The actual 2011 season Strat-O-Matic card ratings are out, and I think I've confirmed my suspicion that it will be hard to compete and therefore it is time for a quick rebuild and reposition for 2012 cards.
The core of the team will be catcher Carlos Santana, second baseman Dustin Pedroia, third baseman Pablo Sandoval, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, and center fielder Dexter Fowler.
Geovany Soto is a good second catcher, and Jayson Werth may still have a good year left in him, but first base, left field, and potentially right field will be deficiencies to address in the draft this year and next.
That means some long-time Meadows might be available in trade.
Carlos Beltran is arguably the best right fielder in the set, but he's mid-30's.
David Ortiz is a very intriguing reverse lefty designated hitter, and may be a good fit for the right team.
Rajai Davis would be a great defensive outfielder, pinch runner for a contender, and Brandon Inge and Howie Kendrick have their merits as defensive replacements. Daric Barton, Drew Sutton, and Jason Giambi have their uses, but would have to be dealt cheaply if at all.
For pitchers, James Shields, Clay Buchholz, Tommy Hanson, Jhoulys Chacin, Francisco Liriano, and, after TJ surgery recover, Brett Anderson are the hope for the future, though many are injury risks. James McDonald, Mike Pelfrey, and Charlie Morton are long shots for value.
Ervin Santana, a starred but somewhat mediocre starter, might fetch something in trade with a pitching-deprived team.
And if I put together a team that finishes last with 2011 cards I get first crack at Bryce Harper. Right field solved for the next ten years?
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