After the signings of the winter meetings, we actually lost some ground. I don’t like how the front office cries broke when it comes to signing a starting pitcher, but then throws so much money at Brandon Lyon he would be a fool not to take it. I never wear rose colored glasses so I don’t see any improvements made to this team. Let’s take a look: 

Feliz, who is basically a replacement for Tejada, has an average that hovers around .260. His power numbers have slid right along with Tejada’s the past two years. His defense is above average, so that gives him a slight edge and a special place in Alyson Footer’s heart. As far as back end relievers, you lose Valverde/Hawkins and replace them with Lyon/Lindstrom. I could never choose Lyon over Valverde…mainly because Valverde is a proven closer, and although he gives you the occasional cardiac arrest, he normally comes through in the end. Hawkins numbers were far superior to Lindstrom’s. Lindstrom missed 6 weeks due to elbow inflammation, but came back for Aug.-Sept. where he didn’t exactly overpower anyone. There you go…Matt Lindstrom is the risky pitcher this organization rolled the dice on. They really can’t help themselves, the temptation is too great for Wade the ego maniac. He’s already reading the headlines, “Ed Wade: Catching lightning in a bottle.” I say Wade needs to prepare himself for a disappointing season. First of all, Oswalt is certain to miss some time with his back or some other ailment. Secondly, Bud Norris is still learning the ropes and of course there is Moehler…who will continue to be Moehler with his +5 ERA and his anything but spectacular stuff. Last but not least, you have the #5 pitcher who if I were guessing would be Paulino or possibly Wright at this point. Wandy is the only one I feel fairly confident in right now. 

With the addition of Feliz at 3rd base, I guess this makes Blum your 1.5 million dollar bench player. I like Mr. Clutch coming up to bat in the bottom of the ninth to win it, and I can’t think of anyone else I would want in that position.

Bottom line…this team is refusing to lock into any long term contracts, and that’s a good sign for the future. Not next year, but soon.