poppysox

Just don't get played. Make your offer...they want a few days to think it over...sure. Give them 5 days to take it...move on. An agent should know what he wants for his client and RH should know what the club is willing to pay. Can't afford to lose Wheeler or Strasburg because Cole is fooling around.

I think you are on to something here. Make the best offer...get the player. Yes...I like it.

Agreed.

That is why we need to sign two starters this offseason. Between Lopez inconsistency and Kopech an unknown quantity...need to be sure of quality arms being available until we are firing on all cylinders.

I was delighted to see Ricky show some life in this regard. Even parents who love you let you know when they are disappointed in your effort.

I believe your wish will be granted by genie RH.?

Not to worry...Rick is working on it as we speak.

With the 3 catcher rotation you can play matchups and have well rested players in the catcher position that easily wears a guy out. As I have said before...I like having Collins getting mentored by 2 competent catchers as an added benefit.

I do think Sox fans want to "like" our manager and for that matter our players. Maddon is not very likeable.

Talk about out of the frying pan into the fire.

Not in the mood to take the bait.

I wouldn't bet on this either way. The FO plays this stuff close to the vest.

I believe Grandal is a likely target.

Stay calm...not long now.

Grandel/Collins/McCann

I think McCann's fall off is more a factor of the beating catchers take in a season. Sharing the job keeps everybody stronger for the entire season. The 3 catcher program greatly improves both positions IMO and serves as an insurance policy against injury in a key position.

McCann was an All Star catcher and you want him for a backup role. What does a guy need to do to get a little respect? I want Grandal and McCann as a catching/DH tandem. Collins can be mentored by two good major league catchers.

I think most of us where in that boat with you (slight disappointment.) He has come out of it nicely though. On the plus side...his defense has been better than advertised.

Who are the bench players you would suggest?

In the case of long term injury I use my minor leagues. My bench is for winning todays game. Engel, Garcia or Sanchez are all capable stand-ins for a few innings or a few games. I have also indicated in other posts that Grandal would make an excellent partner with McCann and Collins for added bench strength for whoever isn't catching or playing 1st base. I think it is silly to think that these guys have played full time roles with us suddenly can't contribute in utility roles.

Good gloves and speed come in handy on the bench.

We already have one.

This seems the consensus opinion. As I mentioned in the game thread...the Detroit announcers were drooling all over Sanchez defense and baseball smarts.

Nice recap.

That would be my guess.