[mikev]

Originally posted by lynchy34, Des Moines Kernels GM

Front Office Focuses on Offseason

This offseason should be one of a lot of change for the Des Moines Kernels. Coming off a horrifically mediocre 81-81 season, the Kernels and GM Mike Lynch will be looking to upgrade and take back their rightful place as champions of the Frick League Midwest Division.

"This season was unacceptable," Lynch said. "Our offense did nothing ... our starters were mediocre. Changes must be made for us to get better."
Des Moines figures to lose about $10 million off their payroll, as veterans P Hank Davidson, P Woodrow Talamantes and 1B Terry Francisen were not tendered contract extensions. They can rot in hell in free agency for all I care. That means the payroll going into the offseason should be in the $65 million range. Last season, the Kernels budget was in the $83 million range, so that means Des Moines should have a little money to spend in free agency. Of course, the free agent pool blows ass, but what are you gonna do?

So what does Lynch and the Kernel front office plan on doing this offseason? The Kernels need address their offense, and with Francisen walking to free agency, Des Moines loses their top home run hitter and RBI man. Des Moines seems to be in decent shape at the follwing spots:

SS Yahoo Williams
CF Robert Nolan
3B Lorenzo Picou
C Mario Cascio

It's likely that, because of his contract, 2B Tommy Corcoran will have a starting job, but perhaps platooning with 2B Richard Deschenes. 19-year-old RF Bobby Hock has had incredibly rapid development and has had talent increases, as well. That will likely be enough to win the Opening Day job for Hock. For now, 1B Will Clark is the starting first baseman, but that could change if someone better comes along. That means the Kernels are really looking for a left fielder and maybe a first baseman.

Another priority this offseason will be finding a competent #2 starter to fit behind FL Pitcher of the Year P Eddie Harris and control artist P Rene Arocha. There's hope rookie P Tom Mayes can become a dependable back of the rotation arm. The bullpen should be in solid shape, as the top four arms - all with ERAs under 4.00 - return. It could be boosted from the AABA's Tulsa Drillers, as well.

With a weak free agent class, it may be difficult to fill the few perceived needs the Kernels have. But we'll damn sure try.