Say What?
Rumors abound today that Theo Epstein might considering taking the Cubs GM position. What? No! That's crazy talk.
First off, both Buster Olney (subscription required) and Peter Gammons said Epstein might be tempted by the opportunity to bring a championship to Chicago.
My take, while the Cubs would probably hand Epstein any job he wants in their organization, just what would it mean if he left Boston? As it stands now, he never has to buy a beer in this town again. If he left, no more free beer. That should be enough for anyone to stay, but on a deeper level, it would be like a divorce of sorts.
Epstein hasn't been perfect, that is true, but he has a plan in place and is very disciplined in sticking to that plan. I find that most GMs, just wing-it and the results are spotty at best. It also can't be argued that having one of the largest payrolls and MLB draft budgets in baseball is a blessing, but money doesn't guarantee success, just look at the Cubs.
Sure Epstein could leave for another challenge, but being able to work in the town you grew-up in, run the team you've loved all your life and keeping some continuity at home all the while having almost any tool at your disposal would be nice and the fan base would always ensure it remains a challenge. I just can't see him leaving. My guess is Brian Cashman gets the nod. He isn't thrilled with NY and they (ownership) aren't thrilled with him.
Comments
Just curious Andy: how do you know that Cashman isn't thrilled in NY and that the Steinbrenners aren't thrilled with Cashman?
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 24, 2011 08:14 PM
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Mitchell, I don't know.
Sure he was recently endorsed (that's what Peter told me today), but from what I've observed, any time ownership endorses someone, that person is close to being fired.
But to answer your question, I certainly have no idea, just my opinion.
What do you think, is Cashman unhappy and do you think he would/should take the Cubs job?
Posted by: Andy![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 24, 2011 10:48 PM
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Andy
I find it odd that you are so certain about Theo staying. Isn't this the guy who "won" the 2004 World Series, but still felt comfortable leaving the Red Sox after that? (And in a gorilla suit as I remember.)
Cashman is a New Yorker who has worked for the Yankee organization for almost 25 years. I don't think he is going to jump ship unless the Yankees make him.
As for the Cubs job, I will say this. If I were GM, confident in my abilities, I would take that job in a second. The city adores that team and the person who delivers them a title will be immortal. (Remember, they haven't even made the World Series in 65 years!)
Theo has 2 rings. Brian has 4. Making the Cubs into a winner would cement either of their places in the Hall of Fame.
Posted by: Peter![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 24, 2011 11:01 PM
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Hi Andy - I have a standing bet (for what, I don't know as our "knishe currency" has been discontinued) with Peter that Cashman remains Yankees GM after his current contract lapses. I say yes, Peter says no. I can't see Cashman going anywhere ... Theo, though, I can easily see leaving.
Ah wait, I remember, the bet is for a few Nathan's dogs and fries at The Stadium.
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 24, 2011 11:23 PM
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I would say I've heard or read somewhere that Cash is questionable to stay in NY when his deal runs out. Isn't it after this year? Whenever it is, the speculation was that he should have already been extended by now. Maybe that is what Andy is remembering or "misremembering" :)
If Theo were to leave for the Cub job or any job, he would be forgiven ultimately but never beloved the way he is now. His cementing his legacy resides with getting a third title in Boston. Post Manny, post steroids, that will be his crowning moment IMO.
Posted by: blmeanie![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 10:07 AM
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MItchell- I have to start writing these bets down. I think our next one should be for an egg cream because all this food is making me thirsty!
Posted by: Peter![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 10:09 AM
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BL
Wait a sec. The guy who built the team that ended the 86-year title drought hasn't cemented his legacy already?
Posted by: Peter![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 10:11 AM
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From's Cot's Baseball Contracts:
Brian Cashman Senior VP, General Manager
3 years/about $6M (2009-11)
So, his deal is up at the end of this season.
Theo is listed as:
Theo Epstein Executive VP/General Manager
4 years (2009-12) - deal pays about $1.5M annually
Peter: OK, we can start adding in a beverage for our next wager. :-)
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 06:39 PM
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And BL? The Yankees don't discuss contracts during the season - that's a standing rule with the Steinbrenners which applies across the board.
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 06:42 PM
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Like any team, the multiples cement the legacy, the dynasty. One is great, obviously after 86 years it was amazing. The second one was different and great too because of a slightly different cast of characters. A third would be the cooperstown calling crown jewel. Dominance of a decade (give or take) and put Francona on his pedestal too.
Two is great and I'm personally very thankful to Theo for orchestrating it all. I want/need a third.
Posted by: blmeanie![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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August 25, 2011 07:03 PM
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