it is not "quitting" to recognize that for multiple reasons , you have no chance to do any postseason damage . Therefore , assess the situation, knowing that you have several players about to expire who you will not resign and try to get some value in return. There is still a chance they may develop or become another trading chip.
I'm convinced we kept JDM, EO and the injured Kike because Bloom wanted instant MLB or AAA talent in return, plus pay up the rest of the salary. Well, now he will pay the salaries anyway, and get nothing in return . If he throws a QO out there , he will be making the budget situation worse in return for the remote possibility of a better draft choice.