Well I guess I did know what I was talking about. Now if only we can find a way to trade Vidro so Clement can get even more ABs. I was extremely pleased to see both Balentine and Clement brought up and contribute on their very first games this season. really hope McLaren puts Clement in Vidros 5 holle. drops Sexson to the 7 and bats Balentine in the 6 hole. This would maximise power and average in the middle of the line up and drop Ssexson to a less demanding spot.
Now as far as playing time is concerned I don't understand why Burke was kept and Norton was designated. Why do we need 3 catchers this early in the season? By keeping Burke you take away more ABs from Clement while wasting yet another roster spot. It's not like you lose defense by playing Clement as catcher. Neither Jojima or Burke are great defenders by any means but they do so so. The only thing you may lose by playing Clement as catcher is the experience Jojima and Burke have calling the game. That would be an easy fix with the pitches being relayed to Clement from the dugout.
So Bavasi and McLaren have stregthened their starting roster but have done absolutely notheing with the players on the bench. Cairo and Burke are two completely wasted roster spots and provide absolutely nothing. Then to top off their decision to keep Burke and not Norton they mentioned that Vidro may get some playing time at 2B and 1B. Vidro should never never never stip back on the field on defense. As if the defense didn't already have enough problems. The M's are only shooting themselveds in the foot by letting Vidro show off what he can't do, while everyone who knows anything about how Bavasi does Business knows that he will be traded.
The bullpen is still inconsistant and I hope they trade away Saung Baek before he loses his value. There are lots of teams starving for a 4th or 5th starter and Baek would fit nicely for a dependable relikever. Dickey could take Baek's spot and could even fill in for a spot start if needed.
Go Mariners!!!
