It wouldn't shock me to see Arroyo and/or Harang unloaded sometime in August. Arroyo at the very least should clear waivers. If someone gets desperate enough for another starter, or if someone suffers an injury, we could still likely see Bronson headed out.
But still, it's time for Bob to put his money where his mouth is if he's shooting his load all over 2010, and that's what the Rolen deal suggests.
From the sounds of it, one would think the Cardinals are still on the hook for that bonus.
Either way, I've got a bad feeling you may be correct on the "big free-agent acquisition" part, and that would be depressing.
The Lost Decade Average Season: 74-88
2014-22 Average Season: 71-91
Next year's roster of position players, circa. August 1: Bruce, Stubbs, Votto, Alonso, Phillips, Rolen, Hanigan, Frazier, Dickerson, Balentien, Rosales, backup C to be acquired, SS to be acquired (I'd target Miggy and just let the IF hit the s--- out of the ball next year). Alternative back ups: Heisey, Sutton, Gomes. Looks a lot better to me than any roster we've seen this year.
Hey, I just thought of something. The $4MM Toronto included can play for Willy Taveras in 2010.
Sweet.
For the first time ever, I'm considering just dropping the Reds. I can't believe I'm saying that because I'm an absolute diehard fan. I have never felt like this before. I travel four hours to Cincy at least 5-6 times a year and usually attend 12-14 games a year. And for what? To watch them lose. Unfortunately, I've already bought tickets to the series against the Nats (hey! at least I get to see Dunner) but this may be the last time I go. I need to just drop the Reds and become a Cardinals fan. Walt Jocketty and the Reds have sucked the life out of me.
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