[RedEye]

Originally Posted by mth123

And Redeye, I like the idea of selling high on Gonzalez and desperately want the purge to return a MLB ready SS who has shown some offensive promise (Erick Aybar for example). But if that can't be acquired you have to keep him. I think a reliable SS (not necessarily Gold Glove material) is a must when trying to develop and evaluate as many young pitchers as the Reds will be during the second half (I'm talking about Bailey and the pen guys). As much as I'd like to flip Gonzalez, he needs to stay for the sake of the young pitchers unless a replacement is in hand.

Good point. I just think that Castro or someone else (Janish?) could provide the reliable defense you are talking about in a pinch. Obviously, you want Gonzo there if the team is seriously trying to contend... but I don't think they really will be until at least 2009. I say if you can turn Gonzo's career offensive year at GABP into solid prospects (at whatever position) you do it in a heartbeat.