Let's talk about Norichika Aoki

[Mex17]

Rightfielder. 32 in 2014. OBP. Stolen bases. Leadoff type. Makes $2 million next year and then a FA. Word is that he can be had for Ike Davis (although you might have to throw in a kicker of sorts in the form of a low level prospect). . .such a transaction will add an additional $2 million to the coffers.

The way I see it, if we are stuck with entrusting Tejada again then we cannot afford the luxury of also having Lagares as a starter. With a little luck, we can swing this trade with Milwaukee and also lock up Granderson (we need the lefthanded power bat) for four years at somewhere in the $56-$64 million range (don't even try to tell me that is an overpay in this market).

$30 million
- $7.25 million for C. Young
+ $2 million (the rough difference between Ike and Aoki based upon arbitration estimates)
- $16 million for Granderson
=$8.75 million for January dumpster diving (cheap veteran starter, maybe some bullpen and bench help).

[Edgy MD]

I think it Aoki is a solid player, and the team could do worse.

I think the term "dumpster diving" has little to recommend it.

[Guest John Cougar Lunchbucket]

I could see Aoki as a replacement for Eric Young, not for Lagares. I'm thinking we'd need some sock at SS or 2B to really make this work though. Not sure if it's a fit... at least an easy one. Part of a suite of solutions.

[Mex17]

John Cougar Lunchbucket wrote: I could see Aoki as a replacement for Eric Young, not for Lagares. I'm thinking we'd need some sock at SS or 2B to really make this work though. Not sure if it's a fit... at least an easy one. Part of a suite of solutions.

In this scenario Murphy stays while Young and Lagares are both on the bench.

Aoki-rf
Murphy-2b
Wright-3b
Granderson-cf/lf
C. Young-lf/cf
Duda-1b
d'Arnaud-c
Tejada-ss
pitcher

[smg58]

I like the guy. He'd be a more reliable OBP guy than Young, provided we don't give up too much to get him.

[Ceetar]

I like Aoki enough, sure. Norichika has a nice sound to it too.

[Lefty Specialist]

I've been in a lot of bars with his brother Kar.

[MFS62]

Lefty Specialist wrote: I've been in a lot of bars with his brother Kar.

[crossout](Throws flag. Blows whistle)
Fifteen yard penalty for (thread) interference.[/crossout]

Upon further review, the play stands. No penalty.


Later

[Guest LeiterWagnerFasterStrongr]

Oh, there's a penalty there, if not the one you think.

[Lefty Specialist]

Thanks, I'll be here all week. Try the veal and don't forget to tip your waitresses.