I know that some things will be done this off season and I know that it's likely that improvements are needed for the Reds to contend in 2010.But how much really needs done?I only ask because at some point during the off season the front office will point at the horrible July the team had and excuse it due to injuries, claim that a highly competitive team has already been assembled and head into spring training with few changes made.How wrong will they be?I for one don't think that they're that wrong but it does seem like a move or 2 is needed.
I don't think the catching spot that will need filled is that much of an issue.Hannigan can imo be at least average and signing a capable back up to a 1 year deal shouldn't be that hard or expensive considering there will be plenty of options in free agency.There is certainly plenty of garbage out there to but we're not looking for an all star.I like Jason Kendall here.
The SS position is the biggest issue.I don't know what the team will do but hopefully Janish is not one of their top options.I still think Phillips is the best option all things considered.I know that Walt likes DeRosa and he's a free agent this summer.Put him at second and be done with it.
The only questions in the OF imo is how much we will end up paying Gomes and if Taveras will be released.I think a team like the Reds have to hope that Bruce lives up to his potential and becomes an all star.If that happens they have an average to above average OF with Bruce,Gomes,Dickerson,Stubbs and pick anyone from the list of other in house candidates.
The starting pitching is capable of being the strength and with any luck will be.To upgrade would cost the team too much money and simply would not make sense considering the other weaknesses and most of all payroll restraints.To upgrade would likely mean that no other moves would be made.
So that's not much.Not a ton of money spent.No huge trades that are unlikely to happen.IMO something very close to what we can expect next year.I know Phillips going to SS would be unexpected but my hope is that they come to their senses and make the move.So with this team I'm talking about do the Reds have a realistic chance to compete in 2010?
CF Dickerson/Stubbs
SS Phillips
1b Votto
3b Rolen
2b DeRosa
RF Bruce
LF Gomes
C Hannigan/Kendall
SP Arroyo
SP Bailey
SP Cueto
SP Harang
SP Maloney
RP Cordero
RP Masset
RP Rhodes
RP Herrera
RP Fisher
RP Burton
RP Owings
Bench:Fransico/Janish//Dickerson/Kendall/Rosalas