The Return of the Big Red.......

[Lual]

This might be off topic Lual but I will pray for the people in London

:wtg: Quality mate - much appreciated :)

[Spivey11]

Looks like you had a mighty good off-season. Let's hope it carries over....

[RaptorQuiz]

hey there all - I was just making myself a signature graphic (like Spivey11, etc) and was trying to add it to my signature. However, when I put in the HTML code (img tag) in my sig and save it, it doesn't stay there. Anyone who could help me - that'd be appreciated.

Sorry for the off-topic post, lual, but this is really the only thread I frequent. Take that as a compliment. :hail:

[Spivey11]

Here's what you do: if that's what you are doing, then you might want to check it's size: the sig limit of this forum is 475x125.

[go_bucs2000]

year 2 the reds will go from last to first we will watch it happen good luck in the off season and are you going to play any of the mini games?

[Lual]

Reds Grab A Couple, Lose A Couple!

(Above: What could of been...! The Reds 'Chase for an Ace' will continue)

The Reds chase for a new 'Ace' took a major blow this week, as 2 of their targets took offers from elsewhere.

Firstly Joe Kennedy (ex-Rockies) had been considering a 3yr $4,500,000 offer from the Reds. That was until the Dodgers came calling and blasted the Reds out of the market, with their own 3r $8,600,000 deal.

Kennedy would of been a major coup for the Reds, alas he will now ply his trade in Los Angeles.

Secondly, the Reds also missed out on 14 game winner and ex-Cardinal, Jason Marquis. Marquis was looking at 2yr $3,500,000 deal from the Reds, but eventually signed with the Nationals for 2yr at $4,600,000.

This leaves the Reds in a tricky situation, and they may end up without signing a significant pitcher this off-season.

(Above: 'New Boys' - Molina and Hill will link up with their new team in Spring Training)

The Reds manage to ink 2 new players to fill roster spots that had been left open due to players leaving the organisation.

Catcher Jose Molina signs a 1 year deal with the Reds @ $700,000, and will fill in for LaRue, whilst platooning the Catchers spot with Josh Willingham.

Also joining the new look Reds is 2B Bobby Hill. Bobby had an impressive year for the Pirates, hitting over .300, and earning a reputation as a good utility player. Hill has signed a 2yr $700,000 deal with the Reds, and will share time at both 2B and 3B.

[Lual]

Pitcher Signs, And Giants Spend Big!

(Above: Ho-Ho-Ho New Giant)

The San Francisco Giants picked off the biggest off-season signing, by inking Larry Walker for 2 years at $12,300,000. The 39 year old, will give the Giants yet another veteran outfielder and with Bonds in the lineup, expect this team to put up some big numbers.

(Above: Alfonseca is a major signing for the Reds Bullpen)

The Reds finally inked a new 'Big League' picther, but its not the Starter that they crave. However the signing of Antonio Alfonseca will give the Reds a huge upgrade in their Bullpen, and its likely that he will be given the closers role.

Alfonseca is excited about signing for the Reds and is quoted as saying "When i knew the Reds wanted me, i made sure my agent quickly sorted out a deal. This is a huge ballclub, with a great history, and i want to be part of the new history that we can create"

Alfonseca has signed a 1yr deal, earning $2,000,000.

[Lual]

Reds Get Their Ace, & Round Up!

(Above: Zambrano is a massive signing for the Reds, Right: Clayton will offer invaluable experience)

The Reds finally end their 'Chase for an Ace' by inking Carlos Zambrano after a late flurry of activity.

After missing out on both Kennedy and Marquis, the Reds needed to force their hand and make sure that Zambrano signed. Foruntately, after staving off competition from a few AL teams, Zambrano finally inked his deal with the Reds, on the following terms:

Initial 3yrs @ $6,500,000.

Automatic $1,500,000 extra, renewal after 1st year.

Bonus $1,000,000 if the Reds make the playoffs.

The Reds will hope Zambrano can become the big punch they need at the head of their rotation.

Comments:

Zambrano "Its great to be here, this organisation wants to go places, and that fits in with how i want my career to develop. Everyone knows that Cincinnati is a baseball city, we just need to give the fans the success they deserve.

O'Brien (GM) "I said we would make a deal, and we did. I must admit the nerves where jangling after we lost out on Kennedy and Marquis, but it was worth the extra millions to ink Carlos. He is a true quality pitcher, and is an exciting signing for this club.

Alongside Zambrano (and almost un-noticed) the Reds also announced that Veteran SS Royce Clayton has signed a 1 year deal worth $1,000,000. This signing will give the Reds an experienced head in their clubhouse, lost when both Aurilia and Randa left the club.

MLB Notable Free Agency Moves:

In no particular order, here is a few of the more notable moves in this years Free Agency:

SP - N.Lowry	  TEXAS


RP - D.Graves	 TEXAS


3B - J.Randa	  BALTIMORE


2B - D.Jimenez	BOSTON


SP - K.Lohse	  CHICAGO WS


CF - M.Grissom	CHICAGO WS


LF - L.Bigbie	 CHICAGO WS


SP - B.Backe	  CLEVELAND


LF - J.Mabry	  CLEVELAND


RF - R.Mondesi	CLEVELAND


CF - J.Gathwright DETROIT


SP - J.Washburn   KANSAS CITY


CF - R.Baldelli   KANSAS CITY


SP - S.Trachsel   KANSAS CITY


SP - G.Chacin	 KANSAS CITY


2B - M.Loretta	MILWAUKEE


SP - Z.Day		MINNESOTA


LF - M.Holliday   NEW YORK YANKEES


SP - T.Wakefield  OAKLAND


LF - K.Mench	  OAKLAND


LF - R.Winn	   OAKLAND


SP - D.Cabrera	PITTSBURGH

[Expos4Ever]

looking good

[Expos4Ever]

How about listing your lineup?

[Lual]

Reds Finish Up With A Trade!

(Above: Julio and Parrish will don the Reds Uni's next year)

The Cincinnati Reds and Baltimore Orioles complete a 4 player trade as the Reds add 2 more to their Bullpen.

Both Jorge Julio and John Parrish will join up with the Reds, as Kent Mercker and Prospect Brett Evert will move to the Orioles.

The Reds will be happy with this move, as John Parrish will give them some vital experience in Long Relief, whilst the volatile Julio should offer alot of gas, and assuming he improves his control, this could be a decent move.

Evert will be a loss to the Reds, as the 25y/o has all the potential to become a Major League Starter, but the Reds need is for now, and with the talent they have in the Minor League system, this is one move they could afford to do.

Cincinnati will take on an extra $2,000,000 on their payroll, and have announced that they are pretty much at their budget for 2006.

[basballfanatik9]

Wow, nice job on getting Zambrano and Alfonseca. They both should help your pitching.

[cubsfaninfla]

Holy ****! Why did the Cubs release Z?

[Lual]

Cincinnati Reds Spring Training:

Roster & Lineups:

Batting Order:

2B - Ryan Freel

SS - Felipe Lopez

CF - Ken Griffey Jr.

RF - Willy Mo Pena

LF - Adam Dunn

1B - Sean Casey

C - Jose Molina

3B - Edwin Encarnacion

P - Pitcher

Notes:

Griffey will DH in Inter-League play. Logan will take on CF, and bat 8th.

Against LHP - Hill may start at 2B & Willingham will start as Catcher.

Bench:

SS - Royce Clayton

1B - Casey Kotchman

2B - Bobby Hill

CF - Nook Logan

C- Josh Willingham

Pitching Rotation:

SP - Carlos Zambrano

SP - Eric Milton

SP - Brandon Claussen

SP - Aaron Harang

SP - Juan Dominguez

Bullpen:

LRP - Luke Hudson

LRP - John Parrish

MRP - Yhency Brazoban

MRP - Esteban Yan

MRP - Jorge Julio

SU - Ugueth Urbina

CP - Antonio Alfonseca

[cubsfaninfla]

So what's happening in SRQ (Sarasota)?

[Lual]

Cincinnati Reds Spring Training Breakdown:

Note: All games managed.

Results:

3-6 Phillies

6-5 Pirates

6-3 Mets

6-2 Twins

6-2 Orioles

1-6 Astros

4-3 Dodgers

13-0 DevilRays

1-2 Tigers

0-1 Braves

4-2 Indians

6-5 Phillies

1-4 Marlins

6-0 Yankees

10-1 Pirates

10-2 Orioles

2-1 Nationals

4-2 Red Sox

4-8 DevilRays

3-4 Marlins

6-5 Blue Jays

3-4 Cardinals

Final Record: 14-8

Spring Training Numbers:

[Lual]

So what's happening in SRQ (Sarasota)?

I maily managed through Spring Training, as id rather see how my players perform in those circumstances.

I did jump in to pitch a few with CZ and some others. As well as take a few ABs, but in the main, it was a managed set of games, bringing me closer to starting the 'real thing'.

and on the topic of CZ, i couldnt believe the Cubs let him test FA, my luck was in, as i had moved for Kennedy and Marquis first, as they where cheaper options.

cheers mate

[vinnycast27]

look good as ever mate, keep it up.

i can't see you losing more games this year as you last. what's the realistic goal this up coming year?

maintain a winning season, a +500 record?

or perhaps a wildcard place?

your pen looks a lot better after your trades and with grifey/dunn/pena applying the power you will DEFINATELY beat last years record

go reds! :wtg:

[Stix]

Zambrano and Harang looked pretty good through spring training. Let's hope they can keep that up in tiny GABP. :wtg:

[Spivey11]

Pretty good spring training my friend, and some very nice off-season acquisitions. I can't wait until you start off the regular season mate!

[Stix]

I can't wait until you start off the regular season mate!

OH NO! SPIVEY IS AQUIRING LUAL'S BRITISH ACCENT!!!! :eek:

lol. Just messing with you mates. :lmao:

[Lual]

Cincinnati Reds Roster Breakdown 2006:

Positional Players:

LF - Adam Dunn

Adam Dunn is coming off a solid 38HR 101RBI season, and will be looking to add further to his reputation as a power hitting leftie. Dunn is currently has 2 years left on his $6,500,000 deal, and is reportedly having that increased to $8,000,000 if the Reds fail to make the playoffs this term.

2005 Stats: .257Avg 38HR 101RBI

CF - Ken Griffey Jr

Griffey is currently chasing 600 homeruns, and his 37 dingers last term helped him greatly in that chase. However, he is now 36 and is coming to the end of a glorious career without a World Series Ring. He will hope that he can help this years Reds, achieve success.

2005 Stats: .247Avg 37HR 120RBI

CF - Nook Logan

Pacey Nook proved to be a crucial pinch hitting / running bench player. His ability to get on base will give the Reds alot of momentum late in games. Nook will hope to match his .348Avg and improve his 3HR tally.

2005 Stats: .348Avg 3HR 16RBI

RF - Willy Mo Pena

An awesome 2005 for Pena, who has become one of the stars of the new MLB generation. Pena hit 41HR, batting .293 as he forced Kearns out of Cincinnati and made himself the Reds permanent RF. Willy is the key to the Reds hopes this year.

2005 Stats: .293Avg 41HR 104RBI

SS - Felipe Lopez

Lopez earned another year in Cincinnati after a disappointing season in 2005. Many feel his age, and speed kept him at the ballclub, but few will feel he can improve. Felipe will need to show more patience at the plate to fend off Royce Clayton at SS.

2005 Stats: .257Avg 3HR 44RBI

SS - Royce Clayton

Royce is a new player for the Reds and will fit in nicely as he gives the clubhouse a veteran face. He is likely to start as a bench player, but will easily fill Lopez' boots, if the latter fails to deliver.

2005 Stats:

2B - Bobby Hill

New boy Bobby Hill is being touted as a future star, as the Reds feel they have captured a real talent on the cheap. Hill may have to start on the bench, but his ability to play at either 2B or 3B will see him get alot of playing time.

2005 Stats:

2B - Ryan Freel

A real surprise for the Reds, was that Ryan Freel put up career numbers making the 2B role his own. Ryan hit .343 and led the NL in Stolen Bags with 49. He will rightfully start as the 2B for the Reds, as well as leading off the order.

2005 Stats: .343Avg 2HR 42RBI

3B - Edwin Encarnacion

This youngster made the 3B role his own, after Joe Randa missed a large chunk of the season with an injury. He proved his worth at the plate by hitting .296, but was a little disappointing with regards to his run production. This is a key year for Edwin to prove he is the Reds 3B for a long time to come.

2005 Stats: .296Avg 1HR 22RBI

1B - Sean Casey

Sean rallied in the 2nd half, and put up some expected numbers as he ended up with 12HR and 42RBI. The Reds will need Casey to be more consistent, and with his contract up at the end of the season, he will be playing for more than just pride.

2005 Stats: .262Avg 12HR 42RBI

1B - Casey Kotchman

Casey rarely got a chance last year after his move from Anaheim, but he is a talent in the waiting. His development should come along this year, and he will hope to play a bigger role for the Reds in 2006.

2005 Stats: .200Avg 0HR 1RBI

C - Jose Molina

New boy Jose is a cheap yet quality option for the Reds, who will platoon their Catchers this year. Jose should offer alot of experience to Josh, and is expected to help nurture the future Reds star to success. Though dont expect Jose to sit down and let his career dwindle, he has enough about his game to really perform and have big numbers this year.

2005 Stats:

C - Josh Willingham

Josh is highly regarded in the Reds Organisation, and will get alot more chances as a starter this term. His attitude has been questionable at times, but this shows his eagerness to play and perform for the Reds. Molina will be a good stable mate for Josh to learn from.

2005 Stats: .298Avg 1HR 17RBI

[APR]

I think you're gonna finish your second year before I get to the All-Star Break of my first year. :wall: :wall: :lmao:

[Lual]

Cincinnati Red Roster Breakdown 2006 (Part II):

Pitching Staff:

SP - Carlos Zambrano

The real deal, this signing has all Reds fans excited about 2006. The Reds promised an Ace to lead their staff, and with Zambrano they get one of the most exciting young pitchers in todays game. The Reds will expect alot from Carlos, and they should get that and a whole lot more.

SP - Juan Dominguez

The Reds dont really have a solid 5th starter, so Juan has been given another chance to prove himself in the role. His performances coming from the Pen late last year, impressed the team enough to go out and re-sign him for another year.

2005 Stats: 1-4(W/L) 3.81ERA 39K

SP - Eric Milton

Eric was pretty inconsistent last year, and really needs to make sure he is a reliable arm for the Reds. His record shows it all, 15-14 and an ERA over 5, leaves him alot to improve on. With Zambrano taking the limelight, it may leave Milton the chance to blossom without the pressure of being an Ace.

2005 Stats: 15-14(W/L) 5.81ERA 98K

SP - Aaron Harang

Aaron signed a new deal for the Reds and will now hope for a injury free year, to prove his critics wrong. If Harang can get things going early, then the Reds could see him mature into a All-Star pitcher in the years to come.

2005 Stats: 8-8(W/L) 4.09ERA 53K

SP - Brandon Claussen

A real gem was formed last year, as Brandon become one of the better young pitchers in the MLB through his performances for the Reds. He racked up 12 wins and signed a new deal that pleased all Reds fans.

2005 Stats: 12-7(W/L) 3.97ERA 71K

RP - Matt Belisle

Matt has earned a place in the Reds Bullpen, partly due to the fact that Luke Hudson tore his Rotator Cuff in Spring Training. Not too much is expected from Belisle, but he will hope to prove himself worthy of his role.

CP - Antonio Alfonseca

Alfonseca was a big pickup by the Reds in the off-season, as he will add both experience and quality to the Reds staff. He is expected to start off as the Reds Closer, and will be a vital player in the Reds efforts to win the close games, that sneaked away all too often last year.

RP - Ugueth Urbina

Uggie has come off the back of a good 2005, with his time split between the Tigers and Reds. He will move back from Closer to the Setup Role, and with his arm still in good shape, he will provide a lethal 1-2 combo with Alfonseca in tight finishes.

2005 Stats: 7-4(W/L) 2.40ERA 701K 13SV

RP - Esteban Yan

Yan proved he could still do a job in the Majors, after he arrived from the Angels AAA Affiliate midway through 2005. Esteban will be 1 of 3 MRP, as the Reds will hope their Bullpen can be a help rather than the hinderence it was last term.

2005 Stats: 1-2(W/L) 3.48ERA 27K 2SV

RP - Yhency Brazoban

Yhency is a great young pitcher, with alot of options and the potential to keep getting better. He will be more aware of his role this year, after a tough 2005, and this should stand him in good stead in tough matchups through the campaign.

2005 Stats: 5-4(W/L) 4.05ERA 60K 1SV

RP - Jorge Julio

Julio can throw alot of gas, but he can also have control issues. Coming from AAA Ottawa, Julio should relish the opportunity to throw in the Bigs again, and if he gets it right, the Reds will have a good pitcher to throw into tough situations.

RP - John Parrish

Parrish should give the Reds a reliable and solid arm during LRP. This lefty will be one of the key members of this Bullpen, as its his task to pick up in games that the Starters fail. John has all the makings of becoming a clutch player, and this year could be full of breakout numbers.

[movietitan]

I played against John Parrish in high school, he's from my hometown (and Aaron Herr and Matt Watson too, but I don't know if you guys have heard of them).