Right, because Schilling was a sure thing last year, Beckett coming to the AL is a guaranteed thimbs up (hey, if I recall, you guys always insult the Yanks for bringing in NL pitchers...can you say HYPOCRITE!), Wells is obviously generations younger than Johnson, and a baby compared to Mussina (actually...Moosey there is a wee bit younger than Boomer), and of coarse Wakefield is a dynamite.
Lets be serious here, Johnson vs Schilling: Based on careers and last year Johnson is a DEFINATE better choice. However, based on ability and track record lately, it isnt too far away. I still take Johnson, especially with how he finished last year off.
Chacon vs Beckett: I give the edge to Beckett, definately. based on his age and velocity...as well as his potential its a no brainer.
Pavano vs Clement: Clement gets a slight edge, only because of his first half and he was on the field more. But he was injured and inconsistant too. Its an edge, but a very slight one. I have a good feeling about Pavano this year.
Moose vs Wakefield: No edge here. Wakefield is older, and is more likely to break down. And we cant forget the knuckleball, but Moose is younger (not much, bet hes got a few good years), an EXCELLENT fielder..perhaps the best fielding pitcher in the game today, has an amazing knuckle-curve. you can make cases for both.
Wang vs Papelbon: Though most of you will disagree, and I understand why, I am not going to give anyone an edge here. Yes, Papelbon has amazing stuff and projects to be a Clemens-type, but we still dont know if hes for real as a starter yet. You guys assume when talking about your prospects, that they are sure things. Thats not the case here. Wang pitched very good last year, granted he went down with injury, but i'll take his sinker and his youth any day of the week. Papelbon has better stuff and is younger (i think), bt he needs to start a game or 2 before I give him an edge. However, I think we all know deep down he is better than Wang.
Those comparrisons are not based on rotation slot, rather they are basedo n who I feel they match up with best on the other teams staff.
So if you ask me guys, this isnt as much a one-sided arguement as you guys make it out to be..sorry.