Quote:
Originally Posted by TheKilo
Dude, if you're not ready to give Hansen a shot by now I don't know what to tell you.
He was FILTHY last night.
|
I am ready for him to have a major role in the bullpen but I think that the closers role is going to be out of his reach no matter how well he performs. I expected big things from him last year, and the sleep aphnea was a really dissappointing set back. He has had big time stuff since he was drafted, its not by accident he made it to the majors in 05. It probably just went a little too fast for him. He is big time, but I think I am pretty happy with our closer situation. Papelbon is about as dominant as they come. The best strike out closer in the game right now. Having Hansen step into a set up role would be outstanding. I think our bullpen has a chance to become something special. Bullpens are a funny thing, and they need time to kind of take shape. In mid-season last year we had the best bullpen in baseball, we have all those parts returning, and a wild card in hansen. To say he is ready to audition for the closers role - role which we have filled quite nicely right now - is getting a little too optimistic. I think he is ready for high leverage innings though.
This is looking way way ahead, but does anyone know if Hansen would be considered as having logged a full season of service time with his ups and downs between boston and pawtucket? I don't think he would. Which means if he sticks this would be considered his first full season under club control which means we have 6 more ahead of us and if his stuff stays sharp and he lives up to his potential, he could potentially push Papelbon out when he hits free agency. There wouldn't be any reason to spend the money on Papelbon ( and lets face it, there will be no home town discount with this guy) if Hansen is performing to his potential and could step in to the ninth inning role.