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Theo Epstein's stalker arrested

  (Photo: Chicago Police)

Many of you have heard this story already, but if you haven't, that sassy woman was arrested for stalking Theo Epstein and his family in Chicago.

The Chicago Tribune reported Kathleen Kearney, 44, was arrested Monday evening near Epstein's five-bedroom home in the Lakeview neighborhood.

According to the report, Kearney told police she had been watching the home and she was "inviting Mr. Epstein to go to church."

Epstein identified Kearney as a person who had been warned about stalking near his home, the newspaper reported.

Kearney, who is from Canton, Mass., was charged with two counts of felony stalking, police said.

Epstein never struck me as the "stalk-able" type, but I guess there is appeal. Apparently, this woman has been at it since his time in Boston.

The great thing about the whole thing, other than inviting him to church, is the fact that she looks as if she just doesn't give a damn. It's also nice to know that Theo Epstein is living comfortably in a 5-bedroom house in the Lakeview neighborhood. Attention future stalkers, The Chicago Tribune has given you a good clue.

Your Morning Dump... where Theo expresses some regret over some free agent signings.

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

He believes he had potential World Series-winning clubs in 2008 and 2011 and regrets that both fell short, one in an outstanding American League Championship Series, the other in a spectacularly inexplicable collapse.

“When you don’t quite live up to that same standard in the standings, even for a brief period of time, those pressures get magnified, it gets harder to manage, and I think I personally — we didn’t do a good enough job of executing our baseball plan, even in a vacuum, towards the end,” Epstein said.

“And I didn’t do as good a job of managing that. Had we been completely true to our baseball philosophy that we set out and believed in and followed, we probably wouldn’t have made certain moves that we made anyway — moves that, as I look back on them, they were probably moves too much of convenience, of placating elements that shouldn’t have been important. Those were my mistakes.”

Out of respect to players still on the Red Sox, Epstein declined to single out any particular signings as mistakes. But it’s clear he regrets the five-year, $82.5 million deal right-hander John Lackey signed before the 2010 season, as well as the seven-year, $142 million deal bestowed on outfielder Carl Crawford a year later.

Herald: Theo's unhappy ending

It's pretty easy to point out the two big, awful contracts that the Sox are stuck dealing with but let's be honest: he wasn't the one who wanted either of those guys. Yeah he'll take the blame, but those signings came from Lucchino who loves the big name signings. He probably wasn't talking about just those two either.

I'm sure he is still incredibly upset at himself that he couldn't get a quality shortstop to come up through the farm system after Hanley Ramirez was shipped out of town. He tried to solve that issue by throwing $36 million to Julio Lugo and that was all sorts of awful. I don't think JD Drew is on the regret list because he had to overpay to get him into town and advanced stat guys always loved JD.

When Theo was using the term "bridge year", fans and media poked fun at it and were begging for big name signings so we can continue the unprecedented success this team had. We didn't want the ride to end and neither did the ownership. They big names arrived and not only has the ride ended, it crashed & burned.

How's that bridge year sound now?

Rest of the Links: Globe: Red Sox belt Marlins | Doubront has arrived | Sox seek settlement with Jenks | Herald: Doubront lifts Sox over Marlins | No easy answer for Youk's woes |  Podsednik's a big help | Sox feed on bottom | CSNNE: Sox smash Marlins | Sox offense explodes against Marlins | Salty on Doubront: "The stuff he got is best in the league" | WEEI:  Making sense of Youkilis situation |  How success bred a monster: Theo Epstein considers Sox legacy | Podsednik thinks this might be the best Podsednik ever

Theo outbids Sox, others for Cuban OF Jorge Soler

Via MLBTradeRumors, Joel Sherman of the NY Post reports that the Chicago Cubs have landed Cuban outfielder Jorge Soler.

The 20-year old had the second-most hype to the A's Yoenis Cespedes in the offseason, but couldn't get his paperwork settled in time to join the frenzy. It may have worked out anyway -- Soler is said to be a more complete player and might have a higher ceiling, but he's further away. Cespedes' success so far may have helped his market.

It's not a surprise that the Cubs got Soler. They're a couple years away from being relevant, and by then if they develop him well, Soler can be a key cog in their machine. Plus: International free agents are one of the few ways you can just throw money around these days. The new CBA has limited draft spending, so Theo and Co. must have believed that this was a worthwhile risk.

I thought the Red Sox might have similar reasoning, and their outfield situation isn't exactly set for the next few years. Sure, Carl Crawford, should he ever be able to use all limbs at once, will be there. But Jacoby Ellsbury is no sure thing depending on the sales job Scott Boras can put together for other GMs. And right field? Ryan Kalish looks nice and everything, but he's probably not a building block.

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Your Morning Dump...Where Epstein and Schilling can't make the celebration

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

"I hope tomorrow is a great day for Red Sox fans and for the whole organization," Epstein said. "I have plans to be at the Cubs game tomorrow, but I will take a moment to toast Fenway along with everyone else who loves that ballpark."

On Thursday morning, principal owner John Henry -- en route to Boston from Great Britain -- was surprised at the original omission.al owner John Henry, who said he was unaware of the decision until contacted by a reporter.

"Apparently we decided to just invite uniformed personnel," said Henry, noting that the team hadn't invited Port and Duquette, either.

CSNNE : Update: Sox send Epstein an invitation, but he can't attend

The invitation to Theo and no other surviving Sox GM does not surprise me at all. Ownership still has a love affair with the "Boy Wonder" and could care less about anyone else. Sure, forget about Duquette and the crap he did. It's not like he did anything around here, Manny Ramirez and Pedro Martinez just showed up on Fenway's front steps and were looking for a place to call home.

Is Ben Cherington invited to the celebration? They might have used his invitation on Theo.

Here is an excerpt from Curt Schilling explaining his absense from the celebration...

I apologize that business at 38 Studios has made my participation in the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park impossible. Please understand that should in no way indicate my love and passion for Red Sox Nation. There was no greater feeling than standing on that mound, in that park, in front of you fans. The memories I was honored to be a part of, from David’s walk off HR in the 2004 ALDS, to going 4-0 in World Series games in that park, to the true honor of wearing that uniform every single day is something I am blessed to have, and will never forget. (...)

WEEI: A message from Curt Schilling regarding Fenway Park's celebration

It is too bad that he can't make the celebration. I also feel for him because he is going to miss the fun and not be able to hang out with his best buddy, Bobby Valentine. Don't worry, Curt, there will be plenty more opportunities for you and Bobby to hang out.

On Page 2, Bobby is ready for the Yankees

Your Morning Dump... Where this may just be a bad dream

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump

The never-ending Theo Epstein compensation talks still have not ended.

Puzzled by the timing of the injury and yesterday’s surgery on the right elbow of reliever Chris Carpenter, the main chip the Red Sox [team stats] received in a deal with the Cubs that included three players and one executive, the Sox said yesterday they do not consider the talks officially over.

The club is weighing its options about what to do next, said a Red Sox source.

This raises the specter that the Red Sox possibly believe Carpenter was injured when he was traded to them on Feb. 21.

A baseball source indicated the teams agree there was no intent or prior knowledge by the Cubs that misled the Red Sox about Carpenter’s condition.

Herald - Source: Red Sox still want Cubs to talk

Apparently, killing Jason Vorhees is easier than swapping a GM for some mediocre prospects. 

When I saw that article this morning, I thought the folks at the Herald were pulling an early April Fool's Day prank.  I still kind of hope that they are. 

In this deal robbery molestation, the Cubs received the man that is overseeing their entire franchise.  The Red Sox obtained an OK pitcher with a pretty ho-hum ceiling.  Now we've learned that the Red Sox not only received an OK pitcher with a ho-hum ceiling, but an OK pitcher with a ho-hum ceiling and a bum elbow. 

And THAT is where the Red Sox are drawing the line!  Look, Red Sox brass: you got bamboozled.  You were outsmarted by "naive" Tom Ricketts.  You played this wrong from the beginning.  Bottom line: you lost.

Trying to save face at this stage is sad.  Just move on.  What do you want the Cubs to do to make this right?  Pass back one of their 32 year old career minor leaguers?  Is that how you're going to stick it to them?

For whatever reason you've taken Carpenter.  He wasn't going to make the majors this year if he had Nolan Ryan's elbow.  Let him have his surgery, then rehab, then do whatever you were going to do with him in the first place.  It's bone spurs, not torn ligaments.  I'm sure it's not career-threatening. 

And for the love of God, don't make us hear "Epstein" and "Compensation" in the same sentence ever again.

On Page 2, thanks to Magic Johnson the Red Sox are worth even more.

Your Morning Dump... Where the Sox may have recieved damaged goods from the Cubs

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump

The player the Red Sox received as compensation from the Cubs for the hiring of former general manager Theo Epstein, righthanded reliever Chris Carpenter, is having elbow surgery on Thursday.

“Headed into surgery tomorrow with Dr Andrews to remove a bone spur in my elbow,’’ Carpenter tweeted on Wednesday. “Stayin positive and prepared to work harder than ever to come back as soon as I can this season.’’

Carpenter, 26, has appeared in only two major league spring training games and was not a candidate for the Opening Day roster.

Red Sox GM Ben Cherington confirmed that Carpenter is having surgery, but would not comment on whether the injury predated the Feb. 21 trade with the Cubs or when Carpenter might return.

Globe: Carpenter to have elbow surgery

This story... it just won't die. The Red Sox executives have screwed up everything in this situation. They lost all leverage once they let Theo out of his contract yet still managed to get something in return. But now there will be speculation about Carpenter's elbow. Did the Sox willingly take damaged goods?

Carpenter wasn't expected to be with in the Majors anyways so this has zero effect on the 40 man roster. Hell, if he ever does take the mound for the Sox it would be surprising to begin with. He was just the sacrifical lamb so both teams can move on. You would think they would pick a healthy player just so something like this never happened. Cherington should've just denied that Carpenter had elbow issues beforehand.

But now, questions will be asked, Cherington's ability as GM will be put into question, angry writers will point & laugh at the whole situation. You know, just the usual crap that happens between the media and this team. 

Opening Day can't come soon enough.

Rest of the Links: Globe:  Before they were Red Sox | Dice-K & Hill throw a simulated game | Herald: Aviles takes a weight and see approach | Push back but no rift between Cherington, Valentine | Sox, Cubs deal may need elbow room | The Aviles offseason workout | CSNNE:  Picking up the tempo | Schilling, Burks, Barrett in Sox HOF | Carpenter to undergo elbow surgery | WEEI: Give Aviles a chance | Theo's free agency mistakes still impacts Red Sox | Lackey apologizes for "retarded" comment

Your Morning Dump... Where one player to be named is finally named

Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.

The Chicago Cubs sent minor-league pitcher Aaron Kurcz to the Boston Red Sox on Thursday as the player to be named later in order complete their obligations in the Theo Epstein compensation situation.

Earlier this spring, the Cubs sent right-hander Chris Carpenter to Boston.

All that remains is for the Red Sox to send a player to be named later to the Cubs.

Kurcz, a 10th-round draft pick in 2010, was a midseason Florida State League All-Star last season at Class A Dayton. He finished the season 5-4 with a 3.28 ERA, making a start in 12 of his 32 appearances. He pitched 82 1/3 innings with 91 strikeouts and 34 walks.

ESPN - Cubs send Aaron Kurcz to Red Sox

Like most of you, this is the first time I've ever heard the name "Aaron Kurcz".   So I did some brief digging this morning to see whether this addition is worth generating any excitement for.  And, well, it just may be.

John Arguello of ChicagoNow.com, who seems to know what he's talking about, projects that Kurcz could be in the bigs by 2013.  He writes:

Kurcz generates a lot more velocity than you would expect from someone who 6'1" and 170 lbs, as he's able to touch 95 mph.  He has struck out 11.4 batters per 9 innings in his brief minor league career.  His slurve shows good break and he has had average control. 

Kurcz could be up by 2013 because is polished enough with two solid pitches and average command...  I think he'll have a solid career as a middle relief guy with a ceiling of a set-up guy.  In fact, I won't be shocked if he has a longer career than Chris Carpenter, the main piece in the deal.

For a player thrown in after-the-fact, that's a pretty solid endorsement.  If you had told me in 2003 (that's when this Epstein-Cubs standoff began, right?) that all we'd get in return for Theo were a couple mid-level relief pitchers I would have been outraged.  I still am, to some degree.  But at least we've netted ourselves some players that have a legit shot of helping at the big league level.  They're surely no Castro or Garza, but it's better than nothing. 

And if you want to follow Kurcz on Twitter, here you go: https://twitter.com/#!/aaronkurcz

On Page 2, Bard didn't fare so well

MLB compensation system should be destroyed

The Epstein Compensation issue isn't over yet.  Yes, we get Chris Carpenter, who's not even a poor man's Chris Carpenter.  But there's still that ridiculous "player to be named later" stipulation to work out.  Because there just hasn't been enough time to work out ALL the details over the past 4 months.  Wouldn't surprise me if it takes another 4 months to bicker over which 32 year old career minor leaguer will complete the deal.

While the absurdity continues in the background, if we take a step back from the process, there are quite a few things we can learn about not only this specific situation, but MLB's compensation system in general.

First, and foremost, the Red Sox are morons.  When the initial Epstein-to-Cubs conversations were taking place, names like Starlin Castro and Matt Garza were being bandied about.  While most didn't think the Sox would get someone with quite their pedigree, it was apparent that the Cubs were going to have to part with someone that was going to cause them some pain.  All anyone had to do was look at what the Marlins had to give up to get Guillen from the White Sox.  The man being given the reigns to the Cubs franchise is surely on par with a manager, if not higher.  Fast forward a week or so, and the Sox decide to let Epstein go without any agreement in place.  Fast forward a little further, with Epstein fully entrenched in Chicago, and the Cubs are thumbing their noses at Boston refusing to give up anything.

And why should they?  They've already got what they wanted.  If the Red Sox were going to insist on getting a player back, they'd have to go through the commissioner's office.  And, they did.  And we all know how that turned out.  All the Sox had to do was hold onto Epstein until an agreement was made.  But, as they are in most areas, the Sox were too smart for that. 

But the bigger problem is the compensation system in general.  To put it simply: it needs to be nuked.  It doesn't need to be altered.  We don't need to tweak it.  It needs to be destroyed in such a way that it never returns.  And left in its wake will be: nothing.  No compensation system at all.

If Epstein is signed through the 2012 season and he wants to go to Chicago before his contract is up, he can ask the Sox to be released.  They can say "yes" or "no".  If they say yes, maybe he has to buy out the last year of his contract and Henry gets a few more dollars in his pocket.  If they say "no", he has to hang around Fenway for 12 more months, at which point he's free to sign anywhere he wants.  Same for managers.  If an Ozzie Guillen isn't working out with the White Sox and he'd rather head down to Florida, the White Sox have the option to let him go or make him stay.  And if they let him go, they get nothing in return.

There's no reason it shouldn't be this simple. These aren't players.  They're personnel.  Trading personnel is a) stupid and b) far too messy.  We've just had a front row seat to that.  Instead of trying to set "guidelines" around every conceivable personnel swapping scenario, as some are suggesting, the whole idea should be erased.

Because no franchise needs to be embarrassed in the way the Sox have been embarrassed over the past 4 months.  Except maybe the Orioles.  Those guys deserve everything they get.

Sox get Chris Carpenter from Cubs for Theo

It's finally over! Well, mostly. The Sox have received Chris Carpenter as compensation for Theo. The two teams will still have to exchange players to be named later to finish up the deal. Not sure why that is necessary, but it is.

This is not the 36-year-old Christopher John Carpenter of the Cardinals, this is 26-year-old Christoper John Carpenter with very limited work in the majors that will likely start in Pawtucket. Carpenter has pitched 9.2 major league innings in relief, giving up 12 hits, 3 ER, and striking out 8.

All the wait for this guy? I must be missing something.

Update:

I guess he has some potential.

Epstein Saga: Day 2,867

 

Remember at the end of January when we thought the Epstein compensation issue would be resolved fairly quickly, as both the Sox and Cubs submitted written proposals to Selig?  And he was all, oh, I'll get this thing resolved "as expeditiously as possible"? 

Well, apparently Bud Selig is a dirty liar and those written proposals were just one step in this process.  NESN is reporting today that both sides have now submitted "written arguments" to Selig. That's right.  Two plus weeks ago both clubs submitted written proposals.  Now, written arguments.  

And in case you were wondering if Selig is putting a time frame around these shenanigans yet: BAAAAAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Last month I suggested that baseball hold a Judge Judy-style televised hearing to sort this out.  At the time, I was joking.  Not anymore.  I think we need to take my idea one step further and actually get Judge Judy to intervene and end this charade once and for all.  Selig clearly isn't up to the challenge.  Judge Judy will make her ruling within 30 minutes.  And, if you weren't aware, her rulings are final.