The View From Here IV

[Arlo]

There's nothing like a blockbuster trade to get those fantasy juices flowing, and this season's first was a true bombshell. Carlos Beltran's days in Kansas City are over, but his destination caught many by surprise. Octavio Dotel heads to Oakland, Brad Lidge takes over closing duties in Houston ... but let's let Ryan Fay break down all the fantasy repercussions of this bombshell.

More great analysis by Ryan!

[Madison]

Tough to see Lane lose playing time. It looked like the path was clear for him to show what he's got. Guess it will have to wait until next year.

Interesting that Wood might end up being called up this week. Might be someone to keep an eye on.

I really hate to be a stickler, but "Likelyhood" isn't a word. It's likelihood. From Dictionary.com:

No entry found for likelyhood.
Did you mean likelihood?

like·li·hood ( P ) Pronunciation Key (lkl-hd)
n.
The state of being probable; probability.
Something probable.

Again, sorry for being a stickler, it just struck me funny when I saw it.

Also, the link above doesn't lead to the article. I got a page, but no story. It was listed to the right and it worked from there though. Here's a direct link for the View article

[Arlo]

Ouch. Sorry about that...

And you're right - it is hard to see Lane lose time...

[Mookie4ever]

Too bad there wasn't some more analysis of the fantasy impact of the trade.

Last year at this time the Astros had Lidge, Dotel and Wagner pitching the last 3 innings. Now they only have Lidge.

I think that he will do well as the closer. He has the stuff and it seems like he has the make-up as well. I don't think that Houston will go out to get a vet closer unless Lidge implodes and I doubt that he will.

The real question is who will take over for Lidge as the best bet in the majors for holds? Miceli? I don't think so. This bullpen is seriously depleted and the 'Stros need to restock the shelves. Look for more moves - they will want to keep Pettitte, Oswalt, Clemens and Miller happy.

[Madison]

I agree that Houston will most likely need to make a move or two to strengthen the bullpen and get the ball to Lidge. Mota anyone?

[Arlo]

I don't know, Mota has seemed fairly untouchable. I think Houston will aim a bit lower than that...

[Madison]

Hmm......I thought I read somewhere about Mota possibly being availiable for a bat. I'll see if I can find the article.

Here's an off the wall thought. With Seattle packing it in, Guardado could close and Lidge would go back to set up......Probably won't come close to happening, but not exactly impossible either.