MLB Trade Rumors has the following "needs" listed for the Reds: "Lefty reliever, left-handed hitting outfielder/leadoff hitter, backup shortstop, Joey Votto extension." This is probably a fair shopping list, though it's far from clear there's much left on the shelves out there, or even on back order.
Faced with picked-over inventory and post-holiday guilt, it's time to get reflect and reform. Here are just a few modest proposals for prudence in 2011:
- Resist the urge to sign Scott Podsednik. He might even improve the team, but there are younger, cheaper, less-likely-to-be-misused options who could be as good or better in 2011.
- Don't freak out about Joey Votto. He's going to be scary good next year and with the team until at least 2013.
- Extend Cueto. Maybe he's not going to be an "ace," but the team has a rare chance to lock up a quality young starter at a discount - a rarity for any team this side of Tampa Bay.
- Trust in Janish. You may not have much of a choice anyway.
- Put Chapman back on the starter track. He's not a set-up man until he's needed. How many prospective season ticket buyers are actually waiting to see if he breaks camp as Arthur Rhodes' replacement?
What are your resolutions - for the Reds or otherwise?