After an amazing 2008 campaign, it is time to re-tool the team to make a run in 2009. The Rays should be pretty much the same club as they were last season. However, some changes need to be made. Here is what I think should happen this offseason.
1. Decide on a definite closer
The fact that Troy Percival is old and fragile is a big concern. I would not count on Percival being the man in 2009. The Rays need to either move Edwin Jackson or J.P. Howell to the closer spot, or make a deal for an established closer. Dan Wheeler is not the solution either. He is better as a set-up man.
2. Sign a quality back-of-the-rotation starter
The Rays have a really good starting rotation. Adding David Price to the mix will only make it better. I think Andy Sonnanstine is a quality pitcher, but I think the Rays can do better. If they add a No. 4 or No. 5 starter to their rotation, the Rays will continue to impress.
3. Sign or trade for a power-hitting right fielder
The Rays have lost out on Matt Holliday. However, there are a few good options left for the Rays to look at. Signing Bobby Abreu or trading for Xavier Nady might be the best option right now. The revolving door of right fielders needs to stop. Hopefully it will, soon. Carlos Pena, B.J. Upton, and Evan Longoria need protection in that lineup.
4. Keep Rocco Baldelli
I realize Baldelli is probably never going to be an 162-game player again. He does bring versatility and athleticism to the club, though. He can play any outfield position, DH, or pinch-hit. He can still run the bases well and hurt you with his power.
Carl Crawford and B.J. Upton will need their days off. Baldelli should be an fairly inexpensive option to have coming off the bench.
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