I actually....agree? Although I do think stats are very valuable, and when used to argue a point they can be very effective.
But they are not the be all or end all. I will agree with you. There needs to be a proper balance between statistical evaluation and perception, not have it weighted one way or the other.
I agree on all major points in this portion.
1. Haren is not an ace, he's a good pitcher who benefits greatly from the park he is in. Looking at his second half stats (lol) from last season prove this.
He's not worth the package we'd give up for Santana. If we don't get Santana I say stand pat.
2. Aces are difficult to come by and the Red Sox need to at least seriously explore the opportunity to add one, which they have. Which leads us to point 3...
3. They need to draw a line in the sand with their offer. They can't sell the farm, but a the same time they cannot let the Yanks get him without giving up Hughes or Joba. Again, it seems they have done that.