Originally Posted by
mattfeet
Out of the 4 younger starting pitchers we have, (Im not including Arroyo in this, but I do hope we can bring him back on a Ludwick type deal), which would you like to see the Reds' re-sign as a priority? Here's my thoughts, in order:
1.) Latos: He's young, he's passionate, he's aggressive, and he really seems to enjoy the Reds organization. While he's not a FA until 2016, he would be my #1 priority, hands down, to sign long-term. I think the Reds make a strong push to sign him after 2014.
2.) Cueto: The current string of injuries worries me about long-term durability. It's yet to be seen if he needs to revert to prior mechanics for the sake of his health. If he can stay healthy after this DL stint, I'd be much more inclined to put him #1. The remainder of 2013 will be quite telling on his this could pan out.
3.) Leake: Yes, I'm putting him above Bailey. Bailey clearly has higher upside, but if Leake can maintain pitching the way he's currently pitching, then I would have no qualms inking him to a 4-6 year deal. However, teams also need good serviceable pitchers. Leake, for all intents and purposes, is pitching like a #2/#3 pitcher on a playoff team. Not that long ago he would've been the Reds' Ace.
4.) Bailey: While it'd be nice to ink Cueto, Latos, and Bailey to long term deals, I just do not see Bailey giving the Reds a hometown discount on an extension. As aforementioned, I do think that Bailey has higher upside than Leake, but we've all been given the impression that he's not particularly fond of GABP.
What are your thoughts?