OK stats guys, this is a feeling I have about 2009 that I have been forming for a month now. I could use some help seeing if the numbers hold up.
I now believe the Reds a re two players away......just two. I know there will be those who trash this idea out-of-hand just based on the posts i have been reading......but I hope this idea (feeling) has enough merit to try some of those OPS+ and VORP thingys on it.
I also admit that the Reds are not even likely to execute this idea, but I can hope that Walt reads Redszone enough to be inspired.
Step one (player 1): Break the bank and sign another established starting pitcher. I have said all along that the rotation is one Derrick Lowe or even a Ben Sheets away from making the Reds competitive. You need to secure this step BEFORE the second step is necessary or useful.
Step two (player two): trade whatever it takes from the minors or even from any extra pieces at the majors to get Jermaine Dye. Stick him in LF and bat him 4th between Votto and Bruce.
I think this gives the Reds the offense, and thepitching they need to compete. Maybe a second or third place finish. If they get 3-4 career years then I think they could be playing in October.
I know this might be just going over the same ground, but it is Saturday, my wife and son are out shopping and I am down to watching the New Mexico Bowl......help!