I'll play. 1. No. Not only is Corey Patterson holding back Jay Bruce, but he is hitting leadoff. He also says things like "Joey Votto, you should swing more." 2. Not sure we're qualified to say, but I'll go with probably for Prior. 3. No. 4. No.
It bothers me because I don't think the team is playing the right odds. I'm against extending Braun right now unless it buys out two years of FA because I don't think it's worth giving up his cheap years otherwise. Tampa is taking a huge risk that probably isn't worth it, and other teams will pay for it. All it takes is one to set precedent.
I'd probably waive McClung, although I'd be fine with either Parra or Villanueva being sent down for awhile. Both should probably have innings monitored so they don't get worn out by the end of the season.
I am pretty shocked by this. I have to imagine teams like the Brewers are irate. It's setting a bad precedent. Before long agents will be negotiating ten year deals for players in the amateur draft.
Isn't this better than only criticizing the move if the outcome doesn't work out? If Hardy popped up the bunt, a lot more people probably would have complained. I criticized it because I think it's the wrong move always, not because of the outcome either way.