MLB HOT STOVE ‘25-‘26

[WhiteTrash]

I know you loving hating on the Sox, and it's plenty justified, but things are looking up. 19-win improvement last year with a team starting five rookie or second-year position players by season's end. Two potential 30+ homer bats from the left side this year. A top 10 farm system even after graduating four top 100 prospects last year. And in five months they'll be adding the highest-rated draft prospect since at least Adley Rutschman, if not beyond.
Enjoy some positive momentum.

I don't "love" calling out the obvious. As you say, "plenty justified". I'm not as high on the farm system as you and have seen the ranked about 20th in multiple rankings. I don't see another 100+ loss season but I still feel like they will top out as a .500 club in the next few years. But I'm still a fan and hopeful for the new owner.

[18thandWells]

Meanwhile, in Denver...

[Billy Hoyle]

I thought I had read Melton was being considered for a starter, and Jobe should also be back after the All-Star Break. I suppose there is no such thing as too much pitching depth.

JV was 4-11 last year with an ERA under 4. The guy still has gas in the tank and will be a great mentor for the younger dudes.

[WhiteTrash]

Meanwhile, in Denver...

Is he the Kawhi Leonard of MLB?

[tower912]

JV was 4-11 last year with an ERA under 4. The guy still has gas in the tank and will be a great mentor for the younger dudes.

He needs to be a 5th starter, mentor, big brother.  Olson and Jobe won't be around this year.  Which meant Montero, Melton, and Gipson-Long.were the likely 5th starter candidates.
I like Montero.  I think he is the designated extra starter for double headers.  I think Melton will be used in middle relief.

If Skubal, Valdez, Mize, Flaherty, and Verlander stay healthy enough to start 140+ games this season, I think Detroit does very well.

I hope they remember how to hit in the playoffs.