As much as it pains me to speak of moving my guys during the playoffs, I feel compelled to say something about Laramie's plans for next season. Whether we finally win the WS will be a big factor in determining how hard I try to build this team into a juggernaut. Either way, LAR should be competitive and I'll be trying to make some moves. LAR did suffer their share of injuries and other disappointments, but still has a solid core of talent.
Areas of Need:
1) OF - Manny really belongs at DH and the rest of the OF is pretty much a disaster. Finley, Davanon, Byrnes, and Wilson all tanked this season, although they may not be completely useless. Rookie McLouth is intriguing, but not a big help for now.
2) SP - Love the top 3 of Pettitte/Peavy/Sheets, but the rookie duo of Baker and McCarthy isn't nearly enough to cover the gaping hole in the back of the rotation caused by Leiter's collapse and Batista's move to the pen.
3) C - Lopez did okay, but I'd be interested in an upgrade or at least some help there.
4) 2B - Durham is adequate, but a cheaper and/or better defense alternative would be appealing.
5) 1B - Delgado was great, but would be awful damn expensive for me to keep.
6) We have a bunch of good relievers, but are perhaps somewhat lacking in true dominance.
7) Cash is always appreciated.
Available:
1) Rolen (StL) - This is the big prize. I can't justify paying him an A8 for his injury plagued season, but he would drop to a B11 if traded and should be fully healthy for Spring Training. He's still only 30 years old and should have plenty of great years ahead.
2) Delgado (Flo) - One of my only 2 bigtime bats at the moment, but I would have to pay him an A8 so I would have to consider cheaper alternatives. He would drop to a B12 if traded or perhaps less if someone can vouch for him having a contract other than B before he went A.
3) Nicky Punto (Min) - 400+ semi-adequate PA for 2B/SS/3B in his first full season in the majors. Plus, he's extra scrappy!
4) Durham (SF) - Only if I can come up with a more appealing replacement at 2B.
5) Craig Wilson (Pit) - Season ruined by twice getting his hand broken by HBP. I wouldn't mind keeping him around if the right offer doesn't come along.
6) Miguel Batista (Tor) - Saved 31 games, but not quite good enough to close for us.
7) Oliver Perez (Pit) - Brutally disappointing season, but I'll keep him unless someone blows me away with an offer.
8) Marcos Carvajal (Col) - Held his own as a 20 year old Rule 5 reliever with the Rockies. I'm not terribly eager to trade him, but will throw the name out there anyway.
9) Rookies McLouth (Pit) and Huber (KC) aren't exactly on the block, but I'd consider moving them if the price is right.
10) Finley (LAA), Davanon (LAA), Byrnes (Oak/Col/Bal) - Will probably end up on C contracts if nobody wants them before then.
11) Prospects and picks - always available in theory
12) Others - Feel free to bring up other names if you think I might be interested.
Okay, that's it for now. Let me know if you have any bright ideas.
