Considering the reports I've heard about Span losing a step, it may not be much of a drop off defensively of Williamson and Parker compared to Parker and Span.
Ramirez over Sick? Stratton over Gearin? No Suarez?
Osich hasn't been very impressive in spring training. Neither has Blach, Suarez or Gearrin. I'm still puzzled as to why Stratton was sent down early, given his production, but maybe they bring him back up for another shot. However, I wouldn't be surprised if Osich is over Stratton and either Gearrin or Hernandez over Ramirez (even though both Gearrin and Hernandez have looked poor and Gearrin's 2016 doesn't merit a guaranteed roster spot).
Strickland's numbers look pretty good so far this spring. 8 hit and no walks in 7.3 innings pitched, with 6 strikeouts. Not eye-popping but no one has those. Melancon doesn't that the strikeouts, Law walks too many batters, Okert's K levels are a bit low as well. I'd put Strickland in as a lock without the politics.
For some reason, I was thinking of Stratton in the role of the 2nd lefty. Not sure where I got that idea. Looking at the lefties in camp (beside Okert and Smith):That would leave only one lefty in the pen (Okert). Not sure whether Blach or Osich (who has had a miserable spring) would be the next lefty. I think a lefty takes Stratton's place, but what do I know.
Depending on how long Smith is determined to be out, I wouldn't be surprised if the front office makes one of those rare late spring training trades for a lefty or watches the waiver wire for a pickup. That is, unless Osich continues to get better. Then they may be comfortable with the "O"s handling left handed duties.
I'm pretty sure these guys are locks:
I agree with you on everyone except possibly Gearrin. You are probably right but I would think that his 2016, put together with his spring, that he may be on the bubble.
I prefer Hwang anyway.
