On one hand I think it is a great move for the Dodgers; probably the first “right: thing they have done in quite awhile.
Before I get too excited, let me mention my worries. I have been on record here as stating Dan Evans has GOT to go but the Dodgers farm system has improved under his and Logan White’s watch. My fear is that DePodesta fires White and replaces him with a stathead to continue the Moneyball philosophy of drafting lower tiered college players who will progress to the majors quickly while staying away from high school prospects (mainly pitchers) who command a huge signing bonus and are years away from producing at the major league level.
I can see this happening, as well as trading top prospects Greg Miller and Edwin Jackson, again, with the Bean philosophy stating that high school pitchers hardly ever make it. Hopefully someone sits DePodesta down with a tape of the game where 20 year old Jackson beat Randy Johnson. I don’t remember the Athletics trading an elite prospect so I could be off on this but DePodesta is going to HAVE to address the shortcomings of Evans and acquire a right-handed power hitter.
My
hope is that DePodesta recognizes that the Dodgers do not have to be run the same way as the Athletics regarding the draft in leaning toward “signable” players rather than the best player available. Of course he is going to need Frank McCourt to demonstrate this to him by not running the team like a small market franchise! McCourt promised the fans he would acquire a hitter before the season started. I don’t see this being possible without dealing Miller or Frankie Guiterrez or Jackson.
My guesses (not quite Legend Locks but close!):
Beltre will be traded before 2004 is over
Either Jackson or Miller goes before the start of the season – likely Miller
Bean and the Dodgers make at least 1 trade prior to the end of spring training.
PS: This is a crappy thread title. I am guessing someone (Karros270?) starts another DePodesta thread after not recognizing one is already started
