The debate seems to be in full force about the line up and the roster moves necessary to make the offense productive this year.
With the trade of Jonathan Sanchez to KC, the lead off spot (and Torres as a starter) seems to be nailed down. Then come the assumptions, If Freddy Sanchez and Buster Posey return to full health and form, the questions fall to Short Stop and a backup Catcher. If the Giants sign Carlos Beltran, the backup catcher position comes into play, as the Giants have to make room for him on the 40-man roster. I think it spells the end of the road for Eli Whiteside and the Giants.
I like Eli, he's tough and has worked hard to stick around and be there behind Bengie and now Buster, however, the big question is "who provides the best option as a backup catcher, Eli or Chris Stewart?". Hector Sanchez is promising but needs more time in the minors, Stewart and Eli both are weak at the plate, though Stewart appears to hit for better power and that Arm! Stewart's quick release and canon of an arm put him in the lead, add to that the fact that Eli need more rest as the season went on, looking tired and unable to move well behind the plate.
I read an interesting comment to a similar question on Bleacher Report today. The commenter asked the question, "why don't the Giants have Pablo as the backup catcher?" The question is interesting, if you look behind the "are you crazy?" gut reaction. Pablo was a solid catcher for a long time. If he only comes in to give Buster the occasional rest, either out or at 1st base, then why not? The team does not loose either bat and the options for a backup 3rd baseman with Gillispie or possibly DeRosa (at significantly less money than the last few seasons, say $1, if he can do it.). This way the lineup does not weaken and the team can have Stewart come in late in the game for Pablo with fresh legs and that cannon.
The last issue is Short Stop. My feeling is that Crawford, has shown improvement and will continue to get better, along with his stellar defense, I would gladly give up a few BA points for his glove in the hole. If he can hit .250 or better, then we're in. If no, then the Giants can look for someone to add at mid season.
I doubt that Beltran, looking at a lineup consisting of:
1 - Cabrera
2 - F. Sanchez
3 - Beltran
4 - Sandoval
5 - Posey
6 - Schierholtz (if improved as last year)
7 - Huff or Belt
8 - Crawford
9 - Pitcher
will consider this offense any less than significantly improved, with a nasty heart of the order. Then add a consistent Sheirholtz and Huff/Belt and the Giants should blow through the West.
