QUOTE (David Laurila @ Nov 1 2009, 01:47 PM)
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I think this is one of the most interesting things Cafardo has written of late. To state the obvious, he is saying:
1: He is aware that statistical analysis shows Drew and Ellsbury in that light.
2. He doesn't agree with said statistical analysis.
Those [Ellsbury and Drew] are both interesting discussion points, and each has been debated here at SoSH, certainly. I find myself wondering, to what extent, I agree with each argument. I also wonder what the majority of SoSH readers think. It goes without saying that Drew has been a lightning rod, with more than a fair share of "Get this guy out of town; he sucks," vitriol hurled his way. Meanwhile, Ellsbury has received much praise for his defensive play.
Knowing the imperfection of defensive metrics, is Ellsbury truly no better than average? Personally, I'm a little skeptical that's true.
Is Drew a "really productive" player? I'm more prone to accept the validity of the numbers in his case, but I have to believe that a very large number of people aren't, based on what I've read and heard since he joined the team.
He gives absolutely no reasoning for his opinions at all. None. "The numbers say this, and I don't agree." No background info, analysis, or insight. If the numbers strike him as wrong,
why doesn't he tell me why he disagrees?
It's one of the most useless things he's ever written, and that's saying something. He's essentially saying that he closes his eyes and ears to any analysis that strikes him as faulty, instead of reading it and coming up with arguments for or against. If the numbers don't ring true, explain why they don't. I'd be interested in hearing that. He can't be bothered.
There is nothing interesting here. It's empty disagreement, the type you might hear from drunken assholes in the bleachers after 6 or 7 innings. "JD DREW SUCKS!" For a guy who's supposed to have inside access, it's remarkably shallow and cynical writing. He never uses that access for anything useful. No, carrying JP Ricciardi's water doesn't qualify as useful.
He did the same thing with that Derek Lowe tidbit, that he thought Lowe might be dealt. That's interesting, and that's news to me.
Tell me more. Why would Lowe be dealt? Who might want to acquire him? Nope, Nick can't be bothered.
There is no defending this guy any more. He's a useless pantload. Do some goddamn work for a change, Nick.