Time to help the Agnes war machine

[HOOTIE]

Almost made Alexei a definite, but then the discussion in leftovers made me back off. Everyone seems to like Pat the Bat, too. Does losing Utley hurt him or help him?

I think both those 2 are locks with your 6. You have 8 locks, with 2 spots open. Butler and JJohnson my 2, but i could see maybe Snider. Who are you replacing Burrell and Alexei with?

[Halo Homers]

Given the lack quality at SS this year, I would certainly add Alexi Ramirez as your 7th keeper. He also as 2b elgibility in many leagues as well which makes him all the more valuable.

As for the last 3 spots, a lot depends in what happens in free agency and trades. I could see keeping Butler, Snider, Stewart or Burrell. Also, from and SP perspective, Maine, Johnson, and Harang merit consideration

As of right now I would select Stewart, Burrell and Maine.

My logic

Stewart - I think they will find a way to get him in the lineup, whether it be 3b, 2b, or OF. Helton is a lock to need time off, Atkins on trading block, GM O'Dowd quoted recently they might play Stewart in the OF now that Holliday is gone. I think he plays. Also, 11 games at 2b last year, so he might qualify at 2b in your league as well. I like him better than Snider and Butler in terms of both upside and getting a chance to play.
Burrell - Stewart is you risk/reward guy, so I would go with the proven commodity for the last hitter spot. Of course, my opinion could change depending where he ends up.
Maine - I think he returns to 07 form. Had a bone spur removed from pitching shoulder, was not a rotator cuff or tendon type situation. Has a better opportunity for W's once Met revamp bullpen in offseason than other two SP choices.

[GotowarMissAgnes]

I think both those 2 are locks with your 6. You have 8 locks, with 2 spots open. Butler and JJohnson my 2, but i could see maybe Snider. Who are you replacing Burrell and Alexei with?

If I have those 6 locks (Halladay and the five hitters), then I could go pitching heavy (say Johnson 1 of Maine/Duch/Wandy/Capps) and keep only two of Alexei/Burrell/prospect.

I almost never keep a closer, figuring to pick them up in rounds 12/13 and 15/17 and that has alwasy worked fine to keep me in the hunt for saves. I've fallen short in HRs the last two years, so was leaning heavily towards keeping Burrell. I was almost certainly going to keep one of KJ/Alexei. So, maybe it comes down to keeping a third pitcher versus a prospect like Butler/Snider.