Going into the off-season most agreed that we needed alot in order to be competitive in 2008. Has Krivsky addressed (or actively trying to addess) those needs?
If the plan is to compete in 2008, what are our chances? What more do we need? There's luxuries, but on paper - what more do we need?
We needed:
1) A #2/3 starter
- We got Volquez who should be a solid #4/5, we might get Blanton - who would more adequately address our needs holding the #3 spot down in our rotation.
-This hole is currently partially filled, and WK is actively trying to fill it more completely (acquire Blanton or someone similar)
2) A RH bat off the bench
-We got Craig Wilson... the answer?, who knows, but so far there's a reliable RH preseence on the bench (Keppinger) and possible power RHer (Wilson).
-This hole is filled, IMO.
3) A major bullpen upgrade
-We got Cordero, a capable closer, which re-shifted the whole bullpen, putting Weathers & Burton in more comfortable roles
-We got Affeldt, a solid lefty reliever who put up good numbers last year.
-This hole is filled, IMO.
4) Defensive CFer/Leadoff hitter
-We already have Hopper/Freel... enough? I don't know, but Kenny Lofton is rumored to be on the Reds radar... I think his acquisition would fill this hole.
-This hole still exists (to some degree), but WK is actively trying to fill it.
5) Offensive Upgrade at Catcher
-WK seems to be content w/ a defensive pitchers-catcher rather than an offensive catcher, and as far as we know, is making no efforts to upgrade at this position.
Some RedZoners still keep saying that the acquisition of Blanton would be stupid because we have no chance at winning in 08... but my question is what are we really missing?
-The acquisition of Kenny Lofton, would leave pitching as our only hole to be filled (on paper).. so, why not try our best to improve pitching and make a real push in '08??