A New Challenger Enters!
Tuesday, March 18th, 2008That line should be familiar to those of you who play Super Smash Bros. It indicates that you’ve unlocked a new character to play with. Well, you could consider this a new character for the Rays to play with: according to MLB Trade Rumors, the A’s are going to cut Todd Linden despite putting up ridiculous numbers so far this spring. (MLB Trade Rumors)
This year the 27 year-old boasts a spring line of .577/.633/.885 in 26 ABs. Nonetheless, the A’s decided not to take him with to Japan. That means he’s not making the team, and Linden understandably isn’t happy about it. The versatile switch-hitter should be able to hook on somewhere as a fourth outfielder.
Linden plays all three outfield positions (apparently halfway decently), is a switch-hitter, and has absolutely assaulted minor league and Spring Training pitching during his career. Get this – he hit 30 home runs in 340 at bats at Fresno in 2005. THIRTY! He walks a decent amount and only turns 28 this year. He even stole 14 bases one year in the minors and is 8-for-8 on steal attempts in the bigs.
No offense to Jon Weber, John Rodriguez, or Eric Hinske, but Linden is EXACTLY what this team needs. If Andrew isn’t on the phone trying to get a deal done, I’d be both shocked a little disappointed.
From MLB.com:
The clubhouse was almost empty because the rest of the players still in camp were taking batting practice in preparation for their game against the visiting Royals. Linden was listed on the lineup card as one of Oakland’s reserves, and the team didn’t make any announcement regarding the non-roster invitee’s status, but Linden essentially said he was in no hurry to get into uniform and sit on the bench for a team that’s already dumped him.
“I’m just going to get some lunch, and I guess I’ll be ready to be a backup today,” he said.
Asked how the club’s decision was explained, Linden seemed at a loss.
“I don’t know if I got a reason,” he clipped.
One of the few players still lingering who happened to be close enough to hear the conversation piped up and said, “Did they say you should have hit .900?”
Dude, I’d be pissed, too. And it sounds like he’s got a chip on his shoulder and would be ready to produce BIG TIME once the season rolls around. Andrew, make the call.
