Saltzman Says...

Saltzman Says...25 Man Roster (Dec 8 Edition)

2012-12-08T10:29:00.000-08:00

Rotation:
1. #1 Starter: Matt Cain
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2013 Salary $20 million
2014 Salary $20 million

2015 Salary $20 million

2016 Salary $20 million

2017 Salary $20 million
2018 Salary $21 million (vesting option)
2. #2 Starter: Madison Bumgarner
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2017

2013 Salary $750K
2014 Salary $3.75 million
2015 Salary $6.75 million
2016 Salary $9.75 million
2017 Salary $11.5 million
2018 (club vesting option)
2019 (club option)

3. #3 Starter: Tim Lincecum
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2013 Salary: $22.5 million

4. #4 Starter: Barry Zito
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2013 Salary: $21 million
2014 Salary: $18 million (club option)

5. #5 Starter: Ryan Vogelsong
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2013 Salary: $5 million
2014 Salary: $6.5 million (club option)

Bullpen:
6. Closer: Sergio Romo
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

7. Lefty Specialist Javier Lopez
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2013 Salary: $4.25 million

8. Right Handed Reliever Santiago Casilla
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

9. Left Handed Reliever Jeremy Affeldt
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2013 Projected Salary: $6 million
2014 Projected Salary: $6 million
2015 Projected Salary: $6 million

10. Right Handed Reliever George Kontos
2013 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2013 Salary: $480K

11. Left Handed Reliever: Jose Mijares
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

12. Long Man/Spot Starter: Guillermo Mota
2013 Salary Situation: Free Agent
2013 Salary: ??

Starting Lineup:
13. Center Field Angel Pagan
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2016
2013 Salary: $8.25 million
2014 Salary: $10.25 million
2015 Salary: $10.25 million
2016 Salary: $11.25 million

14. Second Base Marco Scutaro
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2015
2013 Projected Salary: $6.25 million
2014 Projected Salary: $6.75 million
2015 Projected Salary: $7 million

15. Third Base Pablo Sandoval
2013 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2013 Salary: $5.7 million
2014 Salary: $8.25 million

16. Catcher Buster Posey
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

17. Right Field: Hunter Pence
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

18. First Base Brandon Belt
2013 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2013 Salary: $480K

19. Left Field: Gregor Blanco
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

20. Shortstop Brandon Crawford
2013 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2013 Salary: $480K

Bench:
21. Catcher Hector Sanchez
2013 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2013 Salary: $480K

22. Infielder Ryan Theriot
2013 Salary Situation: Free Agent
2013 Salary: ??

23. Infielder: Joaquin Arias
2013 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible
2013 Salary: ??

24. 4th Outfield: Xavier Nady
2013 Salary Situation: Free Agent
2013 Salary: ??

Cots Baseball Projections

Saltzman Says...My Tribute to Matt Cain

2012-10-01T10:30:00.005-07:00

Matt Cain finished his Perfect Game with 14 strikeouts.

Reaction from the Final Out

A Team Celebration.

The Boxscore on the JumboTron

The Message Says It All

McCovey Chronicles Collection of Perfect Game Links

50 Awesome Things About the Perfect Game

Saltzman Says...What The Giants Post Season Roster Should Be

2012-09-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

Starting Nine
1. Angel Pagan
2. Marco Scutaro
3. Pablo Sandoval
4. Buster Posey
5. Hunter Pence
6. Brandon Belt
7. Xavier Nady
8. Brandon Crawford
9. Matt Cain

Bench
10. Hector Sanchez
11. Ryan Theriot
12. Joaquin Arias
13. Gregor Blanco
14. Aubrey Huff

Other Starting Pitchers
15. Madison Bumgarner
16. Tim Lincecum
17. Barry Zito

Bullpen
18. Ryan Vogelsong
19. Guillermo Mota
20. Jose Mijares
21. Clay Hensley
22. Jeremy Affeldt
23. Santiago Casilla
24. Javier Lopez
25. Sergio Romo

Saltzman Says...Sabean's Strategery Showing Sure Signs of Success

2012-04-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

Six Sure Signs of Success

1. Matt Cain is an Ace
No matter what happens with Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain is signed through 2018. Regardless of how much money Tim wants, Cain will be here. That allows the team some leverage in negotiations and does force the hand of Lincecum to perform if he wants more than the $22.5 million he'll make in 2013.

2. 1st Pablo and now Madison
Locking young players up is the easiest way to ensure more cost certainty in the future. The team did it previously with Cain, and also with Brian Wilson. Wilson, who's contract is up after the season, actually has a 4th year of arbitration awaiting. Pablo is signed through his arbitration. Bumgarner is signed through the first year of his free agency. Having their salaries locked him could save the team money they might have had to spend to keep them during arbitration, but more importantly, allows them to know what is on their books.

3. 1st Rowand and Huff and then Zito
This year will be interesting because the team might not have any money to spend as they approach the trade deadline, but may have some money next off-season. Aaron Rowand's $12 million as well as Aubrey Huff's $11 million will both be off the books. After the team says goodbye to that $23 million, they will finally breathe a sigh of relief the following year when the monstrous 7 year $126 million beast of a contract Barry Zito signed will be gone. He will make $21 million next season and then the team will pay him $7 million to no longer be a Giant. That $42 million that is currently devoted to Rowand, Huff and Zito will be gone.

4. The Kids are coming, The Kids are coming...
Freddy Sanchez is making $6 million, Jeremy Affeldt is making $5 million, and Angel Pagan is making $4.5 million. Even if any of these 3 end up having strong years in 2012, they will more than likely be making less in 2013. It is possible that with the strides being made in the minors by Joe Panik, Heath Hembree and Gary Brown, that the $15.5 million currently devoted to Sanchez, Affeldt and Pagan will turn into $1.2 million to Panik, Hembree and Brown.

5. The Bills will be Paid!
According to Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports, the Giants will no longer owe $20 million a year for AT&T Park after 2017. So when the Giants are paying Matt Cain $20 million and Madison Bumgarner $12 million, they can afford to pay Lincecum $25 and Buster Posey whatever he will be making. Same for Pablo Sandoval, Sergio Romo, Brandon Belt, Brandon Crawford, Nate Schierholtz, Gary Brown, Joe Panik, and Heath Hembree.

6. Even more Kids are coming...
Whether it's current 25 man roster contributors like Hector Sanchez and Brett Pill, 40 man roster options like Francisco Peguero and Charlie Culberson or up and comers like Tommy Joseph and Chris Dominguez, the Giants are stockpiled with talent and that will continue because of the scouting department and the staff the team has put together in the minor leagues. San Jose, Richmond and Fresno are loaded with talent and potential and it will allow the Giants the flexibility to move a player like Zach Wheeler for Carlos Beltran even if it is a 2 month rental because the team has Erik Surkamp or Kyle Crick

Saltzman Says...25 Man Roster (Madison Bumgarner Extension Edition)

2012-04-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

Rotation:
1. #1 Starter: Tim Lincecum
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2013
2012 Salary: $18 million
2013 Salary: $22.5 million

2. #2 Starter: Madison Bumgarner
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Salary: $560K
2013 Salary $750K
2014 Salary $3.75 million
2015 Salary $6.75 million
2016 Salary $9.75 million
2017 Salary $11.5 million
2018 (club vesting option)
2019 (club option)

3. #3 Starter: Matt Cain
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $15 million
2013 Salary $20 million
2014 Salary $20 million

2015 Salary $20 million

2016 Salary $20 million

2017 Salary $20 million
2018 Salary $21 million (vesting option)

4. #4 Starter: Ryan Vogelsong
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $3 million
2013 Salary: $5 million
2014 Salary: $6.5 million (club option)

5. #5 Starter: Barry Zito
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2012 Salary: $19 million
2013 Salary: $21 million
2014 Salary: $18 million (club option)

Bullpen:
6. Closer Brian Wilson
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $8.5 million

7. Setup Man Sergio Romo
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.575 million

8. Lefty Specialist Javier Lopez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $4.25 million
2013 Salary: $4.25 million

9. Right Handed Reliever Santiago Casilla
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $2.2 million

10. Left Handed Reliever Jeremy Affeldt
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $5 million

11. Right Handed Reliever Guillermo Mota
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1 million

12. Long Man/Spot Starter Clay Hensley
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $750K

Starting Lineup:
13. Center Field Angel Pagan
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $4.85 million

14. Second Base Freddy Sanchez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

15. Third Base Pablo Sandoval
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $3.2 million
2013 Salary: $5.7 million
2014 Salary: $8.25 million

16. Catcher Buster Posey
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Salary: $650K

17. Left Field Melky Cabrera
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

18. First Base Aubrey Huff
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $11 million

19. Right Field Nate Schierholtz
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.3 million

20. Shortstop Brandon Crawford
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench:
21. Catcher Hector Sanchez
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Salary: $480K

22. First Base Brett Pill
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

23. UT Brandon Belt
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Salary: $480K

24. UT Ryan Theriot
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.25 million

25. 4th Outfield Gregor Blanco
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Salary: $480K

Aaron Rowand ($12 million)
Total Payroll: $126 million

Saltzman Says...25 Man Roster (Matt Cain Extension Edition)

2012-04-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

Matt Cain obtains a signing bonus of $5MM and his 2012 salary of $15MM remains unchanged, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports (Twitter links). The right-hander will earn $20MM annually from 2013-17 and the deal includes a $21MM option with a $7.5MM buyout for 2018, according to Rosenthal. The 2018 option will vest if Cain is healthy in 2017, according to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com (on Twitter). Otherwise it becomes a club option. Cain has full no-trade protection, according to Jim Bowden of ESPN.com and MLB Network Radio (Twitter link).

3. #3 Starter: Madison Bumgarner
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $850K

4. #4 Starter: Ryan Vogelsong
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $3 million

5. #5 Starter: Barry Zito
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2012 Salary: $19 million ($46 million buyout unlikely)

Bullpen:
6. Closer Brian Wilson
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $8.5 million

7. Setup Man Sergio Romo
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.575 million

8. Lefty Specialist Javier Lopez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2013
2012 Salary: $4.25 million

9. Right Handed Reliever Santiago Casilla
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $2.2 million

10. Left Handed Reliever Jeremy Affeldt
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $5 million

11. Right Handed Reliever Guillermo Mota
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1 million

12. Long Man/Spot Starter Clay Hensley
2012 Salary Situation: Non Guaranteed Contract
2012 Salary: $750K

Starting Lineup:
13. Center Field Angel Pagan
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $4.85 million

14. Second Base Freddy Sanchez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

15. Third Base Pablo Sandoval
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2012 Salary: $3.2 million

16. Catcher Buster Posey
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

17. Left Field Melky Cabrera
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

18. First Base Aubrey Huff
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $11 million

19. Right Field Nate Schierholtz
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.3 million

20. Shortstop Brandon Crawford
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench:
21. Catcher Eli Whiteside
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

22. First Base Brett Pill
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

23. Infield Mike Fontenot
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.05 million

24. UT Ryan Theriot
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.25 million

25. 4th Outfield Brandon Belt
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench Estimated Payroll Impact: $4 million

Estimated Payroll: $114 million
Aaron Rowand ($12 million)
Total Payroll: $126 million

Saltzman Says...Hello Andrew Bogut

2012-03-15T14:43:00.002-07:00

The Golden State Warriors have revamped their team with the additions of Andrew Bogut and Richard Jefferson as well as adding two draft picks in the upcoming draft.

If they end up with a top 7 pick, they will have 4 draft picks in which to add many pieces to challenge the incumbent Warriors next year.

No Warrior besides David Lee and Klay Thompson are signed past 2013-14, so there is no commitment to any other player beyond two years. That allows the Warriors two things. Patience and flexibility. In that order.

They don't have the trade pieces anymore to make a major change, and they don't have the salary cap space to make any big free agent splash.

However, if they bring back Brandon Rush, Dominic McGuire and/or Nate Robinson, the majority of their roster next year is accounted for.

The only major difference will be if someone decides to take on Andris Biedrins, Dorell Wright, or Richard Jefferson.

Locked in for next year are the following: [IF HEALTHY]

PG Stephen Curry
SG Klay Thompson
PF David Lee
C Andrew Bogut

Curry and Bogut make that a big if.

Point Guard: Nate Robinson has proven to be a nice addition off the bench. Rookie Charles Jenkins has shown enough flashes to see why the team liked him enough to let Jeremy Lin go {not the blog entry to get into that turn of events}

Both could be brought back to give Jenkins more time to develop and give the team some scoring off the bench.

PG: Curry, Robinson and Jenkins

Shooting Guard: Brandon Rush needs to be signed beyond this season to remain a Warrior, and the team had an offer on the table to get Chris Kaman if they included Rush, and passed. That shows he is someone they really like. If they re-sign him, their isn't any further need at the 2 guard spot.

SG: Thompson and Rush

Small Forward: Richard Jefferson hasn't played a game yet under Mark Jackson, so it is way too early to say if he will be a great fit, a long term answer, or even a starter. He could start over Dorell Wright, which would allow Wright to contribute off the bench. Either way, both are expendable if the team lands a top 7 pick in the upcoming draft. Chris Wright, an end of the bench SF right now, will be a long shot to stay with the club next year.

SF: Jefferson and D. Wright

Power Forward: David Lee is your starting PF for the next several years no matter what. That being said, Dominic McGuire has certainly proven he is worthy for playing time. His effort on the boards, ability to play defense on the perimeter, and down low, and his overall hustle, makes him as valuable to this team as anyone. They may bring in another banger to replace Udoh, but only because McGuire can play multiple positions.

PF: Lee and McGuire

Center: Andrew Bogut can easily become the best center in Warriors history since Nate Thurmond simply by being competent on both ends of the floor. If Healthy, he can be dominant on either end at times. This does two things. It allows Andris Biedrins to simply be a backup despite his salary. Also, it let's Biedrins become expendable. An twist in the trades made this week would be if the team brought back Kwame Brown next year to backup Bogut. Jeremy Tyler is way too raw for any kind of consistent minutes at this level. He won't be moved to another team because why let him blossom somewhere else.

C: Bogut, Biedrins and Tyler

That leaves three open spots if these 12 players are brought back.

The Warriors currently have 2 guaranteed draft picks, both in the 2nd round, and have two draft picks that are conditional. Their own, which is Top 7 protected and now the Spurs 1st round pick, which is Top 14 protected.

IF the Warriors end up with 4 draft picks, they will either need to release or trade one of the 12 players above, or simply draft a player that is playing overseas and just obtain his rights. Regardless, the team looks to have a full 15 man roster next year.

These moves allow the Warriors to be much more balanced next season.

Saltzman Says...Goodbye Monta Ellis

2012-03-14T13:40:00.001-07:00

The Warriors were bought by Owners with a background in two things as it relates to sports: Owning teams, and building teams.

Peter Guber's Mandalay Entertainment owns several Minor League teams.

Joe Lacob owned part of the Boston Celtics and saw the internal workings of a organization that carved out a plan, stuck to it, and delivered a championship from it.

Bringing in Jerry West as an advisor to evaluate talent, Rick Welts to run the business side that bobby fowell used to, Bob Myers to help improve the Warriors standing with other GM's and agents, and Mark Jackson to build a team that relies on passing the basketball and defense.

Everyone hired was hired for a purpose.

The team was not fully built by the time David Lee was traded for, but the move had the ok from ownership. They traded three complimentary pieces:

Anthony Randolph, who is currently playing 12 minutes a game, scoring 5.9 PPG for Minnesota

Ronny Turiaf, who is currently averaging 1.2 PPG and 3 RPG for Washington

Kelenna Azubuike, who is not currently playing basketball.

The Knicks, in essence, traded David Lee for cap space to pursue Amare Stoudemire and trade for Carmelo Anthony. As good as they look on paper, especially now with Jeremy Lin, they aren't in any better shape than the Warriors currently.

For all of David Lee's shortcomings on defense, he is an offensive force at times, and he has a consistent jumper that helps open the floor for his teammates. He is also a willing passer. It doesn't make up for his lack of defense, yet he is now going to be paired with Andrew Bogut.

Bottomline: Monta Ellis doesn't play defense. Monta Ellis is not as good long term as Stephen Curry or Klay Thompson. Monta Ellis is not as important to a playoff team as Andrew Bogut.

Every single Warrior that has been brought in plays defense since the front office was completely built.

Klay Thompson

Kwame Brown

Dominic McGuire

Brandon Rush

Nate Robinson

Andrew Bogut

Stephen Jackson

Every one of those players puts in work on the defensive side of the ball.

PG Stephen Curry (backed up by Nate Robinson)

SG Klay Thompson (backed up by Brandon Rush)

SF Dorell Wright (backed up by Stephen Jackson)

PF David Lee (backed up by Dominic McGuire)

C Andrew Bogut (backed up by Andris Biedrins)

{That would be a fun 5-on-5 to watch.}

with Charles Jenkins and Jeremy Tyler, that is a much more balanced team with a very talented bench.

If Stephen Jackson can embrace the 6th man type role that Nate Robinson has, we can be tough to beat next year.

We will certainly look to bring in a rookie or two to challenge for playing time

I could see the Warriors bringing in a rookie SF to make Stephen Jackson expendable.

(Ideally, Harrison Barnes or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist)

I could see the Warriors bringing in a rookie C to make Jeremy Tyler work and Andris more expendable.

I could even see the Warriors bring back Kwame Brown this off-season.

Saltzman Sees...Top 10 Football Movies of All-Time

2012-02-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

With the Super Bowl on Sunday, and my new movie blog launched (http://saltzmansees.blogspot.com) no better time than now to present my top ten Football movies of All-Time:

1. Rudy

2. Remember the Titans

3. Brian's Song (1971)

4. Radio

5. The Blind Side

6. We Are Marshall

7. Invincible

8. The Express

9. The Longest Yard (1974)

10. Possums

Honorable Mentioned: All the Right Moves, Any Given Sunday, Brian's Song (2002), Everybody's All-American, Facing the Giants, Friday Night Lights, Heaven Can Wait, Jerry Maguire, Jim Thorpe: All-American, Little Giants, Lucas, Necessary Roughness, North Dallas Forty, Semi-Tough, The Best of Times, The Game Plan, The Last Boy Scout, The Last Game, The Longest Yard (2005), The Program, The Replacements, The Waterboy, They Call Me Sirr, Triumph of the Heart. The Ricky Bell Story, Varsity Blues, Wildcats, and Year of the Bull

Saltzman Sees...Top 10 Sports Movies of All-Time

2012-01-29T18:36:00.000-08:00

Moneyball doesn't make my top 10, despite being a top 10 movie in 2011. Here is my top 10 sports movies of all-time

1. Field of Dreams: A love story between a father and son and their love for the game of baseball. One of the most beautiful stories ever on screen.

2. Hoosiers: The greatest underdog story in movie history, with incredible performances by Gene Hackman, Dennis Hopper, and the small town of "Hickory."

3. Rudy: Underdog stories are a common theme in sports, and Rudy is as inspirational as they come of a young boy living his life long dream.

4. Remember the Titans: The hard truths of racism in America during the 1960's is documented brilliantly through the eyes of two men coaching football in Virginia. Denzel Washington is coach Herman Boone.

5. Rocky: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burgess Meredith, Burt Young and Carl Weathers are magnificent in a true tale of opportunity in America. A beautiful love story that proves the American Dream is still possible.

6. Miracle: One of the greatest upsets ever, documented beautifully by Disney. A true David and Goliath. Kurt Russell is tremendous.

7. Brian's Song: One of the most unlikely but truly great friendships ever immortalized on film. James Caan and Billie Dee Williams are terrific as Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers.

8. Million Dollar Baby: A story of determination and love that captures the human spirit. Clint Eastwood's heartfelt story of a woman's dedication to make something of herself.

9. Radio: The true story of a young man who brought out the best in everyone he ever touched. Cuba Gooding Jr., Ed Harris, Alfre Woodard and Debra Winger are masterful telling the tale of 'Radio."

10. Seabiscuit: Jeff Bridges, Tobey Maguire and Chris Cooper learn about hope during one of the darkest times in our nation's history. During the depression, America fell in love with an undersized, overweight horse.

For more on my love affair with the Cinema, please go to: SaltzmanSees.blogspot.com

Saltzman Says... Giants 25 Man Roster, Updated 1/27/12

2012-01-17T14:54:00.000-08:00

Rotation:
1. #1 Starter: Tim Lincecum
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2013
2012 Salary: $18 million

2. #2 Starter: Matt Cain
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $15 million (with added extension??)

3. #3 Starter: Madison Bumgarner
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $850K

4. #4 Starter: Ryan Vogelsong
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $3 million

Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com has the breakdown (on Twitter). Vogelsong will earn $3MM in 2012, $5MM in 2013, and then a $6.5MM club option with a $300K buyout for 2014 comes into play. The total guarantee is $8.3MM.

SAN FRANCISCO -- Left-handed reliever Javier Lopez has agreed to an $8.5 million, two-year contract to stay with the San Francisco Giants, a person with knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Lopez -- one of baseball's most reliable lefties out of the bullpen -- had been set to become a free agent before receiving a new deal, confirmed under the condition of anonymity because the team had yet to make a formal announcement. Lopez will earn $4.25 million in 2012 and '13.

9. Right Handed Reliever Santiago Casilla
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $2.2 million

10. Left Handed Reliever Jeremy Affeldt
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $5 million

11. Right Handed Reliever Guillermo Mota
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1 million

12. Long Man/Spot Starter Clay Hensley
2012 Salary Situation: Non Guaranteed Contract
2012 Salary: $750K

Starting Lineup:
13. Center Field Angel Pagan
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $4.85 million

The Mets avoided arbitration with outfielder Andres Torres on a deal worth $2.7MM, tweets Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork. The Mets also avoided arbitration with reliever Ramon Ramirez, agreeing to a $2.65MM deal, tweets ESPN's Enrique Rojas.

(Saltzman Says...By my count, we saved $500K. With only that savings, I sure hope Pagan is a major upgrade from Torres, because Torres is a better defender and Ramirez was a very strong arm in the bullpen. I'm not sure if we will replace Ramirez with a better arm.)

14. Second Base Freddy Sanchez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

15. Third Base Pablo Sandoval
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2014
2012 Salary: $3.2 million

16. Catcher Buster Posey
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

17. Left Field Melky Cabrera
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

18. First Base Aubrey Huff
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $11 million

19. Right Field Nate Schierholtz
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.3 million

20. Shortstop Brandon Crawford
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench:
21. Catcher Eli Whiteside
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

22. First Base Brett Pill
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

23. Infield Mike Fontenot
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.05 million

24. UT Ryan Theriot
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1.25 million

25. 4th Outfield Brandon Belt
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench Estimated Payroll Impact: $4 million

Estimated Payroll: $114 million
Aaron Rowand ($12 million)

Total Payroll: $126 million

Saltzman Says... Golden State Warriors State of the Franchise 2012

2012-01-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

We are 10 games into a 66 game, condensed schedule, lockout shortened season. The Warriors, 3-7, like play-by-play man Bob Fitzgerald predicted on his KNBR radio show, are off to a bumpy, injury prone, dramatic start.

The Good - The Warriors have beaten two teams, Miami and Chicago that have combined for 18 wins already this year, and also beat the New York Knicks.

The Bad - The Warriors played 7 of their 1st 10 at home and have a losing record (3-4) at home.

The Ugly - It will get worse before it gets better. Stephen Curry has missed most of the season so far with sprained ankles that have come 3 separate times this season. Also, Kwame Brown is done for the season with a torn chest muscle.

As far as the franchise goes, the team seems to have a good nucleus in place in the front office and with their staff. Joe Lacob, the principle owner of the franchise, hired Jerry West to serve of his executive board, hired Rick Welts as his president, Bob Myers as his asst. GM, and hired Mark Jackson as his head coach. While West's reputation is legendary and Welts is as well respected around the league as anybody, Myers and Jackson are brand new to their job descriptions. Myers is a former player agent and Jackson is a former player and analyst. That being said, Myers is one of the most respected player agents in the game, and who better to deal with other agents, than a former one. Jackson, while never having coached before, certainly knows how to lead, whether as a starting point guard in the NBA for 17 seasons or at his church as the pastor. It can certainly be said that the health of the organization at the top is good news for fans.

As far as the team goes, they are a long way from respectability. Stephen Curry, Monta Ellis, Dorell Wright, David Lee and Andris Biedrins is the team's starting lineup if everyone is healthy, and that if has been a big one the last year and 10 games. Ekpe Udoh is the only other returner from last season. The team found a lot of 1 year replacements to fill out the roster this season. Kwame Brown, who was brought in to fill the void of a true backup center, is out for the year with a torn chest muscle. The combination of Brown and Biedrins certainly helped the team's interior defense. Second year man Udoh has had to log critical minutes at center this season, and he was certainly over matched against the best center in the game last night in Dwight Howard. Lee's primary backup is Dominic McGuire. Wright's primary backup is Brandon Rush who has a qualifying offer for next season. Rookie Klay Thompson is the primary backup to Ellis and veteran Nate Robinson was brought in to backup Stephen Curry. Second year man Ish Smith and rookie Charles Jenkins can both play point guard as well, and rookie Jeremy Tyler is another big body that is very raw.

The team should have about $14 million to spend next season and about $19 million to spend in 2013/14. That kind of money should give the team some flexibility heading into the off-seasons. None of the new players this year will cost the team much more than they are making this year. Brown, McGuire, Rush, Robinson and Smith could all be brought back to small, reasonable contracts. That kind of versatility hasn't been the case in several years for the Warriors.

Also, with each passing year, Ellis, Biedrins and Lee's contracts become more trade friendly. The turnover between this year and next year could finally see some changes to the starting lineup. As fans, people will be hoping for a trade deadline miracle along the likes of Baron Davis a few years ago. We'll see if the new ownership has something up their sleeve.

Saltzman Says... Organizational Depth Chart (Jan. 12, 2012 Edition)

2011-12-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

San Francisco's Updated Organizational Depth Chart: (1/12/12 Edition)

Right Handed Pitchers:

RHSP Matt Cain (ML)

RHRP Santiago Casilla (ML)
RHRP Steve Edlefson (ML)
RHSP Tim Lincecum (ML)
RHRP Guillermo Mota (ML)

RHRP Sergio Romo (ML)
RHSP Ryan Vogelsong (ML)

RHRP Brian Wilson (ML)
RHRP Boof Bonser (Invite to Spring Training)

RHP Dan Ortero (Fresno Grizzlies/40 Man)
RHP Josh Banks (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Casey Daigle (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Andrew Kown (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHRP Marc Kroon (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Shane Loux (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Scott Munter (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Ronnie Ray (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Felix Romero (Fresno Grizzlies)
RHP Hector Correa (Richmond Flying Squirrels/40 Man)

RHP Justin Fitzgerald (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
RHRP Heath Hembree (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
RHP Mitch Lively (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
RHP Daryl Maday (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
RHP Edwin Quirarte (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

RHSP Jake Dunning (San Jose Giants)
RHP Jacob Dunnington (San Jose Giants)
RHP Stephen Harrold (San Jose Giants)

RHSP Chris Heston (San Jose Giants)

RHSP Michael Main (San Jose Giants)
RHP Osris Matos (San Jose Giants)
RHP Andy Reichard (San Jose Giants)
RHP Jose Valdez (San Jose Giants)
RHSP Craig Westcott (San Jose Giants)

RHP Chris Wilson (San Jose Giants)
RHP Brett Bochy (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Drew Bowlin (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Edward Concepcion (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Austin Fleet (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Taylor Rogers (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Seth Rosin (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Shawn Sanford (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Justin Schumer (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Jeremy Toole (Augusta Green Jackets)
RHP Brandon Allen (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Wilber Bucardo (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Brennan Flick (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Kendry Flores (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Matthew Graham (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Cody Hall (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Cameron Lamb (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Rafael Martinez (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Lorenzo Mendoza (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Reinier Roibal (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
RHP Stephen Shackleford (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
----------

Left Handed Pitchers:

LHP Jeremy Affeldt (ML)

LHP Madison Bumgarner (ML)

LHP Javier Lopez (ML)
LHP Dan Runzler (ML)
LHP Erik Surkamp (ML)

LHP Barry Zito (ML)
LHP Brian Burres (Invite to Spring Training)
LHP Matt Yourkin (Fresno Grizzlies)

LHP Justin Dowdy (Fresno Grizzlies)
LHP Geno Espineli (Fresno Grizzlies)
LHP Craig Clark (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
LHP Chuck Lofgren (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

LHP David Quinowski (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
LHP Wilmin Rodriguez (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
LHP Chris Gloor (San Jose Giants)
LHSP Kelvin Marte (San Jose Giants)
LHP Ari Ronick (San Jose Giants)
LHP Tom Vessella (San Jose Giants)
LHP Ryan Bradley (Augusta Green Jackets)
LHP Michael Kickham (Augusta Green Jackets)
LHP Mario Rodriguez (Augusta Green Jackets)
LHP Gaspar Santiago (Augusta Green Jackets)
LHP Aaron King (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
LHP Phil McCormick (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
LHP Jack Snodgrass (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
----------

Catchers:

C Buster Posey (ML)
C Hector Sanchez (ML)

C Chris Stewart (ML)
C Eli Whiteside (ML)

C Jackson Williams (Fresno Grizzlies)

C Max Ramirez (Fresno Grizzlies)
C Aaron Lowenstein (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

C Johnny Monell (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
C Eliezer Zambrano (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

C Tommy Joseph (San Jose Giants)
C Alex Burg (San Jose Giants)
C Jesus Navarro (San Jose Giants)
C Jeff Arnold (Augusta Green Jackets)
C Daniel Burkhart (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
C Mike Murray (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
C Joseph Staley (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)

----------

First Baseman:

1B Aubrey Huff (ML)
1B Brandon Belt (ML)

1B Brett Pill (ML)
1B Angel Villalona (???/40 Man)
1B Wes Hodges (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

1B Luke Anders (San Jose Giants)
1B Josh Mazzola (Augusta Green Jackets)
1B Ryan Scoma (Augusta Green Jackets)
1B Brice Cutspec (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)

----------
Second Baseman:

2B Manny Burris (ML)
2B Mike Fontenot (ML)
2B Freddy Sanchez (ML)

2B Brock Bond (Fresno Grizzlies)
2B Charlie Culberson (Richmond Flying Squirrels/40 Man)
2B Ryan Lormand (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
2B Ryan Covan (San Jose Giants)
2B Juan Ciriaco (San Jose Giants)
2B Carlos Willoughby (Augusta Green Jackets)
2B Kaohi Downing (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
2B Julio Izturis (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)

----------

Third Baseman:

3B Pablo Sandoval (ML)

3B Conor Gillaspie (Fresno Grizzlies/40 Man)
3B Chris Dominguez (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

3B Drew Biery (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
3B Nick Noonan (San Jose Giants)
3B Jose Flores (San Jose Giants)
3B Adam Duvall (Augusta Green Jackets)
3B Garrett Buechele (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)

----------
Shortstops:

SS Brandon Crawford (ML)
SS Joaquin Arias (???)

SS Sharlon Schoop (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
SS Ehire Adrianza (San Jose Giants/40 Man)
SS Carter Jurica (San Jose Giants)
SS Bobby Haney (Augusta Green Jackets)
SS Ydwin Villegas (Augusta Green Jackets)
SS Joel Weeks (Augusta Green Jackets)
SS John Eshleman (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
SS Joseph Panik (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)

----------

Outfielders:

LF Melky Cabrera (ML)
OF Justin Christian (ML)
CF Angel Pagan (ML)
RF Nate Schierholtz (ML)
OF Tyler Graham (Fresno Grizzlies/40 Man)

OF Justin Christian (Fresno Grizzlies)

OF Brad Eldred (Fresno Grizzlies)
OF Edgar Gonzalez (Fresno Grizzlies)

RF Roger Kieschnick (Richmond Flying Squirrels/40 Man)
CF Francisco Peguero (Richmond Flying Squirrels/40 Man)
LF Wendell Fairley (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
CF Juan Perez (Richmond Flying Squirrels)

LF Skyler Stromsmoe (Richmond Flying Squirrels)
OF Gary Brown (San Jose Giants)
OF Jarrett Parker (San Jose Giants)

OF James Simmons (San Jose Giants)
OF Raynor Campbell (Augusta Green Jackets)
LF Dan Cook (Augusta Green Jackets)
LF Devin Harris (Augusta Green Jackets)
CF Chris Lofton (Augusta Green Jackets)
RF Ryan Lollis (Augusta Green Jackets)
LF Rafael Rodriguez (Augusta Green Jackets)

CF Jesus Galindo (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
OF Ryan Honeycutt (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
OF Charles Jones (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
OF Brett Krill (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
OF Leonardo Ochoa (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
OF Shawn Payne (Salem-Keizer Volcanoes)
----------
Designated Hitters
DH Tyler LaTorre (Fresno Grizzlies)
DH Nick Liles (San Jose Giants)
----------

Saltzman Says...two sides to every Warrior

2011-12-13T14:40:00.001-08:00

Warriors are entering a new season with a new owner, new asst. general manager, new head coach, and some new players. Optimism is in the air like the smell of old converse sneakers in the old run down gym used to shoot the movie Hoosiers.

As a season ticket holder since 2005, I cannot share the optimism. However, here is the best case scenario and worst case scenario for each player this season.

PG Stephen Curry
Positive: He is entering his third season, and usually that is when a young point guard can really blossom. He has improved several parts of his game, and as the unquestioned leader of the team, he can elevate even further with a more disciplined approach to defense. Becomes one of the best PG's in the game.

Negative: He is undersized for PG on both ends of the floor, and he is never able to defend his position. He regresses as a passer and struggles to run the offense. Ends up a 2nd unit 2 guard like Jason Terry or Ben Gordon or J.J. Redick, instead of an elite PG.

SG Monta Ellis
Positive: He doesn't care about anything but winning. He becomes the NBA steals leader without sacrificing the lane again and again. He becomes a solid defender, and continues to be deadly from 18'. His three point shot improves, and he gets to the free throw line more with his takes to the basket.

Negatives: The trade rumors continue, the turmoil with management never heals, he is sent packing and never lives up to his full potential in Oakland. Worse, he stays here, but stays a shoot first, shoot second 2 guard with no defense to be proud of and never goes to the line.

SF Dorell Wright
Positives: He continues to be one of the best 3 point shooters in the game, but his defense is the centerpiece of Mark Jackson's team. He is able to stabilize Kobe, LeBron, and Dirk at different times during the year, and his defense makes him one of the best all around players in the league.

Negatives: He becomes nothing more than an outside shooter. His defense falters and he becomes a liability as the starting 3.

PF David Lee
Positives: His grit and toughness evolves into production on the defensive end, and his hustle and hard work allows him to lead the league in offensive rebounds. His double double's help lead the team on both ends of the floor.

Negatives: His offense becomes nothing more than an occasional elbow jumper. He becomes a stat collector for rebounds and never grabs a hustle rebound or gets a key put back. His money becomes a strain on the team's finances and they can't bring in an impact player for several years.

C Andris Biedrins
Positives: His double double's come back, as he gets back to using his quickness to get to the glass without fear of the free throw line. His defense gets even better as he solidifies the back end of the defense. His free throw shot improves with dedication.

Negatives: His game is shot, his toughness is permanently gone, and he becomes a $9 million lump on the end of the bench.

Bench

PG Charles Jenkins
Positives: He gets added to the long list of New York City PG's who flourish in the NBA. He gets points in the paint and makes great passes on the offensive end, and holds his own on defense.

Negatives: He can't get accustomed to the NBA, and struggles with turnovers and his defense at the next level.

SG/SF Klay Thompson
Positives: Becomes a seamless transition to the NBA, much like Stephen Curry, with his NBA lineage. His shot keeps him earning minutes, and his points per game helps lead a young bench to a much improved season.

Negatives: Can't hang on the defensive end with his size and lack of elite quickness and he can't get his own shot at the NBA level.

PF Ekpe Udoh
Positives: His defense anchors the 2nd unit and he becomes a relentless rebounder and shot blocker. He starts to learn the offensive side of the game a little and can put up points with open jumpers.

Negatives: Is a complete non factor on the offensive end, and spends too much time on the bench in foul trouble. He gets handled by bigger and stronger 4's and can't keep good 4's out of the paint for easy points.

C Kwame Brown
Positives: His defense keeps the rim off limits to the 2nd unit and he earns some starts with his defensive play. He actually provides 6-8 PPG with put backs and hustle plays and contributes on both ends.

Negatives: He becomes a trade piece at the trade deadline on his one year deal and he has no impact on the offensive end at all. He becomes a 6 foul defender who can't help at the 5, and leaves Biedrins on the floor way too many minutes a game. Even worse, Lou Amundson and Biedrins are stuck playing key center minutes because of his inability to play.

PF Lou Amundson
Positives: Great energy guy off the bench who helps the 2nd unit keep the best teams out of the paint and away from 2nd chance points.

Negatives: Becomes a liability on both ends with an inability to score and a inability to defend.

C Jeremy Tyler
Positives: Becomes a force in the middle by the end of the year with his ability on both ends. Is the steal of the draft with his size and ability. Can score in the low post and can defend the rim. No need for Kwame Brown next year because of his growth.

Negatives: Permanent D-League player who never makes it to Oakland.

Saltzman Says...You can't trade an untouchable

2011-11-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

Tim Lincecum of the San Francisco Giants will not be traded by Brian Sabean. That is an accurate statement. It is true today. It is true tomorrow. It will be true as long as Tim Lincecum is healthy, effective and/or upright.

Atlanta had a similar trio forming and then dominating in the 1990's. Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and John Smoltz became the cornerstone of a 14 year playoff run in Atlanta.

Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain and Madison Bumgarner will be that for San Francisco. There are huge doubts about reaching 14 years, however it won't be due to a lack of pitching. At this point, those three help lead San Francisco to the same amount of championships already as Atlanta, and there is no reason to think the need for a bat outweighs the formula that won them the title in the first place.

Dave Cameron of Fan Graphs is wrong.

"...they’d clear between $25 and $30 million off the books in 2012 salary – enough to re-sign Carlos Beltran, add a real center fielder, and have enough left over to bring in a pitcher to replace Lincecum in the rotation."

Are you kidding? What pitcher is going to replace Lincecum. IF the Giants did trade Lincecum, they wouldn't replace him anyway. They would just use the 5 man rotation they would still have with Zito and Sanchez both staying in the rotation. Dan Runzler, Eric Surkamp and others would be kept as well in case of injury or ineffectiveness.

Saltzman Says...1 Year Anniversary brings back memories

2011-11-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

November 1, 2010.

1 year ago today the Giants won their first championship in San Francisco. At 7:29pm, Brian Wilson struck out Nelson Cruz and the Giants beat the Texas Rangers 3-1. Edgar Renteria's home run was the clincher and Tim Lincecum's 8 inning masterpiece gave the Giants a long awaited title.

Here's to the 25 men who forever changed Bay Area history with an unforgettable championship run.

Saltzman Says...Bay Area Bullets 10/27/2011

2011-10-27T13:50:00.000-07:00

49ers are coming off a bye week at 5-1, with a three game lead in the NFC West and the Cleveland Browns coming into town. Even Jim Harbaugh had no idea they could be in the driver seat this much. "Who's does it better than us? NOBODY!" I guess not.
Raiders head into their bye week with more questions than answers despite a mostly successful first half. Injuries to key players, including Jason Campbell and Darren McFadden, and the big news of Carson Palmer have turned an up and coming team, back into the Raiders again. Can Hue Jackson turn the ship around once again...stay tuned.
Warriors will be having a charity basketball game at San Jose State November 5th. Matt Barnes has organized a 'We Believe' team vs the current Warriors. Baron Davis and Monta Ellis have not confirmed attending however.
Let the cost cutting begin, as the A's cut Michael Wuertz, who would have earned $3.25 million.
A's might be buying 5 acres of land cheap near HP Pavilion. The city of San Jose must approve the purchase, as well as Major League Baseball.
Despite a record of 8-12-14, the Earthquakes only have 1 loss in their last 5 games.
Stanford takes on USC Saturday at 5pm on ABC. This will do a lot to determine who has the upper hand in the PAC-12.

Will HP Pavilion have a new neighbor from Oakland?

Saltzman Says...We still Believe!!!

2011-10-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

According to Matt Steinmetz of CSN Bay Area, the "We Believe" Warriors plan to take on the current Warriors in a charity game.

Baron Davis, Jason Richardson, Stephen Jackson, Matt Barnes and Al Harrington are all rumored to be a part of a charity game to take on Monta Ellis, Stephen Curry, Dorell Wright, David Lee, and Andris Biedrins.

Bottom line, 'We Believe' will destroy them.

Saltzman Says...Breaking down the Giants 25 Man Roster (January 12th Edition)

2011-10-06T10:55:00.000-07:00

Rotation:
1. #1 Starter: Tim Lincecum
2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 3)
2012 Projected Salary: $19.2 million

2. #2 Starter: Matt Cain
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $15 million (with added extension??)

3. #3 Starter: Madison Bumgarner
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $850K

4. #4 Starter: Ryan Vogelsong
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $3 million

Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com has the breakdown (on Twitter). Vogelsong will earn $3MM in 2012, $5MM in 2013, and then a $6.5MM club option with a $300K buyout for 2014 comes into play. The total guarantee is $8.3MM.

5. #5 Starter: Barry Zito
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $19 million ($46 million buyout unlikely)

Starters Estimated Payroll Impact: $56.5 million

Other candidates to start: Dan Runzler and Erik Surkamp, (eligible to pitch in the minors.)

Possible Free Agent Starters include: Jon Garland, Hiroki Kuroda, Jason Marquis, Brad Penny, Javier Vasquez

Bullpen:
6. Closer Brian Wilson
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $8.5 million

7. Setup Man Sergio Romo
2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 1)
2012 Projected Salary: $1.3 million

8. Lefty Specialist Javier Lopez
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract through 2013
2012 Salary: $4.25 million

SAN FRANCISCO -- Left-handed reliever Javier Lopez has agreed to an $8.5 million, two-year contract to stay with the San Francisco Giants, a person with knowledge of the negotiations told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Lopez -- one of baseball's most reliable lefties out of the bullpen -- had been set to become a free agent before receiving a new deal, confirmed under the condition of anonymity because the team had yet to make a formal announcement. Lopez will earn $4.25 million in 2012 and '13.

9. Right Handed Reliever Santiago Casilla
2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 2)
2012 Projected Salary: $1.9 million

10. Left Handed Reliever Jeremy Affeldt
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $5 million

11. Right Handed Reliever Guillermo Mota
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $1 million

12. Long Man/Spot Starter Dan Runzler
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2012 Salary: $480K

Bullpen Estimated Payroll Impact: $22 million ($78 Million Pitching Staff)

Other Candidates to Relieve: Steve Edlefson and Waldis Joaquin (eligible to pitch in the minors.)

Possible Free Agents:

Starting Lineup:
13. Center Field Angel Pagan

2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 4)
2012 Projected Salary: $4.7 million

14. Second Base Freddy Sanchez

2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $6 million

15. Third Base Pablo Sandoval

2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 1)
2012 Projected Salary: $3.2 million

16. Catcher Buster Posey

2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

17. Left Field Melky Cabrera
2012 Salary Situation: Free Agent
2012 Projected Salary: $4.5 million

18. First Base Aubrey Huff

2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Salary: $11 million

19. Right Field Nate Schierholtz

2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 1)
2012 Projected Salary: $1.2 million

20. Shortstop Brandon Crawford
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Lineup Estimated Payroll Impact: $32 million (110 million total)

Other Candidates to Start: Brandon Belt at 1st/LF

Bench:
21. Catcher Eli Whiteside
2012 Salary Situation: Under Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

6. First Base Brett Pill
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

6. Infield Mike Fontenot
2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 3)
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

6. Infield Emmanuel Burriss
2012 Salary Situation: Arbitration Eligible (Year 1)
2012 Projected Salary: $1 million

6. 4th Outfield Brandon Belt
2012 Salary Situation: Team Controlled Contract
2012 Projected Salary: $480K

Bench Estimated Payroll Impact: $4 million

Estimated Payroll: $114 million
Aaron Rowand ($12 million)

Total Payroll: $126 million

Saltzman Says...Answering Giants Questions

2011-09-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

First and foremost
1. Matt Cain signed long term is priority #1 because he will be a free agent after this year.

Short term, Long term, The Freak is staying.
2. Tim Lincecum prefers short term deals, but the Giants would like to sign him long term if possible.

If we can only keep one lefty...
3. Jeremy Affeldt will be re-signed even if his option isn't picked up, in case Javier Lopez is too expensive to re-sign.

Too expensive to keep?:
4. Javier Lopez and Carlos Beltran will probably be offered more years/money than the Giants would like to spend.

Buster is still our catcher, but...
5. Buster Posey will be our starting catcher, but after him is another story. Chris Stewart is the most likely to return with an outside chance Eli Whiteside could remain the backup. Hector Sanchez should begin 2012 in the minors, so the question will be if the Giants go get a catcher in the open market to backup Posey.

Logjam at 2nd will get clearer.
6. Freddy Sanchez healthy is an oxymoron to Giants fans, but when he is, there is no issues at 2nd. Will Jeff Keppinger be kept as insurance, or will he find an every day job somewhere else. Manny Burriss has a better glove and Mike Fontenot's lefty bat are intriguing, but who stays is anyone's guess. Even Conor Gillaspie will get a look next year.

Put down the cookies Panda! Put down the beer and cigarettes Huff Daddy!
7. Aubrey Huff and Pablo Sandoval's conditioning is the biggest offensive question marks of the players returning.

Brandons not Ready for Prime Time.
8. Both Brandon Belt and Brandon Crawford are having problems with their swing, and both could use some more minor league seasoning if possible.

Nate still Great, but the rest of the outfield...
9. Nate Schierholtz is the 2012 starting right fielder barring an upgrade or a fall off at the plate. Neither Andres Torres, Justin Christian or Cody Ross seem like options to start 2012 in CF, so the question becomes who will. Gary Brown is not ready and might not be until 2013. Even if he is ready sooner, the team will not go into Spring Training with Torres and Ross only as options. Torres and Ross might not even be brought back, but if they are, it will be to compete for the 4th or 5th outfield spot. Pat Burrell has said he will only return to SF if he does come back in 2012, and Darren Ford doesn't have the bat to go with his legs.

Saltzman Says...2012 Giants new additions??

2011-09-21T21:31:00.000-07:00

CF Coco Crisp (Sign as a Free Agent)
2B Freddy Sanchez
3B Pablo Sandoval
C Buster Posey
LF Nelson Cruz (Trade Erik Surkamp/Dan Runzler/Steve Edlefson)
1B Gaby Sanchez (Trade Jonathan Sanchez/Santiago Casilla)
RF Nate Schierholtz
SS Brandon Crawford

Cruz could provide much needed right handed pop at AT&T

Wouldn't you want this guy having your back?

Anyone who closelines Nyjer Morgan is a stud in my book

Bench:
C Chris Stewart
1B Aubrey Huff
2B Jeff Keppinger
3B Omar Infante (Sign as a Free Agent)
OF Cody Ross (Sign as a Free Agent)
OF Juan Pierre (Sign as a Free Agent)

Rotation:
SP Tim Lincecum
SP Matt Cain
SP Madison Bumgarner
SP Ryan Vogelsong
SP Barry Zito

Bullpen:
RP Guillermo Mota
RP Jeremy Affeldt
RP Ramon Ramirez
RP Javier Lopez
RP Sergio Romo
CL Brian Wilson

------------------------------------------------------
Instead of bringing Carlos Beltran back, we use his money to re-sign our pitching, and sign Crisp and Infante. We get a true leadoff hitter as a buffer for Gary Brown in a year or two and we get a true utility player to replace the void of Juan Uribe. Juan Pierre gives us a major league hitter with the speed of Darren Ford.

We let Pat Burrell, Mark DeRosa, Eli Whiteside, Mike Fontenot, Andres Torres, Bill Hall, and Manny Burriss go. Cody Ross as well as Aubrey Huff could all be gone before the year ends, if not sooner, if we find better options.

We move 5 good pitchers (Jonathan Sanchez, Santiago Casilla, Erik Surkamp, Steve Edlefson and Dan Runzler) and we get two potent right handed bats in Nelson Cruz and Gaby Sanchez.

Now we can let Brandon Belt get his year in AAA, we can get Pablo and Buster some protection, and we can let Nate Schierholtz and Brandon Crawford's defense stay in the lineup. We can also let Darren Ford go back to AAA, where is bat belongs.

Saltzman Says...My 2012 Off-Season Checklist

2011-09-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

Sign Tim Lincecum to a 5 year (2012-2016) $90 contract extension ('12 $15 mil, '13 $16 mil, '14 $18 mil, '15 $20 mil, '16 $21 mil)
Sign Matt Cain to a 5 year extension (2013-2017) $85 contract extension ('12 $15 mil, '13 $15 mil, '14 $16 mil,'15 $17 million, '16 $18 million, '17 $19 million)
Tell Madison Bumgarner, Buster Posey, Pablo Sandoval and Brian Wilson that they will get extensions before the 2013 off-season. Tell Sergio Romo he will get his extension in 2014.
Make Brandon Belt an everyday player, sharing 1B and LF with Aubrey Huff and whoever plays LF.
Work out contracts to avoid salary arbitration with Santiago Casilla, Jeff Keppinger, Ramon Ramirez, Pablo Sandoval, Nate Schierholtz, Sergio Romo and Ryan Vogelsong.
Do not offer arbitration to Andres Torres and Jonathan Sanchez
Let Jeremy Affeldt ($500K buyout), Carlos Beltran, Pat Burrell, Orlando Cabrera, Mark DeRosa, Mike Fontenot, Cody Ross become free agents.
Re-Sign Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez, and Guillermo Mota.
Sign a leadoff hitter who can play center field [i.e. Coco Crisp] to a 1-2 year contract. Buffer for Gary Brown in two years, but also upgrade from Andres Torres/Cody Ross.
Do not sign any current players who are free agents to a contract lasting more than two years. {example: Beltran at 2 years, $20 million is smart, but 4 years $60 is way too much.}

1. Tim Lincecum
2. Matt Cain
3. Madison Bumgarner
4. Ryan Vogelsong
5. Barry Zito (Eric Surkamp)

6. Jeremy Affeldt
7. Santiago Casilla
8. Javier Lopez
9. Guillermo Mota
10. Ramon Ramirez
11. Sergio Romo
12. Brian Wilson

13. CF Coco Crisp [example]
14. 2B Freddy Sanchez
15. 3B Pablo Sandoval
16. C Buster Posey
17. LF Brandon Belt
18. 1B Aubrey Huff
19. RF Nate Schierholtz
20. SS Brandon Crawford

21. Chris Stewart
22. Brett Pill
23. Jeff Keppinger
24. Cody Ross
25. Darren Ford

Saltzman Says...Rowand and Tejada just the beginning

2011-09-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Aaron Rowand and Miguel Tejada were the 1st two casualties of a record setting offense being released by the San Francisco Giants. Of course, by record setting, I mean one of the worst offenses in league history, who have set records for consecutive solo home runs and will be establishing records for lack of run support by the team the season is over. Rowand and Tejada's departure sends a clear and seismic pulse throughout the locker room that each and every veteran felt.

Aubrey Huff, the team's offensive leader in 2010, has been below average the entire year of 2011. If he continues to struggle into 2012, Brandon Belt will be given the keys at first base, and another 8 figure salary will be chopped. Cody Ross and Andres Torres, the NLCS MVP and Willie Mac Award winner in 2010, will both be looking for job in another outfield if they do not improve before next season. Ross is a free agent after the year and Torres is eligible to be offered salary arbitration. The Giants might not even offer Torres arbitration. Carlos Beltran, who has had a terrible time calling AT&T Park home, will want big money (4 years, $60 million, according to Scott Boras) to stay, so he can play as bad a Rowand and still be happy in San Francisco.

Mark DeRosa, Orlando Cabrera, Pat Burrell and Mike Fontenot will all be free agents as well, and while all four would be low cost returns in 2012, none of the four are guaranteed even a contract offer. They all might have to be invited to Spring Training.

Guillermo Mota, who was offered an invite to Spring Training each of the last two years, might be more likely to get a contract after his consistency out of the bullpen and his versatility on top of that. Javier Lopez, Ramon Ramirez, Santiago Casilla and Jeremy Affeldt are not sure returns either, but the talented bullpen should stay in tact in 2012.

Will Zito be the next massive contract to go?

All of that talk pales in comparison to the biggest elephant in the room, Barry Zito and his bloated, oversized, unnecessary, franchise altering contract. Zito may be staying for no other reason than the team's reluctance to pay him and watch him pitch for someone else. Jonathan Sanchez, who started 2011 as the team's #2 starter over Matt Cain, might not make the rotation if the team can bring back Ryan Vogelsong. Sanchez will certainly be an option to trade. Eric Surkamp, Craig Westcott and others can certainly challenge for a 5th spot in the rotation if the team decides to trade Sanchez or dump Zito.

The only certainty is that Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, Madison Bumgarner, Sergio Romo, and Brian Wilson will pitch for the Giants in 2012. Buster Posey, Belt, Freddy Sanchez, Pablo Sandoval, and Nate Schierholtz will hit in 2012. And, a lot of veterans will be spared to keep the pitching staff performances count for something.

Bullet Point look at next year by position:

Starting Pitching signed through next year

Madison Bumgarner
Matt Cain
Barry Zito

Relief Pitching signed through next year

Brian Wilson

Lineup signed through next year

C Buster Posey
1B Aubrey Huff
2B Freddy Sanchez

Pending Arbitration Eligible Pitchers

Santiago Casilla
Tim Lincecum
Ramon Ramirez
Jonathan Sanchez

Pending Free Agent Pitchers

Jeremy Affeldt
Javier Lopez
Guillermo Mota
Sergio Romo
Ryan Vogelsong

Pending Arbitration Eligible Hitters

Jeff Keppinger
Pablo Sandoval
Nate Schierholtz
Andres Torres

Pending Free Agent Hitters

Carlos Beltran
Pat Burrell
Orlando Cabrera
Mark DeRosa
Mike Fontenot
Cody Ross

Saltzman Says...Projected 25 Man roster next year

2011-08-30T21:55:00.000-07:00

Would the veteran Coco Crisp be the spark the Giants need?

San Francisco Giants 2012 Opening Day Roster:

SP Tim Lincecum (re-signed)
SP Matt Cain
SP Madison Bumgarner
SP Ryan Vogelsong (re-signed)
SP Barry Zito

RP Guillermo Mota (re-signed)
RP Ramon Ramirez (arbitration)
RP Santiago Casilla (arbitration)
RP Jeremy Affeldt (re-signed)
RP Javier Lopez (re-signed)
RP Sergio Romo (arbitration)
RP Brian Wilson

C Buster Posey
1B Aubrey Huff
2B Freddy Sanchez
SS Brandon Crawford
3B Pablo Sandoval
LF Brandon Belt
CF COCO CRISP (added as a Free Agent)
RF Nate Schierholtz

C Chris Stewart
2B Jeff Keppinger (arbitration)
SS Orlando Cabrera (re-signed)
OF Cody Ross (re-signed)
OF Andres Torres (re-signed)

Obviously, if we can move Jonathan Sanchez, release Aaron Rowand, and maybe trade some prospects, we can upgrade our lineup more than simply Coco Crisp. Re-signing Ryan Vogelsong is probably just as important as signing a player like Crisp. 37 Stolen Bases at the top of the lineup is certainly a welcomed addition to what Andres Torres is not doing.

Saltzman Says...Recap in 140 of 8/23/11 SF vs SD

2011-08-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

@SaltzmanSays Michael Saltzman

#SFGiants Recap in 140: Cain 7IP, Sanchez the III gets 1st MLHit, OCab gets the big 2RBI hit, RamRam allows 2R's in 9th, #BlameRowand 6LOB

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