Gload Of Crap

Written by Benny B. | 09 December 2009

As Mike previously mentioned, the Phillies just picked up Ross Gload.  However, what he fails to mention is that the Phillies are setting an unnecessary precedent this Hot-Stove season by giving aging back-up & bench players multi-year deals.  First Brian Schneider & now Ross Gload. I just don't understand why OmarRueben Amaro fells the need to make these types of signings in this economy (where players are essentially being given away), for multiple years.

Guess what these numbers represent:

2009: -0.9

2008: -0.9

2007: 0.4

2006: -0.1

2005: -0.5

These are Ross Gload's Wins Above Replacement value over the last 5 years.   Only once in 2007 was his value worth more than a replacement level player in AAA; and only by an infinitesimal amount.  In other words, a replacment level player in AAA would have either put up similar numbers to Gload's or most likely BETTER numbers.

So, what gives Phillie?  You already have turned the cather's market on it's head by giving Schneider a multi-year deal. It is any surprise now that Yorvit Torreabla--who was destined for a one year deal--is demanding a multi year deal? Now this move gives hope to all the negative WAR bench players out there.

As a Mets fan, we just have to hope and pray that Omar doesn't follow Amaro's lead.  Just sit tight Omar, there are many options out there at catcher & second tier pitchers.  No need to offer Molina a three or even a two year deal.  No need to offer Marquis et al guaranteed multi-year deals.  Single years with incentives should suffice...that is of course, if Phillie doesn't turn around and sign Gary Sheffield to a 3 year deal.

Another step backwards for the Phillies.  The Mets have already gained ground on the Phillies and haven't even made a significant move yet.  I normally would be happy, but I just don't have the confidence that Omar Minaya will be able to keep his hands in his pockets.  Thanks for nothing Phillie.

Update:  Bah! Mets offer two years to Bengie Molina -- This is your nightmare Benny.  Okay, not really because Bengie is the lone type A free agent and does sport a positive WAR, however he is getting up there in age.  Years at ages 35 and 36 could be interesting...

Update From MLBTR:

Newsday's David Lennon has heard Bengie Molina is the Mets' first choice at catcher, and "if he accepts a two-year deal, in the $12-million range, he figures to be a Met very shortly."  Still, Lennon's "Mets closing on Molina" headline seems strong.  Lennon says that if Molina insists on three years, the Mets could sign Yorvit Torrealba for one - even though Torrealba could get two years elsewhere.  The Rockies, Giants, and Royals are also in on Torrealba, reports Troy E. Renck of the Denver Post.  The Rockies are willing to giveMiguel Olivo two years if they can't get Torrealba.

Molina was left out in the cold once before, in the 2005-06 offseason.  He cashed in with the Giants the following winter, and should probably jump on this Mets offer.

So, there's still hope that the Mets do the right thing and not sign Molina for more than one year and a vesting option....And then I woke up and remembered that Omar Miniya is still our GM.

Update:

According to Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com, the Mets did NOT make an offer to free-agent C Bengie Molina yet.