MLB Winter Meetings scheduled Dec 3-6
By Paula Minell
Dec 7, 2011; Dallas, TX, USA; Minnesota Twins manager Ron Gardenhire answers question for a press conference during the MLB winter meetings at Hilton Anatole. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE
Major League Baseball’s annual “Baseball Winter Meetings” are around the corner. This year, they’ll be held December 3-6 in Nashville, Tennessee. This annual gathering of the Baseball Minds is the epicenter of the baseball offseason.
Why gather? Even with technology advances, there are times when nothing can replace a good old face-to-face chat between general managers, agents, MLB brass, and other decision makers. Former New York Mets GM Steve Phillips explains in this short video the structure of a Winter Meeting day for GMs, who spend much of each day in meetings and on the phone.
Last week, I expressed my anxiety over the Minnesota Twins lack of moves at the major league level, frustration fueled by the fact that they’ve made minor league (not major league) moves and that there has been a high-profile trade or two in recent days. It’s easy to feel left out when one team gives up all its established talent and another signs a gargantuan TV deal. But experience reminds us that the Hot Stove League doesn’t really get going until the Baseball Winter Meetings begin. The new 1500espn.com “Talkin’ Twins” weekly show began this week, and on the first episode, Phil Mackey and Tom Pelissero reminded listeners to “calm down”, as the offseason has just begin.
Thinking back to the 2011 offseason, which certainly was successful in position player moves, the most significant moves didn’t happen until the Winter Meetings began or had just wrapped up. For example:
- Winter Meetings Day 2: 12/6/11 – Kevin Slowey traded to the Colorado Rockies
- Seven days after the Winter Meetings: 12/15/11 – Josh Willingham signs with the Twins
- One day later: 12/16/11 – Michael Cuddyer signs with the Rockies
Bottom line: Expect the real excitement to start soon! Next week, check back for notes and tidbits from the meetings, as well as details on the best sources for updated information. Be sure to follow @PuckettsPond on Twitter for quick updates, retweets and information.