Keith Law

  (1:02 PM)

I might be a little slow today - I'm nursing a sore quinticep.

jeff(MD)

Is there any reason left on why Jon Lester can not be a #1 starter on a good team?

Keith Law

  (1:03 PM)

No, I can't see one.

Mike, New York City

Keith, still not sure why so down on Dice-K? Surely no one goes 18-3 2.90 by accident.

Keith Law

  (1:05 PM)

Storm Davis says hello. "By accident" isn't right. He's in the right circumstance - gets tons of run support, has a good D behind him, and the bullpen has helped. I don't see why I should credit him for any of those three things, though.

Jon (Mad-town)

Brad Lidge almost came unravelled in the post-season again, and celebrated like he brought the Phillies to the WS after "saving" a 3 run lead. Should the Phils be worried about his eventual blow-up?

Keith Law

  (1:05 PM)

Yes - not sure why he's so tentative with the fastball. And by the way, why on earth wouldn't you let Hamels pitch the 9th and save Lidge for game 2? If you have the lead in game 2, it's going to be slim.

Tommy (Nashville)

How do you feel about the Cubs' decision to have Dempster go last night?

Keith Law

  (1:06 PM)

I was fine with it - how could they anticipate the 2005-6 version showing up instead of the 2008 version? - but I would have gone with Lilly, who we know is healthy, in game 2.

Joseph (Sacramento, CA)

Keith, I'm glad that you share the same sentiments towards Nats GM Jim Bowden, but PLEASE tell me that he, and the other Nats upper management, will not mess up having the #1 pick in the upcoming draft, aka the Stephen Strasberg sweepstakes. Is there even a glimmer of hope for a Nats fan? Thanks.

Keith Law

  (1:08 PM)

They would have to be willing to spend about 3 times on Strasburg than what they begrudgingly offered Crow ($3.3ish). Given the great article in the Washington Times about a week ago on the penurious ways of their ownership, I think there's a legitimate chance that they don't take him.

Jamey Newberg (Dallas, TX)

Is David Murphy your ROY?

Keith Law

  (1:08 PM)

$5.

Dennis (San Jose)

I haven't seen much of Ervin Santana this year but I'm skeptical of how well he'd do in a playoff game. How good is he really?

Keith Law

  (1:09 PM)

He has always had #1 starter stuff, and pitched like it at home, but for some reason - seriously, I'm looking for an explanation - he had a massive careerlong home/road split where he turned into Adam Eaton on the road. That stopped this year, and I think it's fair to say that he's 1A to Lackey's 1.

Steve (NYC)

Ellsbury had a quite a game, eh? What kind of player do you think he'll be at his peak?

Keith Law

  (1:11 PM)

That was a hell of a catch on the Teixeira bloop - I can usually tell when an outfielder is going to reach a ball (just the result of experience, not that I have some sixth sense), and I didn't think he'd get there. To move as fast as he did while also turning ... it's impressive. I still think he can be a good on-base guy (high .300s) with ++ defense in center, but we probably have to drop expectations that he'll hit for any kind of powre.

Mike (NYC)

New York talk radio has been throwing the idea of trading away either Wright or Reyes, blaming their uncluthciness as the cause of this year's collapse. Besides this idea being rediculous, who could you go to to actually get a fair value for either of those guys?

Keith Law

  (1:12 PM)

Rangers would be the place to start, I think. Young has to move off short anyway. I'm not saying there's anything to this - just saying they'd be a good destination. Dodgers too.

Sam (Pittsburgh)

Your take on Jay Bruce long-term? Superstar?

Keith Law

  (1:14 PM)

Yes, still a fan, but I had him behind Longoria in prospect rankings because Longoria was ready to step in and contribute right away, while Bruce wasn't. (After those first six games, he hit .233/.286/.413 the rest of the way.)

Jeff (NH)

***POSSIBLE KLAWBAITING ALERT*** I'd be interested to hear your comments on Jon Heyman's "ballots" for MVP. AL MVP = Francisco Rodriguez. NL MVP = Manny Ramirez....edging out CC Sabathia.

Keith Law

  (1:14 PM)

I assume Heyman was baiting the online/stathead crowd. It kind of read like satire.

Sonny, (LA, CA)

Willing to change your tune now Law about the Dodgers? Their defense was fine, Torre didn't bow to 'veteran' pressure and started the right guys on defense including Furcal at SS, and DeWitt at 2nd base, instead of Nomar and Kent. And Loney provided power unseen since 2007 September. Also, Kemp had a nice game, offensively and defensively.

Keith Law

  (1:16 PM)

Yeah, I always let whatever happened in the most recent game alter my entire view. That seems like a good idea.

Josh(Tampa)

Thoughts on the Rays choosing Sonny over Jackson?

Keith Law

  (1:16 PM)

Understandable. Jackson's been all over the place of late, and Sonnanstine has pitched well against good lineups down the stretch.

Keith Law

  (1:17 PM)

Rob in Brighton: Baseball America.

Vince (CA)

after the first games of Oct, do you still think your predictions will stand up??

Keith Law

  (1:17 PM)

I never think my postseason predictions will stand up.

Jamie (DC)

If you had to choose one, would you go with Ethier or Kemp?

Keith Law

  (1:18 PM)

For right now, Ethier. Long term, I like to gamble on upside, and Kemp has more. That is, Kemp has, say, a 30-40% chance to be a much better player than Ethier is now (maybe more, considering his position), but also has maybe a 20% chance to never develop beyond what we see today. I'll take that chance.

Jon (Bay Area, California)

When did Vlad Guerrero turn to Bengie Molina on the basepaths? Has he really declined that much as an athlete?

Keith Law

  (1:20 PM)

His legs haven't been right for two years. This may just be the new Vlad from here on out: a DH and a 20 runner. Maybe if he never has to take the field, he'll recover some power because his knees won't bother him as much.

Chad Billingsley

After tonight will I get some national love I deserve?

Keith Law

  (1:21 PM)

Only if you get the win. If you get the loss, we'll hear about your youth/inexperience. If you don't get a decision, it will be like you never pitched.

Jon (Strasburg PA)

Why was Lidge in the 9th? Because it was a save situation! The book says you have to use your closer in save situations.

Keith Law

  (1:22 PM)

Let's just say that book didn't make the Klaw 100.

Ben (Charlotte)

I think a certain statistical website needs a notation with your first post.

Keith Law

  (1:22 PM)

I'll tell Fremp to take care of it.

Jon (Mass)

Hi Keith, What do you think of the idea of Joe Mauer for MVP... he was great at the plate this year, played a much more physically demanding position than Pedroia, and handled a very young pitching staff well.

Keith Law

  (1:24 PM)

I wouldn't have any real criticism of any of the following players if they won the AL MVP: Mauer, Pedroia, Sizemore, Youkilis, Lee. It's a pretty open race. Bad choices would include Morneau or K-Rod.

Matt (SLO, CA)

Is Rays-Brewers the most unappealing potential World Series matchup in history?

Keith Law

  (1:24 PM)

You work for Fox, right?

Joe (Mpls, MN)

Preparing for the LSAT on Saturday...did you ever take it? score? tips?

Keith Law

  (1:25 PM)

I did take it, 15 years ago. Not even sure it's the same test. Do they still have logic puzzles? That was great - the only time I would ever say I enjoyed a standardized test.

Canada

Why doesn't Morneau deserve the MVP?! Your anti-Canadian bias is showing!

Keith Law

  (1:25 PM)

Which reminds me ... if Manny gets MVP love for what he did in the NL, why wouldn't Bay get MVP love for what he did in the AL?

Jon (Chicago)

KLaw, I have decided that you really just don't like the White Sox organization, or someone in it. I agree with you mostly about Alexei Ramirez and that he needs to learn how to take a pitch and walk and until then, he can't be considered a really good player, but to not have him in your top 3 ROY candidates is a bit harsh. He did hit 20 homeruns, bat .290, and drove in 75 runs while playing for a division winner, and being a vital part of this team. My second issue, is how can you explain not having Quentin in your Top 10 MVP canidates, but including Longoria? They both missed a month, but while Longoria is the better defensive player, Quentin is the superior offensive player.

Keith Law

  (1:28 PM)

You should rethink your decision-making process. I like how you omitted, say, Ramirez' OBP or his defense in your argument (but hey, he's a "vital" part of the team! does that make him its pancreas? gallbladder? urethra?). Quentin's a great hitter, but he plays a position with a high standard for offense and is not a good defensive player.

Jeff (NH)

You said something negative about my team, so you're biased about my team, just like every else on ESPN! I hate you all! I'm never coming back, ever!

Keith Law

  (1:28 PM)

You're right. I am biased against the New Hampshire Weasels ... I mean, Fisher Cats.

Luis, Caracas, Venezuela

A question from a fan of your columns about 3 famous venezuelans: 1) your opinion about Z condition for next game. 2) Is Vizquel a Hall of Famer? 3) Does Johan deserves the NL Cy? Thanks...

Keith Law

  (1:29 PM)

1) Although he says he's fine, I think he's well under 100%. 2) No. 3) Yes.

Dennis (San Jose)

klaw, I don't understand why so many fans would think you have biases against their clubs. Do they seriously think you'd risk your professional reputation just to rile their fans?

Keith Law

  (1:30 PM)

One thing I've learned in this job is that a lot of fans would rather just shout "bias" than understand an objective criticism about their favorite team/player. Amuses me.

David Ortiz (Boston)

so if carlos quentin cant play defense or win an MVP...what does that make me?

Keith Law

  (1:31 PM)

Your inability to play defense is why you've never been the most valuable player in the AL, despite some huge offensive years.

Geoff (Boston)

Keith, still high on Buccholz? Which order, long-term: Buchholz, Kershaw or Price?

Keith Law

  (1:32 PM)

Yes, probably Price-Kershaw-Buchholz at this point, although that's more in praise of the first two than a downgrade on Buchholz.

Andy (Toronto)

Halladay's schedule has been a lot tougher than Lee's - his oppenents OPS is the highest out of any pitcher and his number are almost as good if not better in some cases. I'm not saying Lee doesn't deserve the CY Young, but its not as clear cut as some are making it out to be. And if you think Lee is an MVP candidate, why not Halladay?

Keith Law

  (1:33 PM)

Doc was on my MVP ballot, but a bit lower. I agree somewhat on the strength of competition, but 1) calculating Lee's strength of opponent undervalues the fact that he beat the Royals, who crush LHP, five times (thanks, Rany), and 2) Doc played in front of one of the majors' best defenses, while Lee didn't.

Jeff (Sturgis, MI)

Keith, I'm going to take comfort in the fact that Big Z is 5-0 with a 2.39 ERA over 7 starts in home night games this season, and hope for the best.

Keith Law

  (1:33 PM)

The next time I go cherry-picking with my daughter, I'm calling Jeff for backup.

Bob (Tinley Park, IL)

Do questions submitted prior to the chat have any chance at being posted or do they pile up so much that they tend to get lost in the shuffle?

Keith Law

  (1:34 PM)

Depends on the day. Some days I start sifting through the queue first thing in the morning, but today I didn't get home until about 12:45.

Joe (San Diego)

People need to stop making MVP arguments based on fantasy baseball. Alexei is FAR better there than real life, and I think that's where a lot of people become confused.

Keith Law

  (1:35 PM)

What cracks me up is that many old-school BBRAA voters deride fantasy baseball, and then base their votes on RBI and wins and saves.

Alex F. Knoxville, TN

What did you think of the TBS studio show? I thought it was great to see Eck and his hair get the national exposure it has always deserved.

Keith Law

  (1:36 PM)

What I saw on TV yesterday, I watched with the sound off. I still want someone (DirecTV?) to offer a channel that gives me crowd noise but no announcers. I have no problem watching the game without narration when I'm at the stadium.

Matt (Arlington, VA)

Have you ever actually gone cherry picking with your daughter?

Keith Law

  (1:37 PM)

Apples, peaches, blueberries, and raspberries. She thinks it's great, particularly the raspberries because they were easy to pick and ready to eat.

Greg (VA)

keith - your ethier/kemp answer was awesome. in your opinion, which current series STARTED with the heaviest favorite, and what % of winning said series?

Keith Law

  (1:38 PM)

Good question. Probably Tampa, maybe 60-65%, followed by Philly, maybe 60%.

Joseph (Sacramento, CA)

Milledge or Dukes? And let's keep this to an on the field projection. Thanks.

Keith Law

  (1:38 PM)

Milledge. More of a complete skill set.

Adam (Indiana)

I agree that you do not like the White Sox. I say this because I have never seen one good thing you have said about them. They won the series in 2005 and are division winners this year. So obviously they have had some good players. Also, Alexei may not have a good obp, but his defense isn't nearly as bad as you say it is. He has made many plays this year that not many second basemen would make. There must be a reason why you can't cut it as a GM anymore. Maybe a White Sox GM got the best of you and thats why you no longer have a job. Who knows?

Keith Law

  (1:39 PM)

Yeah, I miss my days as a GM, even more so because they never happened.

Armchair TV exec

Note to MLB Network: broadcast games without sound.

Keith Law

  (1:40 PM)

Just give me a choice. I'm sure some people like the announcers. And I've said before that there are some specific announcers, mostly old-school guys, who are great. I could listen to Vin Scully read the want ads for three hours and be content. But he's kind of less-is-more, and the more-is-more school of announcing is not for me.

Howell (Memphis TN)

What happened to the Twins learned ability to hit with runners in scoring position?

Keith Law

  (1:40 PM)

The problem with luck ... is that it runs out.

Sean (New Lenox, IL)

Let's end the silliness about you hating the White Sox. Let's just say something nice to please everyone, even if it is just that Ozzie looks good in black.

Keith Law

  (1:41 PM)

I think John Danks is, at worst, a good #2 for the next five years, with a chance to be a solid #1. (And I'm sorry I haven't answered that email yet, Sean.)

Ryan (Cedar Rapids, Ia)

If you just looked at the stats, and didn't put names by the stats, I would not be able to pick Longoria over Ramirez for ROY. Its that close, Longoria had 6 more bombs, and only 8 more RBI's. You say Alexi doesn't walk a lot, but he did strike out half as many times as Longoria, Ramirez stole more bases... It's a deadlock, 2 very good players that both deserve it!

Keith Law

  (1:43 PM)

Again, you're looking at the wrong stats, like RBI. Ramirez strikes out more ... and grounds into more double plays. He was also a negative basestealer this year (13/22, under the ~70% breakeven point), while Longoria was 7/7. And then there's defense. There is someone very close to Longoria, but it's not Alexei - it's Mike Aviles.

Eric (Albany)

Do you think an agent is ever dishonest with his client about what has/hasn't been offered by a team? Would he purposely hide an offer if he was seeking a bigger offer from somewhere else?

Keith Law

  (1:43 PM)

Ever? Yes. But not often. It's just asking for a lawsuit.

John (St Louis)

Position-wise, what do the cards do with Brett Wallace?

Keith Law

  (1:45 PM)

Leave him at third for a year. If it's just never going to happen, try left, and then first base. That assumes that they know Pujols is staying for the long term; if they decide they won't be able to re-sign him, they could explore trading him and then just put Wallace at first and get him to the big leagues ASAP. That said, there's a nonzero chance Wallace can play 3b or LF adequately, so it might all work out anyway.

Keith Olbermann (Leftist basement)

who are the top H.S and College players on the draft board for next year? and is this a down year as far as talent go?

Keith Law

  (1:47 PM)

If you check my ESPN blog archives, I have a very early top prospects ranking for next year's draft. Top players are RHP Steve Strasburg, RHP Alex White, LHP Andy Oliver, SS Grant Green, RHP Aaron Crow, RHP Kyle Gibson, all college players. Best HS player is either CF Donovan Tate or 3b Matt Davidson.

Jon V. (Cleveland, OH)

Wedge basically gave Choo a starting corner OF job for next year in his post season PC with the Cleveland media. Good idea?

Keith Law

  (1:48 PM)

Yes, with the caveat that if he doesn't show improvement against LHP next year, he gets a right-handed caddy.

Shawn Kemp Blazers (MPLS MN)

This has probably been asked before but were you in Toronto for the Mike Sirotka trade?

Keith Law

  (1:48 PM)

That was about 11 months before I was hired.

Joe(FL)

Would ESPN or Stats frown upon you playing in high stakes notable fantasy leagues like NFBC? If youre so freakin smart why dont you?

Keith Law

  (1:49 PM)

I have zero interest in playing fantasy baseball.

Olga (chicago,Il)

Do the Cubs have any up and coming prized position players ? I don't know how many more productive years we get out of Lee and Ramirez...CF too !

Keith Law

  (1:49 PM)

Pie, if they don't give up on him this winter. Josh Vitters at 3b, although he's a few years off.

Devil's Advocate (Hades)

Ron Gardenhire should be AL manager of the year. He lost Santana, Hunter, and even Garza (to the Rays!) No one expected anything of this team. In short, he almost won the division with the Rays of three years ago. Meanwhile, the Rays have been stockpiling talent and draft picks for a decade, and many expected them to contend for the Wild Card this year. Discuss.

Keith Law

  (1:51 PM)

The draft picks argument for Tampa doesn't hold water. I think they have only three of their own first-rounders on the roster, plus Garza (acquired in the Delmon Young trade). The bulk of the talent on that team came via other means. Now, that's not a vote for Maddon as MoY ... I couldn't do it after that brain-dead bases-loaded IBB to Hamilton. MANAGER FAIL.

Easton (IN)

For what type of a player would you consider trading Colby Rasmus? Holliday (no)? Cain (yes)? Peavy (yes)? Is there any position player who would make sense? Thanks!!

Keith Law

  (1:52 PM)

No, leaning no, yes. If you could trade Rasmus for a prospect with similar impact who played SS, that would make sense, both in general and for St. Louis. But why is everyone rushing to trade Rasmus?

Joe (Lake Bluff, IL)

Fukudome- Will adjust or bad investment?

Keith Law

  (1:54 PM)

Needs a massive approach overhaul. He swings like Ichiro and Iwamura, when he's not that fast and has more raw power. Even Ben Paulsen said that Fukudome's bailout is too big.

Paul (Milwaukee)

Hope you enjoyed your trip to Milwaukee this weekend ! Now on to my question: I was one of the last remaining Rickie Weeks defenders ... until yesterday, that is. Do you think the Brewers should cut bait on him? They don't have time to wait for him to improve anymore.

Keith Law

  (1:55 PM)

I'd try him in CF and see if moving to an easier defensive position allows him to develop more as a hitter. It is also possible, or even likely, that he's just not going to develop under that coaching staff.

Keith (Chicago)

"Ben" Paulson?

Keith Law

  (1:56 PM)

Right, Henry. I think Ben played on the Cape this summer. Shows where my head is.

Bob (Tinley Park, IL)

I enjoy the combination of Dan Schulman and Dave Campbell (Soup) on ESPN radio, in addition to Scully.

Keith Law

  (1:56 PM)

I agree - they might be the best tandem going, and I'm not just being an ESPN company man. Soup is very understated, and his insights on pitchers are pretty good.

Aubrey (Dallas, Tx)

How good was Craig Biggio in the late 90's? I'm from houston, but now that I go to college in the DFW area most of my friends around here seem to think he was solid to good at his very best. Help me make an argument that he was great at his prime as a 2B. I don't know where you stand on this, but Bill James was a fan.

Keith Law

  (1:57 PM)

First-ballot Hall of Famer.

Alex

Also taking the LSAT this weekend. Keith you went to law school?

Keith Law

  (1:58 PM)

No, I took the test but never had any real intention of applying to law school. It's a long story.

Steve (NYC)

Dusty Brown put up some nice numbers in Pawtucket this year (850 OPS) and is apparently a solid defender. I know he's old (26) for the league, but is there any chance he could be an adequate replacement for Tek?

Keith Law

  (1:58 PM)

I don't think so. Might be a backup, but I don't think he's a starter, especially not on a club that always plans to be in contention.

Brian - Laveen, AZ

Keith: I know you are a BBQ fan. Have you ever tried to smoke any meat? I have been dabling in it over the last year...time consuming, but rewarding!

Keith Law

  (2:00 PM)

Just once - a pork tenderloin. Easy to do, took about 75-80 minutes, great results. I want to smoke a pork shoulder after my AFL trip next week ... need to be home for a full day for that kind of project.

Noonan (Philly, PA)

I bet I can guess the story - you had a girlfriend that wanted to go to law school and you decided to follow her. Only, she dumped you before you made a final decision, so you went to work for the Blue Jays instead. How close am I?

Keith Law

  (2:00 PM)

Zero.

Ian

What did you think of Simmons' Manny article? Or are you not allowed to comment on it?

Keith Law

  (2:00 PM)

I haven't seen this. I wasn't online today until about 15 minutes before I got here.

Rory(Sacramento)

Yesterday, Callis said he thought that Austin Jackson was going to be an average regular, with little chance of being a star. Do You agree with this?

Keith Law

  (2:01 PM)

I think the range of possible outcomes is wider than that - or maybe that the slope of the right tail is less steep. He has more than "little chance" of being a star in my eyes.

Second Guesser Bristol, conn)

Does indy leagues really benefit players like Aaron Crow and Tanner Scheppers? Should they have gone back to college baseball for one more season?

Keith Law

  (2:02 PM)

Worked out financially for Scherzer and Hochevar, at least.

Brian (CA)

Keith, you and I had exchanged emails earlier regarding the Angels' "lousy offense". While it improved some with Tex, was it lusy last night, or did Lester just pitch well?

Keith Law

  (2:02 PM)

Lester was outstanding last night. I can't blame the Angels' offense (which is not "lousy," just not as good as, say, Boston's).

Joseph (Sacramento, CA)

You mentioned in a previous chat that you would deal Lannan right now. Out of curiousity, if you were running the Nats, a) what would you be looking for in return, and b) what type of pitcher do you project Lannan to be? Thanks.

Keith Law

  (2:04 PM)

I'd be looking to deal him because I don't see upside for him ... keeping him means you're betting that he becomes a crafty-lefty type despite the lack of a plus breaking ball. Could happen, but it's a limited upside.

Frank C. (Pitt, PA)

Scheppers or Crow?

Keith Law

  (2:04 PM)

Crow.

Guy Enfield NH

Don't you find it funny that with Beckett not starting game 1 everyone jumps off the Red Sox bandwagon when Lester had a stellar year and I think has proven that he is very good under pressure...typical "experts" out there...Thanks and love the insight...

Keith Law

  (2:06 PM)

My argument about Beckett going in game 3 hurting Boston's chances is twofold: One, you don't know if you're getting the healthy Beckett or if he's going to struggle because he's hurt; two, you're replacing one game of Beckett with one game of Daisuke. (Lester would have had two starts either way.) I understand that the expected value of a Beckett start is not that much higher than the EV of a Daisuke start, but the range of expected outcomes is much smaller for (healthy) Beckett, particularly on the left tail.

Dave (San Diego, CA)

Why do you say Johan over Lincecum? Does Santana's track record influence your vote?

Keith Law

  (2:07 PM)

It's just about a push, but Santana faced a much tougher slate of opponents this year. Lincecum was good against almost everyone, but he had over 40 innings of a sub-1 ERA against the Padres and their awful offense.

Jack (Salt Lake)

Klaw - what do you enjoy most about your job?

Keith Law

  (2:08 PM)

Scouting young players, amateurs or minor-leaguers. The AFL trip is one of my favorites, because I see so many good players in a short period of time, and the weather's great, and I get to go to Phoenix Ranch Market.

Jon (DC)

Keith, the BP guys have talked about this a lot, but it still continues. Why do teams feel the need to hire interim managers without conducting a full search? They is virtually nothing gained, and potentially a lot lost.

Keith Law

  (2:09 PM)

I completely agree. It is a massive management failure when a team forgoes a full search and just gives the interim guy the job. And when it happens three times in a row, like it has in Toronto, well...

Ken Williams (Chicago)

I drafted my kid, what was I thinking?

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

You didn't do it. Your scouting staff did it. I don't know what they were thinking, but I'm pretty sure it was not "Kenny Williams, Jr., is the best player on the board!"

Craig (Boston, MA)

Who was the most impressive player you saw in the Cape Cod League?

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

Grant Green, USC shortstop.

Rory(Sacramento)

What is left tail vs right tail? Don't think I've ever read that.

Keith Law

  (2:11 PM)

Statistics term - think of the shape of a bell curve. The two sides of the center are the "tails." Good (high) outcomes to the right, bad to the left.

Brian (NYC)

Hi Keith...this question is fantasy motivated, and though I'm sure you don't care about fantasy, playing it for the past 10 years has allowed me to appreciate tha "stat" part of baseball a lot more, so maybe you'll let it through. Does Price play a major role for the Rays next year, and does that role start with him in the bigs on opening day (he's a potential keeper for my fantasy team.)

Keith Law

  (2:12 PM)

Yes, he's on the team next year, and even if he doesn't start in the rotation, I'd bet on him making 20 starts along the way.

Briks, Philly

If instead of NL and AL Cy Youngs, there was a Major League Cy Young, would you consider Harden? He only pitched 148 innings, but he had a 2.07 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in those innings, and a ridiculous 181 strikeouts.

Keith Law

  (2:13 PM)

If there was a major-league Cy Young, whether its own award or a third award, it would be Sabathia's.

Paul, NJ

According to a story in the Chicago Tribune, they said Kenny, JR had more upside then any player on the board. Should they all not be fired?

Keith Law

  (2:14 PM)

What are they supposed to say?

matt

Alderson or Bumgarner

Keith Law

  (2:14 PM)

Alderson. More polished. Think about it: He has to start next year in AA. He could easily see the majors by Labor Day.

Mike (Chicago)

Should the Cubs try to trade D Lee and turn over 1B to Haffpauir (younger, cheaper, lefty)? D. Lee is the opposite of cluth and his power numbers have been down for 3 straight years due to his wrist injury and he is a double-play machine. (And yes I am already looking to next year)

Keith Law

  (2:15 PM)

No, no, no. Hoffpauir has no position and has huge holes in his swing - in on his hands, under his hands, at his feet, or anything below his knees over the plate or away.

Jeremy, Pennsylvania

Am I the only one in Philadelphia who feels that an MVP should bat higher than .251 and strike out less than 199 times...I know Howard carried his team to the playoffs, but is that and his absurd power numbers really enough to justify him winning the NL MVP?

Keith Law

  (2:16 PM)

I don't care about the Ks, or even the average if he does enough other things well. But Utley was much more valuable than Howard this year.

dan cape cod

Good Afternoon, i was arguing with my grandfather about Dustin P. and i said he was one of the most talented 2B since biggio and he said i would compare him more to remmy(remdog) then biggio, what do you think?

Keith Law

  (2:17 PM)

If the question is, "Who is the most talented 2b since Biggio?" I'll again turn to Utley.

Jordan (Peoria)

Keith, for someone who doesn't know who is your MVP for both leagues?

Keith Law

  (2:17 PM)

Sizemore and Pujols.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

How risky of a long-term sign is Sabathia given use usage and body type? Do large bodied pitchers have less of a decline than hitters?

Keith Law

  (2:18 PM)

Usage is some concern, but he's not obese, just big. It's easier to buy into him as someone who's never had a major arm injury than, say, Burnett, who has had more than one.

Clint (LA,CA)

Simple question.... You are GM, would you want Manny Ramirez on your team? And why, or why not?

Keith Law

  (2:18 PM)

Yes. The offense outweighs the defense and the nonsense.

John (Detroit)

What do you know about Cale Iorg? Viable SS possibility in '10, or are the Tigers blowing smoke up our chimneys again?

Keith Law

  (2:19 PM)

I was not an Iorg fan in that draft and I don't see him as the solution at SS.

Matt

Pablo Sandoval will set a record for least pitches taken

Keith Law

  (2:19 PM)

Alexei takes that as a challenge.

Pete (Chicago)

What do you know about Michael Brantley and Taylor Green? Which one should the Indians take as their PTBNL in the Sabathia trade?

Keith Law

  (2:20 PM)

I'd take Green.

Ben (Charlotte)

What is the ETA for Ben Revere?

Keith Law

  (2:21 PM)

2011, although the Twins promote very (too?) aggressively and a good 2009 between high-A and AA could put him in the majors sooner. I hope that they see Carlos Gomez' struggles and decide to be more conservative with Revere, who, like Gomez, doesn't draw a ton of walks and hasn't shown power yet.

greg (st. louis)

how would you rank cardinals prospects motte, garcia, perez

Keith Law

  (2:21 PM)

Motte, Perez, Garcia. Garcia's out for 2009 after TJ surgery.

Jack (Toronto)

The rumors are circulating that the Jays made an extension offer to AJ for an additional two years and would bump up his remaining two years on the existing contract for an average of $15M/yr over 4 years. I know their starting pitching is looking suspect for next year with McGowan and Marcum under the knife, but really?!? This is their best use of $60M? I'd rather see them throw 3 years and $60M at Doc.

Keith Law

  (2:22 PM)

I can't see Burnett taking it. He got five years last time. Why wouldn't he get five years this time? If the Jays want to win next year, they almost have to sign one of the big starters. Their run prevention will take a big step backwards if 2-5 are Litsch, Purcey, Downs, Janssen.

corey

Keith you are the man. How many earned runs does Lidge have at the end of the series, i am saying 6. He is slider happy.

Keith Law

  (2:23 PM)

I'll go with 4. Brewers will help him out. I was yelling at the TV in Bristol when he kept throwing sliders to Fielder, who chases fastballs up like they're covered with ketchup and mustard.

Allan (TX)

Woah, From what I have read...people say the Twins promote a little slow...Besides Gomez, give an example. Not sure where you came up with that one. Ha, I act like you will respond!

Keith Law

  (2:24 PM)

Joe Mauer had less than a half-season in AA when he was called up. Zing!

Prince Fielder

Which vegatables are good with ketchup and mustard?

Keith Law

  (2:25 PM)

I was told Fielder's back on the carnivorous side of the fence. And welcome back, Prince. Life's better over here.

Peter Wise

Andrus or any other ss in the minors?

Keith Law

  (2:26 PM)

Tough call. Wilmer Flores? Tim Beckham? I'd probably have Andrus over Flores, but it's a toss-up with Beckham.

Will (LA)

Are the Angels ever going to beat the Red Sox, or should I kill myself now?

Keith Law

  (2:27 PM)

They have to be big favorites in game 2 - Santana vs Matsuzaka, and they're home.

Derek (WI)

Is Gallardo a really good 2 or a #1 for you?

Keith Law

  (2:28 PM)

Really good 2.

Bob (Tinley Park, IL)

I know you're not a big steak fan, but when you do have some, do you prefer a dry or wet rub?

Keith Law

  (2:28 PM)

Dry.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

The front page already has this chat tagged as a "Wrap". Way to fool em!

Keith Law

  (2:28 PM)

I'm crafty ... but I'm right-handed, so maybe I'm "cerebral" instead.

Keith Law

  (2:29 PM)

I'm off to the studio - I'll be on Outside the Lines at 3 pm. Thanks for all the questions!