2007 State of the Sox: Pre-Spring Edition
My fellow Pale Hosers, time for the First Annual State of the Sox Address. In the past year, we saw the arrival of Thome, Anderson, Javy, Mike MacDougal, Cintron, Riske, Thornton, Alomar (again!), and Mackowiak. All in all, these players contributed to an exciting, if eventually disappointing, ’06 run. In fact, when I listed those guys down and consider that that group cost us only: Rowand, El Duque, Vizcaino, Widger, and host of prospects (plus Borchard, who I don’t think actually counted as a prospect at the time), we did fairly well.
But, this offseason has certainly brought a wrinkle to the brow of most Sox fans. Freddy departs, not unexpectedly, but only for a couple of prospects who are question-marks, at best. Then, B-Mac nets only another three prospects. The theme of this year’s offseason is re-stocking the shelves, for sure, but that is not to say that there isn’t good reason to be optimistic in ’07.
First, Toby Hall is an excellent addition. Though AJ may not like riding the pine more often, this adds needed depth to a position that requires it.
Which leads us to the pitching staff. The starting crew was certainly the major subtraction. The front four of Contreras, Garland, Buehrle, and Javy is as good as any. Despite a disappointing season, creating a gap in the five-spot is the most troubling item on this year’s forecast. There’ll be pitchforks and torches at Gate 3 if none of the arms on the shelf can step up and deliver innings, most importantly, and wins (also very important). We’ve played this 5th starter by committee game before and, well, it did not work out well at all. Really. The burden of the entire season may rest on Gavin Floyd, Charlie Haegar, Heath Phillips, or John Danks. (Or some other pitcher the Maestro acquires before April 2.)
That being said, some have also correctly pointed the finger at our bullpen as a primary reason for the Good Guys missing the Playoffs. The back end is solid: Jenks, Thornton (even if he falls a step), and MacDougal give us three solid options in late innings of a close game. The bullpen is, in fact stronger. Cotts, Riske, and McCarthy have been translated into Sisco, Aardsma, and Floyd/Danks/Masset/Haegar. While these three ultimately will be short on experience and seasoning, I think they are an upgrade in "raw talent." If any of them approach their capacity this season, all will be better ‘pen options than our ’06 back-ups.
Around the Horn, our lineup is among the most balanced in the AL. The Troika of Dye, Thome, and Paulie still sends shivers down my spine. Iguchi has demonstrated himself as a consistent and valuable two-way player and few would expect any drop-off from Crede. Uribe and Podsednik have only one way to go: improve or step aside for adequate subs Cintron and Mack, respectively. And last year we were able to see BA’s exemplary defense and flashes of offensive talent. We should be able to get by without an offensive upgrade in Center, as I think a young Crede-like .250/15/50 is certainly do-able from Brian–and that is more than enough to round out this team.
Couple this assessment with changes in the AL Central and I think an outright Division win is realistic if not expected. The Twinkies lost Loriano and Radke, but are always a threat. One can expect the Tigers to fall to earth a step from the mound. Pronk and the boys may be more competitive this year, but it would be a suprise if they’re in the photo finish come September. Kansas City, someday, will actually acquire a pitcher. Just not this year. Gil Meche strikes fear in no one.
Barring any acquisitions or other news, I’ll spend the month responding to your comments!
The Club Level 