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Post by Blunashun on Nov 1, 2020 1:31:19 GMT
Red Sox, Alex Cora Have Been In Contact
Posted: 30 Oct 2020 06:52 PM PDT
A reunion between the Red Sox and Alex Cora may be in the offing. After a year away from the team because of a suspension, their former manager is a candidate to return in the same role. The Red Sox have been in contact with Cora, Alex Speier of the Boston Globe reports.
The Red Sox have already interviewed seven other candidates, as shown on MLBTR’s Managerial Search Tracker. Pirates bench coach Don Kelly and Yankees bench coach Carlos Mendoza have received second interviews, according to Speier, who adds that Cubs third base coach Will Venable and Twins bench coach Mike Bell are no longer under consideration. Diamondbacks bench coach Luis Urueta is also out of the mix, Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com tweets. Among known candidates, that leaves Cora up against Kelly, Mendoza, Marlins bench coach James Rowson and Padres associate manager Skip Schumaker. However, Speier writes that there are other names under consideration.
No one from the Kelly-Mendoza-Rowson-Schumaker group has managed in the majors, so they certainly can’t match Cora’s accomplishments in the role. Cora managed the Red Sox to a 192-132 record from 2018-19, guiding the team to a World Series in the first of those seasons. But the Red Sox parted with Cora last offseason after Major League Baseball suspended him for a year because of the Astros’ 2017 sign-stealing scandal. Cora was the Astros’ bench coach that season.
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 1, 2020 1:32:09 GMT
Manfred is a bad joke.
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 5, 2020 0:13:55 GMT
Dodgers' Cody Bellinger to star in new Assassin's Creed video game
Cody stars as Otta Sluggasson
By Gabriel Fernandez
1 hr ago
1 min read
Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder, and recent World Series Champion, Cody Bellinger will appear in the new Assasin's Creed Valhalla video game as a character named Otta Sluggasson. This isn't just a mere one-off cameo like when famous celebrities would appear in a single shot of a Game of Thrones episode. No, Bellinger is getting involved in the character's motion capture, voice acting and face modeling as well.
Per Ubisoft North America's description of the character, Sluggasson is "a Dane with a knack for hitting rocks very very far." You can catch a look at the process of creating the character down below. Perhaps the funniest part of the video is realizing that the game developers have really leaned into Bellinger's character being associated with baseball.
"I love video games, so when I heard I had the opportunity to be a character in a big video game, I was excited, I really was," Bellinger told ESPN about his appearance in the game. "I'm kind of a video game nerd. My brother and I played Assassin's Creed back in the day and used to love it. The graphics are so realistic. It's a game that will take up a lot of your time."
Bellinger notes that you can find the character in the game's story mode and he even presents the player with an actually challenge to advance in the game. No word on what that specific challenge is, but as long as it's not to hit a home run while Bellinger is in the outfield, it won't cause players too much issue.
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 5, 2020 0:23:56 GMT
MLB's top 10 offseason trade candidates: Francisco Lindor, Kris Bryant among big names; will Rays move Snell? Here are the top 10 players who could be on the move this offseason By Mike Axisa 6 hrs ago 8 min read The 2020-21 offseason is one week old and, well, nothing's happened. That isn't surprising though. The MLB offseason, much like the regular season (in non-pandemic times), is a marathon rather than a sprint. The top free agents typically don't sign until a few weeks into the winter, and the trade market can be slow to develop when so many free agents are still on the board. This is not a great free agent class (here are R.J. Anderson's top 60 free agent rankings) and, because of that, teams could venture out into the trade market to address their needs. Also, with payrolls set to come down, teams may be more willing to trade prospects for a cheap controllable big leaguer rather than sign a free agent for nothing but cash. Moreso than maybe any other offseason in history, money will be a deciding factor in many deals. Now here are this offseason's top 10 trade candidates, ranked in order of likelihood to be traded and the sheer volume of rumors we expected to hear about each player between now and spring training. Francisco Lindor CLEVELAND INDIANS SS Contract status: Free agent after 2021 (projected $19.0 million salary in 2021) It is hard decision time for Cleveland. To be fair, they've had no trouble making hard decisions in the recent past (see: Trevor Bauer, Mike Clevinger, and Corey Kluber), but Francisco Lindor is a special kind of hard decision. Realistically, Cleveland has three options with its franchise player: Trade him now for the maximum possible return. Trade him at the deadline for a lesser return (like the Orioles did with Manny Machado). Keep him next year and take the compensation draft pick when he leaves as a free agent. The first option would almost be like waving the white flag on 2021, though the Bauer and Clevinger trades show Cleveland is deft enough to trade away an impact player and remain in the race. The second option carries risk because Lindor could get hurt and see his trade value crater. The third option is almost a non-option. Cleveland can't let Lindor leave and only get a dinky draft pick in return. They just can't. Cleveland resisted trading Lindor the last few years and that was understandable. They can't kick the can down the road much further though. The clock is ticking. Possible suitors: Angels, Phillies, Yankees Josh Hader MILWAUKEE BREWERS RP Contract status: Free agent after 2023 (projected $5.1 million salary in 2021) As good as he's been -- and he's been great -- Josh Hader has been a little worse with each passing season in his career. It is no secret the Brewers listened to trade offers last offseason and the same will undoubtedly be true this offseason, now that Hader is a year closer to free agency and getting more expensive through arbitration. The fact no team claimed Brad Hand and his $10 million club option last week doesn't bode well for Hader's trade value in this market -- why trade prospects for Hader when Hand was available for just cash? -- but I'm certain teams will have interest. Possible suitors: Angels, Braves, Dodgers, Phillies, Yankees (most contenders, really) www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mlbs-top-10-offseason-trade-candidates-francisco-lindor-kris-bryant-among-big-names-will-rays-move-snell/ |
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 5, 2020 16:08:33 GMT
MLB and MLBPA nearing resolution on Justin Turner after COVID-19 protocol violation, per report
Turner may be disciplined for going back onto the field to celebrate the World Series
By Mike Axisa
13 hrs ago
2 min read
When the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the 2020 World Series championship last week, the on-field celebration was marred by Justin Turner. Turner was removed from the Game 6 clincher after testing positive for COVID-19, yet he returned to the field for the celebration, and was photographed maskless and in close proximity with teammates at times.
The collectively bargained COVID-19 protocols forbid players from leaving the isolation area following a positive test, a protocol Turner broke, prompting commissioner Manfred to release a strongly worded statement the following day:
Immediately upon receiving notice from the laboratory of a positive test, protocols were triggered, leading to the removal of Justin Turner from last night's game. Turner was placed into isolation for the safety of those around him.
However, following the Dodgers' victory, it is clear that Turner chose to disregard the agreed-upon joint protocols and the instructions he was given regarding the safety and protection of others.
While a desire to celebrate is understandable, Turner's decision to leave isolation and enter the field was wrong and put everyone he came in contact with at risk. When MLB Security raised the matter of being on the field with Turner, he emphatically refused to comply.
The Commissioner's Office is beginning a full investigation into this matter and will consult with the Players Association within the parameters of the joint 2020 Operations Manual.
MLB and the MLBPA are close to a resolution on Turner, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal. It's unclear whether he will be disciplined, but, as Rosenthal notes, there are several questions that have to be answered. How did Turner become infected? Was he showing symptoms (he says no)? Did Turner infect anyone else? So on and so forth.
No player has been formally disciplined for breaking the league's COVID-19 protocols, however Cleveland did place Mike Clevinger and Zach Plesac on the restricted list and later demote them to the alternate site after they went out while the team was in Chicago. That came after the two were reportedly chewed out by teammates during a team meeting.
Turner would not be disciplined for contracting COVID-19, of course. He would be disciplined for breaking protocol and going back out onto the field. It's not just his teammates he could've infected. There were family members and camera people and employees handing out championship hats and shirts on the field, among others. They were all at risk as well.
There is no known timetable for MLB and the MLBPA to reach a resolution on Turner. Turner, 36 later this month, became a free agent following the World Series. Our R.J. Anderson ranked him the No. 7 player in the free agent class.
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jrgreene6
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Post by jrgreene6 on Nov 6, 2020 5:22:17 GMT
Mookie wins his fourth Silver Slugger. Frankenberry’s favourite award. There is joy in Long Island!
GO DODGERS!!!
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jrgreene6
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Post by jrgreene6 on Nov 6, 2020 22:38:01 GMT
A big mea culpa from JT and statements from both Manturd and Dodgers ownership / management and the Covid incident is, as expected, much ado about nothing.
Turner still not sick or showing symptoms and nothing being reported by anyone else on the field (and you KNOW that they’d be jumping behind a mic faster than you can say “plandemic”).
Can’t wait to see “the plan”!
GO DODGERS!!!
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 7, 2020 12:05:04 GMT
Dodgers' Turner won't be punished for World Series celebration
Jason Wilson 15 hrs ago
Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner won't be punished after Major League Baseball concluded its investigation into the 35-year-old's actions following Game 6 of the World Series.
No penalties were levied at Turner for breaking coronavirus protocols when he entered the field during the Dodgers' celebration of winning their first championship since 1988 despite a positive COVID-19 test received during the game.
"I sincerely apologize to everyone on the field for failing to appreciate the risks of returning to the field," Turner said in a joint statement with the Dodgers and MLB. "I have spoken with almost every teammate, coach, and staff member, and my intentions were never to make anyone uncomfortable or put anyone at further risk."
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred pointed out there were additional factors leading to Turner's breach. The longtime Dodger was under the impression he had permission from team employees to go onto the field, believed other players tested positive alongside him, and was encouraged by teammates to participate.
"Major League Baseball could have handled the situation more effectively," Manfred said. "For example, in retrospect, a security person should have been assigned to monitor Mr. Turner when he was asked to isolate, and Mr. Turner should have been transported from the stadium to the hotel more promptly."
Manfred added that with the difficulty of completing a season during the pandemic, everyone made mistakes along the way.
"With this in mind, I am closing this matter by applauding Justin for accepting responsibility, apologizing and making a commitment to set a positive example going forward."
Turner's contract with the Dodgers expired after the season, making him a free agent.
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20DodgerMiracle24
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Post by 20DodgerMiracle24 on Nov 7, 2020 15:54:53 GMT
Dodgers' Turner won't be punished for World Series celebration Jason Wilson 15 hrs ago Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner won't be punished after Major League Baseball concluded its investigation into the 35-year-old's actions following Game 6 of the World Series. No penalties were levied at Turner for breaking coronavirus protocols when he entered the field during the Dodgers' celebration of winning their first championship since 1988 despite a positive COVID-19 test received during the game. "I sincerely apologize to everyone on the field for failing to appreciate the risks of returning to the field," Turner said in a joint statement with the Dodgers and MLB. "I have spoken with almost every teammate, coach, and staff member, and my intentions were never to make anyone uncomfortable or put anyone at further risk." MLB commissioner Rob Manfred pointed out there were additional factors leading to Turner's breach. The longtime Dodger was under the impression he had permission from team employees to go onto the field, believed other players tested positive alongside him, and was encouraged by teammates to participate. "Major League Baseball could have handled the situation more effectively," Manfred said. "For example, in retrospect, a security person should have been assigned to monitor Mr. Turner when he was asked to isolate, and Mr. Turner should have been transported from the stadium to the hotel more promptly." Manfred added that with the difficulty of completing a season during the pandemic, everyone made mistakes along the way. "With this in mind, I am closing this matter by applauding Justin for accepting responsibility, apologizing and making a commitment to set a positive example going forward." Turner's contract with the Dodgers expired after the season, making him a free agent. Honestly! Why is this even an issue? With Julio Urias' K looking on Willy Adames, the season officially ended right there. And I don't know if it's just not being reported or what, but I haven't heard of any other Dodger players catching it, or Turner's status either. |
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Post by jrgreene6 on Nov 7, 2020 22:01:47 GMT
It was reported today that five people in the Dodgers organization have tested positive however, NONE of them were in the “bubble” or on the field at the time of the winning celebration.
I’m with you, 78. The minute that last strike went down the middle of the plate, the season and all of its ridiculous rules and protocols officially ended.
Turner knew it. Manturd knew it. And MLB baseball knew it. Any fines and / or suspension would have very likely been appealed by Turner and the players union and the end result would have favoured JT.
GO DODGERS!!!
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20DodgerMiracle24
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Post by 20DodgerMiracle24 on Nov 8, 2020 0:18:39 GMT
Dodgers' Turner won't be punished for World Series celebration Jason Wilson 15 hrs ago Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner won't be punished after Major League Baseball concluded its investigation into the 35-year-old's actions following Game 6 of the World Series. No penalties were levied at Turner for breaking coronavirus protocols when he entered the field during the Dodgers' celebration of winning their first championship since 1988 despite a positive COVID-19 test received during the game. "I sincerely apologize to everyone on the field for failing to appreciate the risks of returning to the field," Turner said in a joint statement with the Dodgers and MLB. "I have spoken with almost every teammate, coach, and staff member, and my intentions were never to make anyone uncomfortable or put anyone at further risk." MLB commissioner Rob Manfred pointed out there were additional factors leading to Turner's breach. The longtime Dodger was under the impression he had permission from team employees to go onto the field, believed other players tested positive alongside him, and was encouraged by teammates to participate. "Major League Baseball could have handled the situation more effectively," Manfred said. "For example, in retrospect, a security person should have been assigned to monitor Mr. Turner when he was asked to isolate, and Mr. Turner should have been transported from the stadium to the hotel more promptly." Manfred added that with the difficulty of completing a season during the pandemic, everyone made mistakes along the way. "With this in mind, I am closing this matter by applauding Justin for accepting responsibility, apologizing and making a commitment to set a positive example going forward."
Turner's contract with the Dodgers expired after the season, making him a free agent.And rightly so, he's certainly slowed down the last couple years. And just like Ron Cey, his time has come and youth must be served. Kody Hoese, our #3 prospect, is at least another year, and on the team website, Ken Gurnick predicts Edwin Rios will be at the hot corner. He's above average fielding and he's proven he can hit MLB pitching. |
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Post by truedodger on Nov 9, 2020 4:40:56 GMT
It was reported today that five people in the Dodgers organization have tested positive however, NONE of them were in the “bubble” or on the field at the time of the winning celebration. I’m with you, 78. The minute that last strike went down the middle of the plate, the season and all of its ridiculous rules and protocols officially ended. Turner knew it. Manturd knew it. And MLB baseball knew it. Any fines and / or suspension would have very likely been appealed by Turner and the players union and the end result would have favoured JT. GO DODGERS!!! Glad MLB took some responsibility and didn't discipline this guy. That was the right thing to do . |
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Post by truedodger on Nov 9, 2020 4:45:35 GMT
Dodgers' Turner won't be punished for World Series celebration Jason Wilson 15 hrs ago Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner won't be punished after Major League Baseball concluded its investigation into the 35-year-old's actions following Game 6 of the World Series. No penalties were levied at Turner for breaking coronavirus protocols when he entered the field during the Dodgers' celebration of winning their first championship since 1988 despite a positive COVID-19 test received during the game. "I sincerely apologize to everyone on the field for failing to appreciate the risks of returning to the field," Turner said in a joint statement with the Dodgers and MLB. "I have spoken with almost every teammate, coach, and staff member, and my intentions were never to make anyone uncomfortable or put anyone at further risk." MLB commissioner Rob Manfred pointed out there were additional factors leading to Turner's breach. The longtime Dodger was under the impression he had permission from team employees to go onto the field, believed other players tested positive alongside him, and was encouraged by teammates to participate. "Major League Baseball could have handled the situation more effectively," Manfred said. "For example, in retrospect, a security person should have been assigned to monitor Mr. Turner when he was asked to isolate, and Mr. Turner should have been transported from the stadium to the hotel more promptly." Manfred added that with the difficulty of completing a season during the pandemic, everyone made mistakes along the way. "With this in mind, I am closing this matter by applauding Justin for accepting responsibility, apologizing and making a commitment to set a positive example going forward."
Turner's contract with the Dodgers expired after the season, making him a free agent.And rightly so, he's certainly slowed down the last couple years. And just like Ron Cey, his time has come and youth must be served. Kody Hoese, our #3 prospect, is at least another year, and on the team website, Ken Gurnick predicts Edwin Rios will be at the hot corner. He's above average fielding and he's proven he can hit MLB pitching. If Hoese makes it it's at least a couple years away, 2023. We have so many options under contract that can play 1st, Muncy, Rios, Beaty, Bellinger obviously the best and possibly Turner and Seager. Muncy due to options is expendable to me. The question is who can play 3rd besides Turner adequately going into next season. Possibly Seager, maybe Rios, Muncy not so much. |
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20DodgerMiracle24
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Post by 20DodgerMiracle24 on Nov 9, 2020 5:18:22 GMT
And rightly so, he's certainly slowed down the last couple years. And just like Ron Cey, his time has come and youth must be served. Kody Hoese, our #3 prospect, is at least another year, and on the team website, Ken Gurnick predicts Edwin Rios will be at the hot corner. He's above average fielding and he's proven he can hit MLB pitching. If Hoese makes it it's at least a couple years away, 2023. We have so many options under contract that can play 1st, Muncy, Rios, Beaty, Bellinger obviously the best and possibly Turner and Seager. Muncy due to options is expendable to me. The question is who can play 3rd besides Turner adequately going into next season. Possibly Seager, maybe Rios, Muncy not so much. I"ve heard thru the past couple years that Seagar would be moved to 3rd and Gavin Lux would start at SS. Lux's status is up in the air as management aren't sure about him hitting MLB pitching. We'll see in March, or at least I will when I drive 41 minutes to Glendale. |
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Post by Blunashun on Nov 11, 2020 18:00:35 GMT
Dave Roberts: Dodgers, MLB could have handled Justin Turner's COVID-19 case 'differently and done better'
Roberts maintains he was happy Turner got to celebrate
By Gabriel Fernandez
Nov 10, 2020 at 12:45 pm ET
1 min read
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts gave an interview with local station KTLA Monday to talk about his team winning the World Series. It was a conversation that naturally included the hullabaloo surrounding Justin Turner's positive coronavirus test that arrived mid-game.
Roberts told the station that everyone "could've all done things differently and done better" with regards to handling that entire situation. Turner's COVID-19 test came back positive in the middle of the decisive Game 6 where Los Angeles eventually clinched the championship. The league asked the third baseman to begin self isolating immediately, meaning that he had to be pulled in the seventh inning.
But the isolation didn't last long as Turner was then seen celebrating on the field with his teammates -- at times without a face mask on -- and the World Series trophy. Ultimately, the league chose not to punish the third baseman -- a decision that was made on Friday -- but there was still heavy criticism sent the way of the team, the player and the league for how that situation went down.
"This is new to all of us," Roberts told the station. "So, I think emotions got the best of all of us."
It's not as though Roberts has entirely gotten over some of those emotions, as he stated that he was still happy Turner was able to join in on the celebrations. The manager did agree with the league's sentiment that more should have been done to prevent Turner from exposing others to the respiratory disease he had contracted.
"I'm a cancer survivor," Roberts said. "I sat next to him. And, so, I don't apologize for that. The main thing is Justin is healthy and we're moving past it. We can really celebrate the thing that we won, and that's a championship with the Dodgers."
Ten days after winning the World Series, the Dodgers reportedly had a five-person outbreak of COVID-19 within the organization.
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