Currently, the Astros are hoping Jeff Bagwell faces the fact that he is done. This will lead to insurance picking up $15+ million of the $17 million owed to him in 2006. The question is why Bagwell would want to put himself above the team. I always thought he was such a team-first guy.
Regardless, I do not think he has any value this year. He is done and will not seriously impede the ABs of any of the OF or Lance Berkman.
The bullpen is the area of most importance right now. With Lidge in trade rumors, do not be surprised to see him dealt. The Astors did it with Octavio Dotel in 2004 when the were confident Lidge was ready, and I expect them to do it to Lidge when they are convinced either Chad Qualls or Dan Wheeler is ready.
After all, the curtain of untradability has been raised on Lidge. This will make it easier to deal him as management has now dealt hypothetically with such an previously inconceivable idea.
Think about it as if you had an untouchable member of your Roto team. You do not think there is any way you could see yourself dealing him. Then you get an offer that makes you reconsider. Once that has been done, you can see other possibilities with other teams. Before you know it, you have dealt that player.
While I do not like taking mutliple relievers from the same bullpen (I feel there is a reduction in gaining Ws), grabbing Wheeler and Qualls is a good risk. Both should be cheap, and neither will hurt your team. And one of them will close if Lidge is dealt. My guess is Wheeler because his numbers are slightly better - more strikeouts, fewer walks.
On the farm, Josh Anderson looks like the same player Wily Taveras is - speed and no power with minimal OBP skills. If he makes the team, he will be a good $1 source of double digit steals. Just remember he will not provide anything in HR/RBI. If Taveras is dealt or mentioned in trade rumors, it is for this reason - Anderson can step right in and do the same thing.
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2 comments:
Bagwell needs to retire, that's alot of cash for a limited if any productive player. It's kind of a sad situation. Bagwell has had a great career with Houston and it's a shame they fell short of a WS ring. He'll probably wait until ST to see if he has anything left, or does he have to decide before ST?
Since Bags get paid whether he plays or not, I do not understand why anyone cares.
After all, if Bags is such a great team guy, why isn't he taking his $17 million and allowing his team to make itslef better?
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