A couple of things I like going into spring training this year...

[sutz]

First off, we have a real, legit backup catcher with Murphy returning. With nearly a year off in rehab he should be well rested and strong going into the season. Not to mention, he could be good trade bait at the turn since he has starting experience. He's a solid defensive catcher with an average bat.

Second, we have 4 solid outfielders for rotation/platooning. JK has yet to hit at a major league level, though he is adequate against righties, but he is a good defensive OF who has the speed to play center if needed.

Third, pitching is in pretty good shape. We have 6 legit starters available, and are returning most of a top 5/10 bullpen with a couple of prospects in the farm system that really look like they could light up the league.

I also like our utility guys, Moore and Haggerty. They both play multiple positions and have plus speed on the bases.

Scoff all you like, I think we're a 95 win team this year.

As an aside, I think killing the shift will help our team, probably more than a lot of teams around the league.

 

[seatownlowdown]

shift going away should help kelenic immensely

 

[DJrmb]

shift going away should help kelenic immensely

It should help offense in general overall. However, it may hurt a lot of pitchers too...

 

[DJrmb]

https://www.fantasypros.com/2023/02/mlbs-shift-ban-pitchers-hurt-most-2023-fantasy-baseball/

Marco Gonzales (SP – SEA)

Not that Gonzales was high on any draft boards this winter, but he will likely be worse this season. With a 42% ground ball rate and a league-leading 46.5% pull rate, the crafty southpaw in Seattle is in for some regression. More than a handful of those balls are going to squeak through this year resulting in worse numbers across the board for Gonzales.

 

[Sports Hernia]

First off, we have a real, legit backup catcher with Murphy returning. With nearly a year off in rehab he should be well rested and strong going into the season. Not to mention, he could be good trade bait at the turn since he has starting experience. He's a solid defensive catcher with an average bat.

Second, we have 4 solid outfielders for rotation/platooning. JK has yet to hit at a major league level, though he is adequate against righties, but he is a good defensive OF who has the speed to play center if needed.

Third, pitching is in pretty good shape. We have 6 legit starters available, and are returning most of a top 5/10 bullpen with a couple of prospects in the farm system that really look like they could light up the league.

I also like our utility guys, Moore and Haggerty. They both play multiple positions and have plus speed on the bases.

Scoff all you like, I think we're a 95 win team this year.

As an aside, I think killing the shift will help our team, probably more than a lot of teams around the league.

Agree with most of what you said, except about Moore. Guy is severely overrated and over hyped IMHO.

I really like what Haggerty brings to the table though. Still think they are a quality bat or 2 away. Hoping JK morphs into one of those but I’m not betting the farm on it.

 

[IndyHawk]

https://www.fantasypros.com/2023/02/mlbs-shift-ban-pitchers-hurt-most-2023-fantasy-baseball/

Most of us do not want Marco,all he is doing is eating payroll and taking up a
spot for one of talents we have coming.

 

[SoulfishHawk]

By far the pitcher that makes me the most nervous. At least with the starters.

 

[Crizilla]

I'll go 90 wins again. Wild card.

 

[Bobblehead]

Agree with most of what you said, except about Moore. Guy is severely overrated and over hyped IMHO.

I really like what Haggerty brings to the table though. Still think they are a quality bat or 2 away. Hoping JK morphs into one of those but I’m not betting the farm on it.

They should start Haggerty every day, he just brings chaos at bat and on the bases.

 

[JPatera76]

I'll go 90 wins again. Wild card.

Seems pretty likely imo. Really eager to see how teams respond with the shift change too