Saturday, January 23, 2010



By Jason Sinner - AngelsWin.com Columnist

As it seems that we are likely done dealing for the winter, how about an overall grade and analysis for the offseason?

Gone:
Gary Matthews Jr.
Lackey
Figgins
Vlad
Oliver
Arredondo

Here:
Pineiro
Matsui
Rodney
Stokes

Returning:
Abreu

While it stings to see several of our most well known Halos move on, Reagins did a solid job with their replacements balancing production with cost. Also netting multiple draft picks in the process

Matsui likely replaces and improves upon the numbers put up by Vlad from last year. Vlad may put up better numbers in Arlington than Matsui in Anaheim, but in terms of improvement from the previous year, it's a step up.

Retaining Abreu was key to keeping the obp philosophy intact. No reason to think he can't produce at a similar level as 2009

The impact of losing Figgins' from the leadoff spot remains a big question mark. It could be huge. If Aybar continues his progression, then it may only be a small step back. Coupled with Wood finally getting his shot and Maicer available to cover should he falter, this could end up a net positive. For now though, it probably at least a mild step back.

Adding Rodney to the pen gives the team another power arm for the late innings. Personally I don't really see him as a replacement for Jose Arredondo as I think Scot Shields will see many of the opportunities that Ollie did. Hopefully, the combo of Rodney and Fuentes will improve the production from the closers spot as opposed to just Fuentes alone. That and it decreases Brian's games finished to keep his option from vesting. The impact of Stokes is yet to be determined but he will likely compete with Matt Palmer for the long relief role.

Although losing big John hurts, he made 27 starts last year with Kazmir making 6. If Kaz can make 30+ starts in 2010, it stands to reason that we will see a similar level of production. Adding Pineiro likely improves production from the #5 spot in the rotation where in 2009, starts from Palmer, Loux, Moseley, SOS, Bell, and Ortega combined for a cumulative era of above 6. The impact of Pineiro on the pen is also substantial yet partially canceled by Kaz not getting deep into games.

Overall, a solid job considering the general lack of talent in this years FA pool. The Rodney signing appears to be a bit of a stretch, as Valverde may have been a better choice, but we'll just have to wait and see. Also, seeing Lee go to Seattle for a somewhat modest bounty was a bit off-putting, but who knows how that came about and what opportunity was there if any. I am happy we didn't shell out big dollars for the likes of Lackey, Holliday, or Bay and kept those draft picks to improve the farm. They are also in good position to add an impact player at the deadline if need be.

Grade: B
Love to hear what you think!

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