It's official. Moore in, Baird out - Page 7

**ChiTown** · 05-31-2006, 10:56 AM

Good deal

Royals fire Baird to clear path for hiring Moore as GM
By BOB DUTTON
The Kansas City Star

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Royals fired general manager Allard Baird on this morning in anticipation of announcing the hiring of Atlanta assistant Dayton Moore as his replacement.

The club declined official comment regarding the moves, but Baird confirmed he had been fired.

“I was told this morning,” he said. “Beyond that, I don’t have anything to say.”

Sources say Moore is getting a five-year contract and complete control over baseball operations in a commitment to turn around a franchise that has lost 100 or more games in three of the last four seasons.

Moore, 39, is expected to take control, officially, next week upon completion of baseball’s two-day draft. Sources said assistant general manager Muzzy Jackson will replace Baird on an interim basis.

Moore could not be reached for comment.

Club owner David Glass signaled Baird’s job was in jeopardy April 20 after the Royals fell to 2-12 after a winless nine-game road trip through New York, Tampa Bay and Chicago.

“It has to change quickly,” he said. “We are not willing to wait to see if it gets better. We have to make it get better… If it doesn’t turn around, we’ll have to change things.

“We can’t wait too long. I’m not willing to go through a season like we did last year. None of us are.”

Glass’ patience seemed exhausted by May 4 when he declared: “I’m out of patience. I have never been this frustrated. I’ve got to do something. This can’t continue.”

It was at that point, from all indications, that Glass accelerated his search for a new general manager. He initially hoped to complete the process within a day or two.

It soon became an ordeal that lasted nearly four weeks and effectively paralyzed the organization as Baird’s administrative effectiveness steadily waned amid the mounting speculation of impending change.

Baird, 44, finally called publicly for “closure” earlier this week.

The Royals, ironically, entered Wednesday’s game in search of their first sweep in a road series in nearly three years after victories Monday and Tuesday over the A’s in Oakland.

Even so, their 13-37 record is the worst in baseball and matches the worst in franchise history through 50 games. They were also 13-37 last season, when they finished 56-106.

Moore, 39, will be the sixth general manager in franchise history. He is currently responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Braves’ scouting and player development as an assistant to general manager John Schuerholz.

The Star reported Saturday that Glass offered the job to Moore after more than 10 days of discussions. Sources said Moore wanted written assurance that he would have full and final authority on all baseball-related decisions before accepting the offer.

The Royals were 381-576 in Baird’s tenure, which began June 17, 2000, when he replaced Herk Robinson. He spent 12 previous seasons in the organization in various roles.

The organization’s primary failure under Baird was in its inability to draft and develop high-quality players in recent years. The current 25-man roster has only two players — outfielders David DeJesus and Shane Costa — who were drafted in Baird’s six seasons.

Further, several recent lineups mocked the very idea that the club is engaged in a rebuilding plan. The Royals started five players Tuesday against Oakland who were 30 years or older.

While Baird and his staff succeeded in uncovering some real bargains on the free-agent fringe, they proved far less successful in obtaining top value when forced by financial considerations to trade players such as Johnny Damon, Carlos Beltran and Jermaine Dye.

It was the Beltran trade — on June 24, 2004 — that marked the latest full-scale effort to rebuild their roster. The Royals received catcher John Buck, third baseman Mark Teahen and pitcher Mike Wood in return.

They are also 99-206 since that point.

This year’s disappointing performance comes after Glass authorized a payroll increase that allowed Baird to spend nearly $25 million in the off-season on veteran players to supplement a youthful and often-overmatched roster.

The anticipated mix has been derailed by injuries.

Three of the club’s anticipated starting pitchers — Mark Redman, Denny Bautista and Zack Greinke — have spent time on the disabled list. Greinke and closer Mike MacDougal have been out all season.

Another starter, Runelvys Hernandez, required three-plus weeks of additional conditioning time in the minors before joining the club. He was recently optioned back to Class AAA Omaha because of poor performance.

Injuries also sidelined two of the club’s key regulars: DeJesus and DH Mike Sweeney. DeJesus returned Monday after a 34-game absence, while Sweeney, who has already missed 26 games, isn’t expected back for several more weeks because of a bulging cervical disk in his neck.

To reach Bob Dutton, Royals reporter for The Star, call (816) 234-4352 or send email to bdutton@kcstar.com

Mecca · 05-31-2006, 04:55 PM

You'd think the law of averages would say the Royals would get lucky with a pitcher at some point.....

When you draft for signability over ability, don't develop players well and then top that off by bringing guys who aren't ready up. Your minor league system isn't going to be rated very well.

Sure-Oz · 05-31-2006, 04:56 PM

I think these young guys need to keep going out there and go through the pains. I say bring a real manager and some real coaches to show these kids how its done as well. How about some guys from the 80's that knew how to win!

VonneMarie · 05-31-2006, 05:05 PM

It sucks to see Baird go, but on the other hand I'm really excited about the move.

Mecca · 05-31-2006, 05:06 PM

My biggest problem with Baird was he was always off doing some scouting trip.......isn't that why you hire scouts?

Sure-Oz · 05-31-2006, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by VonneMarie

It sucks to see Baird go, but on the other hand I'm really excited about the move.

This is probably the best news in a long time for us Royals fans....like a chance at hope for this franchise. I am excited about Moore and hope he brings us back to our winning ways and the best part is that Glass will stick to the business side and let Moore do what he does best. Let's hope for some fun baseball again in KC!

BigChiefFan · 05-31-2006, 05:13 PM

This is a huge move for the organization. I'm glad to see Glass step up and get the best GM prospect available.

VonneMarie · 05-31-2006, 05:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mecca

My biggest problem with Baird was he was always off doing some scouting trip.......isn't that why you hire scouts?

Maybe the Royals will bring him back as an actual scout.

VonneMarie · 05-31-2006, 05:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sure-Oz

This is probably the best news in a long time for us Royals fans....like a chance at hope for this franchise. I am excited about Moore and hope he brings us back to our winning ways and the best part is that Glass will stick to the business side and let Moore do what he does best. Let's hope for some fun baseball again in KC!

Reading this made me feel great. I even forgot about the Royals 7-0 loss for 30 seconds.

Sure-Oz · 05-31-2006, 05:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by VonneMarie

Reading this made me feel great. I even forgot about the Royals 7-0 loss for 30 seconds.

That's usually how long I last too....

but ive heard its the best 30 seconds of a females life.

But glad that made ya feel good minus the smartass reply.

shakesthecat · 05-31-2006, 05:23 PM

Baird should have been fired 3 years ago. Good riddance.

Time will soon tell if Moore has total control or not.
IMO, if Bell, Stairs, Graff, Dougie, Redman, and any other vet over 32 is still on the 25 roster man after the ASB, then we'll know.

I welcome a fire sale.

Sure-Oz · 05-31-2006, 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shakesthecat

Baird should have been fired 3 years ago. Good riddance.

Time will soon tell if Moore has total control or not.
IMO, if Bell, Stairs, Graff, Dougie, Redman, and any other vet over 32 is still on the 25 roster man after the ASB, then we'll know.

I welcome a fire sale.

Yeah, most those guys should go for marginal prospects if anything. I still think this team could use a decent vet on the bench or two. I like Minki for a defensive sub for sure. I like Grudz but he needs to be on a better team that can do some damage. He is probably the only proffesional hitter on this team, minus an injured reggie sanders.

shakesthecat · 05-31-2006, 05:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sure-Oz

.

Yeah, I'd like to see Grudz kept too, but he prolly has the most trade value right now. Sanders is OK/streaky, but he appears to be breaking down.

Speaking of which.... every person associated with the Royals medical staff needs to the first group shown the door.

FringeNC · 05-31-2006, 05:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shakesthecat

Baird should have been fired 3 years ago. Good riddance.

Time will soon tell if Moore has total control or not.
IMO, if Bell, Stairs, Graff, Dougie, Redman, and any other vet over 32 is still on the 25 roster man after the ASB, then we'll know.

I welcome a fire sale.

I think that is a good criterion for whether Moore has total control or not. There is simply no reason for those guys to be on the roster of a team that is going to lose 115 games.

tk13 · 05-31-2006, 05:55 PM

That depends on if Moore thinks the guys in the minor leagues are ready or not. If he thinks guys like Gordon or Butler need a bit more time, then he's going to leave some of these older guys in as placeholders. We have too many veterans, but I wouldn't get rid of every single one of them just because. Somebody has to take the field every night.

This is what got us in this situation in the first place. David and Dan Glass turn into fans. You bring up guys, they don't succeed immediately, you become impatient, think they're busts, flip out and send them down and sign old guys, rinse, lather, repeat.

FringeNC · 05-31-2006, 06:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tk13

That depends on if Moore thinks the guys in the minor leagues are ready or not. If he thinks guys like Gordon or Butler need a bit more time, then he's going to leave some of these older guys in as placeholders. We have too many veterans, but I wouldn't get rid of every single one of them just because. Somebody has to take the field every night.

This is what got us in this situation in the first place. David and Dan Glass turn into fans. You bring up guys, they don't succeed immediately, you become impatient, think they're busts, flip out and send them down and sign old guys, rinse, lather, repeat.

Absolutely no reason to start the service clock on Gordon or Butler this year. Why not give a guy like Chip Ambres a chance instead of guys we KNOW can't play, and who have zero chance of being around if/when we ever do contend.

05-31-2006, 10:56 AM
ChiTown Stroking to the SB Champs! Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Flatlands of Kansas Casino cash: $3263962	It's official. Moore in, Baird out Good deal Royals fire Baird to clear path for hiring Moore as GM By BOB DUTTON The Kansas City Star OAKLAND, Calif. — The Royals fired general manager Allard Baird on this morning in anticipation of announcing the hiring of Atlanta assistant Dayton Moore as his replacement. The club declined official comment regarding the moves, but Baird confirmed he had been fired. “I was told this morning,” he said. “Beyond that, I don’t have anything to say.” Sources say Moore is getting a five-year contract and complete control over baseball operations in a commitment to turn around a franchise that has lost 100 or more games in three of the last four seasons. Moore, 39, is expected to take control, officially, next week upon completion of baseball’s two-day draft. Sources said assistant general manager Muzzy Jackson will replace Baird on an interim basis. Moore could not be reached for comment. Club owner David Glass signaled Baird’s job was in jeopardy April 20 after the Royals fell to 2-12 after a winless nine-game road trip through New York, Tampa Bay and Chicago. “It has to change quickly,” he said. “We are not willing to wait to see if it gets better. We have to make it get better… If it doesn’t turn around, we’ll have to change things. “We can’t wait too long. I’m not willing to go through a season like we did last year. None of us are.” Glass’ patience seemed exhausted by May 4 when he declared: “I’m out of patience. I have never been this frustrated. I’ve got to do something. This can’t continue.” It was at that point, from all indications, that Glass accelerated his search for a new general manager. He initially hoped to complete the process within a day or two. It soon became an ordeal that lasted nearly four weeks and effectively paralyzed the organization as Baird’s administrative effectiveness steadily waned amid the mounting speculation of impending change. Baird, 44, finally called publicly for “closure” earlier this week. The Royals, ironically, entered Wednesday’s game in search of their first sweep in a road series in nearly three years after victories Monday and Tuesday over the A’s in Oakland. Even so, their 13-37 record is the worst in baseball and matches the worst in franchise history through 50 games. They were also 13-37 last season, when they finished 56-106. Moore, 39, will be the sixth general manager in franchise history. He is currently responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Braves’ scouting and player development as an assistant to general manager John Schuerholz. The Star reported Saturday that Glass offered the job to Moore after more than 10 days of discussions. Sources said Moore wanted written assurance that he would have full and final authority on all baseball-related decisions before accepting the offer. The Royals were 381-576 in Baird’s tenure, which began June 17, 2000, when he replaced Herk Robinson. He spent 12 previous seasons in the organization in various roles. The organization’s primary failure under Baird was in its inability to draft and develop high-quality players in recent years. The current 25-man roster has only two players — outfielders David DeJesus and Shane Costa — who were drafted in Baird’s six seasons. Further, several recent lineups mocked the very idea that the club is engaged in a rebuilding plan. The Royals started five players Tuesday against Oakland who were 30 years or older. While Baird and his staff succeeded in uncovering some real bargains on the free-agent fringe, they proved far less successful in obtaining top value when forced by financial considerations to trade players such as Johnny Damon, Carlos Beltran and Jermaine Dye. It was the Beltran trade — on June 24, 2004 — that marked the latest full-scale effort to rebuild their roster. The Royals received catcher John Buck, third baseman Mark Teahen and pitcher Mike Wood in return. They are also 99-206 since that point. This year’s disappointing performance comes after Glass authorized a payroll increase that allowed Baird to spend nearly $25 million in the off-season on veteran players to supplement a youthful and often-overmatched roster. The anticipated mix has been derailed by injuries. Three of the club’s anticipated starting pitchers — Mark Redman, Denny Bautista and Zack Greinke — have spent time on the disabled list. Greinke and closer Mike MacDougal have been out all season. Another starter, Runelvys Hernandez, required three-plus weeks of additional conditioning time in the minors before joining the club. He was recently optioned back to Class AAA Omaha because of poor performance. Injuries also sidelined two of the club’s key regulars: DeJesus and DH Mike Sweeney. DeJesus returned Monday after a 34-game absence, while Sweeney, who has already missed 26 games, isn’t expected back for several more weeks because of a bulging cervical disk in his neck. To reach Bob Dutton, Royals reporter for The Star, call (816) 234-4352 or send email to bdutton@kcstar.com
Posts: 39,341

05-31-2006, 04:55 PM	#91
Mecca Hockey Town Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Kansas City, Missouri Casino cash: $2587050	You'd think the law of averages would say the Royals would get lucky with a pitcher at some point..... When you draft for signability over ability, don't develop players well and then top that off by bringing guys who aren't ready up. Your minor league system isn't going to be rated very well.
Posts: 110,970

05-31-2006, 05:05 PM	#93
VonneMarie Don't look over here Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Kansas City, MO Casino cash: $10008987	It sucks to see Baird go, but on the other hand I'm really excited about the move.
Posts: 17,644

05-31-2006, 05:06 PM	#94
Mecca Hockey Town Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Kansas City, Missouri Casino cash: $2587050	My biggest problem with Baird was he was always off doing some scouting trip.......isn't that why you hire scouts?
Posts: 110,970

05-31-2006, 05:13 PM	#96
BigChiefFan MVP Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: In the Top 10 Casino cash: $9924205	This is a huge move for the organization. I'm glad to see Glass step up and get the best GM prospect available. __________________ A 35 year drought can make you thirsty.
Posts: 15,777

05-31-2006, 05:23 PM	#100
shakesthecat Veteran Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: IA Casino cash: $4273833	Baird should have been fired 3 years ago. Good riddance. Time will soon tell if Moore has total control or not. IMO, if Bell, Stairs, Graff, Dougie, Redman, and any other vet over 32 is still on the 25 roster man after the ASB, then we'll know. I welcome a fire sale.
Posts: 3,353

05-31-2006, 05:55 PM	#104
tk13 ... Join Date: Nov 2001 Casino cash: $1952500	That depends on if Moore thinks the guys in the minor leagues are ready or not. If he thinks guys like Gordon or Butler need a bit more time, then he's going to leave some of these older guys in as placeholders. We have too many veterans, but I wouldn't get rid of every single one of them just because. Somebody has to take the field every night. This is what got us in this situation in the first place. David and Dan Glass turn into fans. You bring up guys, they don't succeed immediately, you become impatient, think they're busts, flip out and send them down and sign old guys, rinse, lather, repeat.
Posts: 54,957