The Gaps Remaining
December 6th, 2009 | by nightmare |Okay, so everyone would like an all-star Gold Glove player at every position. But who are we kidding. That ain’t happening in Seattle in 2010. Can we still be competitive? I don’t see why not. So where are we satisfied and where do we need to improve? First of all, pitching. Yes, I would like to see the staff upgraded a bit. However, Seattle did lead the AL in ERA so I think we are doing something right in that department.
Now, in the field. I like Ichiro and Franklin in Right Field and Center Field. I think Jose Lopez, Jack Wilson, and Chone Figgins will work across the infield, and Rob Johnson could be a good part-time catcher. So what’s left? Left Field, First Base, DH, and another platooning catcher. I think the critical elements Seattle needs to address are to add two run producing bats. I think a healthy Russell Branyan could be one of those players. But I think we need to pick up another good bat (or develop one in the farm system) for Left Field or DH. Then, maybe we could pick up a veteran to help Johnson behind the dish. With continued quality pitching, I think that would result in more improvement in the Northwest.
