No, it's easier to replace mediocre talent with younger guys. I don't think they'll stick with Rich Hill if he falls flat at the expense of Brayan Bello, for example.
Players have not threatened the season though. The owners initiated the lockout. There was no reason for doing so. They could have written up a one page amendment that would have MLB continuing under the old CBA for a certain time until the new CBA is agreed upon.
He's made a ton of "unimpressive" moves. Some of them have worked out well (i.e. Renfroe) and some have fallen flat (i.e. Marwin). It's just the way he does business.
Yet, if they can improve upon starting pitchers like Perez, Richards, PEACOCK, et al, AND not have a COVID outbreak in 2022, maybe the margin wouldn't be so slim even if they replace Renfroe with JBJ.
I would be surprised if this gets that far. The owners have a lot to lose too considering that revenue was down 2020-21.
The players made too many concessions last go around. I think they do better at standing firm this year.
On today's SoxProspects podcast, Speier stated that Yorke's defense is getting better and that both he and the organization are working to keep him at 2b.
He also said there is no talk of moving Duran back to 2b. The focus is on getting to be a MLB hitter first and reliable fielder second.