Offseason objectives: Sign right-handed hitting left fielder, catcher, bullpen help and shortstop. Prepare change-of-address cards for final spring in Florida. Accomplishments: Acquiring catcher Ramon Hernandez from Baltimore will improve the Reds' offense behind the plate, and outfielder Wily Taveras adds speed. Like so many others in the NL, it's tough to do much when the money's dried up. By cutting ties with outfielder Corey Patterson, manager Dusty Baker won't be able to play him.
What's left: The Reds will trade for an outfielder (Xavier Nady? Nick Swisher?) or sign one (Bobby Abreu?) as the prices drop when spring training gets closer. This, though, is a team that can barely afford to purchase new sweatbands and toothpicks for skipper Baker, let alone legitimate, winning players.
Sad, but true...