2007-08 MLB Off Season Preview

With the World Series around the corner, it is once again time for teams to evaluate what needs to be changed. With the winter meetings coming closer its time to try to come to a conclusion with players that need to be resigned and say final goodbyes to players that need to be on there way. Expect to see many changes in rosters over the next few months. With big star players like A-Rod, Bartolo Colon, and Andrew Jones that could be on the move. Other teams may look into there farm systems and let the young guns shine, but this is the time of year to decide how you are going to run your team. The big question for the general managers is, do you go out and spend big money to bring in the big bat or flame throwing pitcher, or do you look within to make a run for the post season?

The catchers that are eligible to file for free agency this year are, Brad Ausmus, Michael Barrett, Ramon Castro, Jose Molina, Yorvit Torrealba, Jason Kendall, Paul Lo Duca, and Jorge Posada. Usually catchers are not the center of offense on teams but they provide the center of defense and pitching, but players like Jason Kendall, Paul Lo Duca, and Jorge Posada have the potential and background to provide both for the teams that they sign with. If Joe Torre is resigned by the New York Yankees expect Posada to be back in pinstripes. Posada ended the season batting .338 with 20 home runs and 90 runs batted in. By far the most sought after catcher if he is to even hit the market. Expect him to make an impact no matter where he goes.

The first basemen that are eligible to hit the market are, Sean Casey, Tony Clark, Ryan Klesko, Mike Lamb, and Doug Mientkiewicz. There are currently three players that have club options for the 2008 season but may reach the market or be traded over the off season. These players are Scott Hatteberg, Darin Erstad, and Adam Dunn. Adam Dunn will have the most effect on the team he plays for. His club option for the '08 season is worth 13 million dollars so there is a possibility he may hit the market. Adam Dunn batted .264 40 home runs and hit in 106 runs last season. This could be the big offensive bat teams like the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have been looking for.