Despite reports that Jake Peavy is ahead of schedule in his rehab, Chris Sale is preparing to be the White Sox 5^th starter in 2010…..Sale has begun a conditioning program to build endurance and strengthen his legs…..he needs a defined role headed into 2010…..bouncing between the rotation and bullpen will only stunt his development. [Chicago Breaking Sports]

Kenny Williams has stated that Brent Morel will likely be the White Sox third baseman in 2010…..while he may not have the power of Dayan Viciedo, Morel is a superb defender with gap power…..Ozzie believes he has a better glove than both Joe Crede and Robin Ventura…..Viciedo could potentially fill a void at 1B if they don’t re-sign Konerko or another free agent. [Carrie Muskat/MLB.com]

(more…)

Ok, so they didn’t actually say that, but you have to imagine that the Florida Marlins’ announcing tandem of Rich Waltz and Tommy Hutton were instantly devastated upon learning that the organization had traded Dan Uggla.  No longer will they be able to deliver their patented home run call, “His name is Dan Uggla!”

Soon, Marlins fans will have the joy of hearing, “His name is Omar Infante!” Granted, it will only be, roughly, eight to nine times per year, and for the sole purpose of informing the fan base that they have a new player.

(more…)

The Chicago White Sox signed third baseman Dallas McPherson, 30, who was once one of the Los Angeles Angels top prospects…..played for the Oakland A’s Triple-A affiliate in 2010….. hit .267/.339/.541 with 22 home runs in 354 plate appearances. [Baseball America]

The White Sox are willing to hear offers for RHP Gavin Floyd…..would expect a substantial return considering Floyd is a proven 2^nd or 3^rd starter…..Floyd made 31 starts for White Sox in 2010 and went 10-13 with a 4.08 ERA…..had a career best 49% groundball rate…..was 3-1 with a 0.80 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in July. [MLBTR]

(more…)

The Golden Sombrero presents MLB Look-alikes: Joe Tinker and Nicolas Cage

On Tuesday, rumors began to circulate regarding Justin Upton and the Arizona Diamondbacks willingness to hear offers for their right fielder.  Thus far, the teams that have expressed an interest in the 23-year old include the Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, and as of a few minutes ago, the New York Yankees.  Prior to the start of the 2010 season, Upton — who, on The Golden Sombrero, is commonly referred to as JUpton — signed a 6-year/$50 mil deal with the Diamondbacks that will make him a free agent after the 2015 season.

In 2010, he posted a .799 OPS that included 27 doubles, 17 home runs and 69 RBI, while playing in 133 games.  There are very few players in all of baseball who possess the strength and bat control that Upton does, and I expect that nearly every team will inquire about his availability.  Here is a video of him taking batting practice during Spring Training in 2010: