By cincyboy

December 9, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

The Enquirer’s John Fay (who IS in Vegas) quotes Dusty saying Bailey has “a huge upside.” Here we have vintage Hal, taking a leap on a wild rumor. If it proves true (it won’t) he’ll remind us repeatedly that it was “reported first in these pages.” If not, it will just fade away. If Fay swung and missed half as often as McCoy, he’d be skewered on talk radio and his job would be in jeopardy. But pulling this stunt (for years) from 50 miles away gets you a plaque in Cooperstown. True fact.

By Greg in London

December 9, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

While there is irresponsible reporting out there, it seems to come from all of the bloggers who have their own sites, and NO, I REPEAT NO, inside contacts. Hal McCoy is a respected professional, who only needs to put HOF behind his name to let people know what credentials that he has. I’m sure it’s not the first bit of bad info that he has received, nor will it be the last. I don’t know of another beat writer today that gives the readers the inside info that Hal does. Inside the clubhouse, inside the writers box, and inside the front office. He may have missed one, and he may not have. If this does come to pass are all of the “haters” going to step up and eat a large portion of crow? I doubt it. Thats not their style.

By Mike-Cinci

December 9, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t always agree with Hal but he has a right to his opinion and he has seen a lot of baseball over the years. I don’t think the Sox will trade Dye for Bailey unless they think Dye is over the hill and Bailey is a star in waiting. To make this trade work I think the Reds would have to add another player or two. Dye would help in 2009 but it is hard to see him helping beyond that. You can never have too much pitching. Why the historically pitching poor Reds would give up on a 22 year old pitcher for an old outfielder is beyond me. It would make some sense if they could contend in 2009 but this team won’t. I thought the plan was to go young. Now if Dye was only 27 or 28 we would have something. Don’t these rumors for Dye and Hernandez just prove how important developing players in your system is. Catching prospects in the Reds system have been few and far between and it appears there is nobody there yet.

By NickM

December 9, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Jermaine Dye is an 10 million dollar a year outfielder on the wrong side of 30. Didnt we just trade someone like that? Tejada is a steriod junkie who doesnt deserve to wear the uniform. Is this all were lookin at? Basement of the division once again fellas.

By Kentucky Reds Fan

December 9, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

What a bunch of classless jerks. I am, of course, referring to those of you who have so rudely ripped into Hal. Most likely, you feel that the anonymity of this blog somehow gives you certain power that you do not have at your job or any other facet of your actual life. Regardless, he is doing his job, knows how to do his job and is enjoyable to read. Those of you who are bloggers from Ohio who have not shown this classlessness, I apologize for this next comment, but this sort of crap from your fellow Ohio folks is exactly why those of us from Kentucky go to the games, and then cross back over the river as fast as possible.

By Howiej

December 9, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

Well said everyone. He might not come back. Lets hope.

By Kevin

December 9, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

So sorry about my writing skills. It`s kind of hard to type on a laptop with a broken hand. You see I broke it at “work”. I never questioned your baseball knowledge my bitter friend, but after your rather harsh attack on one of the most reliable and respected baseball writers in the country I certainly had plenty of reasons to question your bitterness, and the circumstances may have ultimatley led to your outrageous attack.

By Bowshier

December 9, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

Probably a disgruntled Cubs fan. Is that redundant?

By Bowshier

December 9, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

There are some Hall of Famers that don’t belong, but Hal and Lou Brock are legit.

By Bowshier

December 9, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

“Be respectful or just STFU!” would be really funny if I thought you weren’t serious.

By scottE

December 9, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

well said bobs! Dye was 4th in the AL in HR’s last year, 6th in OPS, and 11th in Slugging %. He takes the heat off of EE (if they keep him), gives veteren leadership to Votto and Bruce, and he hits for decent average and knows how to hit a sac fly (unlike our previous LF). Everybody acts like he is over the hill, when he was among the top offensive producers in the AL last year. Its not like the Reds can afford Manny or Texiera.

By scottE

December 9, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

Hey John, you are a coward for saying all this crap about Hal on a blog page. What are you trying to accomplish here? You are very angry and arrogant with your “forgot more” comments too. Why don’t you focus your energy on something that might lead to a valid debate amongst Reds fans instead of totally trashing Hal personally. You have serious problems man!

By bobs

December 9, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

What I dont understand is why there are some people on this board who would like to keep a pitcher who will be in Triple A this year over a proven ballplayer? With Harang, Arroyo, Cueto, Volquez, Thompson, Owens, Maloney, there is no need or no room for Bailey. Do you really need for Lousiville to have a good pitching staff? Dye comes in and plays well…great. If we are doing well, keep him. If not, trade him for better players. If he plays bad, decline mutual option, and he most likely gets us draft picks. He will cost $11 million, which is not that bad. Or, we keep Homer who may or may not ever be good enough to make the major league roster. On one hand, you have a player who you know will hit in the GABP, on the other hand, you have a pitcher who no one likes, has not pitched well yet, and may or may not be a success. No brainer for me.

By Mark in Sun Valley

December 9, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see the Dye trade happen. I think the Reds need him just to compete. Without him, I see a roster with 4 outfielders, 3 of whom have not proven they can stay healthy for an entire season. If the Reds do keep Bailey, I’d like to see him moved to relief, told to shelf that creampuff curveball, and allowed to simply let if fly for one inning at a time. This might allow him to be the agressive pitcher he should be with his stuff.

By Howiej

December 9, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

Homer likes alcohol, from what I hear. So much he needed the CH attendents in Louisville to taxi him all summer. ‘m not sure people get ot, even if we get Dye for one year we’ll get two-Baileys back in return. What is Bailey’s upside anyhow? Forgive me if I’m wrong, but his velocity dipped big time a year ago and still he has no kind of breaking pitch to speak of.

By Mark in Sun Valley

December 9, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

I am amazed that blogs and comments to blogs always inspire people to say things they would never say in public, face to face to someone. What the roto league fans of today never seem to underrated is that a team sport is more than raw numbers. Team chemistry puts teams like Tampa Bay in the World Series even when statistically, none of their players are to at their position. Hal, I for one always appreciate all you do for the team and the game and hope you will continue. For those who want to be haters, please. Just don’t read Hal’s articles and spare the rest of us your hate speech.

By Dave

December 9, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

If you don’t like Hal’s blog, don’t read the damn thing. You sound like Tracy Jones. If you knew half of what you say you do, you would be Walt’s right hand man. Your are not, leave.

By Howiej

December 9, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

Homer likes alchol, from what I hear. So much he needed the CH attendents in Louisville to taxi him all summer.

By Michael in Monterey, CA

December 9, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Apparently, like alcohol, the anonymity of the internet makes some weak-minded men brave. Dry up. Pitching wins pennants. The Reds aren’t loaded with pitching talent and shouldn’t consider trading Bailey for a non-pitcher. The kid has too much up-side.

By John

December 9, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Let me put it this way. Hal is the Corey Patterson of baseball journalism. Patterson, of course, was one of the least effective players in the majors in 2008. The fact that he was given 300 plus at-bats with such a low on-base percentage calls into questions everything that Dusty Baker decides to do. Hal, like Patterson, had a reputation as being good at his job. Unfortunately, both of them flat-out suck.

By john

December 9, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Hal WAS a great journalist, but he simply does not understand the game well enough to have his position today. And even still, he is still only a beat repoter, many of whom make practically nothing. So, Kevin, nice ingorant comment there about Maury. The thing is: I forgot more about baseball than you or Hal could ever know, did not lose a job, and do not watch Maury. Do you? Based off your lack of writing skills, it seems as if you might fit into the target market for the show. The way that people look at the game has changed dramatically, though, and your ol’ pal Hall has yet to catch up. Nor will he ever. Which is fine, I guess, given his age. His mission to get Bailey traded is irresponsible, given that he should be an objective reporter giving us the facts. And, yes, he does have to do this blog. Because it is, well, his job. The newspaper game is changing, fast. Most sports fans go to the Internet rather than the paper for their news, as the net provides up-to-the-moment news and analysis. If the paper did not make him do this blog, they would be losing out on potential revenue streams. However, they would be wise to replace him with better, younger talent, a writer who understands what OPS and VORP mean. For those sticking up for him, it seems that many of you are not up to date on how to evaluate baseball players, either. Join us in 2008. Seriously, if you go to this site for your Reds news, then here is a tip for you: Google. There are several amateur jouralists/Red bloggers who offer much better commentary and analysis than this so-called baseball genius.

By tom

December 9, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Relax and give it some time; the Jermaine Dye trade will get done.

By dickg43

December 9, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

Hal, Why do you persist in wanting to get rid of Bailey? What did he do to you?

By Florida Buckeye

December 9, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

A couple of things: First off, thanks for having the blog Hal. Secondly, I like the idea of this trade for a couple of reasons. Bailey hasnt become what we all hope for…perhaps he will; but I dont see it happening with the Reds, and in order to get talent, you have to trade talent, or ‘potential.’ Now, even IF the trade doesn’t happen, it’s a good thing for the Reds: Think of it this way…Now the rest of the GM’S have some idea of Homer’s worth, and can guage what the Reds want for him. Also, IF the trade goes through, AND the Reds are out of contention come the play-off race, they can trade Dye and get more bang for their bucks…A good all-around trade, and savvy biz moves on Jockety’s part…As far as Free: I dont want to see his fire leave our Clubhouse for another City.

By crosley

December 9, 2008 8:02 AM | Link to this

I doubt the Reds will trade Freel unless they re-sign Hairston—they need one to jump start the lineup. I like Hernandez. If Chris G had seen the Orioles pitch last year, he wouldn’t be so down on his throwing ability. I could steal off some of their pitchers and I’m 66 years old! Actually, Hernandez has a lifetime 3o% caught stealing rate which is respectable and he has the right handed power the Reds need.

By Richard

December 9, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

Why are you people getting on Hal McCoy’s case for? He isn’t the one doing the negotiations. All he is doing is reporting what he hears. Lighten up.

By Kevin

December 9, 2008 6:01 AM | Link to this

Just ignore these jerks Hal. People like John probably just got laid off from the dollar store and his wife(ooops…girlfriend) is still at home with their seven kids pullinin that monthly check. Hes just bitter because there`s no room on the couch to watch Maury!!

By HuberTucky

December 9, 2008 3:38 AM | Link to this

I simply do not understand the hostility behind the some of you guys on here having to flame our host, Hal McCoy. He doesn’t HAVE to do this blog. It’s a fun thing, okay? Quit attacking the guy. If you disagree, say so in a reasonable adult way and stop rippin’ the guy. Jeesus, he’s a HOF sports writer and has been at it successfulluy for over 30 years. What the hell are you doing with YOUR life and career, ya bigmouth flamers? Be respectful or just STFU!

By thepummeler

December 9, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this

OK, so he’s the best a ghost town could offer, tongue in cheek

By True reds fan

December 9, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

These guys are all idiots. Hal Mccoy is a great journalist. Any reds fan would wanna know about any action that could be made in the offseason. I happen to think that Dye for Bailey is a pretty big story. The Reds need a big bat like that. As for Freel I think it was ebing discussed because of the trade for Ramirez. People should really quit being so ignorant and enjoy some good info on your teams when you can get it.. Thanks for the work Hal

By Howiej

December 9, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

To Scott~ These people are all classless and really envy Hal, there is no other explanation. Hal is what all Journalist should strive to be. Thanks for doin what you do, Hal!

By Scott

December 9, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

Come on, give Hal a break, been reading his columns for 30 years. Maybe he had a bad source, sue him, the man is in the Hall of Fame. He is the main reason I read the DDN, we are lucky to have him, probably never see another reporter like him in this ghost town.

By thepummeler

December 9, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

I’m not saying he should be shot for his lameness….but, he reminds me of the bad performer on stage who keeps eluding the cane, because the cane wielder is dillusional, too!

By thepummeler

December 8, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Ok, thanks for chiming in…….Mrs. MCcoy

By Ridnaway

December 8, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Ok so Hal had a bad source. He’s not the first nor will he be the last. I doubt Hal will use this guy again anytime soon so get over it. I’m not a Bailey hater but I’d make that trade in a heartbeat. I’d even throw in Freel or Hopper if the Sox ate some of Dye’s salary. I hope they can keep Hairston though. He hustles like Freel but I think he’s a little more durable. I’ve also grown tired of Freel swinging for the fences. The guy needs to know his role is to get on base and let others drive him in. We don’t need a 5 ft. tall Adam Dunn.

By thepummeler

December 8, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I agree. Hal McCoy is vastly overrated as a columnist, let alone an ANYLIST. But, he’s part of the clique thats rubs elbows with part of the clique that…..rest on their laurels, plain and damn, simple!

By halmcoysucks

December 8, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

HAHAHAHAHA—-that was great…bravo John….that speaks volumes for what truly is the truth. Well Done!

By John

December 8, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Hal, You are an idiot, my friend. The Reds had one of the very worst team defenses in the majors in 2008. They need to address their defense, first and foremost, which is cheaper on the free agent market. Six years of a potential solid major league starter at or close to the minimum or one year of an overrated outfielder, Dye, who is on the decline. And, Miguel Tejada? Seriously? You are seemingly on a one-man mission to get Bailey traded, because you don’t like his attitude. Luckily, you are not a GM. If you were, your team would go 50-112, on average, ranking among the worst teams in the league. You’re a decent reporter, but not great, and a terrible analyst. Stick to the reporting, but check your sources next time. You are about as deserving as being in the Hall as Lou Brock. The game has changed, my friend, so join us in 2008, where we know that batting average and wins are overrated stats. Do some research, too. Seriously, you are an idiot. Just retire already, as being the one beat reporter to be following the same team for 30-plus years does not mean anything, especially when you are so out of the touch with the game today that your experience is more of a crutch than anything else.

By Howiej

December 8, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

I’m assuming your telling me to fly a kite about getting rid of freel,hopper and kep because what I said about Jocketty is fact, look it up. All Reds fans should be ready for a change, when was the last time we won? Freel is a risk to himself and others, Hopper can’t stay healthy and Kep, a light hitting shortstop with no speed that hit in the .260’s his whole career before becoming a Red.

By troydog

December 8, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

okay howie, go fly a kite buddy

By Howiej

December 8, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Obviously some haven’t been paying to much attention. Did the Cards’ make playoff run after playoff run producing through the system…No they made the splash in FA and trades and who was their GM all those years? Yeah you guessed it. Get used to it. Me personally, I’m pretty down on the Wayne K ways of doing things and welcome change. I really don’t care for a .263 career hitting catcher but getting rid of Freel would make me happy along with Kep and Hopper.

By wanderinredsfan

December 8, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Are you serious? You’re floating the idea of Bailey to Houston for Tejada, without anyone ever suggesting such. We get it: You don’t like Bailey and you want him gone. Thankfully, you aren’t the GM of this squad.

By davezID09

December 8, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

Why does every rumored deal that involves the Cincinnati Reds have to involve an over-priced, over-aged bum with no talent? Perhaps it’s because Cincinnati has become a breeding ground for bums in the recent years that everyone whose still holding on to self-lusting glory must believe this is the place to revive their career. Corey Patterson, Paul Bako and Gary Majeski called the Queen City their home last year, and the year before the Reds housed Rheal Cormier, Victor Santos, Chad Moeller, Mark Bellhorn and Juan Castro. All top of the line talent if you ask me. But Let me just say this. After however many losing season’s there’s been here in Cincy this ballclub does not need another wave of over the hill bums dawning the wishbone “C” taking up anymore years of our lives. This is in direct response to those Ramon Hernandez rumors. I understand they’re just rumors but hearing them paired along with “Get Ready to” Dye and Gerald Laird follows predominantly with the excessive baggage this organization seems to thrive on during the off-season. Ramon Hernandez. Wow. Can’t believe this is the only organization in baseball which seems to disrespect the catching position as much as the Reds do. For those who can’t believe the Reds would be interested in this walking pile of trash, good for you. For those who condone this deal, what are you think? Seriously! The guy is going to be 33 next season and the only skill he owns is speaking his native language. Oh yeah, and he’s due about 7.5 million in ‘08 and god knows how much in ‘09.

By Justin

December 8, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Hal, Your irresponsible journalism set off a fire storm. Sites such as rotoworld were quoting you and claiming the trade was made. They later redacted that and said that you obviously had a bad source. A different headline such wouldn’t have set off the fire storm. You made no-news into big news, into your own personal embarrassment. This isn’t the first time you have done this either. Remember when you reported that the Reds hired Jim Beattie as their new GM?

By Chris G

December 8, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Yes, lets go get Ramon Hernandez and watch the runners fly around the bases! In 127 games as the Orioles catcher last season, there were 123 steal attempts against him. 123!!!!! That shows no respect for his arm at all. And to top it off, he threw out only 19.5% of those runners. Terrible, just terrible. In 2007, they tried to steal 88 times on him in 104 starts behind the dish and he threw out all of 22%. For his career, he’s caught 1162 big league games and they’ve tried to steal on him 916 times. 916!!!!! SPlease stop looking at guys bats, home run production and RBI’s and start looking at their defense, especially behind the dish!What is with these terrible trade talks. Even though Freel never stays healthy there is no freaking way I trade for Ramon Hernandez and his bloated contract.