Kepp's low-k, BA-driven bat would help the line-up. Stick him at third, move EdE to the outfield and dangle Jr., Dunn, Hatt and Valentine for up-the-middle players. Sign Helms as a righty back for first and fall-back for third.
Kepp's low-k, BA-driven bat would help the line-up. Stick him at third, move EdE to the outfield and dangle Jr., Dunn, Hatt and Valentine for up-the-middle players. Sign Helms as a righty back for first and fall-back for third.
So his defensive "skills" are a myth, like Juan Castro?
Why do we hear how good he is with the glove? Francona said he was one of the best he's ever seen at SS. That was the main reason he was brought in. Is he really "average", even if you thow out 2007? I'm serious when I ask this because I don't know.
And if so, what is Kepp? In the limited sample size, does it show Keppinger to be better? Watching Kepp out there, he does a fine job, but my eyes tell me that he is not a natural shortstop. I just don't see it. He does make the routine plays however, but I would take AGon over him defensively without question.
For further reading into the Kepp v. AGon defensive debate may I suggest the third and fourth pages of this thread:
http://www.redszone.com/forums/showt...t=67680&page=3
1. OK
2. No thanks
3. No way
Crede is too old and fragile. Personally, I'd like to see EE stick at 3B and worry about a LF if Dunn walks, which I hope he doesn't. LF are easier to find than 3B. As for Sabathia, can we please talk about something realistic? He's going to get >$100 MM, and the Reds are obviously not playing that game.
The list of free agents sucks. I'd trade Jr. this season (or let him walk afterwards) and bring Bruce up in his place. I'd try to trade for Matt LaPorta or Matt Kemp, but if I couldn't, I'd resign Dunn and Patterson. Let CP play CF until Stubbs is ready, but let him bat ninth. (That's right, ninth.)
Go BLUE!!!
Sabathia is from California. I suspect he'll sign with a west coast team, probably either the Angels or Dodgers.
Oliver Perez would be interesting. Too many homers and walks but entering prime age to get it together.
Oliver Perez would be a huge risk for the Reds given his extreme flyball tendencies and high walk rate-----a deadly combination in GABP.
"This isn’t stats vs scouts - this is stats and scouts working together, building an organization that blends the best of both worlds. This is the blueprint for how a baseball organization should be run. And, whether the baseball men of the 20th century like it or not, this is where baseball is going."---Dave Cameron, U.S.S. Mariner
Here is what I see for 2009:
C ?
1B Votto
2B Phillips
SS Kep/Gonzo ( Gonzo likely not tradable at this point )
3B EE
LF ?
CF ?
RF Bruce
SP Harang-Volquez-Cueto-Arroyo-Bailey
RP Cordero-Burton-Bray-?
Griffey is gone.
Dunn should only be back if it is a short term deal. I suspect he can more elsewhere.
Looking at the Free Agent list there really isn't much. Jocketty has his work cut out for him.
It may be easier to find a team with a high priced veteran and offer them low level prospects and salary relief.
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