Why would anyone do business with Billy Beane?
 

Last week my son told me the Oakland A's had aquired 3-time all-star catcher Jason Kendall from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kendall has a lifetime .306 average, hits leadoff and steals bases with regularity. I was all excited until my son told me the A's got him for Arthur Rhodes (a failed closer) and Mark Redmond (a superfluous 5th starter). I immediately discounted my sons good news as yet another hot stove trade rumor. Couldn't be true. Well guess what? It's true.

Is Billy Beane the ultimate horse trader or what? If he finds a way to sign Tim Hudson to an extension I think I'll send him flowers!

I used to think that Billy Beane was brilliant until I noticed that the A's slip a little more every year... of course, you could chock that up to bad luck as well - it seems like at least one of the Big Three is always having some kind of a slump at any given time.

Moses, have you heard the trade rumors about one of the Big Three going to Boston for Bronson Arroyo and Kevin Youkilis?

Obviously I would prefer Hudson, but I would take Mulder or Zito as well

how about my giants breaking the bank for armando benitez? if the bully had not have blown the 15-20 saves last year the dodgers would have NOT won the west.

granted the giants would have been rolled in the 1st round again, like the A's do every year too.

Short series playoffs are a statistical crapshoot. Anyone can win...or lose. A's win the division in 2001, 2002, 2003 and miss it by one game in 2004. All with a small budget. I couldn't be happier with Billy Beane.

I have heard the trade rumors. Beyond the big 3, the A's are LOADED with quality starters, Harden, Blanton and two others. The A's fans expect one of the big 3 to be traded, but if Hudson goes, there may be widespread fan mutiny. Hudson is loved here. He's a great team leader. Hard working and generous with the fans and his teammates. He ranks third on baseballs all-time winning % list. His record when the A's score 4 runs? 74-2! He's our bulldog. I hope he stays in town.

Oakland A's;

"Zero splash hits...Three world titles."

(sorry-couldn't help myself)

With the payroll that the A's have, you're right - it is amazing how far they go every year.

So, it looks like the Mets are going to overpay for Pedro, huh?

I bet pedro stays in boston,as long as the yanks pass on him ill be happy. Boy it sure would be nice to see 1 of the big 3 in pinstripes. Thatll be the day george will probably buy another hitter.

Seems like the Mets are the final resting place for once-great careers.

It's early, but I predict a Red Sox repeat.