[mth123]

Originally Posted by mdccclxix

I wouldn't mind your way of doing things at all. However, Chapman needs to go into the rotation soon, he's more valuable that way. I hope a good Winter League showing doesn't stop Jocketty from getting another arm, or thinking practically about Cordero. Hazarding those things are hand in hand with entering Chapman into the rotation, at least until we see what happens.

I had heard about Vazquez retiring, but maybe he could be talked back for some extra cash. Renteria was talking that way last year as well.

Oswalt would need to find a clean bill of health for the Reds to sign him, and I somehow think he'd shirk off the idea of coming here, but he's an elite talent, totally grizzled, he'd be a boon for the rotation if healthy.

We agree on Buehrle. If he goes to St. Louis, that would suck. Maybe playing in the Central would be enough for him. His price tag will likely be too high and would probably squeeze out Phillips in 2013.

Again, I like the Heisey/Stubbs platoon, or possibly letting Sappelt take over CF. I like the upgrade Alonso brings to the lineup, specifically vs RHP. I think Cozart will add some offense as well. All those things will stabilize the offense. However, I think a great way to find value is to pick up guys that are coming off injury. In fact, I'd sign Sizemore to a 3 year deal if he'd do it. Eventually, he'll come out on the other side with the same talent as before. Perhaps he'd take a year to catch on, but catching on for him is something special. Think of what Lance Nix, Junior, Carpenter, etc have done post injury history. The fact that Sizemore comes with significant value as a slugger makes it worth while. I wouldn't, for example, pursue a guy like Rollins, who as a small speedy guy, I think would be more likely to perform badly.

I try to focus on premium talent and the list above is mostly that. In years past I've thought Damon, Abreu, Rolen, and Berkman were good finds. I feel pretty good about Sizemore and Oswalt in particular. These players could supercharge this team if they perform to 85% of their ability. Meanwhile, there is certainly enough depth to replace them if they falter. And their market values are down as well.

Finally, these also have a Walt Jocketty flavor to them. Add vets that have pedigree and an exceptional past, even while in decline or recovering from injury. Younger the better, sure, but don't overlook your Abreu's or Damons, especially since they are very healthy. As we've seen with Rolen, just half a season of production at their full potential is very valuable.

I don't fool with Sizemore unless he'll sign a minor league deal. The Reds can afford productive players. They can't afford dead money and I'm not convinced Sizemore will ever be all the way back.

The Reds should not spend one additional dime of the payflex that they have until a starter is added and they see how much room they have left afterwards. Any offseason plan that does not include adding a proven starting pitcher who is healthy and has repeatedly gone 200+ innings with an ERA under 4.00 is akin to punting 2012. This team can win if it gets what it needs and IMO adding that from the outside is an absolute requirement. All other things are secondary and that includes moving Chapman to the rotation. I just don't believe he'll develop into a good starter until he's had a couple of seasons of starting under his belt and by then he'll be looking for his next contract. I'd ride him as a weapon in the pen and wouldn't waste the time developing him to be the next ace in Boston or New York.