I don't get all the pessimism on the projected record sites. While the overall schedule is a bit tougher, last year had two guaranteed wins and two guaranteed losses and 8 toss-ups of varying degrees. This year has two guaranteed wins and one guaranteed loss, maybe. And PJ usually wins his...
Between Lackey and Tait, it's reasonable to assume one of them can be the opening day catcher in 2028 if not mid-2027. It doesn't make sense to pay Jeffers 4/$90 or whatever and block them. Especially when you already have Caratini/Jackson to cover 2027. I'd much rather give Joe Ryan 4/$95 or so...
Bell-he seemed cooked.
Taj-I don't think anyone saw this level.
Gomez
It sort of had to be that one of the minor league starters would end up in a key setup roll. If not Morris than Mathews or Festa.
Lee and Larnach stepping up were mostly foreseeable.
I've been on board with not trading Larnach and even keeping him next season. But he's been downright awful in LF lately. Letting multiple balls fall in front of him that should be caught, including the one that tied the game yesterday. And lost another one in the sun that Keashall saved him from.