I think the economics at the MLB level will force moves for guys like India, Stephenson and even Steer along to make way for the cheaper AA and A group. I'm not seeing ownership investing in more than 2 pitchers and 2 every day guys long term. I think India is a core leader and is as valuable in the clubhouse as he is on the field but we're not paying $20/year to 4 or or 5 guys long term who don't pitch I'd venture. My guess is that Elly and Hunter will be the only ones controlled past the pain point. We will need the marching line of players from the minors spaced out 2-4 years apart to stay relevant.
As for those who will not be doing as well next year over this. McLain isn't going to keep hitting at .340 and I think Steer may come back quite a bit too.
CES has been at or above .300 in 90% of his games in the minors and has gotten better with each promotion. With his power, in our stadium, he'd be one of the last I'd want to move. He hit in camp.... he's hit at AAA and he's shown the ability to hit to all fields with power. While I can see Marte being a solid MLB hitter he's not shown what CES is showing. The age retort is always there but birds and bushes. If it's between those 2 I'd move Marte.
To our roster this year.... I'd not hold back on moving pieces we have like Senzel, Stephenson, Barrero, Benson, Newsome, Fraley if it deepens our pen for more than 2 years. If possible, sell high on Robinson and Dunn in the minors. I'd love to see Hopkins to get a real look this year as he's shown to have a mature approach. Benson has "tools" but I like the approach by Hopkins. Barrero is interesting in center as well. Can he ever hit .260 with a little power? That's a good question.
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