A couple of comments (from what I can remember of his ramblings. Hey, think he posts here?)

1) Glavine’s is effectively being replaced by Pedro. May not throw quite as many innings (probably will per start, but may need a break or two). I’m sure he can squeak out 13 wins along the way.

2) Heilmann is important, but if they get someone as good back, AH can be replaced (or supplemented). I see Wags point though about trading someone and leaving a hole elsewhere. Sanchez is the wild card here. If he comes back strong, the BP is much better.

3) Paulie’s fire was wonderful, but it didn’t really seem to help too much! Fire, grit etc. are overrated. What they neglected to do down the stretch was pitch well enough. Wagner included. Replacing him with someone of t least equal ability won’t weaken the team.

For all the talk of the collapse, choking, etc. the September fade still came down to starters gassing out, and the BP coughing up a ridiculous amount of large (4 runs or more) leads. A bad combo.

Still, the guys were trying, maybe too hard if anything. And the big issue with the starters was having to run out Chan Ho, lawrence etc. for a while to cover for the injuries (El Duque).

4) El Duque probably can’t handle the set up role (pitching every day for a stretch), but in a Sele/Swing role, he could be very effective. Pretty much to old Darren oliver role. Come in if the starter gets a quick hook, or pitch 3 innings in a blowout. Basically, take the load of the back end guys. No more Smith/Mota in the 4th inning deals.