It was definitely a stupid move financially. What I gathered from Dempster's comments was that his marriage was breaking down and he didn't feel like he was capable of playing in 2014. I don't see how we can judge his motives without being in his shoes.
If we win the division, our chances of beating the Guardians or Astros are unlikely to hinge on upgrading at 3B. It'll be more about the pitching performances.
Kimmi can correct me on this but I believe what she said is that the #3 spot is the worst of the top 4 spots. It's either the 4th best or 5th best spot in the order.
3.79 runs a game with Mookie hitting 3rd.
5.58 runs a game with Mookie hitting 1st.
We have to do something about this! The Wizards of TalkSox have the solution!
You're leaving out a couple of things though.
1) If Betts is hitting third instead of first you're now reducing the RBI opportunities for XB and Pedroia.
2) The aforementioned point about Betts's total plate appearances going down.
If you can calculate the total net effect of all this you're a better man than me.
It's a tall order though.
Rice is in the HOF.
Many think Lynn would be in the HOF if not for all the injuries.
Many think Evans should be in the HOF. He's a borderliner at least.