Now compare Burnes' numbers to Monty's. Burnes' is decreasing from a career best in 2021, but his 2023 season is still better than what Monty is doing. He throws more innings. He gets more k's. He has a lower WHIP.
Merrifield doesn't get it done for me. He's a hold my nose option.
Imanaga has much more risk attached and could be more of a 3/4 due to the decreased velo. Maybe it plays up in MLB, but we don't know.
Renfroe really struggled last season. As he ages, that -6 run value vs 4 seamers may get even worse. I know he had injuries, but that's kind of the gag with him and why he's gone from team to team.
Stratton and Smith are just average to slightly above average bullpen arms.
Lugo doesn't have a long track record as a starter.
Wacha comes with significant injury risk as we know.
It's a lot of journeyman types that are probably being a little overpaid IMO.
In 2021, they basically just ran the same group out there and hoped for the best. The only meaningful additions were Kiké, Renfroe and Garrett Richards.
In 2013, they added Gomes, Victorino, Carp, Napoli, Drew, Uehara and Dempster.
I can give Henry all the credit for 2004-2018, but he has lost the plot. Maybe all the success has led him to believe that there isn't urgency to stay competitive? IDK. He wants a good team, but doesn't want to pay for it. Maybe it's time for him to focus on something else. Maybe sell his stake in FSG?