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Hall of Fame baseball writer Hal McCoy is in his 36th year of covering the Cincinnati Reds, the longest tenure for any active writer covering one team. Counting spring training and postseason games, McCoy has covered more than 7,000 major-league baseball games, written close to 18,000 baseball stories and eaten enough hot dogs to give Babe Ruth indigestion.Home > Blogs > The Real McCoy | Cincinnati Reds baseball news > Archives > 2009 > January > 22 > Entry
No money, no more Reds moves
Manny Ramirez? Forget Manny Ramirez. The Cincinnati Reds can’t afford Manny Mota or Manny Trillo. They can’t afford Rafael Ramirez or Elizardo Ramirez.
That’s the disheartening explosion CEO Bob Castellini dropped on the media this morning before the annual Reds Media Caravan began it trek through five states.
There is no more money. The harsh economic times are smothering the Reds and there will be no more significant additions to the team this year.
Swell. Rush to purchase those tickets now. Send in those season ticket applications. Everybody wants to see a fifth-place team. Everybody wants to see a ninth straight losing season.
Castellini says the team hasn’t given up on this year, but they are building for the future. Same message, different voice. How long have Reds fans heard this? And how long is the future? 2015? 2020? 2035?
They say they haven’t given up on this year but what have they done to replace Adam Dunn’s 40 home runs, 100 RBIs, 100 walks and 100 runs scored? Not much.
They’ve added catcher Ramon Hernandez, outfielder Willy Taveras and relief pitcher Arthur Rhodes. And, oh yeah, don’t forget Jonny Gomes.
Who do you like in left field this year? Chris Dickerson? Jerry Hairston Jr? Gomes. Gomes hit .182 with eight homers and 21 RBIs in 77 games last year and was so bad the Tampa Bay Rays left him off their postseason roster. Compared to Gomes, Corey Patterson’s season in 2008 resembles an All-Star performance.
When Castellini took over the team before the 2006 season, he told the media he wanted to win and he wanted to return to the glory days of The Big Red Machine, “Heigh-yo, Silver, Away.”
Now he blames the media for spouting his philosophy.
“We want to win,” Castellini told the media Thursday. “That’s our message. I knew we couldn’t win right away. You want to, but it takes time. I said we want to win - not overnight. You guys took that out of context.”
Then why did he fire GM Dan O’Brien right away and why did he fire Wayne Krivsky so fast when Krivsky was successfully rebuilding the minor league teams. And why, when he fired Krivsky, did he say, “We just aren’t going to lose anymore.”
Wanting to win and doing something to make it happen are two different things. And if you are out of money, you do what the Reds have done. Not much of anything.
The payroll is close to $75 million, about what it was last year. And the vault is empty. The team is what it is - not every good. Another fifth place finish looms.
After eight years of losing, it seems more losing is assured as the Reds continue to put the ‘less’ in hopeless.
And fans are asked to remain patient for some distant future winner. With the economy in the cesspool, entertainment dollars will become scarce. All of you who can’t wait to get into Great American Ballpark this year raise your hands.
I can’t see you.
Walt Jocketty, installed as GM early last season to work the magic he worked in St. Louis, needs a bigger wand to handle this one and probably is wondering what he got himself into. But his upper lip remains stiff.
“I don’t think you can put a timetable on it,” he told the media Thursday. “It takes time to build a competitive organization - a consistently competitive organization. You can do some things for instant success. But you can’t sustain it. We want to build the organization to sustain success and be a club that’s in the hunt every year. We’re really trying to develop our younger players and utilize the talent we have in the organization.”
Those are fine words, but a little bit from the Land of Oz. An organization like the Reds can build a strong farm system and develop players. Then what happens? They keep those young players for three or fours years and just when they become solid stars, the Yankees or Red Sox or Mets or Dodgers take them away via free agenc or the Reds can’t afford to pay them and are forced to trade them (Adam Dunn).
Strap it on, Reds fan. Gonna be another lonnnnnnnnng year.
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Comments
By HuberTucky (Original)
January 26, 2009 1:17 AM | Link to this
Remember how CastelLindner had those fundraisers at his mansion for Bush? Bob spent so much time with liar Bush that now for CastelLindner the lying just comes naturally. You’re right donb51, just like listening to a politician spin-meister.By donb51
January 25, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this
Boy, was I wrong. I thought Castellini and Jocketty would come up with something big. And to listen to Castellini say we would have a winning season is like listening to a politician. This team is worse than last year.By Mike-Cinci
January 24, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this
RonnieO, I do not disagree with your comments. The Tigers spent $135 million last year and stunk. The Reds need to sign better young players and develop them. I think it is fair to criticize management if they don’t do that. The Reds have been lousy in this area for many years. If they don’t get better at it they will always be bad. Lousy teams with no farm systems make terrible free agent moves too. They tend to be desperate and they can’t compete on $ with the big guys. Cincinnati is too small a market to win the free agent game.By RonnieO
January 23, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this
Mike - as a seasons ticket holder who has written letters to Reds management that sounded a LOT like Hal’s blog - I think you’re making some bad faith assumptions. I’ll bet you 2009 salaries in MLB increase from 2008. I’ll bet a load of teams increase salary this year. You don’t have to look at too many small market teams to see some of them doing something to get better (Brewers get Hoffman, heck even the Marlins sign Turnbow) besides development. There are data points that fly in the face of your argument. Like small market teams “can only win through player development”. Yeah, I loved the way the Tigers took off a couple of years ago with Pudge, Case, Sheff, Kenny Rogers, Guillen and all that home grown young talent. 30% of the Brewers pitching wins last year came from guys who weren’t on their roster two seasons ago. It’s not “either / or” - you can and probably should do some of both. What’s between the lines in Hal’s blog is the absolute squander in the Reds payroll. That is a travesty. That is squarely at the feet of this management team. And it has now been ten years since the Reds last played a game after the official end of the season. These are issues that make it really hard for to convince Mrs. RonnieO we should buy more tickets. I don’t know what Intels cost per chip has to do with the Reds - but it sounds like a loser’s excuse to me. Denial ain’t just a river in Egypt.By Troy
January 23, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this
Hall, I just wanted to say Amen Brother you are right on! I talked to Bob miller today in somerset,ky. And you are right on! It is just sad!By Mike-Cinci
January 23, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this
I was disappointed in Hal’s blog. To Hal’s credit his criticism of the Reds owner regarding his comment that he never meant to say he wanted to win right away was right on target. The quick firing of GM’s and managers seemed impulsive rather than thoughtful. The owner did make a mistake in saying the media did not understand his words. The media and fans clearly understood the meaning of his words. At the start he thought he could win right away. He over estimated Reds talent and was wrong. What the owner failed to understand is one does not criticize the media. The media is the one who does the criticizing. He gave the press a golden opportunity to blast him. The press does not miss this kind of opportunity and neither did Hal. Hal does not seem to comprehend there is a problem in the economy. GM, Ford, banks, retailers, Microsoft, Intel and many other companies and businesses, both big and small, are cutting back on expenses and laying off workers. The Reds are impacted by the same problems in the economy. Hal seems to think the Reds should be expanding their budget. I guess Hal believes that players with 5-6 years of service who leave small market teams and move to big markets where they are offered big money is new news. It does not appear that Hal noticed this has been going on for 30 years. Baseball has a very strong union that has won every battle with the owners and as a result there is no salary cap. The only way the Reds and other small market teams can win is through player development. Hal would better serve us by looking at the quality of the young players signed by the Reds rather than moaning over the failure to sign expensive free agents the team can’t afford. Hal has become more negative about the Reds and his job in recent years. I may be wrong about this. I hope I am. Hal should cheer up in a few weeks as he enjoys the Florida sunshine while watching the Reds prepare for 2009. For all of us things look better in the Spring.By RonnieO
January 23, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this
ryan kahn - lemme get this straight. According to you, the Reds loose not because they have the third worst team earnie in the NL, not because they gave up more hits than any NL staff, nor that we had the second worst team fielding percentage in the NL. No, according to a new method of statistical analysis called ryankahntailboneometrics, it because our beat writer conveys “bad mojo”. Is everybody in Madison, In. an inbred retard, or just you? Or did you just wake up with sand in yer vj? Hal - keep up the good work, my man! And if Hal so much as gets indigestion from bad relish this season - watch yer back, ryan from madison indiana.By ryan kahn-madison indiana
January 23, 2009 8:50 PM | Link to this
One more thing HAL. I hope you choke on the next hot dog you eat.By ryan kahn-madison, indiana
January 23, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this
Hal….do yourself a favor and retire you negative old fart. Im so sick of you killing the reds mojo before the season even starts. You do it every year. They have the rotation to compete. they have the talent to compete. Seriously….retire and stop killing us.. OK….idiot. how the hell do you keep your job?By Mark in Sun Valley
January 23, 2009 6:40 PM | Link to this
To play a speed and defense game, you have to get on base and make contact. Dunn and Griffey had thier faults, but have you looked at the contact rate of out current cornet outfielders? Bruce had 155 Ks between AAA and the Reds and Dickerson had 137. We have a manager and a hitting coact that do not teach patience or believe in OBP. All they are going to do is ruin young players. This team will be lucky to score 1-2 runs a game, and with that poor of an offensive output, it will not take long for the pitchers to press, knowing they cannot win if they give up 3 or more runs. As to Cordero, read “Moneyball” (which Cast-a-linder should). Closer is the LAST place you should tie up in big money. Trade Cordero to get some cash, make Burton a closer and/or convert Bailey to a closer.By JC
January 23, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this
Doom and Gloom? If it is not possible to win the way the reds are building the team then how did TB, FLA, and AZ win? If the Bengals were building their team with the o and d lines first we would be partying in the streets!Examine this team in light of how to build a franchise with this market, not in comaprison to the Yankees or Red Sox!By michael
January 23, 2009 6:17 PM | Link to this
Well RonnieO, I never said that Coco was the best, but it could’ve been worse….Mike Stanton could have been our closer. As for Dickerson, he is not really a Kid and he still needs to prove that he can play in the bigs. He is currently the best option, I guess, but Sean Casey at only 34 YO could come back and hold down 1b until Yonder is ready…Votto moves to LFBy Gary Maloy Jr.
January 23, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
I agree completely with Billy Mays. Hope springs eternal - gawd I’m starting to sound like a Cubs fan, but this time every year, I KNOW the Reds are going to win thier division. I can argue for it. No one knows how things are going to shake out until about 100 games are played, and nothing is decided until late September. Why get all worked up about it? Personally, I don’t know what the problem is with Chris Dickerson. Other teams have gone from nowhere to the play-offs with a bunch of kids, why is it considered impossible for the Reds? Go Reds!By flipper
January 23, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this
Relax folks. Just take the short drive to Dayton and see just as good baseball in a more interesting setting. This is what Abner Doubleday had in mind.By Fed Up Reds Fan I QUIT!!!!!!!!!
January 23, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this
I am so tired of watching my hometown team lose every year, year after year, the last time I saw a real winner I was 11, I am 29 now. What happened to the days of Larkin, Rijo, Davis, Sabo, Oliver, O’Neil. Spend some darn money and get some real players out there on the field. If you want to field young talent I have a son soon to turn 18 pay him $300,000 to go out there and strike out or walk, and lolly gag around the baseball field just like I witnessed Adam Dunn do several times. Heck then at least the money would be going to a good cause and not to some schmuck who doesn’t care about what they are doing out there, thier only main concern is when is this going to be over, what’s for dinner tonight, and oh I would like that new porsch I saw, think I will buy that tomorrow. It’s crazy, but I think I will become a Cubs fan at least they turn in a team that gets to the playoffs, they might not win it all, but at least they win. I am FED UP and all I can say at this point is I QUIT being a Reds fan, let move out of Cincy and into someone else’s town and become there problem. It’s worthless they put the Big Red Machine name to SHAME!By RonnieO
January 23, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this
Guys - Coco blew like four or five saves last season, failed to convert a couple more, Plus he got NINE decisions. Think about that - our $12mill CLOSER got NINE decisions. Compare that to league and WS champ Philly - where Mr. Lidge only had two decisions. That’s what I would expect from my top salary guy - nail it down - every time! Having said that, it ain’t like Coco’s issues should be a surprise to Dusty or anybody. Coco led the majors in blown saves from 2004 to 2007. But, I gotta give michael his props on Sean Casey - that would be a GREAT low cost move. Votto becomes your power hitting left fielder, a fan fave comes back - I’d re-up my ticket package if I knew I’d get to see Case play every now and again.By Billy Mays
January 23, 2009 4:33 PM | Link to this
Are you fed up with the Reds not contending? Tired of getting out of bed every night just to see an Adam Dunn strikeout on SportsCenter [Wah wah wah..] Hi, Billy Mays here for the 2009 Cincinnati Reds - the same team but with less old strikeout hitters. Just turn the channel to FSN this year for a smorgasbord of youthful enthusiasm. And because the Reds aren’t picked to win this year, the magic will be that much more special when they surprise you and turn out a quality team with good pitching and solid defense. In addition to removing old strikeout hitters we are now throwing in a returning star from last year, Joey Votto. He hits, he walks, he plays defense! And that’s not all, we are also throwing in Jay Bruce, a future star with unlimited potential. If you love the Reds, give them a chance and root for your team!By By-Stander
January 23, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this
You seem to have forgotten we finished out of the running with those 40 home runs, 100 runs and 100 walks. I think Adam Dunn stole from the Reds organization over the past few years. I just want baseball played with pride and heart something lacking on past teamsBy By Stander
January 23, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this
You seem to have forgotten we finished out of the running with those 40 home runs, 100 runs and 100 walks. I think Adam Dunn stole from the Reds organization over the past few years. I just want baseball played with pride and heart something lacking on past teamsBy By Stander
January 23, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this
You seem to have forgotten we finished out of the running with those 40 home runs, 100 runs and 100 walks. I think Adam Dunn stole from the Reds organization over the past few years. I just want baseball played with pride and heart something lacking on past teamsBy Scott
January 23, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this
In regards to Yonder doesn’t he have to be on the major league roster this year? Why are the Reds signing players who want to skip the minor leagues? Didn’t they learn that mistake with Wily Mo Pena (who also was raved about for his hitting)? Also last I checked Votto is a firstbase man, not a left fielder. What makes some of you think he can simply go out and play left field without any game time in that position? If that was the case anyone with basic athletic skills could be a left fielder.By Lord Humongous
January 23, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this
Wags is correct, pitchers and catchers haven’t even reported yet, and already we are talking about the doom and gloom of the Reds? Do you think that Mr. Castellini took over the Reds just to make money? He genuinely wants the Reds to win and empathizes with the fan base - why do you think that he has publicly made statements regarding the payroll this year? At least he is an owner that is up front with us and has explained the national economic impact on the club’s budget. It’s a lot better than being in the dark thinking that the Reds won’t sign anyone else just because they want to stand pat and continue with the status quo. Many of you have criticized the club for not putting enough attention on young talent…our minor leagues, scouting, and player development is in a much improved state considering how little regard was given to it by Schott, Lindner, and Bowden. For those who think that Mr. Castellini won’t put out the money - look how much we have invested in young Dominican talent (which are now included in the organization’s top prospects), as well as how much we invested signing Yonder Alonso in the draft. The ownership is committed to winning and has spent money prudently on young talent, and good pitching. The strikeout team of Dunn and Griffey is out and we need to give the young talent time to develop. Thank your lucky stars that we have an owner that cares about the team unlike Mike Brown of the Bengals, and show some faith in your team. We are not in the market to splurge on big money free agents - remember Eric Milton anyone? Signing a big time free agent is only an injury away from wasting tens of millions of dollars.By bobs
January 23, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this
Liar Bob is in a little Catch-22. You need to pay money for a good team, but not having a good product will not bring you money. Few comments. 1) Not saying bring Dunn back, but would you rather pay Dunn 10 million or Cordero, 10 million? Dunn actually made the Reds money. No one is coming to the park to see Cordero close (blow) games. 2) Spend more wisely. Bringing in a VERY costly closer is not the right answer. 3) Again, small ball will not work in our ballpark. If you are hoping for more raod wins, you may be in luck. But while we are scoring 3-4 runs a game, based upon speed, the others will be hitting three run homeruns. 4) Historically, pitchers slump in their second season. While we all are hoping for a Harang and Arroyo turnaround, nobody mentions that Cueto and Volquez’s stats will probably go down. 5) Gonzo has not played for a year because of a bad knee, but for some reason, everyone expects great defense from him…why? 6) Love the idea of bringing back Sean Casey. Everyone loves him, would be a positive for the city, could be a good pinch hitter, and would come cheap. Almost makes too much sense. Is he signed?By boxter
January 23, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this
Thank God for the recession. The Reds & Bengals have been waiting for an excuse. They have one now. Cincinnati sports team have the greatest deal anywhere. Put a horrible product on the field, charge excessive prices and the IDIOTS will buy it. People, STOP buyong tickets if you want change. If you morons continue as is, so will the owners.By HuberTucky
January 23, 2009 1:33 PM | Link to this
The comment “I am fed up with this organization” is the best post of the day! It truly reflects how I feel after so many many years of being lured into this false sense of CARING by the many failed front offices the Reds poffer. Bottom line: the Reds are a ho-hum team & a dud organization. I’ve been a follower and fan my entire life since I was a boy in the early 1950s and yes, I am totally fed up and ready to give up. And now this latest “nail in the coffin.” How many more nails are YOU other fans willing to toletare? How many more cheapskate tightwad billionaire liars? How much more fan abuse? I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.By rich whitt
January 23, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this
I recall Castellini saying that he was “impatient”, that he wanted to win now! What happened to that? Why has the money spigot been turned off? The comment about Dusty’s salary is correct. Or how about this thought-why is the Red’s budget for a broadcasting crew so large? Think it didn’t cost a lot of money to lure Brantley away from his job at ESPN? Or Thom away from his job in Arizona, Chicago or wherever he was last? Getting back to original thought,…have people stopped buying produce? I don’t think so. Why is it every time we get a new billionaire owner they suddenly become spendthrifts? At least Marge didn’t hesitate to spend what she needed to in order to field a competitive team. Apparently Castellini talks a lot better than he spends. Now this latest crap! I am fed up with this organization! Nice job, Hal!By michael
January 23, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this
Baker is not worth that money and CP should not have played CF everyday, but Coco did not blow save after save. He was one of the few productive moves that the Reds have made in a lot of years, however he does take up a big chunk of $$. Letting Griffey and Dunn go was a good move, and they actually played some good Baseball soon afterwards, and it freed up some cash….in which they soon wasted on a mediocre Catcher and a punch and judy Centerfielder, and resigned JHJ and his lifetime of injuries and a .260 Average. I don’t think Adam Dunn ever hurt this team offensively, he just never was surrounded by a quality lineup. I will argue that 100 RBIs on a team as bad as the Reds is an impressive stat. When you walk 100 times, you obviously get on base. He should have played 1b, with Votto in LF.By Injun Joe
January 23, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this
Go ahead Reds fans. Run your mouth about the ‘Mistake on the Lake,’ but the Indians consistently try to put a winner on the field and will pay (but not overpay) $$$ to get talent. Sadly, the Reds have become a fraud. Nothing but a AAA team.By Injun Joe
January 23, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this
Go ahead Reds fans. Run your mouth about the ‘Mistake on the Lake,’ but the Indians consistently try to put a winner on the field and will pay (but not overpay) $$$ to get talent. Sadly, the Reds have become a fraud. Nothing but a AAA team.By RonnieO
January 23, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this
No money? I got an idea - how bout we get Dusty to hand back some of his $3.5 mill he’s due this year? It’s not like he even watches the games, evidently. That dude is some kind of idiot savant (without a whole lot of savant), what with sending Corey up to the plate over 200 times with his buck whatever batting average, and repeatedly sending Coco out to blow save after save after save. Get Mack back at $300G a year - he can fill out a lineup card as easily as Dusty, and it’s not as if Mr. Baker is instilling a lot of sound fundamentals in our lads for all his handsome salary. This team ran the bases last year in semi retarded fashion, and the infield defense was repeatedly ambushed by poor situational execution. Lookit - Castellini’s guy decides to cut David Ross and his $1mill salary loose. You go get Hernandez for $8mill, though the Reds only owe 75% of it next year. You expect me to believe that Ramon is eight times better than Ross? This team has the money it has - nothing you can do about that. But they absolutely squander what little they do have. This blows my mind - Hairston, Cueto, Votto, Keppinger, Volquez, and Edwin Errorcarnacion COMBINED cost about as much in 2009 salary as Dusty does by himself. It’s not that they don’t have the money, they just waste it!By Dave
January 23, 2009 12:43 PM | Link to this
“Then why did he fire GM Dan O’Brien right away and why did he fire Wayne Krivsky so fast when Krivsky was successfully rebuilding the minor league teams. And why, when he fired Krivsky, did he say, “We just aren’t going to lose anymore.”” This quote sums it up best - CEO Bob Castellini want’s it both ways (build and win) on a shoestring budget. Mr. Castellini, please pick one or the other and stay with it for more than a year or two.By CEDRED
January 23, 2009 12:35 PM | Link to this
I didn’t think the new ownership would step up to the mic and say he wants to lose now…He wants to win!Good baseball minds know that wins come from having a good combination of talent and a winning mindset.”Win now” did not mean “right now”.BC was just as tired of seeing loses as the fans were.I’m tired of the CEO slams…BC was a Reds fan before he became the owner.He’s still a fan, BC is going to build from the ground up and it’s the better way for the long term.The Great Eight in the ‘70’s wasn’t put together overnight.This team will be improved in’09. BC stepped forward, bought into this situation as a fan.Let’s give him time to bring back winning baseball.By Scott
January 23, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this
The reason Dunn is mentioned often is because he is someone the Reds drafted, brought through the system, and then traded away. What’s the point in developing players if you don’t wish to keep them, or (allegedly) can’t afford them? Knowing this everytime I hear “we are going to develop talent” means that they’ll also be traded after 5 years with the big club. And here I thought it was wise to decrease turnover in a business…silly me.By Hudy
January 23, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this
For all of you Dunn lovers, including Hal: If Dunn is such a great player then why hasn’t he been signed by a team yet?By SonofSonofBeast
January 23, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this
Having a huge payroll does not equal huge success. Check the Yanks/Mets results over the past few years, and obviously the Rays success, and even what the Marlins have done over the years. Got to spend money on the right players, not just to spend money. Johnny Gomes is not the answer to anything, other than “name the Bats starting left-fielder.” That being said, Hal is to be commended for holding the owner accountable for now going back on his previously stated promises to make this team a winner. You can’t spur fans optimism like he did as a freshman owner, than retreat to status quo for Cincy Pro Sports as we have known it, and not expect to hear about it. This town needs a winner, Bob. We thought you knew that.By Scott
January 23, 2009 11:31 AM | Link to this
All these years we needed good starting pitching, and now we have it yet the hitting seems to struggle (and sometimes the defense). I hope we don’t lose out on the opportunity the current starting pitchers are giving us.By Mike-Cinci
January 23, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this
Hal is right in calling out the owner for saying he was quoted wrong about “winning now”. That was his objective when he bought the team but it was a wrong objective. The Reds were short talent then and they still are. This team really needs to build by scouting and signing good amateur players and building its farm system. The team has lacked young talent for years. If the owner spent big money on any of the free agents available this year he would be nuts. None of these guys would be good enough to help the Reds make the playoffs and the franchise would be in financial purgatory for years. Cordero and his $12 million annual salary has helped the team get part way there. The owner spoke the truth the other day about finances and he is now getting murdered by the media and fans. As Steve Carlton said, “sometimes it is just best to say nothing”. The only thing that will fix the Reds is a steady stream of good young players. It has been a long while since that has happened and that is the problem.By Wags
January 23, 2009 11:04 AM | Link to this
Wow Hal! So glad to know you can predict the future. If you have lost complete faith in the organization why do you continue to write about them? In a time of economic hardships, when spirits are low, why write in such a negative fashion? I understand that your hope,along with the hope of so many other red’s fans has wained, but the true fans start every year looking at the positives. I for one, as delusional as I may be, am convinced that the Reds will have their best season since 1990. Why give up hope when the first pitch is yet to be thrown.By ExRed
January 23, 2009 10:44 AM | Link to this
If P&G sold you crap for products, how long would you buy them? The Reds have had crap for a product since the mid 1990s and yet people keep coming. Bobbo and his cronies are indeed making money-lots of money-look at the real balance sheet for last year. They now belong to the Mike Brown school-screw the fans; they and the MLB monopolistic money/TV system will give us a nice profit regardless of what crap we sell them. And did P&G ask Cincy to build it a new 1-billion-dollar facility? No they did not. Stop wasting the little money you have on the Reds and go see the Dragons and have a great time instead.By Berry
January 23, 2009 10:43 AM | Link to this
Rick, I agree 100% this team will struggle big time scoring runs..no hope in Cincy once again.. Dickerson in LF come on.. there’s a reason he’s 27 and just getting a taste..he is a K waiting to happen and along with that does not come 40HR 100BB 100RBI 100RunsBy T LaRussa
January 23, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this
As long as the Deads and Buccos are around I can count on 30 wins against those sorry teams..Thanks Bob for taking care of us Thank goodness for the RedsBy Rick
January 23, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this
Hal is right in this case. Whether you’re a sabermetrician or just a stat counter, the bottom line is that Dunn averaged 100 runs and 100 RBI over the past 5 years. Those 200 runs mean a lot in the final scores of 160 or so games a year. The new left fielder(s) isn’t going to come close to that, and the other positions weren’t upgraded enough to compensate. This lineup is worse than the 2008 opening day lineup.By Mike
January 23, 2009 10:14 AM | Link to this
I’m not giving up quite yet. With the young guys on this team, and the fact that they got rid of the clubhouse egos, they might turn out to be better than expected. Towards the end of the season, they finished strong, and if Harang can bounce back, there shouldn’t be any reason why this team doesn’t finish with a winning record.By Scott
January 23, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this
If an owner like Mr. Castellini says he is out of money then we are in more trouble than the news reports indicate. However instead of trying to spin his outlook on the team to make it different than how he initially stated is really a dis-service to his fans. ALL OF US are impacted by the financial issues happening in the world today. We are making adjustments, so why can’t he? One problem with their current “development” of players is that when, for example, a Dragons player has a hot week he is moved up (if you want to consider a move to Sarasota where they pull 500 fans a game a move up). If he wants to develop players let the player stay on his team for an -entire- year. This not only builds team chemistry it will also give that player time to learn and grow at the level he is at, as opposed to trying to rush them to the big show. Mr. Castellini needs to look in the mirror and ask himself if he is going to give up. If not then I suggest he make changes to his lifestyle to afford running his franchise. Us fans have done so to keep a roof over our heads. The Reds were the first professional team in the history of this game, yet now it seems to be first in excuses.By Reggie98ud
January 23, 2009 10:05 AM | Link to this
Hey NYC, if it were not for the Reds there wouldn’t be Major League Baseball. If you were any kind of a fan you would know that the Reds were the first Professional baseball team. Besides didn’t the Spankees blow it hard this year? At least the Reds only spent $75m on a loser team the Spankees spent $200m on a loser team!! The true disgrace to MLB are teams like the Spankees, Dead Sox, and Metwursts, who think they can go out an try to buy a championship. Eventually there will be a salary cap, then the NL and AL East will be in big trouble.By smokingguns29
January 23, 2009 9:33 AM | Link to this
Jonny Gomes can be the Carlos Pena of 2009. Ryan Ludwick came out of nowhere to hit 30 homers last year for the Cardinals. It’s unlikely, but possible.By Just a Fan
January 23, 2009 9:22 AM | Link to this
There is a bright side to this. After a second losing year probably Baker will be fired. The Reds will never win with him regardless of how much money they might spend on players. But it is disappointing to hear the owner say they are not willing to do anything to improve.By Pete
January 23, 2009 9:20 AM | Link to this
Any sports team owner crying the blues about not making any money is a flat out liar! Let’s see those books, Bob. This will be ANOTHER sub-.500 year.By Mike
January 23, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this
I have my Cubs hat ready for this year. My number two teams bumps up to number one. I am done listening to the exaggerated prophesies of how strong the Reds will be each and every season. I drank the Kool Aid and got nothing from it. Reds will be number two, I will root for them and hope they do well.. but a few times this year I will be at GABP, but I will, this year, be part of the vocal majority of fans, known as Cub Fans, than the minority in red there for a great view of the river. PS.. What say the Reds try to pick up a catcher from the Mexican League, a pitcher from the California Penal League and get the prop plane ready to fly around the country. Seems like that’s been a playoff formula for years!By Homer Simpson
January 23, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this
The team needs to be spending money in the right places. Trading a grossly overpaid closer, whom will seldom be needed anyway, is the move to make. Use the money to sign an everyday outfielder will help this team. Cordero isn’t that good and if we are really building for the future he does not belong here.By john
January 23, 2009 8:33 AM | Link to this
Whether you’ve noticed it or not, there is a stratification in “Major League” baseball. There is the Major League category within the “Major League” composed of those franchises with money. Then there is the Minor Major League category composed of those teams without money. Guess where Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and losers of their ilk fall? Into the Minor Major League category. Get used to this!! At least these teams COMPETE against TRUE Major League category teams and you get to see the stars and HOF members of the future—on the other team, of course. Get used to losing, cause it will never change until MLB decides it needs to change.By Ed
January 23, 2009 8:11 AM | Link to this
The Dragons offer good baseball and better entertainment than the Reds.I choose the DragonsBy Randy
January 23, 2009 7:40 AM | Link to this
You CAN NOT continue to pay players the multiple millions per year and expect small market teams to compete. The team concept has to come into play when you are negotiating your pay too.By bb
January 23, 2009 7:02 AM | Link to this
Hey nyc, Our Redlegs took 2 out of 3 against your mighty NY Yankees last June. Millions just don’t buy Championships anymore… bbBy Hudy
January 23, 2009 5:29 AM | Link to this
Hey, Hal, let go of the Adam Dunn trade, OK? You’re still trumpeting the feats of a totally one-dimensional ball player who would still be in AA if he played prior to all the expansion. The signing of Gomes is insignificant anyway. He probably won’t make it out of spring training. I say to give this team a chance. Really now, what have we got to lose?By Wizard
January 23, 2009 12:37 AM | Link to this
I should have said “additional wins” for Harang and Arroyo!By Wizard
January 23, 2009 12:33 AM | Link to this
I see great improvement for the present roster this coming season. I see 10 or more wins—from Harang and Arroyo, alone. In that case, what is there to be sad about. My faith in Dickerson is unwavering—an intelligent young man—with defensive abilities above and beyond most LFers we have had{that gap in left-center will be shortened, because of he and Taveras. His stick will be a pleasant surprise,IMO. Our starting staff will be much improved over the beginning of last year. Bull pen = Ditto. This team will be much improved—mark it down, who said that!By nyc
January 23, 2009 12:07 AM | Link to this
by now…red fans should realize that they will be out of it after may….i really don’t understand why cinn is allowed to have a ball club….what a disgrace to the majors they are….watch a real team in new york….By Harry the Horse
January 22, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this
Carlos Pena? The Tampa Bay Rays picked him up 2 Spring Trainings ago looking for work. Gabe Gross the Rays picked him up for a song and a prayer from Milwaukee. Dioner Navarro the Rays stole from the Dodgers and now is an All-Star catcher. My point?? Hal is complaining about the Reds spending ONLY $ 75 million. How about $ 45 million for the American League Champs. Crying poor mouth doesn’t cut it anymore. Reds should look for players who can’t get a contract and sign them to a deal. Those players are hungrier and are willing to play hard.By philman
January 22, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this
If they can be at 500 by July 10th, I honestly believe they can make a run at the division. We dont have alot of power, but were quick up the middle, and we have some good pitching behind us that other clubs would kill for right now. I am keeping the faith brotherBy scott
January 22, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this
I live in columbus and for my dollar you can’t beat going to AAA games. This team isn’t going to entice me to drive 100 miles I can tell ya that!By ohdave
January 22, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this
The economy IS tough. So I don’t think the taxpayers can afford to make the payments on that fancy stadium that generates all the revenue for the Reds. And the fans definitely can’t afford to buy tickets and pay for parking. I saw parking for $35 at a Bengals game this year. Baseball is expensive, too, and they want fans to fork over money to watch a team that they aren’t even trying to make competitive. And pro sports franchises wonder why they can’t get fans to the stadium. I really hope the young players make a splash and shock the National League. But the reality is that we’ll probably all lose interest by the end of May again. “out of it by Mother’s Day” was I think what you wrote last year, Hal.By HuberTucky
January 22, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this
This is just such a horrible winter for Reds baseball if people are reminiscing about how dandy Corey Patterson was. Good gawd! Stick a fork in this turkey; it’s already cooked! Thanks a lot, Bob CastelLindner!By cdmertz
January 22, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this
Do I have a deal for you mr cas-tel-lousy. We will wait for a good team but you have to sell the team NOW AT BREAK EVEN.Then we will wait for a owner who know’s what he or she doing?By michael
January 22, 2009 6:40 PM | Link to this
Well spoken ctownboy. I do believe that Jay Bruce, and Votto will be better this year and that we have a good Pitching staff. We did beat some pretty good teams and played respectively after Griffey and Dunn left, and that provides a little hope. Agree that we are not better defensively, and we did not pick up any speed either. Patterson had an awful year, but he has had a better overall career than Willy T. All of my hopes rely on the Reds having one of the best Pitching staffs in baseball.By ctownboy
January 22, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this
Yes, speed, Defense and Pitching win Championships BUT I don’t think the Reds have it. Speed. Yes, they picked up Willy T BUT he has had a hard time getting on base. If you look at his On Base Percentages for his four year career, his best year,as far as OBP goes, would be one of Ryan Freel’s worst years. Plus, Freel had more power. As far as Stolen Bases go, Willy T’s three prior years to 2008 looked VERY similair to what Freel had done in his prior years. So, WiIlly T is a WEAKER version of Ryan Freel. Brandon Phillips is the only other threat on the bases because JHJ is not going to be able to stay healthy and Dickerson and Hopper are going to be either platooning or sitting on the bench the entire season. Defense. Hernandez is worse than Paul Bako. Edwin E still needs to learn how to make good throws on a consistant basis. At Short Stop, A Gon wasn’t all that great when he DID play in 2007. So now, even if he is ready to go, he will most likely NOT have as much range as before. That means JHJ is going to be the starting Short Stop and is going to be batting second. Yes, hte injury prone, career .260 hitter who has played a TOTAL of 40 Games at Short Stop during his ENTIRE 11 year career. Patterson might have been awful on Defense but he at least was a good Defensive Center Fielder. From what I have read about Willy T, that is not necessarily so. PITCHING. People are expecting both Volquez and Cueto to stay the same or get better? Why? They both are playing Winter Ball now and are going to be playing in the WBC. This means extra wear and tear on their arms before the regular season even starts. THEN there is the Dusty Baker factor. Last year, Baker had his hands tied by the Front Office because they didn’t want Volque and Cueto to throw too many Innings. That probably wont be the case in 2009. Baker will probably want to “win now” and will allow those two to throw 120+ Pitches start after start and to pitch 200 or more Innings each. This means they will get worn down and lose a lot after the All Star break and then be more likely to get injured. If THAT happens, then you can also kiss 2010 good bye.By Jammin
January 22, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
The Reds are their own worst enemy when it comes to $$. When almost all their games went to being televised it killed their attendance. Why go pay 10-15 dollars to park and $7 a beer when you can sit at home and watch the game. Before the tv deal I went 8-10 times a year-I go to one or two games now. I wish the Reds well, but can’t see any better than 3rd place coming and that may be a reach.By ctownboy
January 22, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this
Look folks, you shouldn’t be surprised by what grumpy Bob Ca$htellini said this mroning. Here is why. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business with an MBA in Economics. So, he KNEW before the 2008 season ended that the economy in 2009 was going to be BAD. Did he say anything about it? NO!!! He kept saying that team payroll for 2009 was probably going to be higher than what it was in 2008. So WHY didn’t he tell the truth back then? Maximizing PROFITS!!!! He COULD have said that team payroll wouldn’t be any higher than 2008 and that the Reds probably WOULDN’T be able to go out and get any really GOOD baseball players but he didn’t because he didn’t want to scare people off from buying tickets and giving them as Christmas presents. By saying what he did NOW, it sets him up to have an excuse for WHY the Reds DON’T go out and spend money on GOOD baseball players for 2010. After a LOSING 2009 season, I can hear teh BS line now. “Because of our team’s record and the bad economy, attendance this past year was lower than expected. Because of that, we will have to lower our budget and try for the right type of player who can fit into this new budget”.By michael
January 22, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this
Bring back Sean Casey…he can still rake and who couldn’t use his bat off the bench? I know we don’t really need another Lefty Hitter, but he could play 1b and Votto could move to LF. That is a better option than Dickerson.By charlottereds
January 22, 2009 5:32 PM | Link to this
OMG people! Step off the ledge! Defense, pitching, and speed wins. That is what Jocketty/Krivsky has assembled through developing the farm system and strategic trades, while adapting to GABP. It is possible for a small market club to win this way, just take a look @ Tampa Bay, Florida, Anaheim02, and Arizona the last few years. We have a Gold Glove caliber middle infield, speedsters in the outfield, run producing corner infielders, and an above average rotation with a solid bullpen. The steroid era is over, and teams are going to have to start winning without blasting homeruns every game and playing “smallball”. We’re slowly moving in the right direction and the worst thing we could do is throw a ton of money or give away prospects for disgruntled primadonnas on the downside of their careers. Let’s see how things pan out before we jump ship. The Reds do, however, need to follow the Rays’ suit and implement more fan friendly promotions, like free parking, cheaper ticket packages, and meet/greets to fill the stands!By smokingguns29
January 22, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this
Hal has become too much of a fan at his old age. Johnny Cueto has electric stuff. The best stuff produced by this system since Mario Soto. The bullpen should be good. I really think if we get some decent defense by Gonzalez and Edwin improves - he has to offensively and defensively - something good can happen. They will finish second to the Cubs, which will be an accomplishment.By smokingguns29
January 22, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this
I don’t agree with Hal at all. Dunn was a negative. He was a station to station runner, a hack in the field and a terrible clutch hitter. The offense was hurt by Griffey and Dunn. Adding a right-handed LF power hitter will help. Other than that, if Bruce and Votto can continue to improve, Gonzalez stays healthy, and Harang stays healthy, this team will surprise. And I’m not typically a Reds’ homer.By luckypk
January 22, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this
I think we can win it all this year….oops I’ve said it again..of course I was right in ‘75,’76,and’90.. I’ll wait till we’re mathmatically eliminated , as I have all my life.By bobs
January 22, 2009 4:11 PM | Link to this
Brar Hopper, you are correct, Castellini = Lindner. As someone mentioned earlier, I do miss Marge. All she wanted to do is win. Liar Bob is another joke owner who got in way over his head. Thanks Hal for not sugar coating this idiot. While I never will “root” for the Reds, it is getting a lot harder to “follow” them. Finacially, the Reds need fans who follow, not just check box scores the next day in the paper.By Aaron B.
January 22, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this
No one seems to remember that Votto really finished the season strong last year. I am not worried about replacing Adam Dunn’s production. We all know he is a hot-cold player and can absolutely kill you during his cold spells. This team got better when Dunn and Griffey were shown the exit. I am hoping Encarnacion, with a huge arbitration pay raise will finally play the player he is capable of being. I am talking 35 home runs and 100 RBIs. Phillips needs to stop hacking and concentrate on his average and all be good offensively. The team isn’t great but its not worse than last year, that is for damn sure.By BrarHopper
January 22, 2009 4:00 PM | Link to this
As a CEO, Bob cannot HELP but lie. He’s just another cheap@SS owner Carl Lindner. Another lying hosebag owner. Gee, a lying CEO? Imagine that! What a rarity! This really honks me off. Time to write this team off.By Steve
January 22, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this
We’re a couple weeks from spring training, so I refuse to be negative. I can save that for June if the Reds are hopelessly out of the race. For now I see a team that has four solid starters in the rotation, any of which could catch lightning in a bottle and have a Cy Young-worthy season. Votto, Bruce, and Phillips all have all-star potential. Keppinger, Encarnacion, Dickerson, and Hairston all seem capable of strong contributions. I think the key is simply to keep the team healthy, get a couple young guys up to support, and let it play out on the field. I’ll be glum in the summer if need be.By HuberTucky
January 22, 2009 3:53 PM | Link to this
Poor little multi-milionaire team owner. Hmmm, so that letter last fall was a load of crap. And what about the left over Griffey & Dunn money? More lies and deceit from the lyings scumbags in the front office. Another year of the Reds battling the Pirates and Padres for worst in the NL honors. The Deads are not only back and fully on plan, they never left. Never got off the ground. Oh well, there’s always 2010.By jim
January 22, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this
Well during the caravan i hope the Reds fans hammer Bob about his comment “we just dont want to lose anymore” and ask him if the media blew that out of proportion?? and didnt Jockety not a month or so ago say the economy had no effect on the Reds?? Why lie to the people that buy the tickets?? I sure thought the Reds wouldnt act like Mike Brown’s Bengals and decive the fans, now its looking like thats the Reds plan.. follow Mikes way and loose and decive the public to make money.. geesh.. im so tired of losing..BOB give me a REASON to come watch the team.. dont lie to me!! that alone keeps my money in my pockets!!By Mark
January 22, 2009 3:21 PM | Link to this
No money? How do you expect to make money with a team that playing in a band box won’t be able to get out of the cellar in HR’s let alone win games. It may take a boycott of Cincinnati sports for these teams to start putting forth an effort to win.By Ted Lawson
January 22, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this
The Big Boy lied through his teeth Hal. You are correct. They are not trying to put a winning team on the field. No unlike the previous owner for profit only.By timb
January 22, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this
Don, I’m not sure how that’s silver lining, since the real thieves of baseball, the owners, will make their cash. I imagine the fine publicly-financed stadium Big Bob’s Reds play in will generate a decent profit for 2009 and we can expect that profit to be deposited into the payr….into Big Bob’s pocket. The idea that baseball players shouldn’t be rewarded with the lion’s share of the money from their labor really chaps me. I go to see Aaron Harang pitch not Big Bob sit on his a**e telling his friends “Those’re my boys and the one thing I will NOT pay for is a winning team.” Sorry, Don, just a pet peeve of mineBy JARED
January 22, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this
and adam dunn is gone thank god that improves our d alone and our of cuz he just swings for the fences stubbs will be a big improvementBy JARED
January 22, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this
come on guys are we reds fans we got have sparky anderson in his prime and struggle baker a good manager other then that corey patterson fiasco thats just loyalty keep this comment in a lock box reds will surprise teams this year i say a 2nd or 3rd place finish is in orderBy blah
January 22, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this
Castellini blames the media saying they took his “wanting to win now” out of context. Just what does firing Krivsky with the comment “We don’t want to lose anymore” mean? I don’t think Bob is used to the spotlight where everything you say is recorded and your words mean things. He’s to used to the private sector where you can say what you think your workers or stockholders want to hear and then do whatever you d#$% well please. CEO’s days of reckoning are coming, just ask those from GM or AIG or… If he wants the fan support, be honest with them.By AP-FLORIDA
January 22, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this
We could save some money by ditching Baker, Pole, and the batting coach. I believe that would give us a better chance and SAVE MONEY…….By Don
January 22, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this
I can’t criticize the owner for seeing the reality of the situation. We are in a recession and I don’t see it ending anytime soon. The one silver lining is a number of MLB players are going to have to accept smaller paychecks. I would rather the Reds go on the cheap with Dickerson, Stubbs,etc.Then shell out millions to an Abreau,etc. While they will miss the HRs that AD and Jr provided.The youth and hustle may provide more value. Even tho it probably won’t improve the standing in 2009.By Derek
January 22, 2009 2:03 PM | Link to this
It is definitely frustrating hearing this news. I don’t think frustrating even describes how I feel as a Reds fan. I am all for developing our farm system. We have some talent on the horizon. But as a Reds fan, it is dis-heartening to know that we will be competing for last place with the Pittsburgh Pirates. I try to keep the faith, but it is tough when we as Reds fans know that our clean-up hitter will more than likely be Brandon Phillips, who would be best suited as a #3 or #6 hitter. Sorry Reds fans, but enjoy another disappointing season. het, when is the NFL Draft again?By Greg
January 22, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this
Hal- I usually wait unti Troy’s Strawberry Fesctival before giving up on the year. the young guys are all a year older, now. The Reds will likely keep hope alive until that first big west coast swing. let’s keep hope alive, until at least then.By frankism
January 22, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this
Why can’t Jay Bruce be this years Adam Dunn? He hit twenty something homers from halve june in his first year. He might hit 40 in his second, and full season… The young blokes like bruce, volquez, votto and cueto migth all be better this year. So I am sorry yto say, aas I love reading Hal’s stories. I do have hope, and hope that Hal is wrong on this oneBy bob
January 22, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this
Salary cap/ Salary floor is the only thing that will fix baseball. I’ve already decided im not watching baseball this year. Its turning into the equivilent or pro-wrestling.By timb
January 22, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this
Thanks for telling it like it is, Hal. Given what happened to many of the pitchers from last year’s WBC, I can;t see Cueto or Volquez performing much better. I think the Pirates pass us and we get last! Yay for small-minded management! Is it weird that I miss marge?By Michael
January 22, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this
How, we will never have another Big Red Machine…you only get one shot at something so good. I agree its going to be another long year, as I don’t think this team is any better than last season. I do think we have a nice Pitching staff. If Jay Bruce improves and if we had one more proven run producer, we may be able to stay in the hunt. A lot of if’s…but you are not a true Reds fan unless you possess a lot of hope each opening day. Hope is all we ever have!