Free Agent Stock Watch: Jon Garland

Houston pursued him last off-season, so I could see them making an offer if he reaches free agency.

Then again, that was under Purpura, but they still need pitching, so it's feasible, at the least.

Getting rid of Anderson isn't about the money - it's about clearing up an outfield spot and DHing Vlad, who is clearly feeling those years of playing of turf. The Angel's have finally developed some young OF talent, and it should be ready by next year.

Although the young core of the staff is good, we haven't heard to final word on Escobar. He could still need surgery, or a trip to the bullpen might be in order. Also, we've yet to see post-injury Lackey. I think if Garland has a solid year, they extend him, depending on what kind of years he's looking at.

Gutterbumber:

Just about the easiest way to get Vlad to not resign after next year is to tell him that he is going to DH. He still loves playing defense and can still throw with the best of them. They are going to continue with him in right most of the time for the foreseeable future, with the rotating DH thing likely to stick around until Matthews' contract is over or Vlad retires.

Bjsguess:

I really don't think Lackey is too much to worry about. There are plenty of pitchers who have had a relatively minor injury force them out of action, only to come back as strong or stronger. Just look at Brad Penny. Lackey's first rehab start went just fine, so he isn't a worry. Santana looks like the pitcher he was projected to be and Saunders is finally getting some respect. I just don't see a need to pay Garland the 12 million or so he is going to command when you have Adenhart and Green behind an excellent top 4, even assuming Escobar doesn't come back.

The reality is, the Angels are pretty set as it is right now. Who cares if Figgins doesn't fit the 3B prototype of a lumbering slugger. He has turned into an elite hitter for average and has top flight speed to go along with quick feet, soft hands and a rocket arm. Plus, you get power out of all 3 outfielders, the DH, both catchers and 1B(Kotchman's numbers compare favorably with Morneau's). Kendrick is going to win batting titles and probably turn into a 20HR/50 Double guy and Aybar has nearly limitless potential at short. No need to mess around with that.

Moreno, for all his personal flaws and the vermin issue (which has always been an issue at The Big A), has shown a willingness to open his deep pockets for talent, simply because essentially stole the Angels from Disney given the price paid. I really don't see him giving a damn what Garland costs if he is worth it. The issue is, Garland is suddenly the 5th best starter when Lackey comes back and is the 6th best next year with Adenhart.

As for Vlad, we all know he can be a bit wild with the throws at times, but he seems to have toned it down this year, with 3 assists already and no errors. I think the whole rotating outfield thing shook him up a bit and he has refocused on defense. Further, he has hit 40 points lower for his career as a DH.

On Figgy, nice to see you agree there. The Angels were right to ask Aramis Ramirez and more when the Cubs came calling. Figgins has turned into the premier lead off man in baseball and can play anywhere on the field. What the Angels should do now is sign him to a hometown discount extension and trade Wood for something worthwhile before people start noticing the holes in his swing.