My thoughts on upcoming transactions

[MusicMan]

1.  When Everett is healed, what is the roster move to bring him back?  Lane to the minors?  Bruntlett?

2.  At some point this month, I expect the news that Palmeiro has been released.  This would be a move very typical of how the Astros run things - let the guy go in time to see if he can catch on with a playoff team needing a LH PH.

3.  After Purpura confronting Jennings about his health, I'm wondering how many starts he has before they say "you can have an MRI, or we can just shut you down."  However, I'm not sure if you'd see Albers or Patton take those starts.

4.  Ransom may be raking at RR, but where does he fit in?  They've clearly invested in Wigginton for the next couple of years at 3b, they're going to give Burke at least the rest of the season, if not 2008, at 2b.

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

[Limey]

1.  Lane goes.
2.  Lane stays?  Ugh.
3.  If he's being a baby, pitch him until his arm falls off.  He needs to be a grown up, but he's looking at free agency and scared that he's going to miss out on his big payday if he is hurt.
4.  Burke should be gone.  Do whatever you can to re-up Loretta for a couple/three years as the starting 2Ber.  If Ransom forces his way up next year, he can understudy for a bit, which isn't a bad thing.
5.  Oversight.

[JimR]

1.  When Everett is healed, what is the roster move to bring him back?  Lane to the minors?  Bruntlett?

2.  At some point this month, I expect the news that Palmeiro has been released.  This would be a move very typical of how the Astros run things - let the guy go in time to see if he can catch on with a playoff team needing a LH PH.

3.  After Purpura confronting Jennings about his health, I'm wondering how many starts he has before they say "you can have an MRI, or we can just shut you down."  However, I'm not sure if you'd see Albers or Patton take those starts.

4.  Ransom may be raking at RR, but where does he fit in?  They've clearly invested in Wigginton for the next couple of years at 3b, they're going to give Burke at least the rest of the season, if not 2008, at 2b.

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

Ransom is still a good SS and has played a great 1B during the Saccamano experiment at 3B. i think he'd be a better 2B than Burke. he has more pop than Bruntlett but has not had the experience in the OF that EB has. if Loretta leaves, which i hope he does not, Ransom could become him perhaps. the answer also may be that Ransom is not in their plans.

[Jacksonian]

1.  When Everett is healed, what is the roster move to bring him back?  Lane to the minors?  Bruntlett?

If he's not due back until the end of the month then no one since they'll make Sept callups.

2.  At some point this month, I expect the news that Palmeiro has been released.  This would be a move very typical of how the Astros run things - let the guy go in time to see if he can catch on with a playoff team needing a LH PH.

Only if teams express interest, IMO.

3.  After Purpura confronting Jennings about his health, I'm wondering how many starts he has before they say "you can have an MRI, or we can just shut you down."  However, I'm not sure if you'd see Albers or Patton take those starts.

Patton's likely to get the call in Sept, plus it seems he's a bit gassed right now.

4.  Ransom may be raking at RR, but where does he fit in?  They've clearly invested in Wigginton for the next couple of years at 3b, they're going to give Burke at least the rest of the season, if not 2008, at 2b.

Sept callup?  Agreed.  At best with this team he'd be a utility guy.

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

Link?  Hedging slightly on Everett's leg?  Oversight?

[MusicMan]

Sorry, don't have a link.  I'm guessing oversight is the right answer, unless they're planning t give ARod $30M to play SS.

[Jacksonian]

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

As a fan, I'm just going to watch the games the rest of the year and see what Purp does with the current cast.

The off-season will be interesting.  I don't see much in the starting pitching free-agent market.  Zambrano is the best and if he's all about the cash, he'll be a Yankee.  After that I'm not sure there's a #2 starter out there.  Purp may have to make another deal.  There appear to be enough CF and catchers available to sign one of each.

[remy]

1.  When Everett is healed, what is the roster move to bring him back?  Lane to the minors?  Bruntlett?

2.  At some point this month, I expect the news that Palmeiro has been released.  This would be a move very typical of how the Astros run things - let the guy go in time to see if he can catch on with a playoff team needing a LH PH.

3.  After Purpura confronting Jennings about his health, I'm wondering how many starts he has before they say "you can have an MRI, or we can just shut you down."  However, I'm not sure if you'd see Albers or Patton take those starts.

4.  Ransom may be raking at RR, but where does he fit in?  They've clearly invested in Wigginton for the next couple of years at 3b, they're going to give Burke at least the rest of the season, if not 2008, at 2b.

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

Noe?

[MusicMan]

As a fan, I'm just going to watch the games the rest of the year and see what Purp does with the current cast.

The off-season will be interesting.  I don't see much in the starting pitching free-agent market.  Zambrano is the best and if he's all about the cash, he'll be a Yankee.  After that I'm not sure there's a #2 starter out there.  Purp may have to make another deal.  There appear to be enough CF and catchers available to sign one of each.

CF?  Sure.
C?  You have Posada (almost certain to re-up with NYY); Pudge (club option of $13M, likely to be exercised); LoDuca, Barrett (ugh) and Kendall.

That's a lot of eggs in Paul LoDuca's basket.

[Jacksonian]

CF?  Sure.
C?  You have Posada (almost certain to re-up with NYY); Pudge (club option of $13M, likely to be exercised); LoDuca, Barrett (ugh) and Kendall.

That's a lot of eggs in Paul LoDuca's basket.

I think a guy like Kendall is a strong possiblity.  A catcher to bridge to Towles.

[WulawHorn]

1.  When Everett is healed, what is the roster move to bring him back?  Lane to the minors?  Bruntlett?

2.  At some point this month, I expect the news that Palmeiro has been released.  This would be a move very typical of how the Astros run things - let the guy go in time to see if he can catch on with a playoff team needing a LH PH.

3.  After Purpura confronting Jennings about his health, I'm wondering how many starts he has before they say "you can have an MRI, or we can just shut you down."  However, I'm not sure if you'd see Albers or Patton take those starts.

4.  Ransom may be raking at RR, but where does he fit in?  They've clearly invested in Wigginton for the next couple of years at 3b, they're going to give Burke at least the rest of the season, if not 2008, at 2b.

5.  When interviewed a couple of days ago, Purp said that they are set at "first base, left field, third base, and either center or right" for next year, and that everything else was up for grabs.  I was surprised to hear that Everett wasn't on the list.  Thoughts?

Heard the same interview as MM and he is exactly right on where he mentioned Purp saying they were set with no mention of AE at SS.  I was kinda suprised.  It wasn't like he was speaking with notes in front of him though, could have been an oversight.

[Nate in IA]

Heard the same interview as MM and he is exactly right on where he mentioned Purp saying they were set with no mention of AE at SS.  I was kinda suprised.  It wasn't like he was speaking with notes in front of him though, could have been an oversight.

It's entirely possible that there is simply no question in the Count's mind that Adam Everett will be manning SS for the Houston Astros for as long as he wants.  Thus, he only addressed the questions.

[toddthebod]

Call me crazy but I think that the Astros should resign Lamb and Loretta and give both starting positions.  And I wouldn't be upset if the Astros give Munson the starting job at c and let him be the bridge until Towles is ready for the majors.

Munson c
Lamb 1st
Loretta 2nd
Everett ss
Wigginton 3b
Lee lf
Pence cf
Berkman rf

I think that that is a pretty solid starting lineup (although I'm not sure who leads off).  With the exception of Everett, this is a lineup of solid hitters with a couple of stars in Berkman and Lee (and maybe Pence?).

The bigger question on the Astros is going to be pitching because outside of Zambrano, no one on the list of free agent pitchers really impresses.  The Astros need a #2 and probably a #3 starter.  Sampson, Backe, and Wandy are sufficient for the 4-5 spots.

[WulawHorn]

Call me crazy but I think that the Astros should resign Lamb and Loretta and give both starting positions.  And I wouldn't be upset if the Astros give Munson the starting job at c and let him be the bridge until Towles is ready for the majors.

Munson c
Lamb 1st
Loretta 2nd
Everett ss
Wigginton 3b
Lee lf
Pence cf
Berkman rf

I think that that is a pretty solid starting lineup (although I'm not sure who leads off).  With the exception of Everett, this is a lineup of solid hitters with a couple of stars in Berkman and Lee (and maybe Pence?).

The bigger question on the Astros is going to be pitching because outside of Zambrano, no one on the list of free agent pitchers really impresses.  The Astros need a #2 and probably a #3 starter.  Sampson, Backe, and Wandy are sufficient for the 4-5 spots.

OK- I'm calling you crzzy. Lamb doesn't hit enough to be a good first baseman, why would you stick him in the lineup there and banish Berkman to the OF- where you really don't want him playing.

If you want to bring lamb back and make him a starter make it at 3b and make wigginton the 2b starter. I don't think your pitchers are going to like that though.

I like Loretta coming back at 2b.

It's not that I don't like lamb, or wouldn't consider giving him a starting spot- but you are not going to inconvenience berkman by putting  him in RF to get lamb's bat on the field (I realize they are doing that now- but that's not the way you decided to go into the season).

[MusicMan]

I think a guy like Kendall is a strong possiblity.  A catcher to bridge to Towles.

Kendall was never a good receiver to begin with, and he's making Ausmus look like Piazza at the plate.

[MusicMan]

Call me crazy but I think that the Astros should resign Lamb and Loretta and give both starting positions.  And I wouldn't be upset if the Astros give Munson the starting job at c and let him be the bridge until Towles is ready for the majors.

Munson c
Lamb 1st
Loretta 2nd
Everett ss
Wigginton 3b
Lee lf
Pence cf
Berkman rf

I think that that is a pretty solid starting lineup (although I'm not sure who leads off).  With the exception of Everett, this is a lineup of solid hitters with a couple of stars in Berkman and Lee (and maybe Pence?).

The bigger question on the Astros is going to be pitching because outside of Zambrano, no one on the list of free agent pitchers really impresses.  The Astros need a #2 and probably a #3 starter.  Sampson, Backe, and Wandy are sufficient for the 4-5 spots.

Unless you're looking at Pedro and Unit in their primes for the #2 and #3 starter, that is not a .500 team.

[HPFRic]

Unless you're looking at Pedro and Unit in their primes for the #2 and #3 starter, that is not a .500 team.

i disagree. i don't think this team needs much work offensively (assuming lamb and loretta come back). it'd be nice to add a legit top-of-the-order stick, yes - but if burke can be the guy he was in 05 and 06, that line-up right there will win 85-90 games; it's better than the 05 line-up, that's for sure.

this team needs pitching. and then some pitching. and then, for shits and giggles, some pitching. followed by pitching. with a side order of pitching. topped with pitching. michael bourn. pitching.

[MusicMan]

this team needs pitching. and then some pitching. and then, for shits and giggles, some pitching. followed by pitching. with a side order of pitching. topped with pitching. michael bourn. pitching.

Look at the lineup posted.  Unless that pitching is striking out every last man, they're going to give up runs.  Lots and lots of runs.

That defense would be "early-90s-steM" bad.

[Andyzipp]

i disagree. i don't think this team needs much work offensively (assuming lamb and loretta come back). it'd be nice to add a legit top-of-the-order stick, yes - but if burke can be the guy he was in 05 and 06, that line-up right there will win 85-90 games; it's better than the 05 line-up, that's for sure.

this team needs pitching. and then some pitching. and then, for shits and giggles, some pitching. followed by pitching. with a side order of pitching. topped with pitching. michael bourn. pitching.

But the pitching is bullshit without a defense.  Munson is a below average receiver, Burke is a below average 2b, Pence is a below average central gardener.

If you buy pitching without putting solid defense at at least 2 of those positions, you're wasting your money.

[JimR]

Look at the lineup posted.  Unless that pitching is striking out every last man, they're going to give up runs.  Lots and lots of runs.

That defense would be "early-90s-steM" bad.

please, silly boy. your lack of awareness is so embarrassing to the site. one does not play "defense," whatever that may be, in fantasy baseball.

[Taras Bulba]

But the pitching is bullshit without a defense.  Munson is a below average receiver, Burke is a below average 2b, Pence is a below average central gardener.

If you buy pitching without putting solid defense at at least 2 of those positions, you're wasting your money.

Pardon if this was hammered in the GZ, but Burke is quick but looks awkward at 2B.  But, there was some real butchery performed by Renteria and Johnson.  I'm surprised that Cox didn't have them running laps between innings.

[HPFRic]

If you buy pitching without putting solid defense at at least 2 of those positions, you're wasting your money.

you (and MM) are right; the discussion was offensive-skewered and i looked at it exclusively from that perspective. but buried in my hope for burke's emergence and a legit leadoff hitter is that both would throw better gloves up the middle.

[austro]

you (and MM) are right; the discussion was offensive-skewered and i looked at it exclusively from that perspective. but buried in my hope for burke's emergence and a legit leadoff hitter is that both would throw better gloves up the middle.

That's an unacceptable response: you need to crab a little, tell them how they misunderstood your real point, and then change the subject. Get with the program.

[VirtualBob]

you (and MM) are right; the discussion was offensive-skewered and i looked at it exclusively from that perspective. but buried in my hope for burke's emergence and a legit leadoff hitter is that both would throw better gloves up the middle.

That's actually pretty good advice for Burke ... his defense might improve if he started throwing his glove.

[HPFRic]

That's an unacceptable response: you need to crab a little, tell them how they misunderstood your real point, and then change the subject. Get with the program.

nah; i'm well-aware of the team's defensive shortcomings: it's been a rallying cry of mine since 0.00000000001 seconds after they dealt taveras. so, my bad.

[Andyzipp]

If I may...

C - Ausmus/Munson
1b - Berkman
2b - Bruntlett
3b - Wiggington
ss - Everett
lf - Lee
cf -
rf - Pence

Purpura has got to go outside for a catcher or a centerfielder. It would be best if that CF could lead off.  This is why Bourne was so attractive, or why a run might be made at someone else along those lines.  I still think holding on to Ausmus for one more year, if he's willing, is a good idea, splitting time with Munson

Order-wise

CFTBN
Pence
Berkman
Lee
Wiggington
Bruntlett
Ausmus/Munson
Everett
P

So the acquisitions would have to be the CF/Leadoff guy and all them pitchers.

ETA: Because I'm an idiot

[Bench]

If I may...

C -
1b - Berkman
2b - Bruntlett
3b - Wiggington
ss - Everett
lf - Lee
cf - Ausmus/Munson
rf - Pence

Purpura has got to go outside for a catcher or a centerfielder. It would be best if that CF could lead off.  This is why Bourne was so attractive, or why a run might be made at someone else along those lines.  I still think holding on to Ausmus for one more year, if he's willing, is a good idea, splitting time with Munson

Order-wise

CFTBN
Pence
Berkman
Lee
Wiggington
Bruntlett
Ausmus/Munson
Everett
P

So the acquisitions would have to be the CF/Leadoff guy and all them pitchers.

So you've got smiley face catching and a platoon of Ausmus and Munson patrolling the central garden. I like the way you think.

[Duder]

It looks more like WTF face than smiley face.

[Andyzipp]

So you've got smiley face catching and a platoon of Ausmus and Munson patrolling the central garden. I like the way you think.

Fixed it.  Not enough beer at lunch.

[Fredia]

Fixed it.  Not enough beer at lunch.

you think bwtter drunk?

[Andyzipp]

you think bwtter drunk?

You type better eating tamales...

[HPFRic]

i like the idea of bruntlett at 2nd base... assuming burke becomes the poor man's bruntlett. is it foregone wiggington can't play the 4? are they going to even give him a look there?

[Arky Vaughan]

i like the idea of bruntlett at 2nd base... assuming burke becomes the poor man's bruntlett. is it foregone wiggington can't play the 4? are they going to even give him a look there?

I don't understand why a guy like Bruntlett can't continue to play the role on this team that he has successfully for a few seasons, a versatile utility man.

It's not an axiom that every good bench player can or must become a starter.

I'd even love to keep Lamb around as the LHB off the bench, except that he seems ready to leave for a starting job if he can find one.

[pravata]

i like the idea of bruntlett at 2nd base... assuming burke becomes the poor man's bruntlett. is it foregone wiggington can't play the 4? are they going to even give him a look there?

"We are looking forward to refilling some of our position player needs and this gives up a player in Wigginton that can play third base for us for the next several seasons,'' Houston general manager Tim Purpura said.  Link

[Arky Vaughan]

i like the idea of bruntlett at 2nd base... assuming burke becomes the poor man's bruntlett. is it foregone wiggington can't play the 4? are they going to even give him a look there?

Plus, if they're not going to play Burke at second, they should be looking to re-sign Loretta to play there. I don't see the point of jacking around with Bruntlett or Wigginton there.

[HPFRic]

"We are looking forward to refilling some of our position player needs and this gives up a player in Wigginton that can play third base for us for the next several seasons,'' Houston general manager Tim Purpura said.  Link

i'm willing to not hold teams accountable for post-trade press conferences if a better alternative emerges down the road...

arky, from a purely offensive standpoint, wiggington's career .775 OPS looks a lot better at 2B than it does 3B.

[Andyzipp]

Plus, if they're not going to play Burke at second, they should be looking to re-sign Loretta to play there. I don't see the point of jacking around with Bruntlett or Wigginton there.

But Bruntlett is a much better defensive player than Loretta. 

[pravata]

i'm willing to not hold teams accountable for post-trade press conferences if a better alternative emerges down the road...

Then I have no idea how you're going to get an answer to your question.  You might also consider that they followed up the press conference by releasing their only legitimate 3b.

[Arky Vaughan]

i'm willing to not hold teams accountable for post-trade press conferences if a better alternative emerges down the road...

arky, from a purely offensive standpoint, wiggington's career .775 OPS looks a lot better at 2B than it does 3B.

But then they need a third baseman. And until you know the cost and productivity of who they're getting there, you can't make the comprison. Indeed, I think the whole point is to get third base squared away. What's the point of moving a player from a position where you have a hole to a position where you have multiple options already?

[MusicMan]

OK, let's follow the dollar signs:

Coming off the books
Ausmus, $4M
Bagwell, $7M
Biggio, $5.15M
Lamb, $2.7M
Loretta, $2.5M
Lane, $1.05M
Ensberg, $4.35M
Jennings, $5.5M
Miller, $1.3M
Palmeiro, $0.95M

Total money expiring: $34.5M.  (Note that this does not tie to the $47M guaranteed for next year figure that Purp quotes; I assume that the difference is non-arb eligible players.  In any case, my figure offers the Astros less to spend, so let's go with that.)

Additions or raises
Wigginton - 2007: $2.7M.  Projected 2008: $3.5M
Lidge - 2007: $5.35M.  Projected 2008: $6M

I figure they have about $32M to spend on FA, once you allow for a few other small raises.  (Note: Lee gets paid $12M for 2008, and then $18.5M/yr thereafter).

$32M to get:
CF, C, 2b?, #2 SP, #3 SP, and bench.

[HPFRic]

But then they need a third baseman.

ok, so now they need a 2B...

i just don't share their enthusiasm for ty wiggington and his sub-.800 career OPS/sub .450 career Slg% being the power stick they needed at 3B.

nor do i share your enthusiasm for us having "multiple options" at 2B next year. i see two (burke and bruntlett) and i would rate both as question marks right now.

[Arky Vaughan]

ok, so now they need a 2B...

i just don't share their enthusiasm for ty wiggington and his sub-.800 career OPS/sub .450 career Slg% being the power stick they needed at 3B.

nor do i share your enthusiasm for us having "multiple options" at 2B next year. i see two (burke and bruntlett) and i would rate both as question marks right now.

Then re-sign Loretta. Again, you really can't compare Burke+Wigginton or Loretta+Wigginton or Bruntlett+Wigginton against Wigginton+blank until you've filled in the blank. Comparing Wigginton to some expected production at third base is meaningless until you've established who that is.

[Arky Vaughan]

nor do i share your enthusiasm for us having "multiple options" at 2B next year. i see two (burke and bruntlett) and i would rate both as question marks right now.

Plus, who said I'm optimistic about the multiple options? I'm dealing in facts, as in, it's a fact that Burke's on the team and Purpura seems to want to give him a try. Whether I like it or not, that can't be wished away. My preference would be to re-sign Loretta and start him there.

[HPFRic]

Then re-sign Loretta.

or resign lamb; let him play 3B. he's been better offensively than loretta this year (isn't going to be 36 next year) and from what we've heard, doesn't seem like a dramatic drop-off, defensively, from wiggington.

i'm not really standing on either side of this; just curious if they're going to give wiggington any time at 2B given that at least you and i both (seem to) agree that burke and bruntlett don't bring a lot to the table.

[JimR]

or resign lamb; let him play 3B. he's been better offensively than loretta this year (isn't going to be 36 next year) and from what we've heard, doesn't seem like a dramatic drop-off, defensively, from wiggington.

i'm not really standing on either side of this; just curious if they're going to give wiggington any time at 2B given that at least you and i both (seem to) agree that burke and bruntlett don't bring a lot to the table.

why would you be "curious?" oh, i know. Purpura was lying about why he traded for TW.

[Arky Vaughan]

or resign lamb; let him play 3B. he's been better offensively than loretta this year (isn't going to be 36 next year) and from what we've heard, doesn't seem like a dramatic drop-off, defensively, from wiggington.

i'm not really standing on either side of this; just curious if they're going to give wiggington any time at 2B given that at least you and i both (seem to) agree that burke and bruntlett don't bring a lot to the table.

I don't think Purpura's given us any reason to be curious about this. Their intention plainly appears to be to start Wigginton at third. Now, maybe Wigginton will play himself out of a job like Preston Wilson did, but I think you're safe in assuming that the job is his if he can keep it.

[Froback]

The way I figure it, Wigginton is viewed by the FO as better than what they had on the team now, or likely to have in the next couple of years (upper part of farm system).

So that was why he was picked up and why he was extended.  So while his numbers are not All-Star worthy, they will have to do until a better option can be found.

As for Lamb and Loretta, I fully expect both to be offered arbitration.  Whether they accept or not will depend largely on IF they can find a starting gig somewhere else.  My guess is that Lamb will only be offered a bench role on the Astros in 08 and Loretta will be offered a chance to compete with Burke for the starting spot (with Burke getting a significant lead).  

Personally I would rather see Loretta than Burke, and I probably would prefer Bruntlett as the super-sub he is today.  He has proven that value to the club this year, so I am guessing he will be on more solid footing entering 08 than he was 07.

And CFers there will be in FA this year.  Right now the top two candidates will be Andruw Jones and Tori Hunter... Neither fit the need the Astros have from a line-up perspective, but both would be major upgrades defensively.  Both will cost WAY more than they are worth.  But if you have no other options, even that MIGHT look appealing as opposed to status quo.

As has been mentioned there are no real viable candidates for starting pitching other than Zambrano.  AND the Astros have 5 guys already set up to be a rotation in 08: Oswalt, Williams, Rodriguez, Sampson, Backe.  Not saying they wouldn't like to upgrade, but it is not like they have a hole to fill.

Getting long, so I won't include my money take... Looks like post-08 season FA might be a better group to grab starters in, but that may change prior to then.

[pravata]

The way I figure it, Wigginton is viewed by the FO as better than what they had on the team now, or likely to have in the next couple of years (upper part of farm system).

So that was why he was picked up and why he was extended.  So while his numbers are not All-Star worthy, they will have to do until a better option can be found.

As for Lamb and Loretta, I fully expect both to be offered arbitration.  Whether they accept or not will depend largely on IF they can find a starting gig somewhere else.  My guess is that Lamb will only be offered a bench role on the Astros in 08 and Loretta will be offered a chance to compete with Burke for the starting spot (with Burke getting a significant lead).  

Personally I would rather see Loretta than Burke, and I probably would prefer Bruntlett as the super-sub he is today.  He has proven that value to the club this year, so I am guessing he will be on more solid footing entering 08 than he was 07.

And CFers there will be in FA this year.  Right now the top two candidates will be Andruw Jones and Tori Hunter... Neither fit the need the Astros have from a line-up perspective, but both would be major upgrades defensively.  Both will cost WAY more than they are worth.  But if you have no other options, even that MIGHT look appealing as opposed to status quo.

As has been mentioned there are no real viable candidates for starting pitching other than Zambrano.  AND the Astros have 5 guys already set up to be a rotation in 08: Oswalt, Williams, Rodriguez, Sampson, Backe.  Not saying they wouldn't like to upgrade, but it is not like they have a hole to fill.

Getting long, so I won't include my money take... Looks like post-08 season FA might be a better group to grab starters in, but that may change prior to then.

Nit, I don't think Wigginton was "extended".  I think he's under club control for another 3? years.  Contract not necessary.

[JimR]

Nit, I don't think Wigginton was "extended".  I think he's under club control for another 3? years.  Contract not necessary.

probably correct but the transactions column the day after the trade said "signed TW to a 3-year contract."

[Arky Vaughan]

The MLB average for third basemen this year is .270/.338/.437/.775.

Wigginton this season is .279/.334/.457/.791 and from 2004 to 2006 was .266/.326/.464/.790.

So you've got a guy who's giving you what's essentially a slightly-better-than-league-average performance, consistent for four straight seasons.

If it ain't broke, why fix it?

[pravata]

probably correct but the transactions column the day after the trade said "signed TW to a 3-year contract."

Oh, missed that.  Maybe I'm wrong here.

[JimR]

The MLB average for third basemen this year is .270/.338/.437/.775.

Wigginton this season is .279/.334/.457/.791 and from 2004 to 2006 was .266/.326/.464/.790.

So you've got a guy who's giving you what's essentially a slightly-better-than-league-average performance, consistent for four straight seasons.

If it ain't broke, why fix it?

and, as has been said many times here by the Answer Man, you do not "need" great offense from any specific position. you need offense, of course, but it can come from any position.

[Arky Vaughan]

Oh, missed that.  Maybe I'm wrong here.

I think that was a mistake in the transactions column, because I haven't been able to find other confirmation of it since then.

[JimR]

I think that a mistake in the transactions column, because I haven't been able to find other confirmation of it since then.

i think you and pravata are right. i have not either.

[Froback]

Oh, missed that.  Maybe I'm wrong here.

I thought he was under club control for a couple more years, but thought I heard on the broadcast that he signed a 3-yr extension, which would make some sense, you avoid 2 years of Arb hearings and 1 year of FA, in exchange for guaranteeing him money.  Not an uncommon practice, but I have to admit, I didn't really research that part.

[Andyzipp]

Anyone else think it's futile to wonder about Wiggington playing anywhere but 3rd next year?

As far as 2b, at this point, anyone but Burke, I'd be okay with.  The last week has reminded me why I was so underwhelmed watching him in RR.  Horrible footwork combined with a weak arm and below average glove work. 

[Arky Vaughan]

Anyone else think it's futile to wonder about Wiggington playing anywhere but 3rd next year?

As far as 2b, at this point, anyone but Burke, I'd be okay with.  The last week has reminded me why I was so underwhelmed watching him in RR.  Horrible footwork combined with a weak arm and below average glove work.

I wish they could get Burke enough starts the next two months to establish firmly that he is not the answer at second base.

[MusicMan]

Anyone else think it's futile to wonder about Wiggington playing anywhere but 3rd next year?

As far as 2b, at this point, anyone but Burke, I'd be okay with.  The last week has reminded me why I was so underwhelmed watching him in RR.  Horrible footwork combined with a weak arm and below average glove work. 

But at least he can't hit.

[pravata]

Anyone else think it's futile to wonder about Wiggington playing anywhere but 3rd next year?

As far as 2b, at this point, anyone but Burke, I'd be okay with.  The last week has reminded me why I was so underwhelmed watching him in RR.  Horrible footwork combined with a weak arm and below average glove work. 

Only as far as Wigginton was specifically obtained to play 3rd.  But, that may not be relevant to our discussions.  Don't let what the organization says or does unduly restrict your thinking.  As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

[JimR]

Only as far as Wigginton was specifically obtained to play 3rd.  But, that may not be relevant to our discussions.  Don't let what the organization says or does unduly restrict your thinking.  As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

Ransom has put on a show for Purpura and Bennett the last two nights. i wish that meant something.

[BUWebguy]

As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

What do you mean, Pravata?

[Froback]

As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

He did?  I must have missed that part... seems like Burke keeps getting more and more chances to prove he ISN'T the next starting 2B for the Astros.

[Froback]

Ransom has put on a show for Purpura and Bennett the last two nights. i wish that meant something.

How does Ransom play 2B defensively?  I think it reasonable that he might fill Lamb's slot next year if Lamb moves on.

[Andyzipp]

As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

So, normally, I agree with this, taking the GM at his word, but despite his words, I've seen no actions that indicate he's willing to bail.  In fact, I assume 2nd is his job to lose going into spring training. 

[Andyzipp]

How does Ransom play 2B defensively?  I think it reasonable that he might fill Lamb's slot next year if Lamb moves on.

For that matter, Lamb thinks he can play second.

[MusicMan]

So, normally, I agree with this, taking the GM at his word, but despite his words, I've seen no actions that indicate he's willing to bail. 

Sending him to RR?  Not playing him at 2b in RR?

[Jacksonian]

Only as far as Wigginton was specifically obtained to play 3rd.  But, that may not be relevant to our discussions.  Don't let what the organization says or does unduly restrict your thinking.  As for Burke, Purpura has established he wont hesitate to bail on him. 

Going over my Burke notes and this activity since Dec 06: Purp's faith in Burke leads in part to Taveras being dealt; Burke gets the full-time CF gig; Burke flops in the field but more importantly at the plate; Purp demotes Burke to AAA; Burke gets recalled as a bench player; Burke is given the non-Biggio road games; Purp hasn't stated publicly that 2b is Burke's in 08 since very early this year (I can't shake the impression that Purp was extremely disappointed in Burke this year on more than one level); leads me to think Burke has to show a lot right now or he's gone for 08.

Did anyone else notice last night that Brownie went out of his way to point out that Burke hit the ball sharply in this first three at-bats?

[JimR]

How does Ransom play 2B defensively?  I think it reasonable that he might fill Lamb's slot next year if Lamb moves on.

he does not play 2nd, but i'm sure he can.

[pravata]

What do you mean, Pravata?

He allowed him 75 atbats in center before sending him to the minors.  This in spite of yammering about how he was learning CF and knowing he had surgery on his shoulder in the off season.  Purpura's committment to Burke may be shallower than we think.

[Froback]

I think Jacksonian hit it on the head.

I think Burke was walking on water in Tim's eyes to start the season, but has since done a good job of losing that position.  At this point he is treading water with a strong undertow growning...

[HPFRic]

The MLB average for third basemen this year is .270/.338/.437/.775.

Wigginton this season is .279/.334/.457/.791 and from 2004 to 2006 was .266/.326/.464/.790.

the majority of wiggington's ABs this year have come as a 2B.

for his career, he's .255/.316/.425/.741 (1,521 PAs) as a 3B, well below average.

as a 2B, meanwhile: .300/.339/.501/.840 (443 PAs), well above average.

[HPFRic]

Don't let what the organization says or does unduly restrict your thinking. 

so the team must stick to what it said on july 28, 2007, regardless of what might transpire from that date forward?

we *get* what the team said in its post-trade press conference, prior to wiggington lacing up a single brick red shoelace, prior to chris burke having two months and a spring training to make the organization doubt whether he can be an adequate, everyday major league second baseman, prior to a better third baseman possibly becoming available via trade.....

as a third baseman, in every statistical measure we have, he's average. not so as a second baseman, but, damn the luck, the team filled out it's next 384 line-up cards in ink at that july 28, 2007 news conference...

[pravata]

so the team must stick to what it said on july 28, 2007, regardless of what might transpire from that date forward?

we *get* what the team said in its post-trade press conference, prior to wiggington lacing up a single brick red shoelace, prior to chris burke having two months and a spring training to make the organization doubt whether he can be an adequate, everyday major league second baseman, prior to a better third baseman possibly becoming available via trade.....

nope, july 28, 2007 sticks. wiggington. will. play. third. base. and here are a few extra .................'s for later. right?

as a third baseman, in every statistical measure we have, he's average. not so as a second babseman, but, damn the luck, the team filled out it's next 384 line-up cards in ink at that july 28, 2007 news conference...

Like I said, don't let reality get in your way.

[JimR]

so the team must stick to what it said on july 28, 2007, regardless of what might transpire from that date forward?

we *get* what the team said in its post-trade press conference, prior to wiggington lacing up a single brick red shoelace, prior to chris burke having two months and a spring training to make the organization doubt whether he can be an adequate, everyday major league second baseman, prior to a better third baseman possibly becoming available via trade.....

as a third baseman, in every statistical measure we have, he's average. not so as a second baseman, but, damn the luck, the team filled out it's next 384 line-up cards in ink at that july 28, 2007 news conference...

all you are looking for is agreement with your position. you're really getting tiresome. really.

see you next week.

[Arky Vaughan]

so the team must stick to what it said on july 28, 2007, regardless of what might transpire from that date forward?

we *get* what the team said in its post-trade press conference, prior to wiggington lacing up a single brick red shoelace, prior to chris burke having two months and a spring training to make the organization doubt whether he can be an adequate, everyday major league second baseman, prior to a better third baseman possibly becoming available via trade.....

as a third baseman, in every statistical measure we have, he's average. not so as a second baseman, but, damn the luck, the team filled out it's next 384 line-up cards in ink at that july 28, 2007 news conference...

Could Wigginton play second base? Sure. Did they say he's going to play third base? Yes. Is us talking about it going to make that change? Are we going to start a petition? Otherwise, what's your point?

[HPFRic]

Could Wigginton play second base? Sure. Did they say he's going to play third base? Yes. Is us talking about it going to make that change? Are we going to start a petition? Otherwise, what's your point?

actually, arky, there never really was a "point;" this began with me asking a question: is it foregone wiggington can't play the 4? are they going to even give him a look there?

if there IS a point, i guess it's that (imo) the idea has genuine merit and shouldn't be universally dismissed by the club. he's, by your own admission, a league average third baseman; below average when your extrapolate the numbers he's actually posted as a third baseman. his career numbers moved to second base, however, are above league-average and well above league-average when you separate out what he's done specifically as a second baseman.

when you consider he's played more games at 2b than he has 3b the past two seasons, and, oh by the way, our starting 2b for the past 58 years is about to retire with a bunch of question marks following him out the door, it's not like this is some "move bagwell to third" fantasy in need of a reality check. if my lack of a petition or control over tim purpura invalidates the idea... then what are any of us doing here?

[Fredia]

ok, so now they need a 2B...

i just don't share their enthusiasm for ty wiggington and his sub-.800 career OPS/sub .450 career Slg% being the power stick they needed at 3B.

nor do i share your enthusiasm for us having "multiple options" at 2B next year. i see two (burke and bruntlett) and i would rate both as question marks right now.

sometimes burk seems to more be the void in a black hole rather than a simpl ?