Quote:
Originally Posted by Benihana
Here is the thing about trading (or not trading) pitchers:
IF the reports are accurate that the Reds are exploring LTCs with both Bailey and Latos, something has got to give.
1. Chapman is moving to the rotation (95% likely)
2. Cueto, Latos, and Bailey are all locked up for at least 2+ years.
3. Arroyo is likely gone after 2013, but you have three guys to replace him in Leake, Corcino and Cingrani, all of whom already are or will be major league ready at some point this season, meaning you can't/shouldn't just sit on them until a spot opens up sometime in 2015 or 2016- those spots should be earmarked for guys like Stephenson who are still 2-3 years off.
So what gives? Why do people want to squat on 8 major league ready SP when we have significant holes to fill in the OF?
I can live with the argument of not "selling low" on Leake, that we might need him to complement some of Chapman's innings for this year. But if that's the case, why not "sell high" on one of the pitching prospects like Corcino and Cingrani? There are only so many innings to pitch in a given season.
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Several things.
1. You're ignoring injuries.
2. It's far from certain that Cingrani even stays a starter.
3. We have no clue how Corcino will fare in the majors.
4. We have no clue how Chapman will fare as a starter. He bombed the first go-round.
5. I don't think anybody is advocating holding onto EVERY pitching prospect. But trading Bailey right now is a bad idea as it will drastically weaken our rotation for 2013. Trading Leake right now is a bad idea as it will drastically weaken our rotation for 2014. Cueto becomes a free agent in 2015 I believe...just in time for Stephenson.
IMO, one season of Leake playing the Cincy-to-Louisville shuttle will not hurt him. It keeps him on a starters schedule and further increases his experience. Corcino/Cingrani don't look to be ready this year. But if the right deal comes along...I'm fine with trading one of them. Stephenson looks to be the heir apparent for when Cueto leaves just like Leake is the heir apparent for when Arroyo leaves.
People act like we have 8 starting pitchers right now...when in fact we have 5 1/2. Chapman won't go all season. Corcino/Cingrani are most likely not ready but we could use them if we have to (due to injuries). If the right trade comes along, fine...but I see no reason to "shop" them.