Quote:
Originally Posted by nmculbreth
As soon as Hatteburg is dealt.
I think he's major league ready right now but bringing him up would ultimately take ABs away from Hatteburg which might ultimately hurt his trade value. Votto is certainly the future but I'd rather have him playing everyday in Louisville while the Reds showcase Hatteburg. After that I'd imagine he'll be eased into action by platooning 1B with Conine and be given the job fulltime in 2008.
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Sure, shop Hatteberg, but unless you can get something meaningful for him, keep him. He's 37 and will be 38 next season. He probably can play some left field in an emergency, as well as first. As a bench player next year, with Votto starting at first, Hatte can give the Reds good depth and hitting off the bench.
Imagine having the ability to put Hatteberg up in the late innings againt a tough righty as a pinch hitter for, say, Ross or the pitcher's spot. Depth, bench strength, is a wonderful thing. Or having Hatte available to fill in for an injury to a corner outfielder or first baseman.
From the left side, I would like to have both Hatte and Valentin off the bench -- with Valentin as the backup catcher. I know he doesn't field well, but Valentin adds something most backup catchers (including the current one) don't -- some offense. Then add Freel as super sub, Norris Hopper and an infielder (Castro, whomever) and you have a bench.