he's at worst the 2nd best player both offensively and defensively of the 4. if he can still play some outfield in a pinch, he'd be a great asset.
I'm with this...entirely. Gut the entire bullpen. If you can trade someone, do it. If you can't, move on. Completely retool that part of your team.
Free agents relievers are such a crapshoot, that it is not worth spending any significant money on one now. Spending a little money on a corner outfielder "reclamation project" would be OK. I think a mid-level starting pitcher would be worthwhile to provide some innings and veteran presence on a staff that is otherwise devoid of experience. There would still be 4 other spots for young guys to compete for. I just think 5 inexperienced starters, no matter how talented, is a bad idea.
No kidding. Look at Mark Melancon. Was ok as our closer in 2011. Traded to Boston and was horrible. Traded to the Pirates as a throw-in in the Haranahan deal. Turns into an All-Star and is currently closing for them while their primary is on the DL.
I don't like Wallace at all. Don't think he is on the long term plans. What about Appel and Correa I can see them by mid year next year.
I totally agree in principle. I have said that very same thing before about middle relievers. I'm just so frustrated with the current bullpen that I want nearly everyone gone...and would be fine if they picked up free agents to help fill some of those voids. Progs -- I agree on Wallace. Said a long time ago, I've seen enough.
What's been so bad about Wallace since he has come back? Since returning, he has been decent. Sure, his average may not show it, but his OPS and production makes him at least a platoon player at worse.
I agree that he doesn't walk enough, and he doesn't seem to be someone that will in the future. I just think he is a decent platoon option at 1B/3B(occasionally)/DH against righties.
I feel like I already know what he is...a guy who can hit AAA pitching all day long. I have no doubt he can perform for stretches. But I think overall, he's going to be a below average starter. I'm not thrilled with how he plays 1B, either.
I could see them going after someone like Paul Maholm. He's not likely to cost a draft pick; might be willing to sign for 2 or 3 years at a reasonable price; and he could provide veteran mentorship while eating innings in the middle of a young rotation. He might cost something like 2/20 or 3/27.
Cano and Ellsbury are probably the top two. Hitters like Choo, Nelson Cruz, Napoli and Pence would be the next tier Top pitchers are guys like Matt Garza, E Santana and Lincecum. I wouldn't mind seeing us take a shot at a guy like Lincecum if he wanted a shorter deal to prove his worth again. I think one major part of the equation that hasn't been brought up on this thread is the TV deal. I can't see Crane opening up the wallet at all if there is no television deal in place. He would likely prefer to continue to make the largest profit of any owner in baseball and pay down debt. IF a deal gets done and he knows the big revenue stream he is seeking is on the way, then we might see something
2014 Astros will be much better. 2015 Astros will challenge for playoff spot. Astros need to find a few bullpen pitchers. It seems like the Astros could of had 10 more wins with a decent bullpen to brodge to Veras.
