poppysox

I like this Hendriks observation.

He was a big target.

Yep. Someone who can hold the fort until Vaughn comes up and an end of career backup catcher. Each one would be a 1-3 million. We don't need more EE types for 10 million. I think JR has 1 more "big" signing left in his wallet for that starter (Bauer or Tanaka preferred).

I have said the same thing about feeling sorry for Katz and our expectations. However, there is no point in having a pitching coach unless he brings something to the table. There was certainly a time when this forum thought Coop walked on water.

I wouldn't bet against Bauer or Tanaka. JR is full of surprises these days.

I hadn't considered T. Walker but you got me to take a look. Not bad! I can't overlook that dumpster you refer to is pretty full. Lots of players don't have jobs and the clubs seem to be in no hurry. Going to have some good bargains available for a backup catcher and/or DH.

Me too...but that is probably my WS bias talking.

Amen!

Madrigal will be on this team when the window closes about 10 years from now.

I am in agreement with everything you are saying. We have enough to win the Central in all probability and 3 quality starters are what is needed in playoff baseball. Now every improvement just solidifies the deal. Obviously, a TOR starter improves both division and playoff and WS aspirations while any quality starter enhances the division-winning probability. For what it's worth...I really, really, really love this bullpen.

Tanaka should now be out of reach for Yankees. If he doesn't opt to return to Japan he would fit nicely.

We can tell you are being facetious.?

I don't think he was ever awful defensively. Didn't see him play last year but he's the right age to be willing to catch on such a limited basis. Collins playing in such a limited way is just not so good for development IMO.

I would like to give Tyler Flowers a good look.

I think you are right. Hope is that Katz speaks a language Lopez understands.

Seems a price we could have paid. Maybe Collins already has the job in RH's mind.

If that rating is accurate...no reason to get overly excited about him. He'll have to play himself on to the team. Can't assume he will be a fast riser in the system.

They compromised...shows everyone is willing to find a middle ground.

Interested to get this resolved. I for one have an overly optimistic attitude for what Katz can do. Also, a drop-dead bullpen coupled with an explosive lineup can hide a multitude of sins.?

There is a school of thought that Katz can fix Cease and Lopez along with Kopech coming along in short order. Especially with the deep bullpen we now have. Five quality innings and turn it over to the pen. I like all Sox fans would prefer we sign TOR type and remove all doubt.

Today would be an excellent day for this deal to go down.

One more quality starter is a luxury...but what the heck...it would make for a fun season.

I think this is correct.

Well thought through!

Yep...I keep telling you guys those .340 hitters are easy to find.