Brian Walton
January 5, 2005
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Good News on Ankiel
MLB.com relays news from Cards trainer Barry Weinberg that Rick Ankiel’s elbow twinge was minor and that he’s already been cleared to resume throwing.
Sutter Does Well
Bruce Sutter continues to pick up votes, finishing this year third. His 66.7% is just 43 votes short of the Hall. That is the same number he picked up from last year. So, with four years more to make 75%, Sutter’s future chances look good.
Lee Arthur Still Treading
Lee Smith finished with just under 40% of the vote. Last year, he garnered 36.6% and 42.3% two seasons ago.
Willie Lives for Another Day
Willie McGee received 26 votes for the Hall of Fame. As a result, he barely cleared the 5% hurdle, which allows his name to appear again next season.
Veterans Committee Selections Next
The results of the Hall of Fame Veterans Committee voting will be announced March 2, 2005.
Larkin Outs Cards
In Tuesday’s Cincinnati Enquirer: “Larkin said the St. Louis Cardinals are the only club to talk to him about being an everyday shortstop. But with the signing of David Eckstein to a three-year, $10.25 million contract and the impending signing of Roberto Alomar, St. Louis seems like a remote possibility at this point.”
Vina Time Not Now
Detroit second baseman Fernando Vina’s injured knee has not responded to treatment over the winter. As a result, MLB.com reports that the Tigers are not counting on Vina to be ready to start 2005. As additional insurance, they added utilityman Ramon Martinez Tuesday for just a hair over $1M. Vina signed a two-year, $6 million deal to play in the Motor City after leaving the Cardinals last off-season.
Iguchi Almost a White Sox
According to the New York Post, intriguing Japanese second baseman Tadahito Iguchi is ready to sign with the Chicago White Sox. He will replace Roberto Alomar, who the Sox re-acquired during the 2004 season, but who was not asked back for 2005. The Chicago Tribune reported earlier that the initial Sox offer was $2 million per season, but Iguchi wanted $7 million. Apparently, they closed that huge gap.
Burnitz to Cubs?
All-or-nothing hitting outfielder Jeromy Burnitz is being considered by the Chicago Cubs for their open left field spot, says the Arlington Heights Daily Herald. The spot was vacated when Moises Alou was allowed to leave for the San Francisco Giants.
Stuck with Sosa
The same paper reiterates that because the Cubs cannot move Sammy Sosa, it also means they are not expected to be able to compete to sign Carlos Beltran. Too bad.
