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Utility:
Jose Vizcaino INF, Mark Sweeney IB/OF, Steve Finley OF, Todd Greene C
25th
man contenders: Jason Ellison OF, Todd Linden[i]
OF, Jack Taschner RP, Jamey Wright SP, Kevin Correia SP
Departures:
Edgardo Alfonso 3B, JT Snow 1B, Brett Tomko SP, Scott Eyre RP, Latroy Hawkins
RP, Kirk Reuter SP, Marquis Grissom OF
Additions:
Steve Finley OF, Matt Morris SP, Steve Kline RP, Tim Worrell RP, Mark Sweeney
1B/OF, Jose Vizcaino INF
Key missing
ingredients of 05: Randy Winn, Matt Cain, Armando Benitez, Barry Bonds
Strengths:
A deep pitching staff, bolstered by the key off season addition of Matt Morris a
frontline #2 pitcher and inning eater coupled with the serviceable replacement
of Scott Eyre with Steve Kline, leaves bullpen depth overflowing into AAA Fresno
in the event of inevitable injury. Stability throughout the lineup. Having
Barry Bonds in the lineup at all is a huge plus, along with acquisition of Steve
Finley serving as an everyday backup to the oldest outfield in MLB will add much
needed security.
Weaknesses:
The health insurance premiums on the outfielders roaming the vast grounds of
AT&T Park will undoubtedly be high. Even the speedy Randy Winn will not be able
to prevent the ageless wonders in the corners from being victimized for extra
bases. The loss of Gold Glover JT snow at 1B will be clearly evident. The
surrounding Barry Bonds hysteria and steroid fervor will likely mar a record
setting season.
Foreseen
variables: Pedro Feliz has shown glimpses of stardom, in the last year
of his contract the Giants are expecting more than a sneak preview.
2006 Projection:
2nd in the division. With Barry playing 120+ games; the Western
Division Crown could be worn by San Francisco.
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