Scott Rolen rumors..

[kgsmith]

Red Sox manager John Farrell said no third base additions are "being contemplated or imminent," Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports (on Twitter). Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reported this morning that there’s a belief free agent third baseman Scott Rolen would be interested in talking to the Red Sox.

[Dojji]

Given our depth situation, if Rolen's interested in coming over, the interest is mutual. I don't think counting on him to be a major contributing factor would be wise, but if he's got something left, he could make a difference off the bench. And Fenway ought to be friendly to his hitting style.

 

That said, I wouldn't read anything at all into this, to be quite honest. I don't think there's any huge chance Rolen winds up in a Red Sox uniform unless we know Middlebrooks is going to be out for weeks. We don't even come close to knowing that now.

 

On the other hand, which would you prefer to sit on the bench? A champion veteran like Rolen who's still got some skill even if he's not a middle of the order bat anymore, a washed-up schlub like Overbay, or a busted prospect like Carp? If you can get Rolen for bench money, go for it. He's not the perfect fit if you're going to be obsessive about platoon splits, but he makes the team better.

[a700hitter]

Given our depth situation, if Rolen's interested in coming over, the interest is mutual. I don't think counting on him to be a major contributing factor would be wise, but if he's got something left, he could make a difference.

 

That said, I wouldn't read anything at all into this, to be quite honest. I don't think there's any huge chance Rolen winds up in a Red Sox uniform unless we know Middlebrooks is going to be out for weeks. We don't even come close to knowing that now.

 

That said, which would you prefer to sit on the bench? A champion veteran like Rolen who's still got some skill even if he's not a middle of the order bat anymore, a washed-up schlub like Overbay, or a busted prospect like Carp?

But the interest isn't mutual.

[dupree]

Intersted only on a minor league deal. If he wants big league money forget it. Id rather let Bogey or Ciriaco play 3rd until Middlebrooks is back. But all reports from this morning said he was fine not even sore. He was supposed to take BP today. Has any heard if he did and how it went?

[mvp 78]

No thanks on Rolen. He's barely a part time player now.

[rorschach]

A few years ago, why not. Today, not so much.

[Dojji]

You guys are talking like he'd be given the starting 3B role. Come on, a guy like that on the bench, there's value there, and he still has some of his old on-field skill. I'd love to have a guy like that to help push WMB to be the best he can be.

[Palodios]

You guys are talking like he'd be given the starting 3B role. Come on, a guy like that on the bench, there's value there, and he still has some of his old on-field skill. I'd love to have a guy like that to help push WMB to be the best he can be.

 

Mike Lowell was in camp teaching WMB about 3B skills this week. What can Rolen do that he can't? Besides wasting a spot on the bench.

[Spitball]

You guys are talking like he'd be given the starting 3B role. Come on, a guy like that on the bench, there's value there, and he still has some of his old on-field skill. I'd love to have a guy like that to help push WMB to be the best he can be.

 

I don't know what Rolen is looking for at this point. Apparently, he was wanting to return to Cincinnati but not as Todd Frazier's back up. The Reds wanted him back because he has great leadership skills and is still a very good defender. He just had to be willing to take a bench role to return to the Reds...which he wouldn't accept.

 

It might be that Rolen felt third base in Cincinnati was his position, but the Reds wanted to go on with their future which would be Todd Frazier. Maybe Rolen would be willing to accept the back up role with a different team.

 

By the way, I'd love to see Rolen in Boston. He was a great third baseman. I have seen the great Brooks Robinson, Clete Boyer, Mike Schmidt, but believe Rolen was the best defensive third baseman ever.

[bhopkins]

Red Sox manager John Farrell said no third base additions are "being contemplated or imminent," Brian MacPherson of the Providence Journal reports (on Twitter). Rob Bradford of WEEI.com reported this morning that there’s a belief free agent third baseman Scott Rolen would be interested in talking to the Red Sox.

 

That would be very interesting, if rolen became a sox

[BSN07]

As a bench player for 3B and maybe 1B he would be fine. But they might as well see what they have in Overbay, Carp, and Nava for a few weeks. Not like teams are beating down Rolens door.

[SoxSport]

Middlebrooks is OK, so there's no apparent need for another 3B option unless he has further problems.

[Dojji]

All things considered until we know more about how durable we can expect WMB can be, I think extending an offer to Rolen makes sense. Having a guy like that on your bench never hurt anyone. Not having that guy on your bench, on the other hand...

[Big Guy]

Middlebrooks is the franchise! We dont need that old dog

[Dojji]

And if middlebrooks isn't the franchise? Busts have had a good half year before.

 

I'd like to have something between Middlebrooks and having to rush Bogaerts when Bogaerts isn't really any better a gamble than Middlebrooks.

[Big Guy]

ciriaco is better than rolen, dog!

[seabeachfred]

You guys are talking like he'd be given the starting 3B role. Come on, a guy like that on the bench, there's value there, and he still has some of his old on-field skill. I'd love to have a guy like that to help push WMB to be the best he can be.

 

Push WMB to be the best he could be? That's insane!!!!!! Having Rolen looking over Middlebrooks' shoulder would do nothing but let Will play nervous for fear that Farrell might be tempted to not to let well enough alone. Besides, I know of Rolen's past problems with managers. He couldn't get along with Larry Bowa because he was too tough, he couldn't get along with La Russa for the same reason. He criticized both managers on his way out. We don't want him, we don't need him to create any problems for Middlebrooks or give Farrell any wierd ideas. Let Rolen go elsewhere.

[Spitball]

Push WMB to be the best he could be? That's insane!!!!!! Having Rolen looking over Middlebrooks' shoulder would do nothing but let Will play nervous for fear that Farrell might be tempted to not to let well enough alone. Besides, I know of Rolen's past problems with managers. He couldn't get along with Larry Bowa because he was too tough, he couldn't get along with La Russa for the same reason. He criticized both managers on his way out. We don't want him, we don't need him to create any problems for Middlebrooks or give Farrell any wierd ideas. Let Rolen go elsewhere.

 

Sorry but this is an uninformed post. Scott Rolen has a strong personality and leadership skills. He clashed with Bowa and LaRussa because they were both dictitorial jerk managers who resented and feared his leadership.

 

When Walt Jocketty left St. Louis for Cincinnati, he went after Rolen to bring leadership to that franchise which is now one of the strongest in the NL.

 

Joey Votto has spoken volumes about Rolen including this resent comment, " He changed my path as a player. He was a shining example of the type of player I want to be because of how quiet he was and how consistently respected he was throughout baseball."

 

If Rolen is willing to accept a bench role, he would be a great addition.

[SouthieFanatic]

I like Rolen, but I have to agree I think he would make Middlebrooks fear his spot a bit. Then again Middlebrooks seems to be a little fragile. Hopefully he has a long illustrious career, but if Rolen is indeed an option then maybe it wouldn't hurt having him here. There are plenty of Pros and Cons in this scenario

[Spitball]

I like Rolen, but I have to agree I think he would make Middlebrooks fear his spot a bit. Then again Middlebrooks seems to be a little fragile. Hopefully he has a long illustrious career, but if Rolen is indeed an option then maybe it wouldn't hurt having him here. There are plenty of Pros and Cons in this scenario

 

Any young player should be looking over his shoulder. Let him work his butt off to keep his job.

 

Honestly, I doubt Rolen will sign with Boston. He wants to start, and the Sox have a starting third baseman. I just want it to be clear that Rolen is not a negative player. Anyone who has followed baseball knows this. He is a boarderline Hall of Famer who has clashed with two managers who have a history of issues with players.

[seabeachfred]

Sorry but this is an uninformed post. Scott Rolen has a strong personality and leadership skills. He clashed with Bowa and LaRussa because they were both dictitorial jerk managers who resented and feared his leadership.

 

When Walt Jocketty left St. Louis for Cincinnati, he went after Rolen to bring leadership to that franchise which is now one of the strongest in the NL.

 

Joey Votto has spoken volumes about Rolen including this resent comment, " He changed my path as a player. He was a shining example of the type of player I want to be because of how quiet he was and how consistently respected he was throughout baseball."

 

If Rolen is willing to accept a bench role, he would be a great addition.

 

If he won't accept a bench role for the Reds, who are a better team right now than we are, it sure as hell stands to reason he will not accept one with us. Then there is the Lucchino factor. He loves veterans and should Scott start playing well there we have Middlebrooks on the bench wasting away for sent down "for more damn seasoning". No Spitball, you may be right about Rolen's character despite his problems with managers and the fact that his current one, Dusty Baker, doesn't really want him back either, but we must not put any roadblocks in Will's way. It is the surest way to ruin a good young player. My hope is that Rolen will go elsewhere, like to LA.

[dupree]

I wish this thread would just stop. Middlebrooks is back into the lineup and it was by the grace of God just a scare. Rolen may be a saint and just had bad luck with previous coaches and is a good club house guy all things may be true but who cares. Rolen showed interest in us not us in him. Fred made a good point he wouldnt take a bench role for Cincy why would anyone think he would take one here. Also with the question marks in our rotation we will have an extra pitcher onto our 25 man roster than most club so the bench spots will be more of players who can float to different postions. Rolen if he accepts a miinor league deal hell why not, dont go against the luxury tax but i dont think he will.

[Dojji]

Why would he take one here? Because he's tried the market and it won't bear him into being a starter, so if we offered him a bench role, it looks a great deal like that's the best offer that would come his way.

 

I would still rather have a backup 3B than the famous backup LHH OB/1B we're supposedly investigating. I'd still rather that backup 3b bat left, but given the choice between Rolen, and a guy with an ideal platoon split who doesn't bring Rolen's leadership and talent, I go for Rolen.

[Spitball]

Why would he take one here? Because he's tried the market and it won't bear him into being a starter, so if we offered him a bench role, it looks a great deal like that's the best offer that would come his way.

 

I would still rather have a backup 3B than the famous backup LHH OB/1B we're supposedly investigating. I'd still rather that backup 3b bat left, but given the choice between Rolen, and a guy with an ideal platoon split who doesn't bring Rolen's leadership and talent, I go for Rolen.

 

I agree, Dojji. He won't hold up for 162 games at this point, but he would bring a great glove and leadership to the Red Sox' bench.

[Spitball]

and the fact that his current one, Dusty Baker, doesn't really want him back either...

 

Fred, you are absolutely making this one up...and that absolutely isn't fair. Dusty Baker is not the reason Scott Rolen is not returning to Cincinnati. It had to do with Rolen's timing and budget restraints.

 

Rolen waited too long to decide to come back. The smaller market Reds have to watch their payroll closely. Rolen's contract was off the books. The Reds then signed Joey Votto to an Adrian Gonzalez-like contract and extended Brandon Phillips to a big contract. The Reds now have their budget at nearly $75 million. By the time Rolen decided to come back, the Reds could't afford him and had acquired Jack Hannahan to back up Todd Frazier who was third in the Rookie of the Year voting.

 

Dusty Baker is not the dictator that Larry Bowa was. He may have an ego like LaRussa, but he is a players' manager and prefers veterans to young players. Baker obviously is supportive of the franchise's choice to go with the talented and inexpensive Frazier, but he did not decide against Scott Rolen.

[mvp 78]

"Manager Dusty Baker said Rolen’s absence would be felt deeply.

“It would be like losing a member of the family,” Baker said. “He was a leader. Whenever you lose a leader like that, someone else comes along to take over. We don’t know who that is, but a leader will come out.”

 

SBF made something up? What a surprise!

[Spitball]

"Manager Dusty Baker said Rolen’s absence would be felt deeply.

“It would be like losing a member of the family,” Baker said. “He was a leader. Whenever you lose a leader like that, someone else comes along to take over. We don’t know who that is, but a leader will come out.”

 

SBF made something up? What a surprise!

 

[seabeachfred]

Fred, you are absolutely making this one up...and that absolutely isn't fair. Dusty Baker is not the reason Scott Rolen is not returning to Cincinnati. It had to do with Rolen's timing and budget restraints.

 

Rolen waited too long to decide to come back. The smaller market Reds have to watch their payroll closely. Rolen's contract was off the books. The Reds then signed Joey Votto to an Adrian Gonzalez-like contract and extended Brandon Phillips to a big contract. The Reds now have their budget at nearly $75 million. By the time Rolen decided to come back, the Reds could't afford him and had acquired Jack Hannahan to back up Todd Frazier who was third in the Rookie of the Year voting.

 

Dusty Baker is not the dictator that Larry Bowa was. He may have an ego like LaRussa, but he is a players' manager and prefers veterans to young players. Baker obviously is supportive of the franchise's choice to go with the talented and inexpensive Frazier, but he did not decide against Scott Rolen.

 

Baker made it clear he is going with Todd Frazier as his third baseman this season Spitball. When Rolen said he might want to come back the door was closed as far as Dusty was concerned. In o ther words he doesn't want him back. Whether Rolen waited too long or not, the fact is there is no market or desire for him in Cincy, and it is my opinion that if we sign Rolen it will put undue pressure on Middlebrooks and have him looking over his shoulder. We don't need that. Once again, leave well enough alone. Rolen might say he would take a reserve role but we've heard this kind of talk before from players losing their starting jobs for their old teams and wishing to catch on somewhere. Sure, they say they will accept their role but sooner or later they are clamoring for more playing time. We've even seen this on our own team with Varitek and Wakefield demanding they play more when it was obvious they had stayed too long. If we looking for a backup, pick a backup who is a backup and would be satisfied with that spot. Rolen wouldn't. As Dupree says, end this thread.....before Cherington gets another one of his hairbrained ideas.

[seabeachfred]

"Manager Dusty Baker said Rolen’s absence would be felt deeply.

“It would be like losing a member of the family,” Baker said. “He was a leader. Whenever you lose a leader like that, someone else comes along to take over. We don’t know who that is, but a leader will come out.”

 

SBF made something up? What a surprise!

 

Once again you're talking out of your ass 78. What was Baker supposed to say...GLAD HE'S GONE? WE DIDN'T WANT OR NEED HIM ANYMORE? Dusty was being classy and politically correct in lauding Rolen. The fact is if he really wanted him back they could have offered him a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. T hey didn't do that and they didn't do it because they want Todd Frazier to play third base and not have Rolen around for a distraction because he would not he satisfied with sitting on the bench.

 

Once again you let your personal feelings clog your brain. You also have spent too much time reading how the Red Sox do it. They are the ones who usually chase a guy out of town with denunciations and bad feelings

[mvp 78]

Once again you're talking out of your ass 78.

 

Once again you let your personal feelings clog your brain.

 

You were WRONG. You made something up. You claim to know what Baker is thinking without any information, as usual.

 

Now, who was the one talking out of his ass?

 

Give me a break.

 

Now just post some more about how you coaching 13 year olds applies to MLB. We're all ears...