Comments on: Makers or Breakers in 2008

By: John S.

John S. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:06:53 +0000

Nice read. I’m hoping (and would expect) the offense to maintain a similar level as last year (maybe a bit less production from Pena, but an increase in right from Floyd/Gomes). I think the biggest change we can hope for is an improvement in defense. How many time last year can you remember where we have a routine double-play or ground-ball out that isn’t made that turns into a 2+ run inning? I can think of more than a few unfortunately. Solid defense can change the whole mindset and attitude of the team and pitching staff, and improve the pitching numbers as well. I think the Rays still pull off a trade for a 3rd baseman who’ll slide into a utility role once Longoria is called up. I had a chance to see Cannizaro play in Scranton, I think he’ll surprise a few people and has a chance to make the team. Also like the idea of having Guzman work in right field as well. Could be an Upton situation in the making. Should be a fun and exciting season!

By: Bob R.

Bob R. — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:58:23 +0000

Well-done Jon. Perhaps there is a 7th “Maker or Breaker”, obvious I know, but still critical. Without your catchy title, it is that those who shone in 2007 continue to do so in 2008. You mentioned Pena already, but in addition:

Best Case: Upton cuts down on the Ks while rediscovering his outstanding plate discipline and increasing his power output while Crawford takes his game to the next level and Iwamura excels at 2B offensively and defensively. Kazmir breaks out to Cy Young status and Shields and Garza create arguments over who is among the best #2 starters in the league. Sonnanstine proves himself a solid mid-rotation starter.

Worst Case: Upton’s K rate is exploited by pitchers, Crawford stagnates and settles in as a speedy left fielder with poor walk rates and medium range power. Iwamura cannot make the pivot. Kazmir continues his inconsistency and Shields proves a one year wonder while Garza disappoints. Sonnanstine simply doesn’t have enough stuff and the home runs kill him.

Likely Case: One of the hitters and one of the pitchers is less than hoped for while at least one of each shows real growth.

I know it is a lot of different players, but it is really one issue-the development of our still young stars.

By: Hazleton Jason

Hazleton Jason — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:40:57 +0000

Solid work-

I agree on most fronts…
The ‘pen still scares me until they prove otherwise. I have seen way too many blown leads in the 7th, 8th and 8th innings to last the whole rest of my lifetime. I am not ready to breathe easy until I see Perci and Al mow em down nightly.

Navarro should have all of the incentive in the world, because IMHO John Jaso is a legit catching prospect (Riggans in some ways also) and will be nipping at the heels should Navvi put up another stinker.

I am AFRAID of the lack of middle infield depth. If Aki or Bart gets hurt who gets called up? Is it Zobrist at 2nd then?, E-Johnson? Cannizaro? Do they dare put Upton back there, and shift Rocco back to CF for a minute- hmmm

I would really like to keep Edwin because of the immense amount of talent, but this has to be a put up or shut up spring for him. His periphs must get better. I mean is a WHIP of 1.45 too much to ask?