Mariners Analysis

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

Villone signing

The fact the FO gave Ron Villone a two year deal says everything about the state of the farm system for the M's. Remember a year ago we were told about all the great young arms in the farm system? Well apparently Bavasi has absolutely no faith he can use any of them to pitch in the bullpen, spot-start and post an ERA somewhere around 5.00

Because that is what we can expect Villone to do while he is in Seattle the next few years- pitch out of the bullpen, take Piniero's spot when he is hurt, and basically just put the ball in play and eat up innings. There is no real upside to Villone, and his role should be able to filled by any one of the young arms who pitch well in Spring Training.

But apparently Bavasi just doesn't like what he sees in the system.

That is the real problem with the Villone signing.