The ongoing debate to trade or not to trade from our big 4 has got me thinking. The win now crowd is tempting to join and say let's trade whoever it takes to get Haren, Bedard, Kazmir. But Wayne K has to answer this question doesn't he?
How much confidence do we have in Bailey, Belisle, and Cueto?
Is it a better plan to let those 3 continue to improve and keep Votto, Hamilton and Bruce to supply the offense?
Bailey: Seems to have a good head on his shoulders and doesn't get rattled. He knows how good he can be. When you look at his numbers, a little better control and we have our second ace.
Belisle: Shows signs that he can be a solid #3 or #4. Last year was his first full year starting. He has the talent. It's entirely believable that he could put up 200IP and an ERA below 4.5 or better.
Cueto: Don't know much about him, but he doesn't appear to have the control issues that Homer has. He may develop quicker than we think.
So, is it a better plan to let those 3 continue to improve and save Hamilton, Votto and Bruce to supply the offense? I'd love to see Hatteberg and Freel or maybe lower level prospects get moved for another bullpen arm. And we need to sign a Lohse type starter for a year to hold down #5. But I won't be disappointed if we don't get Haren, Kazmir or Bedard.