Because I Can

Well, not a whole lot to choose from, even after the non-tenders. Here are your choices (note: I will update this when I hear about any changes):

Catcher
Toby Hall - the only guy on the list that represents more than just a backup, as he was the starter for Tampa Bay previously. A few decent backups remain on the list, though.

First Base
Craig Wilson - a right hander good here or in the outfield, as long as he gets some playing time
Shea Hillenbrand - another right hander, acceptable hitting first baseman
Doug Mientkevitz - noted more for glove work

Second Base
Marcus Giles - the non-tender from Atlanta would be a fine choice for any interested team.
Ronnie Belliard - he's got World Series experience
Mark Loretta - getting a bit old, but still has some use left

Third Base
Aubrey Huff - hey, we've got a hitter here. Good for 25ish home runs, a good 5 hitter to pick up.

Shortstop
nobody but backups and scrap. Please check your organizations, or ask the Dodgers for one.

Outfield
Craig Wilson - someone give him some playing time!
Trot Nixon - injury risk, but a good lefty bat
David Newhan - interesting non-tender, possibly has some potential
Bernie Williams - proved he's still capable of playing everyday
Steve Finley - 2004 centerfield gold glover. If you're counting on Hunter or Jones being available for 2008 and you need someone for the meantime, then why not.
Jeromy Burnitz - a "proven slugger" who's not much at hitting for average or plate discipline. If Francouer did not improve and just got fat and worse defensively, this is what he would be.

Starting Pitchers
Barry Zito - $$$$
Roger Clemens - ???????????????
Jeff Weaver - finally due for his 4 year $40 million contract after the postseason, or is he?
Mark Mulder - injury problems last year, but can still be good
Chan Ho Park - done with his contract from the Rangers, homer prone guy strikes out people
Ramon Ortiz - almost had a no hitter, and World Series experience
Tony Armas - was part of the trade that brought Pedro Martinez to Boston
Aaron Sele - did well for LA as a NRI to Spring Training

Relievers
Keith Foulke
Chris Reitsma
Doug Brocail
JC Romero
and some guys to invite to Spring Training


The Skinny
Starting pitching is not too thin for the middle to end of the rotation. Baltimore killed the reliever market. Very few hitters left.

UPDATE: The Giants paid a whole lot for Zito.

UPDATE 2: Basically nothing left. Except Jeff Weaver. Just like last year.

Labels: MLB