Came into to say I was WRONG . I owe an apology to RavenLunatic, his faith in Drayton McLane never wavered, although mine isn't completely there. I must say that the Astros certainly bolster their lineup and hopefully the CF position and bullpen get addressed next.
I appreciate and accept the apology, Jared. I must say, this signing has exceeded even my expectations. I figured they would only sign Kent if they had a deal in place to move some serious salary. But Hunsicker and Drayton claim that no salary will be moved to make room for Kent. So it really does sound like Drayton has decided to take a chance and spend some extra money on this team. Now I just hope that Houstonians respond and pack that field for most games. If attendance is lackluster, it won't do anything to convince Drayton that he needs to continue this sort of spending.
They won't be dumping salary...but I doubt this is the last move made this offseason. I think that they will try to move Hidalgo and Ward...acquire a CF...and another bullpen arm.
conflicting reports...i just heard hunsicker say on sportsradio that they would likely have to make some moves to afford the kent acquisition.
He also said that the Payton deal is dead, and that acquiring another OF'er is doubtful because of the logjam of players there.
The only unmovable we have is Hidalgo...Ward won't net you much...but you could deal him. He's fairly cheap and has tons of potential...to be a DH.
maybe...but hunsicker said this morning it ain't happening...they may try to make some moves to clear up the logjam, but they're not adding anything of significance at this point.
That's fine...he also said it would take a miracle to get Kent. I'm not saying they go out and get a stud player...but they could get a young guy who can develop into a good CF...for when Biggio retires.
I can see it now...Gerry at the winter meetings... he goes up to the GM of the Red Sox (for instance) and says "Mr. Epstein, Merry Christmas from the Houston Astros...we got you a present." Richard Hidalgo is sitting in the corner with a bid red bow on his cranium.
