Just Say Uncle To Milty
I know that the A’s are cutting Milton Bradley loose. And, given the Yankees injuries to Giambi and Damon, I’m sure that many Yankees fans would like to see New York grab Bradley, if possible.
However, let’s look at the facts. Bradley had one super season in 2003. Since that time, he’s been a tick over league average…when he can stay sound enough to play. And, it’s that latter thing that’s the issue. Bradley’s spent so much time on the D.L. in the last three years that sometimes he mistakenly gets Carl Pavano’s shirts handed to him when he shows up at the Dry Cleaners.
Oh, and, there’s the whole anger management matter.
Milton Bradley is brittle, bad tempered, and, for the most part, an average bat. How is adding a player like this going to help the Yankees?
“Average” bats do not post OPS+’s at or near 120 when healthy, like Milton’s done the last 5 years.
He’s a clear upgrade over Damon and Melky.
And when exactly was the last time he had a temper tantrum? 3 years ago now, 4 maybe?
And when exactly was the last time he had a temper tantrum? 3 years ago now, 4 maybe?
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And when exactly was the last time he played even 75% of a full season? 3 years ago now, 4 maybe?
I’ll pass on Milton Bradley.
I don’t know why the A’s are cutting him but I assume that if a team that has no thumpers whatsoever in their lineup is cutting Bradley, the Yanks surely don’t need him.
FWIW, RCAA
Johnny Damon 2
Melky Cabrera -8
Milton Bradley 3
Anyway, since Bradley has had problems with his legs, I’d say stay away. Especially if the plan is for him to man CF. Then again, if the A’s aren’t asking for anything of consequence, or if he’s available for free, why not? It’s only for a few months, shorter than that if he doesn’t produce.
He may or may not be a bench player, but the Yanks really need a bit more depth than they have
~~~”Average” bats do not post OPS+’s at or near 120 when healthy~~~
Yeah, that Pavano guy was an 18-game winner when healthy too.
Bradley’s RCAA:
2003 Indians 34
2004 Dodgers 3
2005 Dodgers 10
2006 A’s 8
3-10 RC above average is not thrilling – at least to me.