Also, you do have to show something offensively to continue to deserve that shot. Hernandez did not. If he had hit even 250 then maybe. The only reason we are still even bringing him up is because he played outstanding defense. Put his defense with Gotay’s offense and give that player a shot.

I would like to see more from the young players. If we still need to trade after next year, imagine what we could get for a Gomez who hit .300 at AAA, or a Milledge who drove in 90 runs? Sounds like we could get a Garza. . . . and at that point, maybe we’re happier not trading. . . . Or, if Santana stays with Team Twink until the deadline, maybe our guys look that much better. . . . I think the team would obviously be much aided by a top pitcher, but are we dead without one? Hardly.

Ollie, who’s stuff I love, is a bit more volatile but with filthy stuff. I think his hip problem caused his velocity to drop, which led to his poor second half performance. 2007 was a nice step forward for Ollie. Let’s hope he can keep working to repeat his delivery and keep his walks down. As long as he does this, he should continue to at least pitch at his 2007 level.

What I like about both guys is their mentality. They’re both tough and bounce back well after bad losses and pitch well in big games. Stamina and the league adjusting to them affected their second halves, but they’re talent and stuff is undeniable, and with a year of experience under their belt, I expect them to at least emerge as solid #2 options.