We think he has the stuff to be a starter. |
We thought Buck would come into his own in the second half of last season. We really didn't see that. So, offensively, it's an important year for him. No doubt about it. |
We were going to do it at the end of the season. Out of respect for Ruben, this gives him a head start on finding a job for next season. He did a good job, we wish him the best. |
We were pleased when he came in after the trade and did a solid job receiving the ball with above-average blocking skills. He's still learning to call a game but, overall, we're pleased. |
We'll explore the value for him. |
We're better. If you want to gauge it, you gauge it at the end of the season. As long as we stay healthy, we're a better club. |
We're still in a developmental stage, but we said we need to see some results. We want to start turning projection into production. We're looking for more results. |
We're trying to work toward that. |
We've added two innings starters, we've added some team speed, we've improved our defense, we've increased our depth in the bullpen. So I feel good about that. But we still have some things left to do. We'll continue to be aggressive. |
We've got 10 game dates left [in Arizona], so we have to start extending our players. With the other guys, we need to extend their play in the Minor Leagues so they are ready for the season. |
We've got to stick with our plan. We have no other alternative. We feel like we have some good, young players. |
We've had a lot of guys here for a while. They're anxious to get going. And let's not forget, there's a lot of competition here. |
What he's done in the clubhouse and with the young players, I can't say enough about him. His value to the ballclub goes well beyond his numbers. |
When he does get back, it will be like he has to start with spring training all over again. |
When you look at him on the field, his defensive ability goes without saying. I don't think any second baseman stays in on the double play like he does -- recklessly, sometimes. |