UPDATE: Ubaldo Jimenez has been suspended 5 games and fined an undisclosed amount for hitting Tulo.
Many Acta responded to the suspension by saying,
I’m disappointed, but I’m not surprised. I still don’t think it’s worth of a suspension. I’m very disappoint with inconsistency on how they make decisions. We had a situation in NY last year that was worse than this situation and the guy (Roberto Hernadez) got fined $750. I’m very disappointed at the consistency of their decision-making. I think everyone relied too much on the comments made in newspaper. The guy walked 5 guys. . .Were do you draw the line? “It’s disappointing that they let themselves be swayed by you guys. I understand you guys have a lot of power. Sometimes you have to make decisions without being swayed by what the press is campaigning for.
You’d think that a game that included two grand slams, one given up by our opening day starter Guthrie and the other by Alex White, not to mention 22 combined runs on 25 combined hits, you’d think that the post game comments would center around concerns with pitching command. Well, you’d be correct, but the only focus after the Rockies fell to the Indians 12 to 10 is the command of one pitch, the first pitch Ubaldo Jimenez threw to (at) Troy Tulowitzki.
The call on KOA mirrored every fan’s thoughts, as we heard them announce that Tulo was drilled by the first pitch and that both players immediately came together yelling at each other:
That was intentional, he meant to do that.
When the dust settled it was very obvious this statement, made in the heat of the moment, was possibly spot on. Looking back at the play you notice that Jimenez, right after hitting Tulo,
Jimenez raced toward the plate, motioning with his arms multiple times for Tulowitzki to come toward him.
If he was “trying to go inside on him…then the ball just got away,” then why throw your glove down and storm Tulo? Jimenez states it was because,
The thing that got started was the things that he was calling me. I mean, I’m a man. If somebody calls me out, I have to go. He was callng me names. He was calling me “chicken,” but not chicken, another really aggressive word that I can’t say right now… I take everything easy and I never look for trouble, but it you are calling me out I am a man like everybody else.
But, without seeing video it is hard to know how quickly the one followed the other.
After Tulo’s elbow was checked out it was announced that thankfully it was not major.
======== PRE – GAME NOTES BY ORANGEROCKS ===========
Picture of Ubaldo goes here, but my blog master has yet to teach me how!
UBALDO, what happened to that fine starting pitcher and great human character you once had in Colorado – since you were traded that all seems to have evaporated? I know it is Cleveland and all but come on that mistake by the lake still qualifies as being in the United States.
Our fearless blog master is working out of country right now so he left me with the task of providing the lineup for the Rockies game this afternoon. Well to begin with I have a prior engagement to attend in my 2012 Annual Baseball Draft (28th annual if I remember correctly). Besides that I can’t seem to find the lineup anyway on the Denver Post – maybe too early yet.
Any ROW regulars out there that can help out today? Please post the lineups when they available and boo Ubaldo – at least on the internet he won’t hear you. It would be much appreciated!
One last question, if Ubaldo is making exactly the same amount of money as he would have with the Rockies this year, why is he so much happier in (of all places!) Cleveland?
LINE-UP
2B Marco Scutaro
CF Tyler Colvin
SS Troy Tulowitzki
1B Todd Helton
DH Jason Giambi
3B Chris Nelson
C Ramon Hernandez
LF Brandon Wood
RF Jaron Shepherd
RHP Jeremy Guthrie
CarGo and Cuddy were scratched at the last minute.
Hello from Manila – thanks for getting this post started…i just updated the Line-Up for you…wish CarGo was in there, but glad at least Tulo is – wonder if there will be any issues…
I hope we rock Ubaldo that little cry baby! Have fun in Cleveland!!!! Hahaha!
Wow. Props to both Ubaldo and Tulo for fighting for what you believe in. L.O.V.E. this kind of baseball. Only wish it was on TV.
Bush league act by U. How very disappointing….
Screw you Ubaldo!
Ha Ha!! Screw U- Baldo
Too bad the DH is in effect. Would like to see U dodging at the plate.
Also too bad there is a 75% AAA umpiring crew. Most of the MLB umpires would have tossed him.
Was Tulo hurt?
Possible elbow issue. THAT would be a bummer.
Aw, fercrissakes! Ubaldo throws his first pitch into Tulo’s back.
What a juvenile, classless, lower-than-bush-league thing to do. J & J on KOA called it straight out – a deliberate act that should have resulted in UJ being ejected, instead of warned.
So… were we all wrong in ever thinking he was a really good kid? Was it all an act? Or did some slimy agent blow smoke in UJ’s face and turn his head around, making the Rockies the bad guys? IMHO, they weren’t perfectly innocent, but still treated UJ much better than he claims.
Earth to UJ: if you want super-star money (and your contract wasn’t insulting by any means) then EARN IT. Tulo and Cargo have done that. How about you? One-half of one season doesn’t cut it.
Have the Rox retaliated?
Not that I have heard on KOA.
The Rox retaliated in a way real men do – two @Two run jacks.
Amen RMH. Nice comeback. Colvin and Nelson looking good.
I think its more grey than black and white. Its pretty easy for someone like Tulo who asks for a receives an entirely unnecessary and early contract extension to tell someone who asks for and does not receive the same,
Everyone applauds Tulo and vilifies Ubaldo for that? If Tulo didn’t get what HE wanted it would be the exact same situation. Easy for him to be happy. Lets see what happens in another year when Tulo asks for more money despite being under contract. Not going to happen you say? In 5 years Tulo has received 3 early contract extensions. There’s a pattern.
Your points are worth thinking about, but did Tulo ask for the early long-term contract (before the existing one was near to expire) or did the Rockies initiate the discussion? It’s been my impression that the Rox did this, reasoning that they could lock up a franchise player BEFORE he got close to the point of becoming a free agent. By doing so they could sign him for much more money than he was getting, but probably less than the free agent market MIGHT pay him down the road. He gets more up front and a long-term contract sooner; they eliminate the risk of losing him to free agency for several more years, if at all.
IMHO, Ubaldo was simply jealous and shouldn’t have been. He had a pretty decent contract already (was it $5M per year?), and has yet to prove worthy of more of a commitment from a team. Pitchers are much more fragile, let’s face it, and the Rockies’ history with long-term contracts with them isn’t so great.
Besides, UJ now admits that what he said a year ago was a flat-out lie, that he was physically fine, when even casual fans could tell he wasn’t.
great points Mr P…agree 1000%. Look at all the big contracts awarded in the past few months and Cargo AND Tulo are looking like great deals.
Go Rox
Guarantee he doesn’t ask for more money
In my opinion, as fans, we’ naive to believe we know even a fraction of what’s going on in some of these contract negotiations. Reference my comment below regarding what a buddy of mine relayed to me regarding Ubaldo BEFORE today’s incident. I’m guessing there were as many off the field, ” intangible,” reasons that Tulo was extended and Ubaldo wasn’t prior to the trade. With the benefit of hindsight, it seems safe to say Tulo brings much more to the Clubhouse.
I wished I could take my Ubaldo no hitter shirt, run on the field, and set it on fire. What respect I have left for him is gone irreversibly.
I hear you RMH. I bought a UJ authentic jersey about a month ago (on clearance, of course). At the time I figured that I liked UJ an, thus, wouldn’t have a problem wearing his jersey around. Now? I too wish I could run onto the field and set that thing on fire. In fact, I don’t even think I’d urinate on it to put it out. That guy sucks!!!
I talked to a former (now retired) MLB scout yesterday and the topic of Ubaldo came up. He said that a number of his former colleagues (still active MLB scouts) think that Ubaldo is exceptionally immature for someone his age. He thinks the physical talent is still there, but the grey matter between the ears is lacking.
missed the first inning so missed what happened after Tulo hit. Glad it was in the back and not wrist or hand but come on…….
Was Tulo tossed? He was out for the 2nd inning so I was worried he was hurt but didn’t seem like it if a back shot.
Prog..have to disagree some. Tulo said that if someone didn’t want to be there, then they should go somewhere else.How many on here had repeated that since we heard comments from U. I would say that Tulo has deserved every raise given…can anyone here say that U should have earned the same from 1/2 of a great season?
Colvin and Nelson continue to stay on the radar..
Go Rox
I don’t know whether UJ deserved more or not. I’m equally unsure whether Tulo or Cargo did either… for me, I like contracts to be played out and then for the team to pay the going rate on a player. You may pay more on the back end, but at least you don’t get screwed either.
The idea that the Rockies will only sign players who come in for a “home town discount” is insulting to the fan base and the other players in and of itself.
The fact that the Rockies 3 times ripped up contracts that Tulo willingly signed (remember this same Tulo is telling UJ to essentially “be happy with the contract you’re under”) and meanwhile they keep jawing with Ubaldo that it “will happen” for him…….”IF”.
Then it culminates with that disgraceful final start.
All I am saying is that I see UJ’s side of this too. Maybe he isn’t handling it right, but I at least understand the very human feelings he’s having and don’t see the need to hate him for it.
I just think its extremely easy for a guy driving multiple Ferrari’s to tell someone else to take their paycheck and be happy with it knowing probably tomorrow if he asked O’Dowd to restructure his contract they’d do it.
Ubaldo is a cry baby. Don’t make excuses for him.
DrRockies: I missed it if Jack & Jeff said it was Jim Tracy’s decision to pull Tulo, but that was certainly the implication. Nothing was mentioned about him being hurt. My guess is that JT did it to defuse the situation. Smart move, IMHO, given the game doesn’t count.
But even the Denver Post with it’s marginal interest in the Rockies (I still miss the RMN, especially Messrs. Ringolsby & Etkin A LOT!) should write this one up tomorrow.
BTW, UJ left the game to a lusty round of boos from the fans at Salt River Fields. He was the same pitcher today as during ST – too many balls, too many pitches, long balls, blew a 4-0 1st inning lead.
Cleveland fans must be some unhappy. Pomeranz was impressive yesterday.
Update on Tulo – x-rays being taken of his left elbow. Apparently the ball hit his back AND elbow.
hey, just heard Corrigan talk about going for x-rays…never a good sign but hopefully just precaution. Fingers crossed the next few hours waiting to hear.
The boos were REAL loud on the radiio…as they should be.
I’m not a huge fan of the Post, either, but they’ve had two beat writers in Arizona for 5-6 weeks and both have regular updates online and Renck’s tweets are timely and often useful, as was the case today. Tulo has an elbow injury and his status for Opening Day Friday is unknown.
I also wouldn’t give Tracy a pat on the back for removing Tulo after he was hit. I would question why Tulo was even in the starting lineup given the obvious bad blood between him and Jimenez. It was hardly a surprise that the situation escalated like it did.
Good point. I’d also question the need to play some of the studs against Yarvish.
It is intriguing as fans to have some sort of spirited rivalry or something around here. Coverage and the fan base and media is so freaking passive and disinterested about the Rockies.
I thought this was just an April Fools joke when I was reading the tweets. Guess there was really bad blood.
That would make a good headline for the Post tomorrow:
“April Fool” with a picture of UJ. LOL
Do really hope Tulo is okay. Not a good way to start. I said I like that style of ball but not when it results in injury.
I think it’s fair to say Colvin deserves to start over dexter on opening day. Too bad Tracy has already given it too dexter no matter how he plays. I don’t know why since dexter hasn’t proven anything in his career.
agreed. Colvin makes a huge case.
Dexter should be third string CF.
Hardnosed baseball is one thing; deliberately hitting a player because the pitcher’s pride has been bruised is a whole different thing. Immature and bush-league behavior that would seem to warrant a suspension. And charging the hitter surely indicates a premeditated act.
Fortunately, Tulo’s x-rays were negative.
embarrassing pitching tonight. sounds like bad umpiring too.
Just so you know, I am going to take full credit for predicting the outcome above (no not on the scoreboard) but as in “settling the score”! However I have to admit that I had no idea that Ubaldo would act so foolishly on April Fools Day. Sorry Ubaldo you are the real fool here – and I used to be proud to say that I was one of your biggest fans.
Hope we can get everyone healthy for Opening Day baseball!
Wow! My respect for ubaldo just completely went out the window now! He told reporters that the pitch got away from him and that he didn’t mean to hit tulo. He also said he was surprised tulo was angry and started walking towards him calling him names. You can’t fool us anymore ubaldo!!!! We all know you are a fake!!!!!!!!!
Now this I agree with, E. He should be a man and admit that he threw at him.
Is there any video of the incident? Nothing on YouTube yet.
I’ve only seen pictures at Denver Post.
I think our club needs some emotion. When was our last on-field dust up? When Yorvit got into the shoving match with Kemp? Anyway, this should pump up the boys for the season.
See Ya Ubaldo!!!! Hello DREEEWWWW!!!!!
I think the Tracy deserves some of the blame. He knew Ubaldo was ticked at Tulo. Why give him the chance to hurt Tulo. At least it was his left elbow not his right elbow or hand.
And I’m guessing that one of the reasons why U didn’t get an extension is that he had 3 good months. That’s it. Tulo had 3 good years, Cargo at least one good year. O’Dowd doesn’t always get it right, but I think he did it in this instance. It’s not (and never was) his arm, but it’s his head.
Never seen JT this emotional; he comes out and throw Ubaldo under the bus saying he was a classless act. I think this fiasco wii bring the team together and fire them up!
Agree on both counts. Tracy finally gets fired up, and I do think things like this tend to get everyone’s attention – perfect timing as well. Reading the latest tweets and a couple of Tulo’s comments, sounds like a bruise. So the whole incident may ultimately prove to be more beneficial than detrimental to the Rox.
Bottomline Ubaldo can NOT admit that he actually threw at Tulo, because if he does the suspension would then be automatic and likely double in length. Still my guess is that Ubaldo gets a 5-7 day suspension anyway. That doen’t really help the Indians having Ubaldo serve that suspension to begin the season.
Ubaldo I think you might want to learn some tricks of the trade about throwing at opposing hitters. First you throw that fastball off the plate a couple of time, you don’t want Tulo to actually hit it, because you know the third pitch you are gonna come back in side like you did. That way the MLB powers that be might think that you were just a little wild with the hypothetical third pitch, because the way you actually did it was just TOO obvious.
Secondly, by charging home plate you are gonna rack up some extra suspension time because you not only instigated the bro-ha-ha (with the pitch) but you then tried to escalate it by taunting the batter (chest pounding really?) and charging home plate.
I guess our baseball Rockies latin baseball academy did a pretty poor job of educating Ubaldo with some of these finer baseball techniques. Hopefully you (Ubaldo) will never have to pitch again at Coors Field, because the reception is just gonna be off the charts.
Wow what a fickle game baseball is – 15 and 1 to start the 2010 season and now Uabldo has fallen to at best a back of the rotation starter. Yep us Rocks fans are pretty happy with the trade, but we still have a tough time believing that this is the real Ubaldo?
Maybe suspending Jimenez for 5-7 games would actually be doing the Indians a favor… the guy has turned into a stiff.
Comments on the Plain-Dealer site reflect the same opinion of Jimenez… many of our Cleveland friends don’t seem to be very happy with him either.
I do think that somebody should have decked Jimenez… I don’t think anybody would throw at our stars if they thought it would earn them a knuckle sandwich. I don’t condone violence, but the Rox need to take a page from the NHL handbook… you do not let somebody hurt your studs without consequences. A week’s suspension at the beginning of the season for Giambi or a bench guy wouldn’t kill them.
Yep the suspension probably does help the Indians competitively given how poorly Ubaldo has pitched, however maybe not since the Rockies currently own most of there pitching depth in Pomeranz, White, Gardner and Putnam?
By my “ballpark” math Ubaldo’s ill advised plunk of Tulo might end up being pretty costly as well. If we can assume that Ubaldo was making somewhere around $5.0m for 2012 and will most likely be suspended without pay for about a week, then the damage to his bank account will be close to $200,000 before any additional fines that may be imposed by the MLB brass.
So while the Indians are arguably better off without the disgruntled starting pitcher (used to be an ace), Ubaldo has lost a ton of money along with any remaining respect that he had with fans all across the country.
How is that new mega millions contract shaping up for Ubaldo with his new team in “heaven” – oh that’s right for Ubaldo it’s still Cleveland?
I’m starting to think Ubaldo’s frustration comes from his realization that the big payday isn’t coming — not this season, not ever. I’ll admit I didn’t like the trade, but if the Rockies think they saw a deteriorating arm/shoulder, that would explain the decision not to extend him as well as the decision to trade him. It’s looking more and more that way — the Indians might’ve acquired damaged goods. Yeah, it’s spring, but a 7.43 ERA over 7 games is still kind of frightening if you’re an Indians fan.
I can’t imagine Tracy and Tulo didn’t see this coming. I remember Jose Mesa drilling Omar Vizquel several years after Vizquel wrote (in an autobiography absolutely nobody read) that Mesa cracked under pressure in the 1997 World Series. Pitchers have really long memories, so spring training or not this was completely predictable. Not saying he should’ve sat Tulo; just saying that if this one had been televised I would’ve tuned in for that first Tulo at bat.
I’m very disappointed in Ubaldo as well. I got an autograph from him two years ago at a Sky Sox game, and he seemed like a genuinely nice guy — this is way beneath him.
Troy Renck has posted that Bud Selig was at the game, so that doesn’t speak well of ‘Baldo’s brains. It’s dumb enough to throw at another guy, it’s absolutely stupid to do it in front of the big boss.
ESPN reports x-rays negative on Tulo’s elbow … whew …
Cool to see the vid. I’m pumped up for Rockies baseball! It’s just too bad Cleveland doesn’t visit Coors Field this year.
Just found some video of it! Here ya go!
Its kind of funny how passive the crowd is.
Best trade in Rockies history!
For those who haven’t seen it, after getting hit Tulo took two strides towards the mound, but was still in the batter’s box at that point. Meanwhile, Ubal-dodo’s glove was already on the ground and he was heading for home plate. The idea that he was reacting to Tulo calling him names is bogus. He was already heading for a confrontation. It will be interesting to see how MLB deals with this.
MLB should stay out of it. Period. I am by far the loner on this one and have resisted making any comments on here. The media has their share of contributing to this. So he threw at Tulo? So what? Maybe Tulo should have kept his mouth shout OR if Tulo had issues with him or his work ethic when he was a Rockie he should have voiced them then and NOT thru the media months later. Tulo reads what the media is fueling with Ubaldo comments. Ubaldo is reading what the media is fueling with Tulo comments. Maybe Ubaldo should have waited and gone Prince Fielder and headed to the locker room after the game instead of throwing at him?
Anyone, especially the media, that claims they were “shocked” this happened … clueless
Mike Raysfan:
Sorry, I must disagree.
“MLB should stay out of it.”
Wrong, that’s 180 degrees off. Considering the entire context of what’s gone on, MLB MUST get involved. IMHO, Jim Tracy is right, a suspension is in order. And a fine that stings.
“So he threw at Tulo? So what?”
So what is that he could have broken Tulo’s arm. Or at least landed him on the DL for who knows how long. Not as serious as throwing at his head, which crosses the line into felony assault, but bad enough. If UJ had issues with Tulo, be a man and talk to him face to face. But no, UJ chose to throw at him, thereby proving he is a BOY.
Mike Raysfan, I agree with you completely. Ubaldo made comments about Rockies management, not about players. Then Tulo retaliated with personal remarks about Ubaldo. If Tulo wants to be a leader, he needs to grow up and not shoot his mouth off to the press.
Please tell me the personal remarks Tulo said about Ubaldo. Tulo was defending the organization he plays for.
Mike Rice, thanks for your reply. I absolutely agree with everything you are saying, especially the media/columnist. But there is more and many comments on based on emotion and opinion and not on facts. Like some have said here, the fact is we are not in the know and have no clue other than it certainly appears he threw at him.
I still remember all the games we got excited by an Ubaldo’s Day.
He was respected even by the ones who met him in Minor Leagues and weren’t Rockies fan. Sadly, all that respect is gone. And well, i think that even if UJ had (or has) the talent, all those long-term confrontations in the clubhouse would have affected negatively on the team, so, as someone who didn’t like the UJ trade to the Indians in the first place, I recognize it turned out to be a very good swap.
Speaking of Tulo. I have read some opinions about his behavior. He is the Rockies franchise player and the team leader, but is he prepared to assume that leadership role?
GO ROCKIES!
I’ve been reading comments all over the internet (probably over 1000) regarding this incident. While most of the comments thought Ubaldo’s apparent intentional HBP was bush league act, I was surprised that a lot of people including the Purple Row columnists thought Tulo added fuel to the fire with his comments. I’ve re-read Tulo’s comments over and over and he appeared to defend the Rox organization and he was merely stating the facts of life without belittling Ubaldo. Some questioned Tulo’s ability to lead the team with his comments, another surprise to me IMO. He was doing what a leader is supposed to do. Had he just gone into the closet and remained silent, it would lead us to believe that the Rox organization is really that bad. Tulo is too proud as a lifetime Rockie to let UJ belittle the Rox organization. Giambi and CarGo both said under the radar that they tried to ask UJ if he was alright last year when he was struggling and they felt that UJ just shut it down and tried to undermine the team subconsciously. Then you add the fact that JT tried to put the feud to bed the day before the game by telling the media that he was thankful for the good games that UJ provided us in 2007, 2009, and 2010 but that wasn’t enough to appease UJ. JT has been in the game long enough to distinguish between intent or not on the HBPs.
P.S. I was trying not to be biased; I have the UJ no hitter tee as well as his autograph on the mini home plate souvenir. I really was hoping UJ was better than that, but doesn’t look that way. I really do hope UJ can put this behind him and help Cleveland. Cleveland does not deserve this after giving up a couple of top prospects for UJ.
Tulo came in early today for treatment and came out of the training room without ice or tape on his elbow. The inflammation has been dramtically reduced. Tulo says he’s ready to move on with no apparent lingering anger. Definitely sitting out today but will likely try to get in a game or two Tuesday and/or Wednesday. However, it’s been reported that several teammates are still upset today including Todd Helton who was quoted, “I definitely didn’t see it (intentional HBP) coming. It’s disappointing. It shows you what he (UJ) cares about. It’s Ubaldo.” Whoa, that’s a strong statement coming from a quiet leader.
Hey, for the first time in about two years Ubaldo actually threw a ball where he was aiming. Indians should be happy about this. Ha
Great line Robb. Last spring it was reported (I think in both the DP and ITR) that Ubaldo said A) he wasn’t hurt and B) he wasn’t upset about Tulo and Cargo getting extensions. It seems that either he was lying about both or the press mislead us. Who knows for sure.
It was obvious he wasn’t the same pitcher he had been for the first 3 months of 2010. But except for the time he was made to pitch just when he was going to be traded, I think the Rockies treated him fairly. Now that late July day was a bush-league move by whoever made the decision (Tracy or O’Dowd) but overall he had nothing else to complain about. He had a great 3 months and that’s about it. Even the year before (2009), if I remember correctly, Franklin Morales was probably a better pitcher than Ubaldo.
Ubaldo should be suspended but knowing MLB they probably won’t do a thing. Hoping I’m wrong about that. And Ubaldo is still saying he didn’t throw at him which is BS. I’m still sticking with my thought that Tracy should have known something like this was coming and not have played Tulo yesterday. Tulo’s made the team, what’s the point?
That’s pretty messed up to dismiss Ubaldo as having only 3 good months. Between 2008 and 2010 he had a sub 4 ERA, BA against of about .220, pitched 33 games/around 210 innings each year. Was harldy hurt as I can remember. Throw in 2007 in which he was a big part of the WS team (including only giving up 4 runs in 15 innings) and I’d say he had 4 very good years in Colorado.
That should say 4 runs in 16 innings of post season work in 2007. 2.25 post season ERA that year, including his WS loss.
The guy was a great Rockie. Don’t think we need to deminish that.
Just updated this post – Ubaldo suspended 5 games and fined.
So he will miss 1 start. I happen to believe even that is overkill.
Really? Overkill him missing 1 start? So you believe it was an accident and Ubaldo threw his glove down and stormed at Tulo, like he said, out of a sense of honor? I love(d) Ubaldo as much as anyone here, if not more and really really want to give him the benefit of the doubt, but after watching the play happen a few times I have to believe that if it was an accident he wouldn’t have acted the way he did no matter what Tulo said to him. Take today as a perfect example: Escalona accidentally hits Montero in the head with a pitch. Montero is livid and heads towards Escalona, yelling at him. Players/management are having to hold Montero back from going out to the mound (bat in hand if I remember correctly), but Escalona did not leave the mound, didn’t throw his glove down and didn’t yell back. He stood there and tried to explain that the pitch got away and he wasn’t trying to hit him. Same situation (pitcher hits a batter) and same reaction from the batter (getting angry, yelling) but the pitcher decided to be passive and not “come at” the batter. After this happens you can truly believe Escalona when he says, “it was an accident”…If Ubaldo had stayed on the mound and acted differently, then he could be believed – as it is, he can’t be with his actions.
Now, I do want to say something that I’ve noticed from several posts here. There is a tendency for fans such as us to swing in massive directions one way or the other…back when Ubaldo was going 15 – 1 almost every Rockies fan was calling him the best pitcher in baseball. Now he does something like this and instantly he has never done anything good in his life and had a lucky first half of a season. Let’s not shortchange what he did for our team while he was here. Yes, he had a difficult beginning of last season. But, who was on the mound for the 2nd game of the World Series, allowing only two runs against a team that kicked our butts in game 1? Don’t forget, Ubaldo was a rookie and he went against the Red Sox (at Fenway on the biggest stage in baseball) only giving up three hits and two earned in 4 2/3 innings. You all remember game one, right? We lost 13 to 1 with Francis, our Ace, giving up six runs on 10 hits in four innings. The night Ubaldo pitched we lost 2-1. He gave us a chance to take one in Boston and I will never forget that.
Then Ubaldo threw the first and only No-No for us. So, his contract signed in the 2008 off-season was for four years, $10 million with club options in 2013 and 2014.
We all know what he did at the beginning of 2010, a feat only two pitchers in the history of the game have matched, but many here talk like he was only that one feat and nothing else and I don’t want us to forget that he did give us many many great memories. I loved watching him pitch and then looking up at the 100, 101, 102 on the speed gun. I was jumping out of my skin on April 17th in the 9th inning, waiting for the third out, for his no hitter. I remember I was working that day, listening to the game on the radio, and in the 7th inning I jumped in my car and FLEW home to watch the end of the game on TV, knowing I was about to see history. I saw history and will never forget it. I called my family in to watch with me, making sure they understood what a great moment it was. Was it a messy no-hitter? Freak yeah it was, but it was still a no-hitter!
Yes, what he has been saying and doing is wrong, but please put it in perspective and recognize that he was making $2.5 million a year while making history again and again. Tulo and Cargo were in the same situation, both under team control for several years, and they both got contracts. I felt at the time that all three of them deserved to be taken care of, so I have to believe if I felt that way then he must have as well. Money is a very powerful thing and it can bring out the worst in people.
It just really saddens me to see this all go down. I think the one game suspension is justified, he could have really hurt Tulo, and I hope it “wakes him up” and gets him back on track.
Jaredean,you just proved why you are the man in charge.Editor,publisher,and brilliant commentator.Wonderfully said!
Jaredeen you are correct (as usual) Ubaldo had performed well for the Rockies. While many here were blasting his difficult season in 2011, I could still see the talent that went 15-1 in early 2010. With even a little run support in the second half that season he would have won 22 games, but the Rockies as a team laid down during the stretch under J Tracy’s managerial watch.
Physically he is fine and has all the attributes that you look for with a dominant starting pitcher. Mentally however he is not strong and really never has been – nice person for some time for sure, but certainly not mentally tough – and this has been the continuing problem. However despite what happened with Tulo he is not stupid, although I have to admit as many have said he is certainly immature.
The foundamental issue that still bothers me is why Ubaldo would “expect” a new contract after performing for only “one” year of his previously extended contract. Here I have to put the blame on DanO and his agent, who obviously didn’t explain to Ubaldo the differences between what was happening with Cargo and Tulo, compared to what was happening with Ubaldo – and there are dramatic differences to be sure.
DanO took considerable heat nationally for extending those two position players while they were already under contract. Risky moves for a mid-market team for sure, but also cost containment moves if the players progress as logic might suggest. Now even without hind sight, I would NOT have taken that same risk with a starting pitcher like Ubaldo with three years (plus options) remaining on an already extended contract.
The team did the right thing by saying perform like an ace in 2011, and we will take care of you (even extend you again) in the 2011-2012 off season. At that point it makes sense to buy out those remaining two years and the options to lock down a pitcher approaching $15-20m per year status. That additional extension just made no sense where Ubaldo was at when the 2010 season ended. As I have read elsewhere (and agree with completely) no one put a gun to Ubaldo’s head when he signed that first extension. He should have conpletely understood both the risks and rewards of signing that extension, and to say he didn’t is likely a huge understatement.
I understand that this Ubaldo contract extension issue is somewhat complex, but as a DanO basher on occasion, I have to support him here, with the possible exception that he failed to convince his starting pitcher and the agent that he indeed would take care of Ubaldo if he performed well in 2011.
So do I wish Ubaldo ill will, no for sure; however I do hope that he matures mentally and becomes that genuine good person that he apparently once was. Right now he looks like a money grubbing thug as well as an April fools joke, but I know that in reality there is an ace starting pitcher hiding somewhere under the surface.
Rich(?), I agree with much of what you said here. While I can agree that giving an extension to a pitcher is not advisable, I do think Ubaldo was under the impression that it would happen. I was hearing that kind of jargon as far back as 2010 that UJ was lined up for a big extention. He carried the team in 2010 and didn’t get the extention. I would find it disingenuous for O’Dowd to then come in and tell UJ, “well, do it again in 2011 and we’ll do it”. Instead of making false promises, he should have just told him “look, we don’t feel comfortable extending pitchers, period” and then UJ could have asked for a trade at that point.
Instead DOD plays the carrot and stick game with UJ. First giving UJ hope leading up to, during, and following the 2010 season…then suddenly whacks him from behind with criticism in 2011 Spring Training.
Great Comments OrangeRichRocks
, but you are off just a little bit on your dates. He signed the contract extension at the end of 2008, so he actually put in 2 years before “wanting” to get extended (and watching tulo/cargo get their extension)…during the first year he went 15–12 with a 3.47 ERA – not amazing, but not bad…we all know what the 2nd year brought and I agree, if he had better run support he easily could have tacked on a few more bringing him to the low 20 wins – legit by any standard…going 15 – 1, starting the All Star game (the FIRST game the NL won since ’96 mind you) AND throwing a no-no, not to mention being the NL Pitcher of the month twice…it was a PACKED year, just happened all in the first half (although finishing 19-8 w/2.88 ERA is nothing to sneeze at)…so, he has 2 years down on his contract and watches tulo/cargo get their extensions, I can completely understand him thinking he should/would also get one…
Everything we do is guesswork, not knowing the process, but i think it is safe to say it could have been handled better by the team – even if they just communicated things exactly how they should be…nobody wants to be left in the dark, especially when they feel they have over achieved and are underappreciated…
Again, NOT justifying his actions AT ALL – just wanting to bring a little history to his career…¬¬especially if anyone on here feels he was a “one trick pony” for 3 months and that is all…
Yep, OrangeRocks or Rich M – it is all the same. Changed my name a couple weeks back, in a failed attempt to rehabilitate my baseball additude as the former leader of the “SU Barmes” bandwagan. However Jared is mighty upset with me in trying to build form the new “SU Herrera” bandwagon.
ha! Don’t you know it!!!
ok two solid years in the books with three years remaining on the first extension before 2011 as well as two option years. If Ubaldo didn’t like the first extension contract terms and knew that he would likely become unhappy, then don’t sign it. (a la Lincecum)
Huge difference between completing 60% or 40% of your contract length as a starting pitcher, and for the record the jury is still out as to whether or not those other extensions will actually pan out – I was actually 50%/50% on both of them at the time and I still haven’t changed my mind.
Yes, I am indeed very old school in that contracts should actually mean something on “both” sides! I just don’t buy the concept that two years later Ubaldo sees how much DanO gave the other guys, so now Ubaldo is going to be unhappy in Colorado – that’s understandable to a small degree but it is still crap!
good comments and analysis on this sensitive topic with us right now. Like Jaredean, I want to remember the great moments that UJ provided although disappointed by not only his trade but this latest incident. Too many good memories to wish him failure. His path back to success would be good for the game.
I have to believe much of the hesitation by DOD to resign UJ stems from Ubaldo’s reluctance to admit if anything was wrong. Someone in my family worked in the front office and shared that multiple times U was asked if there was anything wrong..physical, personnal..whatever. Ubaldo never admitted anything was bothering him. Told the Rox that he felt good, things were fine and there were no problems. So given that, I think if we put ourselves in DOD’s job, would any of us commit to a long contract when obviously the productivity was declining? If you would, I am thinking you would not be long for the job as well.
I hope this whole episode is in the past and the Rox prepare for Friday! The Boys of Spring are back!!
Go ROX
ok I will play this game however it is still all speculation. If DanO were to have given Ubaldo the huge second contract extension at the end of 2010, and then most likely what the Rockies have now Mike Hampton version #2 – at best. I do not blame DanO for failing to commit to Ubaldo’s second extension at all! Solid baseball decision DanO!
I can’t disagree with that logic at all, Rich. MY problem is that I think DOD led him on the whole time throughout 2010. DrRockies, the whole scenario you brought up didn’t occur until we were into 2011.
If Ubaldo admitted he was hurt or upset during 2011 its a guarantee that he wouldn’t have received an extension. So of course he was lying. Personally, I kind of like that he tried to pitch himself through whatever issue he had. Of course it didn’t work out, but at least he didn’t back out of playing like Aaron Cook or Jason Hammel did.
Ubaldo really should have been either signed or traded before 2011 even began, I think thats on O’Dowd. Just another example of DOD losing value holding onto a player too long.
Well, I think he did pretty good getting Drew P. and Alex White. That does not sound like losing too much value to me.
But I hear what you are saying about losing value. The problem is looking into the future and seeing the player will eventually not fit into your plans.
A lot of time and energy goes into every player, even more for those that are considered future stars, such as Ian Stewart. It’s hard to give up on someone you have nurtured along and are expecting big things. DOD passed on Evan Longoria thinking his future 3B was already on the team. He has since stated that was one of his biggest mistakes.
btw – I’m not defending DOD. In fact I think it’s time for him and JT to be traded or released. I’m just saying it’s not an easy decision to make.
I agree Trip, that its extremely difficult to let go of investment, but there were some pretty public comments made from DOD about disappointment in Ubaldo’s offseason. (Similar to his airing of disappointment in Chacin). I question the decision to air those issues rather trying to move the player.
There’s this continual belief by O’Dowd that publicly airing displeasure in guys like Stewart, Ubaldo, Chacin as some kind of “tough love” will result in them shaping up.
I can’t think of one player that O’Dowd has voiced displeasure in that has actually ever improved.
The players that have succeeded for the Rockies are pretty much the guys that succeeded from day #1.
I’m not against tough love, but I recognize it hasn’t helped a bit for O’Dowd. Maybe he’s just not good at it.
The premise seems to be the main issue was money. Not just here but on some talk shows also. There is absolutely no way any of us could know that unless we are personal friends with Ubaldo or if he decided to just voice his side of the story. Maybe money was a basis for his agnst but I have a different perspective and believe it was triggered by something else.
Look, does anyone believe he was trying to hurt Tulo? I hope not. Was he sending a message? I absolutely believe so. I’m guessing he expected Tulo to turn more toward the ump and he would get plunked in the back.
What I’m am shocked about most is this. Inspite of all the “kumbaya” stories we have heard/read over the last few seasons, maybe it has been anything but.
Just announced Jimenez will drop his appeal after his start today: http://tinyurl.com/7hkzgsg