| Joe Gutierrez. 15th January, 2006 - 2:50 pm
 Late Saturday night, Dodger GM Ned Colletti made a bold move in strengthening the bullpen by acquiring All Stars Danys Baez and Lance Carter from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays along with cash considerations. In exchange, the Dodgers gave away former top pitching prospect Edwin Jackson and the up-and-comer Chuck Tiffany. The name that sticks out the most for Dodger fans is obviously Jackson who had struggled the past few years. He would occasionally be called up to join the roster sometimes as a middle reliever or starter, and then be demoted back to the minors because of his inconsistent pitching.
Baez will most likely be used as the setup man for Eric Gagne rather than Yhency Brazoban. The bullpen situation should look something like Brazoban pitching around the 6th or 7th inning, then Baez would command the 8th leaving Gagne ready to close it out. This trade will also spark rumors of whether Gagne will re-sign with the club after this year as he is in the final year of his contract. If he decides not to return following the 2006 season, this trade for Baez would become an even more key deal.
Carter will share some of the responsibilities with Brazoban, both of whom could do the 6th and 7th inning. The acquisitions of these relievers leaves rookie Jonathon Broxton?s job in limbo as he may still be able to make the squad. Kelly Wunsch could also share some left handed relief roles with Hong-Chih Kuo when the time comes to pitch to the lefties. The bullpen looks ready to go come opening day, and without a doubt the starting rotation loves it. |
