I really think some of you are missing it on Taveras. He is not Patterson #2. So far in his career he's had one really bad year and that was last year, a year in which he was very unhappy in his situation, didn't get along with the manager and asked to be traded. Before that he played 3 full seasons in the majors, is only 27 in December and should rebound from last season to at least his average season.
This board would love it if the Reds signed Furcal, well, here is some food for thought:
Furcal:
Season 07: Average .270 OBP .333 SB 25
Season 06: Average .300 OBP .369 SB 37
Season 05: Average .284 OBP .348 SB 46
Average OBP for the three: around .350 (I did it in my head so it's not exact)
Taveras:
Season 07: Average .320 OBP .367 SB 33
Season 06: Average .278 OBP .333 SB 33
Season 05: Average .291 OBP .325 SB 34
Average OBP for the three: around .341 (again not exact)
Patterson:
Season 07: Average .269 OBP .304
Season 06: Average .276 OBP .314
Season 05: Average .215 OBP .254
Average OBP for the three: around .283(again not exact)
My point is this, Taveras is not just another Patterson. Sure, he had one bad year, but in my opinion he is a low cost risk worth taking. In my opinion, in a new situation there is no reason for me to think that he won't at least rebound to his career norm, hell, at his age he should get a little better. There is a decent chance he'll give you close to Furcals production at a fraction of the cost.
Let me ask you guys this, if he gives you this line (which I believe he will) would you take it:
Average .280 OBP .345 SB 40