Bochy new manager?

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 25, 2006 6:07 PM PDT

I was listening to KNBR at 4:10PM and some caller said that, according to his source, the Giants will sign Bruce Bochy to a 3 year, $6M contract.

Has anyone heard any confirmation of this anywhere else? Of course, it could be some kook calling in and claiming this, but I thought I would throw this out to everyone, since Ralph and Tom didn't outright pooh-pooh the rumor as rubbish.

If so, color me very disappointed.

So, anybody know of any good interviews with Bochy anywhere, like the Acta interview at BP? Is there any reason for Giants fans to be happy about this, should it happen as rumored? Ralph and Tom seemed to respect Bochy as a manager, though as Tom speculated, like I did in another post, who exactly did SD sign as free agents that was due to Bochy, only Piazza comes to mind, Giles was traded for and he grew up there, so it wasn't Bochy driven that he signed with them.

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Re: Bochy new manager?

yeah I heard that too and tried to immidietelly dismiss it as hearsay. According to the guy who called in the terms have been agreed upon over a handshake and a conversation.

While I wouldn't totally dismiss the call as fiction the circumstances do seem a bit odd because of its shotgun like nature. Bochy hasn't even OFFICIALLY interviewed yet for gods sake!

If it is true I think it means that Sabean had Bochy in mind all along and interviewed the other candidates for sake of the process.

If it is true I second the emotion of being extremely dissapointed, I was hoping for a "new" guy like Wotus or Acta, the signing of Bochy seems more in line with the "old" Giants rather than the new.

Hopefully its not true.

by Keenlow on Oct 25, 2006 6:11 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

While I wouldn't totally dismiss the call as fiction the circumstances do seem a bit odd because of its shotgun like nature. Bochy hasn't even OFFICIALLY interviewed yet for gods sake!

And the Giants didn't even submit a formal request for an interview to the Padres until this afternoon. Link Also according to the U-T link, Bochy is expected to interview with the Giants as soon as tomorrow.

If you whine about Liriano, I will .gif you.

by Fog City Blues on Oct 25, 2006 7:57 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I don't recall where I read it but purportedly Bochy had an informal talk with the Giants already (Oh, it was in the Chronicle yesterday: "Although Bochy has not had an interview, The Chronicle has learned the San Diego manager chatted informally with Sabean during a visit to the Bay Area over the weekend.").

Must have been quite a chat ("You think Alderson's overbearing? Me too! Say, you'd make good managerial material!" "Um, I'm already managing the Padres...").

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 25, 2006 8:21 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I sure hope that it's not true. Give me Black, Wotus or Acta...Acta please...over Bochy. The freaking team's rebuilding; I want fresh ideas and energy and that means that I don't want Bochy and his big melonhead.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 25, 2006 8:10 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

What's so great about Acta? So he happened to do a good job waving guys in from third for the team with the best record in the National League, big deal. He managed the Domincan Republic in the WBC? That team was good enough to get where they did with Crazy Flippy at the helm. Anyone can win games trotting out a lineup with Vlad, Big Papi, Tejada and others. He did show some smarts in not letting Feliz play at all, but still this guy seems as overrated as the Tigers in this World Series

by joebirdie3 on Oct 25, 2006 9:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

There was a previous diary that explained why Acta is a good managerial candidate: http://www.mccoveychronicles.com/story/2006/10/18/211833/88

If you read this, you should understand why many of us like him.

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 25, 2006 9:28 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Yup, go there. I don't profess to KNOW who's the perfect fit for the Giants, but nobody else does either. My point is that Acta represents what I'd like to see and, as far as I can tell, his mind and his background provide me with sufficient information that I'm prepared to say that I'd like to see him as our manager. Beyond that, as I've said, I'd like someone smart and innovative and I don't want another "established" guy (read: Sweet Lou, Bochy, Bucky Show, etc.) I believe that this franchise is in desperate need of someone with credibility (Acta and Black seem to have it), intelligence, understanding of the game, etc.

To say Acta or Black or Wotus? Who knows. Wotus has shown loyalty and is in the mix already. Is this a good thing? I don't know. But really, is Wotus (and I like him from what I've read as well) what this franchise needs? Where was he last year? What magic did his abilities bring forth from the players?

Acta? Again, from what I can bring into my brain...I'm impressed. Acta's also bilingual and I think that moving forward (Villalona, etc) this is something that can greatly benefit a great franchise that historically gave black and latin players a chance. Having lived in the Caribbean for the last five years, I can tell you from experience, that the baseball playing islands look fondly on "their" players making it in the Bigs: now, in the past, and in the future. Why not expand this to take on the Yankees and Red Sox and Dodgers etc? Keep Felipe under some sort of contract to put our name out there...more than it is right now and, whether or not he becomes our manager, seriously consider Acta.

These are some of the reasons why I like Acta.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 25, 2006 10:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Acta is not just bilingual, he's actually served (informally) as interpreter for some of the Spanish-speaking players. That requires a pretty high level of fluency.

He also drew rave reviews from the players on his WBC team, like Albert Pujols: "Being at the Classic with him, he was just a great manager."

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 9:59 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Uhm.

by E Ticket on Oct 25, 2006 6:43 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It's like an orange on a toothpick.

When the Giants lose he'll go home and cry himself to sleep on his huge pillow.

by SF Pete on Oct 25, 2006 10:04 PM PDT up reply actions

Lower Photo

That head is having a simultaneous Out-Of-Body and Out-Of-All-Proportion Experience.

by Moggeee on Oct 25, 2006 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions

He would unmistakably be...

the HEAD man.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 12:35 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: He would unmistakably be...

And I seriously begin to think this might have been the place for all the floating head references.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 26, 2006 12:38 AM PDT up reply actions

I had no idea...

...that Trevor Hoffman had such a tiny head.

Waiting for Nate, Marcus, Nick, & Emmanuel

by Lyle @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 7:43 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

HEAD! PAPER! NOW!

by Brother Bummer on Oct 26, 2006 10:06 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I always have to give it up for "Axe Murderer" references. One of the most underrated comedies of all time.

by Skaldheim on Oct 26, 2006 12:43 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

http://youtube.com/watch?v=UWVMPtDulqc
(go to the 3:02 mark)
Haulin' that gargantuan cranium about!

by mdoeff on Oct 27, 2006 12:20 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Oh god, no. Then again, it wouldn't be the Giants if they didn't go for overpaid, proven mediocrity over youth every time.

by Aadik on Oct 25, 2006 7:10 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I've said all along, Pinella was Sabean's first choice, Bochy is his back-up. This is "old school" veteran savy Sabes we're talking about. You can't change the stripes on a tiger.

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

by GiantJim on Oct 26, 2006 8:49 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Somebody on the Padres messageboard reported the same thing according to San Diego radio.

by mxmob33 on Oct 25, 2006 7:20 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Bochy is a good choice. I've nothing against Acta or Wotus, both of who deserve a shot managing somewhere if not here, but Bochy would be a fine manager. He's shown he can get more out of his players than anyone expected and has led his club to the last two division titles. I'm not sure why pot shots about his head size (which seem to be the norm from his detractors on this site) qualifies as a serious critique of managerial skills, but I'd be interested in a real criticism based his baseball knowledge and his communication with players. I've never heard such complaints from folks I respect.

All in all, I'm just glad Pinella isn't coming here. His combative and combustible managerial style is the last thing the Giants needed, especially - cross my fingers - if Barry comes back.

yob

by Sayhey on Oct 25, 2006 7:34 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It's called phrenology.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 8:08 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I just made fun of his melon and, you're right, it isn't fair. But, his head's just so BIG!

I don't know what he's done to get the most out of his players. I see the Padres' roster as one of pretty good players and, thus, pretty good, I don't know of guys who've shot "up the charts" BECAUSE of Bochy; their young players (Gonzalez [promoted by me last year by the way], Greene, and Peavy are young and good and baseball fans have know this for some time now. Their older guys (Piazza, Giles, Hoffman) still produce becuase they are and have been great players.

I don't want Bochy because, as I noted above, I want some innovation, a fresh face, and an Acta-like roster philosophy.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 25, 2006 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I want to clear up one small misprint.

Piazza (/ + =) Great Player.

He has always been an arguably great hitter, but that's all the game he's got.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 8:21 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Your kidding, right? Piazza wasn't a great player? Kidding, right? "Arguably a great hitter"?

Has your proxy voice lost its way?

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 25, 2006 9:02 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I say arguably great hitter because I hate Piazza so much. If I didn't hate him so much, I would say great hitter.

But he's a bad catcher, and I don't need to hate him to be able to say that. It helps, though.

And as much as I'm ok with the DH mentality of the baseball "player" who can hit, I have to assert that a great player is a guy who excelled in all aspects of his game. And Piazza was a hitter. If he had played in the AL and DH'd his whole career, nobody would remember his career any differently.

So yes, absolutely not a great player. Anything else you think is an understatement just chalk up to my seething rage.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 10:45 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Okay, okay, I about wrote that you must hate him or something. I understand now. He was a bad catcher, but he still played catcher and he hit like one of the top catchers of all time. So, was he Edgar Martinez? No, he did play the field...just not that well. Off the top of my head I'd compare him to the likes of Manny Ramirez who's awful in the field, but a great hitter. I too respect the well-rounded guys as the greatest of all time, but the vast majority of great players had weaknesses, many on defense vs. glaring offensive numbers.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 25, 2006 11:01 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Hate clouds your eyes like smog above Chavez Ravine, grasshopper.

I hate to break it to you, but Mike Piazza has an excellent shot at the Hall of Fame. I derive no joy from that sentence; he's simply one of the best hitting catchers of all time.

Never mind whatever I do!!! Fan is my tresure!!!

by leftymalo on Oct 25, 2006 11:57 PM PDT up reply actions

I liked what Piazza brought

When that goofy Fox outfit traded Piazza in mid-'98, it put a quick end to a very cool LA-SF rivalry.

Piazza made that team formidable, and I feel they still haven't recovered from their bouncing of a franchise player, beloved by the town.

To beat the Dodgers with Piazza, as the Giants did in '97, was EPIC.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 12:07 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

The thing that makes me sick is that I can't fight the fact that he probably will be in the HOF, and that it might not even take very many tries.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 26, 2006 1:04 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It will take exactly one.

by Roger on Oct 26, 2006 6:45 AM PDT up reply actions

Great career, and here's the trump card...

Barry Bonds take note: Piazza has many friends in the press.

He's in the Hall in a landslide.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 9:16 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Statistically speaking, he IS the best hitting catcher of all time. It's not even close.

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

by GiantJim on Oct 26, 2006 8:54 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Right...as I was sayin'

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 1:09 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

A cynic might opine that hiring Bochy is management's attempt to establish that having a large head isn't prima facie evidence of steroid abuse.

I, however, would not.

Waiting for Nate, Marcus, Nick, & Emmanuel

by Lyle @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 7:45 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

That head is not of this solar system. Its not on roids...its on helium. Scientists had to devise a new numbering system just to express his hat size. That thing belongs at the Planetarium--as a runaway meteor.

On the other hand, he gives good Cliff Claven.

by E Ticket on Oct 25, 2006 8:31 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It's the Ratzenberger!

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 8:44 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Damn, I wish the season were still on. There's something damn catchy to the Rally Ratzenberger... and I might have been up for gameday image on top of it....

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 8:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Any ideas if any sort of compensation will be offered to the padres (or what is fair for a manager of his considerable stature with his salary) since Bochy is still under contract until 2007. And by stature I mean head size.

Sorry, that was wrong.

If worms had daggers, birds wouldn't f*ck with 'em

by the degenerate on Oct 25, 2006 8:12 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Actually it was right. I refer you to picture posted above. Note that Bochy's head is already considerably bigger than the guy's head who is closer to the camera. This is an honest physical attribute, and even the shrinking powers of depth can't even it out.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 25, 2006 8:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

They are planning on getting rid of him after the 2007 season anyway, so we would be saving them his salary for the 2007 season plus the unpleasantries of a clearly lame duck season (just like Howe to the Mets from the A's). If anything, they'll probably send a nice basket of muffins to the Giants office in thanks for taking him off their hands.

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 25, 2006 8:25 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I would be disappointed too. I'm always intrigued by the unknown so I instinctively root for someone who has never managed before.

Bochy might be a good guy for the Giants. I like his bullpen management about 10 times better than Alou's. I don't know if Wotus was just taking orders from Felipe in the Clubhouse, but the couple of times he managed, he managed like Felipe lite.

Bochy also worked with several rookies and might be a bit more patient with them than Felipe was. Of course, it helps when your rookies come out smoking but I tried.

by DrBGiantsfan on Oct 25, 2006 9:12 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I hate Bochy.

I previously linked an article from USA Today that told me all I needed to know about him.

The man hates statistics, worships at the altar of veteran savvy, is unbelievably full of himself, and isn't averse to taking shots at his own organisation when he doesn't get what he wants.

Say what you want about Felipe, but I think this man is 100 times worse.

Dear God, please, anyone but Bochy.

by Salemicus on Oct 25, 2006 9:38 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Sadly, he sounds exactly like what Sabes probably wants...

LicensetoPills: they say this to my family. to barry bonds family. and i say, "i'll bust you up. here is a candy corn."

by jponry on Oct 25, 2006 9:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Bingo.

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

by GiantJim on Oct 26, 2006 8:56 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Damn, I beginning to think Bochy is better than I thought! I'll bet he doesn't manage using "Moneyball" as his bible and Bill James as his Prophet revealing the secret wisdom of baseball stats. Where do I sign up for his SF fan club?

Seriously, I like new blood as much as the next guy, but Bochy has shown he is a respected and successful manager. That is something to admire in an manager, not dismiss with a wave of the hand.

yob

by Sayhey on Oct 26, 2006 12:24 AM PDT up reply actions

I've been watching the Poker Channel, and...

I have no problem increasing the stake to two hands.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 12:32 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: I've been watching the Poker Channel, and...

I can always count on you, Moggeee.

yob

by Sayhey on Oct 26, 2006 12:37 AM PDT up reply actions

Bochy's okay

Sayhey...I actually like the guy, but am having too much fun playin' with his head.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 12:41 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy's okay

And I think his head is actually pretty funny looking. I just won't hold his head size against him - that much weight could kill someone if not handled properly. Badaboom!

yob

by Sayhey on Oct 26, 2006 10:29 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

im sorry, but take away one of the best closers in the game, and bochy's teams never do anything

this is not a good choice

it is not inspiring, does not excite the general fan, and does not excite the season tik holder

what it does is allow the giants to pursue more aging fa's and retain bonds for one more year

i guarantee that if bochy is hired, this team will not finish better than 3rd in any of the next 3 years

by bacci40 on Oct 26, 2006 1:20 AM PDT up reply actions

Stand by...Stand by.

Can't comment right now.

My Rite Aid calculator is struggling with a tricky problem: 100 times worse than drek.

by Moggeee on Oct 25, 2006 11:34 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

www.signonsandiego.com/sports/padres/20061025-1902-bn25bochy.html

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/baseball/mlb/san_francisco_giants/15850864.htm

bochy will be a draw for more aging of's

what a thrilling choice this is

sabean picking bochy is another proof that with alou's departure, sabean shoulda been fired too

by bacci40 on Oct 26, 2006 1:16 AM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It's clear to me now that Acta and his "stat love" just wouldn't fit in here. Any change in team philosophy would have to come from the top, and it's not going to happen.

It's Wotus or Bochy.

Looks like I picked the wrong year to stop sniffing glue.

by Punch Rockgroin on Oct 26, 2006 1:42 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Scariest thing about that article is at the bottom: "[Dave] Roberts, whom the Giants consider a fallback if they fail to sign Texas center fielder Gary Matthews."

by Evan on Oct 26, 2006 7:08 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I still don't get why they're so determined to move Winn to a corner... so his bat can be even more worthless than it is now?

LicensetoPills: they say this to my family. to barry bonds family. and i say, "i'll bust you up. here is a candy corn."

by jponry on Oct 26, 2006 7:44 AM PDT up reply actions

Noooooooo

Matthews? WTF?

by Dan from NM on Oct 26, 2006 8:52 AM PDT up reply actions

Of course...

Gary Matthews can be our new Giants legacy player, replacing Bonds and Alou at one stroke, and for just pennies on the dollar. It's so simple it's genius. Why didn't I think of that?

by Roger on Oct 26, 2006 9:04 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Of course...

I'd rather go with Linden than either Matthews or Roberts.

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

by GiantJim on Oct 26, 2006 9:59 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Of course...

I think I would rather have Max Venable's son, Will I think, isn't he a good prospect somewhere?

Or how about Bonds son, isn't he 16 yet? ;^)

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 26, 2006 11:14 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Of course...

Will's a very fine prospect for the Padres, almost certainly in their Top 10 this year and probably Top 5 (pretty thin system).

I think Barry's son might take after his uncle in the skills department.

by Roger on Oct 26, 2006 11:38 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Of course...

Damn! I was afraid of that! Didn't his dad teach him anything? Why don't he listen? Children nowadays....

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 26, 2006 1:13 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Of course...

Sr. always used to say that Jr had more talent than Barry. It appears Jr had other isssues.

The Dodgers are evil.

by irwin on Oct 26, 2006 3:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

i really think this is magowan's call and he just hides behind sabaens skirts when the deals take a shit or are unpopular.

by E Ticket on Oct 26, 2006 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

If the A's sign Bud Black and the Giants sign Bochy, it will be symbolic of two teams moving in different directions...

Hint: the Giants are not moving in the right direction...

What happened to youth?

Gary Matthews Jr? Bochy? Shea Hillendbrand's Animal Adventure? This off-season is three weeks old, and it's already scaring the crap out of me.

Hey Sabean... the lunatic fringe was right!

Humm Baby!

by Kid Fresh on Oct 26, 2006 8:27 AM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I'm not excited about the prospect of Bochy, but I'm willing to give him a chance. Goal No. 1. should be protecting and nurturing young pitchers, and nobody seems critical of how he handles them.

by Dan from NM on Oct 26, 2006 8:58 AM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I look at it this way ... any candidate will be an improvement over Alou. Bochy offers a strong background and hes a name. FAs know him and that will help in bringing players in. Acta was never a good fit because of his approach. Not the same vision as Sabean. If Wotus was the guy, this would have been announced by now. Black, I seriously see Black going to Oak for its managerial vacancy. Its Bochy guys ...

"I've got a few ideas I'd like to bounce off Sabean." "Odd, because I have a few objects I'd like to bounce off Sabean."

by jfucsd10 @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 9:43 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

and what big free agents have gone to San Diego in the last 10 years?

We'd be pretty good if we didn't suck so bad.

by nostocksjustbonds on Oct 26, 2006 10:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Well, there's Brian Giles...Woody Williams...and, ummm...Shawn Estes? Alan Embree?

Well, anyway, there's Brian Giles.

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 11:20 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Giles was acquired by trade.

by Salemicus on Oct 26, 2006 11:51 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Uhhh...Mark Loretta?

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 1:22 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

since we already had 1 cheers reference in this thread, I just thought I would say every time I read or hear Mark Loretta's name, I think of Nick Tortelli's new wife "Lo-RETT-ah".

"I'll eat a bug"

by zenbitz on Oct 26, 2006 2:00 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

When I hear Loretta, I think of this phrase, " 'ees not the Messiah, he's just a very naughty boy!"

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 26, 2006 5:53 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Mike Piazza -- late in his career, but he's a Hall of Famer and he had a resurgence after he signed.

by Skaldheim on Oct 26, 2006 12:41 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Piazza made $1.25M last year. I doubt he was pursued by that many teams last offseason. I hardly consider that a "get" by the Padres.

We'd be pretty good if we didn't suck so bad.

by nostocksjustbonds on Oct 26, 2006 12:58 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Absolutely.

In fact, Piazza wasn't signed until really really late in the day - 31st January in fact. He was the leftovers in the free agent market. San Diego got good production from him, but it was certainly not a "get."

by Salemicus on Oct 26, 2006 2:25 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Calm down guys, give Sabean the whole off-season to see how the roster works out first before hyperventilating over rumors of Gary Mathews dancing in our outfield. Then, like the 2003 off-season fizzle, we can rip Sabean a new one.

To me, that "hire Bochy and the free agents will come" is an urban myth until I see more evidence of that. Who has the Padres gotten as free agents that we would have been excited over getting? Giles? He was already on the team and wanted to play for his boyhood team, he was like the Giants signing Bonds after the 2001 season, it would have been a shocker if he didn't resign. Piazza? He was a reclaimation project and a shadow of his former self (which some has attributed to lack of juicing). Roberts? Please. All the other good players were either drafted or traded for.

If Wotus is the guy, he could not have been hired immediately, Sabean still needed his minority interview, which only happened Monday with Acta, plus he would be doubled guessed all around if he hired someone like Wotus with no MLB managerial experience without first interviewing a couple of established managers. He needs to be able to say, "Yes, I searched far and wide, and Wotus is the guy for me", else reporters will ream him by writing "Hired rubber stamped inexperienced bench coach who was part of the problems of the Giants the past two years, he didn't even try to find someone better." He needs to do his due diligence, or at least appear to be doing it if he really thought Wotus was the guy.

Black I have pegged for San Diego, once Bochy is out of the way. I think if Bochy isn't hired by the Giants, the Padres will fire him anyway, probably around the GM meetings - how can a lame duck manager do well? It is one thing to say everything will be evaluated after the season. like with Dusty, at least there is some hope that if you do well, you will return, but Alderson has said, unequivically, Bochy will not be back. I think Black is setting himself up as a serious candidate by interviewing for the A's and Giant's jobs, so that he can be a front runner for the SD job, where he makes his home. Whether Alderson, er, Towers, returns the interest is another question.

The A's I think is leaning towards Hershiser, he was one of the guys they were talking with last year when Macha was gone on his one week sabbatical, though Washington wouldn't surprise me either. Geren would surprise me because his name hasn't really been out there, not like Washington's, best man at wedding or not.

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 26, 2006 11:13 AM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Good post.
btw-Jerome Williams is on the A's now.

by Todd Linden on Oct 26, 2006 12:05 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Thanks I was wondering about that. And Generalissimo Franco is still dead.

BTW, fix your swing and you'll be gold, baby, gold.

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 26, 2006 1:08 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

From sfgiants.com:

There will likely be a horde of younger players aboard in 2007, along with veterans Vizquel, Randy Winn, Shea Hillenbrand and Matt Morris. But there's a definite need for a left-handed power hitter and someone to become the next Giants superstar.

Again, is Shea Hillendbrand a done deal? Did we miss something?

Also, why does the "new" power bat have to be left-handed? Keep Barry for one more year, and trade Benitez for right-handed Burrell to play 1B. Sign Aurilia or Nomar for 3B. Or better yet, trade for A. Beltre. Hilly backs up the corners. Perhaps Zaun for C.

CF Winn
SS Vizquel
2B Durham
LF Bonds
1B Burrell
3B Nomar
C Zaun
RF Linden

Or maybe:

2B Soriano
SS Vizquel
1B Burrell
LF Bonds
3B Beltre
CF Winn
RF Linden
C Zaun

Either way, having cheap SP sure does help...

Humm Baby!

by Kid Fresh on Oct 26, 2006 11:54 AM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I thought Pete said no more superstars. T'aint that the new direction?

by Roger on Oct 26, 2006 2:38 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Pete is adapting the Tampa Bay Model.

Minimum payroll--with lots of bullshit about getting younger.

Hire a boring ass hasbeen manager who is about to get fired.

Have the Yankees in for 3 games.

The homerun hitting monkeyjerk/all-star coin-flip;

Collect revenue sharing tax and pocket the difference,

Suck your thumb, sulk because nobody kisses your ass anymore, take your ball and go hide in the corner.

by E Ticket on Oct 26, 2006 3:59 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Maybe this is a good sign. Not of manager quality, but of the chances of re-signing Bonds.

With Bochy sitting next to him in the dugout, no one could possibly complain about the size of Bonds's head any more.

by North Side Chicago Expatriate Giants Fan on Oct 26, 2006 4:07 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Thanks to Pants Man, I can now articulate my reaction to the prospect of hiring Bochy: it fills me with UTF.

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 4:38 PM PDT reply actions

UTF?

Aye.

For almost 3 years this organization has been the MLB equivilent of watching a tv test pattern while having a root canal.

by E Ticket on Oct 26, 2006 4:54 PM PDT up reply actions

Join Our Century

Ummm...E.

TV test patterns have been replaced by infomercials that engender fantastic growth in dead hair follicles and flaccid schlongs.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 11:55 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Join Our Century

Well, being afflicted by neither, I would not know those things. The only infomercials I've seen are the ones from Payphone Park

by E Ticket on Oct 27, 2006 9:17 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I understand he's not a fresh face and his head is big, but are there any arguments over his managerial style? I've always thought he was a pretty good manager. I mean, nothing spectacular but solid which is an improvement over what Felipe has brought to the table the last few years.

And I'm not a total Sabean-ite, but there is something to be said for the known quantity. Knowing you're getting a good solid manager that handles players well is important. Acta or Black might turn out to be great managers, or they might be good coaches who just couldn't handle the personalities over 6 months. It is nice to know what you're getting.

by mxmob33 on Oct 26, 2006 5:24 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Bochy is kind of a McDonald's of managers. You know what you're going to get; you're pretty unlikely to get food poisoning, and you're even less likely to get a memorable meal. If you're hungry, and there's nothing better for another 70 miles down the freeway, then maybe you pull in. It may not be entirely fair but that's my reaction to Bochy.

(Insert joke about supersizing his head here.)

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 6:11 PM PDT up reply actions

sounds about right

"Robb Nen is going to get you" - Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02

by Pants Man on Oct 26, 2006 6:22 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I have lots of vague memories of questioning Bochy's strategy over the years, but I pretty much question every manager's strategy on a regular basis. This is one of the reasons why I wasn't one of the more rabid Felipe-bashers here. I found myself thinking, "Why is Felipe doing that?" a lot last year, but in the same games I was looking in the other dugout and saying "Why is Bochy (or Little or Hurdle or whoever) doing that?" We'll second guess the hell out of Bochy here if he's hired, but (after a brief grace period, maybe) we would do the same to Black or Acta. And when all is said and done, all of my Acta love is based on one little interview. He may end up being one of the worst tactical managers in the game for all I know.

I doubt it will make much difference either way (managerial strategy is about 29th on my list of problems with the Giants right now), but someone younger and making his debut as a big league manager might have symbolized a shift in organizational thinking.

"Robb Nen is going to get you" - Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02

by Pants Man on Oct 26, 2006 6:21 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Excellent post, Pants.

I completely agree about the miniscule slice of the pie chart that manager's tactics mean in the larger scheme of things, but I have heard from San Deigo fans that Bochy is particuarly Dusty-like in this regard. I never thought Felipe was unusually strategically challenged.

Anyhow, what difference it all makes, probably little, is of small consequence. It is, as you point out, the symbolism of the move. The one tangible negative being that an equally effective manager (Acta, Wotus, etc..) could be had for a 1/3 of the cost.

PS Kruk and Kuipe LOOOOVEE this guy, so at least they'll be enthused at the outset of the season.

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace." - Jimi Hendrix

by GiantJim on Oct 27, 2006 8:34 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

"I doubt it will make much difference either way (managerial strategy is about 29th on my list of problems with the Giants right now), but someone younger and making his debut as a big league manager might have symbolized a shift in organizational thinking."

My only quibble with this is that I would move it from 29th to 41st. This team totally sucks balls.

by E Ticket on Oct 26, 2006 7:14 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

It's official. Bochy's the guy.

http://cbs5.com/topstories/local_story_299191054.html

by KCE on Oct 26, 2006 7:18 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I'm not happy.

Looks like I picked the wrong year to stop sniffing glue.

by Punch Rockgroin on Oct 26, 2006 7:31 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I'm completely indifferent, and I'm unhappy about my indifference.

by KCE on Oct 26, 2006 7:36 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Scratch my first post. This is how feel.

Looks like I picked the wrong year to stop sniffing glue.

by Punch Rockgroin on Oct 26, 2006 7:44 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I've got the KCE blues as well.

"Robb Nen is going to get you" - Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02

by Pants Man on Oct 26, 2006 8:19 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

This is a stupid, stupid franchise.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 9:50 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I saw this when it reported on CBS at around 6:45 or so, but I couldn't find anything at that time that would confirm it. I'd say it's probably the damn truth of the matter, even though it won't be official official until tomorrow.

Anyway, with this news I was wondering if anybody with photoshop (which I don't have) and with a little time (which I like to think I don't have) could take this picture:

and possibly make a mug pic out of it, with one of those prison number signs and the height marked off in the background? I think that could come in handy next year.

(Optional, not that this whole request isn't to begin with:) It's asking a bit much, too, but if discretion and skill dictate, then photoshopping a Giants cap on there and changing his jersey color a few shades creamier would probably complete the effect....

I would wait for his Giants picture, but this one just screams "mug shot" so much I don't think that it could possibly be worth the wait.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 26, 2006 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Looks more like Mario from the Nintendo Donkey Kong game, would have been a great hire for Seattle then.

by obsessivegiantscompulsive on Oct 27, 2006 3:53 AM PDT up reply actions

The 2007 San Francisco Giants

More of the same! Color me disappointed... not an inspiring start to the offseason.

LicensetoPills: they say this to my family. to barry bonds family. and i say, "i'll bust you up. here is a candy corn."

by jponry on Oct 26, 2006 7:38 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: The 2007 San Francisco Giants

I'm also disappointed. Not only does it implicitly demonstrate an intent to not move the organization in a new direction, but it also rubs me the wrong way because of this:

I would rather risk disaster on potential greatness than assure mediocrity anyday. This is the safest, most ballless move that this team could have made, and that, I think, says it all.

Coming to you by proxy

by howtheyscored on Oct 26, 2006 7:43 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: The 2007 San Francisco Giants

Mmmmmm...McDonald's again.

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 9:51 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Ugh. Typical Giants. Retread after retread.

by Aadik on Oct 26, 2006 7:42 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Mark Sweeney: "If they're looking for experience, I think Boch is that guy. The one thing it's going to do -- and it's good for our organization -- is if there are potential free agents looking for a manager to play for, Bochy's that guy. It would definitely benefit us in getting some free agents who might go elsewhere. I just think that goes a long way in deciding a team. It adds to it that you get a guy who has that credibility and experience."
____________

He agrees with the theory. Considering all the work that needs to be done in the free agent department in the next couple years, given the barren farm system, we're gonna need all the help we can get.

Bochy seems fine to me. All I ask out of a manager is that they don't screw everything up when the talent is there, and Bochy seems to have been a custodian of some good, successful teams.

by Stoned Slacker on Oct 26, 2006 8:18 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Sweeney may say that, but when has a big free agent ever signed with San Diego because Bochy was the manager?

LicensetoPills: they say this to my family. to barry bonds family. and i say, "i'll bust you up. here is a candy corn."

by jponry on Oct 26, 2006 8:23 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Why does it have to be a big free agent? Teams compete for lots of lesser players every year too.

by Stoned Slacker on Oct 26, 2006 8:26 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

Yeah, and when has San Diego made a $30M offer to a free agent and been rejected? The big players go where the big money is, and that ain't San Diego. Bochy isn't going to be some sort of magic free agent magnet, but I suppose he'll be a mild positive in a lot of cases if someone really needs a tiebreaker. Maybe. Or at least players won't avoid the Giants because of him. I guess. Actually, I just don't care. As you were...

"Robb Nen is going to get you" - Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02

by Pants Man on Oct 26, 2006 9:06 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I agree that free agents basically go where the money is... I just don't see how Bochy would attract free agents any better than Manny Acta or Bud Black or Ron Wotus.

LicensetoPills: they say this to my family. to barry bonds family. and i say, "i'll bust you up. here is a candy corn."

by jponry on Oct 26, 2006 9:14 PM PDT up reply actions

Bochy is in fact the New Manager!

FUCK YOU MAGOWAN

Meddling little souvenier freak

by E Ticket on Oct 26, 2006 8:22 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy is in fact the New Manager!

A-men!

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 9:57 PM PDT up reply actions

A-Team.

Okay, not.

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 11:58 PM PDT up reply actions

He's been hired

It's on the San Jose Mercury News site now, too.

by Dan from NM on Oct 26, 2006 8:37 PM PDT reply actions

Re: He's been hired

I'm sure this sentence won't be in the Merc article for long, but for now...

"He is the franchise's all-time leader in victories, defeats and losses by a manager."

Love that.

"Robb Nen is going to get you" - Benito Santiago to Chipper Jones, 10/7/02

by Pants Man on Oct 26, 2006 9:13 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: He's been hired

They neglected to mention he leads the franchise in wins, also.

"The first point is whether my brain is still operating...I'll figure that out after the season." - Felipe Alou

by EliminateMe on Oct 26, 2006 9:52 PM PDT up reply actions

The true test of great management

How many ties?

by Moggeee on Oct 26, 2006 11:59 PM PDT up reply actions

Re: The true test of great management

What kind of a weirdo wears a tie with a baseball uniform? That's a weird thing to do and you're a weird person for asking about it.

I've grown up a lot since before dinner, when we last talked.

by groug on Oct 27, 2006 12:32 AM PDT up reply actions

Re: The true test of great management

Damn. Outed.

by Moggeee on Oct 27, 2006 1:03 AM PDT up reply actions

Torper,

thy name be is San Francisco Giants. Had I come to expect anything other than this EXACT KIND OF MOVE by this frightened-old-person-not-wanting-anything-about-their-crappy-way-of-life-to-change kind of a team, I might be slightly dissapointed.

by stress on Oct 26, 2006 9:19 PM PDT reply actions

Re: Bochy new manager?

I hope it is true and we can get on to more interesting topics. I've no doubt Bochy will be a quality manager for the Giants, but how about some talent on the field, Brian? This World Series sucks, so can we get on to the real business of putting together a team?

yob

by Sayhey on Oct 26, 2006 9:25 PM PDT reply actions

Why him?

all the talk about change of direction and then wind up with this guy? Please tell me the winter gets better from here on out. I would tend to think the fans who would want Bonds to re-sign would look favorable at this hire because I just do not seen all the talk about changing direction for the club

by wilriv21 on Oct 26, 2006 9:34 PM PDT reply actions

Bochy new manager?

Not to drum the same tone as everyone else, but this news just ruined my weekend.

As others have noted, what new direction? How is Bruce Bochy a change on any level? The morons running this franchise are just too fucking afraid to take a chance...and ironically...this fear has perpetuated itself in a series of stupid moves (like signing both Alous instead of, oh say, Carlos Beltran) and inertia (like holding Schmidt for two years when he had trade value).

BRUCE BOCHY? The sight of him on our bench, when we could have had some newness (Black or Acta or Girardi), something to spark us, something to spark the franchise? Not happy about this.

by Kent @ McCovey Chronicles on Oct 26, 2006 9:56 PM PDT reply actions