The Rockies had hoped to sign Dave Roberts to play centerfield and to improve team speed, but he is now poised to sign with the Giants. Might the Rockies now need to look into acquiring Ryan Freel? Would they offer Jason Jennings? Would the Reds' offense suffer without Freel?
Jason Jennings groundball style seems to be a logical choice for the Reds, but...is he really worth Ryan Freel? The answer is obviously yes, but I have reservations about Jennings.
First, Jennings stuff is okay, but it isn't outstanding. He is no more than a number three type starter. However, he throws lots of sinkers which induce those groundballs so he is a nice fit for the Reds and their new shortstop/secondbase defense.
But, why might the Rockies trade Jennings now? Is it because he is coming off a career year in 2006? After his rookie season, Jennings had a three year (2003-2005) ERA over 5.00 and WHIP over 1.60. Which pitcher will he be next year, the 2006 version or the 2003-2005 version?
I truly believe in trading outfielders for pitchers, but can the Reds' punchless offense afford to lose their top speed component? The Reds can no longer rely on the three run homerun and would be hard pressed to mount an offense without on-base and first to third abilities. I'd still trade Freel for Jennings in a heatbeat, but I'd have reservations. Jennings, who makes Josh Hancock look like a fitness instructor, could have a negative effect on the team if the 2003-2005 version showed up and the team lacked speed.