think a mid-season call up is un-fathomable.

More from Inside the O's:

This was his first season back after surgery on his left knee limited Bell to 31 games in 2008. Bell suffered a minor, unspecified, ankle injury, shortly after being acquired from the Dodgers, that limited him to DH duty for a few days, but he quickly got back into the mix at third. He showed the ability to charge hard on weakly hit grounders and displayed good arm strength and accuracy moving towards the plate. He also showed he can make the throws from well behind third when playing back. Even though his .917 fielding percentage is not as high as one would like, it was the best of his career. His 24 errors were 14 fewer than his last full season in 2007 and he played in nine more games (117 total) at third in 2009 than he did two years ago. For a big guy, 6-3, 235 pounds, Bell is quite nimble on his feet. He should continue to improve and first base currently belongs to Brandon Snyder and Brandon Waring, so a move across the diamond should wait a bit. Needless to say, the only third baseman to make it through the year projects as an offensive third baseman.

http://orioles.scout.com/2/927421.html
_______________________________

You're right about him having some pretty big splits. His swing is more natural from the left side of the plate and that's where he generates his power. But in the Arizona Fall League he hit .500 vs Lefties. Now, that's of course a pretty limited sample size (18 ABs) and it's hard to judge the quality of arms he was facing in each of those ABs, but it's a step forward. I think we'll get a better idea of who he is vs Lefties once he gets some time at AAA. Of course, I hate thinking about the power drainage that happens in Norfolk's park... but I don't think that will effect his performance from the right side of the plate.

Recently Baseball America rated Bell as our #2 prospect behind Brian Mastusz. He came in in front of Jake Arrieta and Zach Britton, two guys that you hear a lot of nation wide scouts talking about all the time. To me, that shows that he's more than just an average prospect. While I don't expect him to come out and slot in at number 4 in the line up (and I don't think he's another Wieters either), I think that once he's called up, he should be able to hold his own in the bottom of the line up to begin his major league career, much the same way that our young guys from last year did. From there, he should be able to move up to a number 6 or possibly even 5 slot (behind Wieters and Reimold) over time.

Regardless of where I hope he ends up, I think it's clear to most people that he will need some seasoning at AAA.

@ not brooks-

Thanks for calling me on that one. I usually don't chime in unless I have something better to suggest, but in this case I guess I feel that strongly about it. I usually like to see the whole field when I look at moves. I haven't had the bandwidth to do much surveying this time.

However, I would think there are other, non-toxic cheap solutions out there (Mora), and the way AM operates, I still wouldn't rule out a trade.

I actually wouldn't expect the 3B situation to settle out until the pitching situation settles (Bedard or other) and Andy has an idea of what he can trade vs keep.

Hi Chris in Hawaii,

Great rebuttal! I am looking forward to meeting him at fanfest in a few days. I added up the errors from both orgaizations in 2009 at all levels and maybe that was not fair.

You have the advantage because you have seen him play and I have not, that's why I always say that rotiissere players who don't go to the games miss the intangibles.

nice sentiment:

"Managing General Partner Ken Kendrick (Diamondbacks), "...We're not about making money. We're about winning and trying to avoid significant losses."

At most, we'll sign Crede. Likely, we'll sign no one and go with atkins/aubrey.

O's are all about PROFIT. Greedy Petey!

I think they bring in 1 more starter and RP and a 3B.

What reeeaaaalllly killed them last year after the Eaton/?Hendrickson debacle, they put Jason Berken and David Hernandez out there for a for meltdown starts over and over.

If they split their meltdowns alone from last year (25), thats 76 wins.

Cut down the meltdowns, keep the team in it longer, win more games, build confidence... 2011 PLAYOFFS!

No.

Don't bring him back. I liked him (for the most part) until we found out he was on steroids. Also, he was not a good team leader. He didn't hustle and, at times, couldn't get along with his teamates. I think the team chemistry is awesome right now and the young guys all have great attitudes; if Miggy came back, they would look to him and he may, or may not, be a good example. If it wasn't for the 'roids, I might be willing to give him a pass on the hustling, etc., given all the tough times he endured as an O's player. But the steroids era needs to be over in Baltimore and we need guys who will give 110% in all situations.

Don't bring him back. I liked him (for the most part) until we found out he was on steroids. Also, he was not a good team leader. He didn't hustle and, at times, couldn't get along with his teamates. I think the team chemistry is awesome right now and the young guys all have great attitudes; if Miggy came back, they would look to him and he may, or may not, be a good example. If it wasn't for the 'roids, I might be willing to give him a pass on the hustling, etc., given all the tough times he endured as an O's player. But the steroids era needs to be over in Baltimore and we need guys who will give 110% in all situations.

Nice calls on the obscure 3rd basemen. Some real gems of Orioles' past.

How about Casey Blake though? I'd take him back any day. No sarcasm either.

Did anyone think before yesterday that Atkins was slotted to only play first base? Zbreic's article made us all look at the situation differently. As it was all about Aubrey and Delgado and who would play first. Now it's all about third basemen.

I'm telling you now that there's no better 3rd baseman left than Tejada, um, that is if he is can/willing to play third base. Forget about the steroids, the bad hustle years, it doesn't matter. The guy can plain hit. .295 18hrs 90rbi guaranteed.

The question in my mind is if you can get him to sign a one year deal. Bell is coming and everyone knows it, he rocked the AFL this November. One year with an option like Atkins makes the most sense, then we could move Tejada back to short in August and have him there next year, so long weak hitting Isturiz. I'll take the offensive numbers Tejada provides at short over Ceasar's defense any day of the week.

We all saw the ugly results of trying to squeeze an extra year out of Mora so why repeat it with Miggy? Hey, I'm a MIggy fan and he did give us some good years but that was in the past.
Besides, didn't we sign Atkins to play 3rd so shouldn't we be looking for a 1B instead?
I remember fans here couldn't wait to run Miggy out of town and that's when he was better than is he is so what's changed?

Fritz Connally... never forget his game winning grand slam in Seattle.

You must not remember all the times he would DOG IT to first on ground balls to the infield Pete.Now Brian Roberts does it too.So does Nick.Do you really believe we need that kind of influence back again?

SHAMROCK,

Playoffs? Playoffs? Whose talking about playoffs? Playoffs?

Actually I am glad that someone brought up the fact{other than me} that Macphail's goal should be 82 wins this years and AL East Champs next year. Suck eggs, Yakkee fans!

Don't sign either. I personally like Tejada also, but he has not had the best relationships with teammates and he is known to throw a tantrum when he doesn't get his way. If Josh Bell is ready in June and Tejada's playing time is cut there could be a locker room problem that our manager cannot handle.

fireladdie72 -

95% of big league ballplayers "dog it" to first on ground balls to the infield.

It's ridiculous, and I think they should all be fined until they stop doing it, but that's just the way it is.

Don't even think about bringing back that cheat and liar. Tejada was a malcontent while in Baltimore and is a stain that should be removed. Tejada is a disgrace. Keep him away from Baltimore.

Miggy can rake, but I always felt that he "dogged it" at times running out ground balls and routine fly balls. That kind of mentality is a terrible example for the rest of the team, and exactly the sort of thing that Dave Trembley has repeatedly said that he wants to get rid of in building this team. I'd rather see the O's take a gamble on a younger free agent, as Miggy is a representative and reminder of a not-so-golden era in Orioles Baseball. Sure Brian Roberts was also on the team during those years, but Brian has always been an effort guy.

Bring him back he wuold be perfect for the new guys as leadership

Posted by: abus | January 19, 2010 10:32 AM
____________________

Leadership? Does that include coaching the kids on the benefits of "B12" injections? No to bringing him back. He balked at being moved to third in Houston and to any team he might get traded to, and now that no other team wants him, now he says he'll play third. I'd much rather have Mora back for a year than Tejada.

I love it. Bring Miggi back. The guy has a great heart and would bring great leadership to the young guys.

Id be all for Tejada, as long as it does not block Bell.

Id be all for Tejada, as long as it does not block Bell.

Not Brooks is right...

....About MLB players dogging it on ground balls and pop ups, and everyone who goes to the games knows it.

I went to a Thursday afternoon game last year against the Royals. Brian Roberts hit a ground ball to the drawn in third baseman. Roberts took three steps towards first then turned towards the dugout. The third baseman pulled a Melvin Mora with too much time on his hands and threw a two hopper to first and it was juggled by the first baseman. Seeing this Roberts, already halfway to the dugout, started scampering through the on deck circle again towards first. The first baseman managed to pick the ball up before Roberts got anywhere near the bag, but is was disgusting to watch.

Miguel Tejada was one og the biggest loafers on pop ups and ground balls evere to play for the Orioles other than maybe Albert Belle. Dave Trembley has vowed that these things will no longer happen on his watch, so taking him at his word, he will bench Tejada, or anybody else That does not hustle this year. Based on Trembley's declaration Tejada is the best available fit for third base.

"Mixed reaction from O's fans" - - - Peter, you're kidding, right?

Tejada is an UPGRADE. I support any Front Office transactions that UPGRADE our Last Place team.

MacPhail has only made one such move over the offseason (Millwood).

If I know McPhail and the Os, they'll insult him with some ridiculous contract offer, like a 1year / 1.5-2.0 million.

Has anyone checked with that AP stringer to see if Miggy wants to play for the Orioles?

Actually this move makes perfect sense on three fronts:

1. will shut up the class of fan screaming for team to do something, anything

2. Will make a bedard signing more palatable since Bedard wont seem nearly as moody by comparison with Miggy and obviously our young kids need to be taught what it means to be a major leaguer. All of this wide eyed innocence and deference and maturity is unproductive. Miggy could teach them to be moody and surly and whine about what they were promised when things are not going well.

3. Markakis and Pie and Jones will surely hit for more power with some "B12" shots from Miggy's private stash

Other than those using a fantasy baseball mentality, I cant imagine anyone thinking this is a good idea.

Take Crede if he is cheap enough to risk 62 games on the bench. Tejada? No, no no. He's a PED guy and he doesn't hustle anymore, if he ever really did. Who needs it?

If we don't want or can't get Joe Crede, get innovative and turn one of our spare outfielders into a first baseman.

Zekesboy -

"Spare infielders"?

I wasn't aware that a team without a bonafied start at first or third base could have "spare infielders"...

if we r bringing back jeff hammonds might as well bring back glen davis

if we r bringing back jeff hammonds might as well bring back glen davis

People are actually saying Tejada didn't hustle? Wasn't a positive influence? Did you watch any Orioles games?

People are actually saying Tejada didn't hustle? Wasn't a positive influence? Did you watch any Orioles games?

Great... Tejada was an overpriced prima-donna when he played here before get his uniform dirty?? No way!)... are we to expect different this time?? I'll not hold my breath.