scotsman1948
Well-Known Member
If we don't get CJ, I like the idea of going after Shields. Hell, I like the idea of going after him even if we do. But the point is we need to resign the same quality pitcher as CJ, whether that be CJ himself or not.
Here's the thing. Everyone is bitching about CJ's postseason record, and rightfully so. I think we have a right to expect more of him. But, now a bunch of idiots are making knee-jerk reactions and saying let him walk. Here's the problem, you have to have someone who can step in and replace his regular season production. CJ has a very high likelyhood of replicating his production, and I expect improvement as this is only his second year as a starter.
I think Holland will be fine next year, as will Harrison. Ogando and Lewis are question marks. Ogando was unstoppable when no one knew anything about him. Then they caught on. If he learns to really pitch and develop at least one if not two secondary pitches he should be nails next season. However, no one really knows how next season will go for him. Lewis is nearing the end of his career. Will he be serviceable? I think so, but we could easily see him start trending downward. People want to compare CJ's "ace" status to Halladay, Verlander, Lee etc. His numbers we ver respectable in comparison, but for Christ's sake people. You are talking about a 2nd year starter with super low mileage on his arm in his early 30's. I really have a feeling if we let him walk we will be sorry. Should we pay him 22-25 mil a year on a 5-7 year deal? No, but I think the club would be smart to give him 15-19 mil a year with some extra incentives and options. Otherwise, you have to go after CC, Shields, or Buehrle and risk getting into a bidding war over someone who has not proven they can pitch at RBIA like CJ can.
Are you willing to give Hamburger, Perez and a couple of other minor league players to get him? because Tampa is willing to trade him but they're going to expect a high return for him